Sometimes many of our yogis who come to Pip Yoga classes feel like everyone else just floats along all calm and happy. Sometimes they can't believe they're not the only ones who have worrying little niggles about the yoga class. What are the yoga worries that secretly we are all sharing?
I don't like the way I look in my yoga clothes. They reveal all of the wobbly bits I spend most of my time trying to hide. Fortunately no one has to wear stretchy, revealing lycra to yoga unless you want to. Any comfortable clothes that you can move freely in are fine. If you want to invest in fancy yoga clothes then go for it. But everyone has their eyes shut most of the time anyway.
I can't touch my knees, let alone my toes. Yoga is not about achieving goals. Everyone is different and yoga is all about being present in the here and now with your body how it is today. Take your time moving into poses and if you can't do one, don't worry.
What if I need the loo during the class? I don't want to interrupt or break the zen mood. If you need to go then go. It's actually a common worry that a lot of yogis have. If you need the loo during the class, just go. People probably won't even notice. And you'll enjoy the next meditation a lot more without having to cross your legs.
Do I need to be on a strict diet? What if I accidentally mention that I spent the day eating cake? Yoga is all about acceptance, of being ourselves and being kind to one another. So no, you don't need to be on a specific yogi diet. Many people find that the path of yoga will lead them to being a vegetarian or vegan, but it's more important that you accept yourself for who you are rather than restricting your diet.
What if I fall over? Balancing is difficult. So stop worrying about it and if you fall, you fall. It's not that terrible. As soon as you take the pressure off yourself you'll feel lighter. And if you fall, smile to yourself and try again.
I'm worried I might break wind, loudly. Yes that might happen and it happens to most yogis sooner or later. Yoga opens up the body and relaxes you, which means farts have a way of escaping. See it as part of the releasing experience and have a little laugh.
If I get too relaxed I might fall asleep. If you fall asleep during the relaxation part of the class it's probably because your mind and body need it. How amazing that you've given yourself that time for proper rest. You will feel much better for it afterwards.
There's no way I can achieve a completely clear mind. I'm rubbish at meditation. It's impossible to fail at meditation or at yoga in general. That's why we love it so much! You don't have to completely empty your mind to meditate. That's impossible for most normal people. It's just about taking the time to rest quietly and be present in the moment. There's no such thing as a bad meditation.
The teacher might make me do a really scare pose, like a handstand. Everything your yoga teacher is saying is an invitation to try something if it's right for you. Sometimes you may be ready to try a new or challenging position. Other times it may be the best option for you to just rest.
What if I really love it and I want to start making yoga a part of my life? A lot of the people who attend a free class here at Pip Yoga end up signing up for classes afterwards. It's so liberating, and we really can't get enough of it. If you are interested in claiming a free taster class or signing up to attend classes at Pip Yoga on a weekly basis, email us at info@pipyoga.com today.