What to Expect When Attending a Yoga Class
A typical yoga class lasts about an hour and a half. It begins and ends with a deep relaxation, where the students lie on their backs in Corpse Pose (Savasana, in Sanskrit). The rest of the class includes Breathing Exercises (Pranayama) and a series of Yoga Poses (Asanas). A particular sequence is followed depending on the style of yoga and the individual style of the Yoga Teacher. Each Asana focusses on stretching and strengthening different parts of the body. In each Asana, we move into the posture to the best of our ability and then we hold and breathe for several breaths.
As much as possible, we focus on the breath and allow the body to relax in the pose. It is important to remember to NEVER push yourself to the point of pain in yoga. It is fine to challenge yourself and do your best but if the breath is not flowing steadily, oxygen will be blocked and the energy does not flow. As a result, there will be little benefit. Go within. Relax and breathe. There is a short break In between Asanas to allow the student to pay attention to the effects of the previous pose. Once the class is over, the entire body has been stretched, strengthened and re-energized, the mind is calmer, and there is a greater feeling of peace. The class ends with several minutes of deep relaxation to consolidate the benefits of the asana practice.