Your first yoga class can be a joyful, challenging, and empowering experience, one that I hope will encourage you to continue to practice as yoga can help stave off illness and keep you healthy and strong.

Stay hydrated. Have water with a bit of electrolyte powder added close by so you can refresh whenever you need to. Keeping hydrated helps your muscles function properly.

Don’t eat before class. This will be different for each person, because we must consider factors of overall health, if you are taking any medications, etc. The common wisdom is to practice on an empty stomach, but that might not work for everyone. I recommend having something very light, like a piece of toast or a hard-boiled egg, an hour or so before your class. While you practice, pay close attention to how your body feels (comfortable, heavy, nauseous, etc.).

Listen to your body. I can’t emphasize this enough. Your body is the ultimate teacher when it comes to having a meaningful, comfortable practice. “Listen to your body when it whispers, and you won’t have to hear it scream.” If you feel tired, lightheaded, or just not strong in a pose, take rest until you feel ready.

Honor your body. Don’t worry if you can’t touch your toes, or if a pose seems challenging at first. One of the amazing things about yoga is it’s adaptable. I’ll show you how to use props (blankets, blocks, straps) to make every pose more accessible and comfortable for your body.

I can’t wait to share a practice with you! If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at cathycassettayoga@gmail.com. See you soon!

What to know:

01 : Bring water and electrolytes.

02 : Don’t eat a heavy meal before class.

03 : Listen to your body!

04 : Honor your body for what it can do, right now.