Namaste

Yoga can be intimidating when you are first starting out but it's not supposed to be.  It doesn't matter your age, skill level, or level of fitness -- now is the perfect time to begin your yoga journey.  No matter who you are, or where you are starting from there is a practice that is right for you.  

One of the things we want you to understand when you come to your first yoga class is that the practice is supposed to be challenging, and it's challenging for everyone, not just for beginners.  That's one of the fundamental elements of yoga, to learn to get out of your comfort zone, to learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. 

If you are feeling uncomfortable and vulnerable in your practice, or even right now, if things are bubbling to the surface, and you're feeling some feelings and emotions coming up, then you're probably in the right place.  Breathe into what you are feeling and trust that everything will be okay.  This is part of the practice. 

Yoga is about getting to know yourself on every level, and ultimately it's about looking inward, and experiencing the deepest part of yourself.  It's challenging taking a look at ourselves because there's parts of ourselves that we don't often want to see or acknowledge, but it's also incredibly rewarding doing this work of integration, and it will have a profound effect on every aspect of your life. 

Please don't be afraid to take that first step, create your profile, and then you can register for your first class.  We are so excited to share these teachings with you.  

If you'd like to talk to one of our team members about your goals for your yoga practice, and to get help creating your profile, or registering for your first class, or if you'd like to schedule some one-on-one lessons before you take your first class, please call us: 323-380-7789, or fill out the form below.  We will get back to you right away to help you register for class, or book an appointment.

A few more things...

YOU DON'T NEED TO BE FLEXIBLE TO DO YOGA.  The quality of your effort in your practice is more important than how anything looks on the outside.  Yoga isn't about flexibility, it's about balance.  Getting stronger and Improving your flexibility is one of the great benefits of yoga.  The practice will help you become stronger in areas that are weak and it will help you become more flexible in areas that are tight.  You don't need to already be strong and flexible when you start out.  


BE A BEGINNER.  Yoga is about the journey and not the destination.  Let go of focusing on the results.  Give yourself time to practice, learn and grow.  There is no, "there" to get to in yoga.  You're trying to get, "here".  Yoga is about being right here and right now, and accepting everything.  The mind is constantly commenting, criticizing, and judging.  Give yourself permission to have the experience.  Try to be open and receptive and you'll be surprised at how quickly you learn, and how much you learn quickly.  

PRACTICE OFTEN AND COMMIT to a regular schedule.  Establishing a set routine is good for your body and mind.  We recommend 2-3 times a week if possible, and gradually increasing to a daily practice. 

For additional yoga etiquette please click here. 

 
What's the right class for me as a beginner? 

"Use the body to go beyond the body." - S Srinivasan

While you are practicing yoga and taking a journey inward, we don't want you to injure yourself.  We want you to learn how to practice safely and in a healthy way, and that means understanding some anatomy and learning proper alignment, especially in the foundational poses. 

Shiva Vinyasa:

Shiva Vinyasa classes break down the poses.  There's no advanced poses in these classes, but be prepared to work hard, as you learn the fundamentals, and you'll probably still break a sweat.  The teacher's in these classes will offer a lot of support and lots of instruction.

Shiva Flow:

Shiva Flow classes are all levels classes but there will be some advanced pose options for more experienced students who are in the class.  Take modifications if you need to, make sure to let the teacher know you are new to yoga, and do your best to follow along with the rest of the class, keeping in mind, that you can always sit anything out that looks too intense, or is too challenging for you.  The teacher's in these classes will offer less support and less instruction, especially in the foundational poses.

Shiva Power:

Shiva Power classes are all levels classes but there will be a lot of advanced pose options for more experienced students who are in the class.  These are our most advanced, and the most intense asana classes on the schedule.  These classes offer more time for intermediate and advanced students to challenge themselves and work on advanced poses and transitions.  Take modifications if you need to, definitely make sure you let the teacher know you are new to yoga, and do your best to follow along with the rest of the class, keeping in mind, that you can always sit anything out that looks too intense, or is too challenging for you.  These might not be the best classes for you if you are an absolute beginner.  The teacher's in these classes will offer less support and less instruction in these classes, especially in the foundational poses.  

Shiva Deep:

Shiva Deep classes are deep stretch,Yin-style classes that can be wonderful to help you release tension and calm your nervous system.  Make use of the props recommended in these classes to keep your knees safe, and so that you feel supported.  Definitely check out some of these classes if you need to open up and increase your flexibility and your range of motion.  

Shiva Rest:

Shiva Rest yoga nidra classes are an excellent introduction to meditation for beginners.  These guided meditation classes are healing and restorative, and help you learn to go inward.  These classes are done almost entirely in a supported, final resting pose position.  So, grab some props, lie back, close your eyes and relax, and follow along with the teacher's instructions.  Try not to fall asleep, but it's okay if you do. 

For class descriptions please click here.