For the longest time, I'd really wanted to give yoga a try, but it felt like so many things were stopping me. Do I need a yoga mat? Or anything else? Will it be really expensive? What do I wear? Will I need to know what all the poses are? Will everyone in the class be amazing and I'll be the only chubby inflexible newbie? Will everyone judge me? Every time I thought about taking a class, not having the answers to these questions stopped me from doing so.
So what changed? A new yoga class was starting Monday nights at the Eastwood Community Centre, and the course description answered enough of my questions to at least give it a try.
The class setup in the community centre (photo credit: Earth Shanti Yoga)
Do I need a yoga mat? Or anything else?
No! All of the equipment you need is provided.
Will it be really expensive?
No! One of the things that really convinced me to try this class was that your first class is free, and every class after that is just $10.
What do I wear?
I wore sweatpants, a somewhat tight t-shirt, and a sportsbra, which worked well enough. Err on the side of tighter and stretchy.
Will I need to know what all the poses are?
Laura, the instructor, was very good at describing the poses during the class. It was very easy to follow along with no yoga knowledge.
Will everyone in the class be amazing and I'll be the only chubby inflexible newbie?
In our class of four, two of us were complete beginners. In addition to that, Laura was really good at providing alternative poses for different levels of flexibility.
Will everyone judge me?
I'm happy to report that one of the things I was most afraid of (being judged) turned out to be a non-issue. Everyone there was lovely and I felt very welcome!
I know it can be really hard to put yourself out there and try something new if the cost of doing so is too high. The thing I love most about this class is that the barrier to entry is so low. So if you, like me, always wanted to try yoga, I definitely recommend this class!
Earth Shanti Yoga with Laura
- What: Vinyasa flow style yoga class suitable for all levels. All equipment provided. Invigorate your body, calm your mind and nourish your spirit.
- When: Mondays, 5:45 - 7:00pm
- Where: Eastwood Community Centre, 95 Glen Osmond Road, Eastwood SA 5063
- Cost: $10 per session - first class free
- Contact: Earth Shanti Yoga's Facebook