Your First Kripalu Yoga Class with Kimberly
Dear Friend,
Welcome to your first Kripalu Yoga class. I design all classes so you may derive the maximum benefit from your experience. Following are some guidelines and suggestions that you will find useful in your practice of Kripalu Yoga.
Please bring a mat (and a blanket if desired) to class. We have mats in several colors for sale. If you need to rent a mat, we charge a $2.00 cleaning fee. We supply blocks, straps, and blankets for you to use in class at no charge.
Please let me know if you are under a doctor’s care or if you have any specific health conditions, such as high or low blood pressure, back problems, sinus troubles, recent major surgery, or if you are pregnant, etc. I will then be able to give you special guidance and offer modifications. Be sure to let me know of any changes in your physical health and, if you are comfortable doing so, any personal issues that might affect your time that is set aside for you.
To receive the maximum benefit from your yoga class, I recommend that you practice daily (or at least four times a week) what you are learning in class. The most important concept for you to is to learn your limits and your edge – only you know exactly where to find the edge. Unlike cardio and weight-training workouts (although some classes may seem like “workouts”) that say “no pain – no gain”; in Yoga, we say if it hurts –stop! So please be good and gentle to yourself.
You are encouraged to ask questions in class about anything that is unclear to you. Regular attendance is highly recommended. Make your yoga a gift to yourself – trust me, you do deserve it. Please try to arrive a few minutes early so you have time to relax before class begins.
When you enter the studio, leave your worldly cares and troubles outside the door. Picture yourself entering an environment of peace and relaxation. Lie down quietly on your blanket or mat, relax, and allow yourself to enter into the experience of being in the “here and now.” This is your and your classmates’ special time, so we invite you to turn off cell phones and allow the wisdom of your own body and spirit guide you. I give you permission to take this time for yourself – everyone in your life will benefit from your experience.
After the relaxation at the end of the class, try to hold on to the feeling of relaxation and well-being by maintaining silence as much as possible. Do regain your worldly focus when you begin driving.
It is best to perform postures on an empty stomach. Wait one to two hours after a full meal before practicing. You may, however, have a glass of juice or piece of fruit up to an hour before. Most students do not need water at the mat, but feel free to bring water and leave it by your shoes at the door. Yoga is practiced barefooted to support your physical body on the ground. Wear loose or yoga style clothing that allows for easy movement.
The benefits of Yoga available to you are many, regardless of your age, flexibility, or degree of proficiency in the exercises. I will be happy to offer assistance in whatever way possible. I look forward to supporting you as we joyfully join mind, body, and spirit.
Om Shanti (peace to you)