I've made a decision to attend Yoga classes but I'm terrified I'll be

[Demonaut]

as stiff as a corpse instead of Gumby boy, anyone here like to relate their first yoga class experience

[Teaser]

1. I do yoga at home...

So I can't tell you.

I gather most people these days do yoga for health? I do it to enter liminal states of consciousness. Do they even teach the mystical stuff anymore at classes? Or is it all stretching?

[Demonaut]

2. I've no idea, tonite will be my first but the mystical stuff is eventually

what I want to achieve

[Sanity Claws]

3. Some people are naturally more flexible

than others. A good yoga instructor will work with you as you are. So if they go into a pose you cannot do, she should suggest modifications. If you know you are stiff, look for classes that use phrases like "gentle" or "for real people" or "beginner."
Do not go to a class that claims it is for everyone.

[Demonaut]

4. unfortunatley It's 24hr fitness, I'm already paying monthly dues

and I rarely use it

[Sanity Claws]

6. Go to it and see what happens

You might as well see whether it's suitable because you've already paid the money. My educated guess is that the instructor will use Ashtanga (spelling?) type of yoga which is particularly rigorous, almost like an aerobic class than a traditional yoga class. If you want to get into yoga, try renting or buying some tapes or DVDs.

[tigereye]

5. Mine was relatively painless -

a good teacher will not have you doing any stuff that's going to really hurt you, esp. if you're a newbie. On the other hand I have seen other teachers really not being aware of the inexperience of some of the newer folks and trying to have them do the bow!

Just remember the point is to relax and feel good, not to overdo it and hurt yourself. I've been doing hatha yoga on and off for 20 years, and the first teacher I had was wonderful, esp. in terms of guided imagery, and she handed out cards that told us to love ourselves on the last class. That was kind of sweet.

And actually, you should be a corpse, esp. in Corpse Pose!
Have fun!

[flamingyouth]

7. Just give it a try

Most of us who practice yoga regularly felt the same way walking into class for the first time. Ten years ago when I started my first class I felt humiliated, out of shape, fat, stiff, you name it... it wasn't pretty. But I liked it enough and was intrigued to go back the next week - that's when I fell in love with yoga.

I think it's a wonderful way to relieve stress and build strength. I have also started a meditation practice, which has helped me a lot. This fall I'm starting a part-time teaching course. Eventually I'd like to work with people like me who were out of shape and afraid to start classes.

I do hope you give it a try and that you enjoy it as much as I do. :hi:

[Demonaut]

9. I just got back from a week in cozumel and I've havent felt this relaxed

in years, I hope the yoga will allow me to maintain this feeling of well being and contentment, atleast not go back the tense and stiff former self, and I might meet some girls as well:P

[chookie]

8. You have to start somewhere

The key is to start. To heck with the degree of flexibility and skill that others have! Don't let comparisons with advanced students make you feel bad! A good teacher will know that you are going to start out with significant stiffness, and will work with you to go beyond that. Your fellow students will recognize the same, and if they're good people, they will encourage you in your wonderful new endeavor.

I wish you all the best!