| Finding the right yoga teacher isn't that different | | | | another sign of a good teacher. |
| from finding a new friend. It is built on trust, | | | | 4. Whether it is a 60 or 90-minute class, a resting |
| intuitiveness, and respect. What it really comes down | | | | period called Savasana, or the corpse pose, allows |
| to is chemistry. | | | | your body to integrate the benefit of the poses and |
| Here are 5 tips to help you know what to expect. | | | | the breathing. This is your cool down time. Note: This |
| 1. Does the teacher calmly look around the room | | | | is actually the more difficult part of the yoga class |
| taking in the energy of the students before class | | | | and should not be overlooked. |
| begins? This is important in order for the teacher to | | | | 5. A final meditation brings the energy generated and |
| connect with the group by saying hello, asking how | | | | released full circle. The teacher will lead the group in a |
| are you today, if the room is comfortable? | | | | very simple chant bringing everyone together as one. |
| Something. Light humor can bring the group together, | | | | With the hands to the heart, class often ends with |
| too. Note: It's always nice if the teacher calls you by | | | | namaste, which means I am your humble servant, |
| your name. So, introduce yourself before class if you | | | | and shanty, which means peace. |
| can or after class if you like the teacher even a little. | | | | It doesn't matter how short or tall, fat or thin, young |
| 2. Class should begin with a meditation. It doesn't | | | | or old, you are. Finding the right teacher is very |
| matter if you can't sit in the lotus position. The | | | | personal. Really great teachers come in all sizes also. |
| meditation is to separate you from the world outside, | | | | Give a teacher more than one class before you |
| from the chaos of daily life, and is an opportunity to | | | | make a decision unless your first experience is |
| center yourself. A good teacher will suggest that you | | | | unquestionably off-putting. Be prepared to enjoy |
| set an intention for the class, even for the rest of | | | | several teachers. Each will offer something different |
| the day. Note: Breathing is a very important aspect | | | | that you can incorporate into your practice as time |
| of meditation. | | | | progresses and as you become more adept. |
| 3. As you proceed, the teacher should give the name | | | | A yoga class should be a safe place where you do |
| of the pose and demonstrate the ideal technique for | | | | not have any expectations to meet and however |
| the class level. Since strength and flexibility can vary | | | | you are able to do the poses, the breathing and the |
| greatly among students, it is important that yoga | | | | meditation is just fine. Everyone is freer, or stronger |
| props be available and that variations on the poses | | | | or steadier some days than other days, including |
| also be demonstrated . A good teacher will gently | | | | teachers. This is your time to find your way to peace |
| move around the room offering praise, making small | | | | and tranquility guided by someone wonderful and |
| adjustments, and allowing time for you to find ease | | | | inspiring. |
| in the pose. Note: Being reminded to breathe is | | | | |