There are three great ways to get started at Yoga Matrika:
- You can drop in on any class on the schedule without registering. Just arrive 15 minutes before class wearing comfortable clothes and fill out a new student form. New students pay $5 for their first class.
- Or, if you would like, start with a private or semi-private lesson (call Sharon to arrange 412-855-5692).
- Or, take a look at our wide selection of workshops, book talks, knitting groups and pre-register for something special.
Yoga Studio Culture
If you’ve never been to a yoga studio before, you might feel somewhat uncomfortable just “showing up.” Here are some features of yoga studios and taking a group class that might help you feel more comfortable when you come for your first class:
1. Wear comfortable clothes. You will arrive at the studio and take your shoes and socks off in the front room. After a class or two you will decide what kinds of clothing work best for you. Most men wear shorts and a t-shirt and women wear some kind of leggings or shorts and a close fitting top that allows for full range of motion. You do not need special clothes for yoga.
2. New Student Forms: At Yoga Matrika, all students sign-into class by writing their names in the instructor’s notebook. New students must fill out a waiver before taking class. Ask the instructor if you have any questions.
3. We practice on yoga mats. These mats are easy to wash and provide a safe surface for you to practice on. You will come into the studio and put your mat down on the floor. It’s not important to be the “back” or “front” and you can follow the lead of other students or just ask the teacher how she wants the mats organized. Bring your own mat, buy a mat or borrow a mat. Sometimes, students like to bring a little hand towel or washcloth so they can dry their hands if they get sweaty or slippery during class.
4. Keep in mind that even practicing yoga in a crowded room is a very personal experience. Most people are so focussed on their own practice that they don’t have the time or interest in looking at you. You truly do not have to worry about your flexibility or how you will look. If someone does notice you struggling, it is most likely that they will be very proud of you because everyone, no matter how advanced, had to take their first class at some point.
5. Most teachers make adjustments during class. This means that a teacher may come and place a hand on your shoulders to remind you to relax or place some gentle pressure on your body to assist you in moving further into a pose. Keep in mind that this is not criticism. Also know that you do not have to accept touch and it is perfectly acceptable to let the teacher know that you would rather not be touched during class. If an adjustment doesn’t feel right, let the instructor know.
6. Take a moment to introduce yourself to at least one other student. A great way to break the ice is to ask how long someone has been practicing, admire the color of their mat or just say, “Hi, my name is_______ and this is my first class.” A yoga studio is a community of people who come together to share their practice and it is customary to get to know the people around you, learn names and share. Of course, it is fine not to be social! But, you may feel more comfortable taking classes if you get to know some other students by name.
7. Hygeine and Modesty. Out of sensitivity to the instructor and other students, it is important to be clean, wear clean clothing and not use any scented lotions or perfumes before coming to the studio. Both men and women must wear shirts. Basically, you don’t want to be distracting and you also want to respect the diversity of the community.
