new to yoga? start here.
Trying something new cAN BE intimidating... but yoga doesn’t have to be.
If you have been thinking about trying yoga but are feeling anxious about your first visit to the studio, we understand! We have all been first-timers at some point, and we remember the feeling well. It is our privilege and honor to welcome you to your new space and walk with you on your first steps in your yoga journey. Please know that whoever you are, whatever you look like, and whatever you believe, you are welcome here.
With that said, here is some helpful information for our newbies!
booking your first class
You can check out detailed class descriptions here! If you are new to yoga, we have a few suggested starting places:
For those interested in flowing: Gentle Yoga
For those interested in static holds and deep stretching: Yin Yoga
For those interested in stress reduction: Restorative Yoga
For those interested in an intense workout: Power Heated, Rise & Shine, or Sunday Service
For those intimidated by yoga-talk, but interested in a tough workout: Society Sculpt or Tone 45
What to bring
Hooray! You’ve signed up for your first Society Yoga experience! Grab some clothes you feel comfortable moving in and a bottle of water!
If you already have a yoga mat you can bring it (but please be aware the typical yoga mats from stores like Walmart, Target, and TJ Maxx can often become very slippery in heated classes).
You may also want a towel—a small hand towel should be fine.
If you don’t have something or you walk out the door and forget everything (no judgment!), we conveniently offer towels and mats for rent. Our mats are suitable for heated and non-heated classes alike. We sell chilled water, and we have complimentary hair ties, tampons, and shower sheets in each bathroom!
what to expect
You can expect to walk into a warm greeting with souls who are genuinely happy you are here! If you signed up ahead of time, we are aware that you are new to this space and ready to help you through the check-in process.
You’ll use the iPad to find your name or check in with the front desk. We will help you out with any rentals or purchases you need to make before showing you around. We’ll take you back to the cubbies to drop your things, and show you where the water filling station is along with the bathrooms and changing room.
Next, you’ll head into the studio and find a spot for your mat. Grab some blocks and straps and get ready to be expertly guided through your practice!
Addressing Specific Worries
I sweat A LOT and I tend to STINK!
We are a heated studio! We ALL sweat buckets at a time and guess what—sometimes we stink too! But you will still find us loving on each other even after the sweatiest of classes. The beautiful thing about yoga is that we honor and respect our bodies—”gross” stuff and all! After all, it’s just a body!
I don’t know how my body will react to the heat!
Fair! However, all of us started in the exact same position. You don’t know until you try it, and you might end up absolutely loving the heat (like us)! As you expose yourself to the heat more and more, your body will adapt and you will learn to notice subtle cues and honor what your body needs.
We encourage you to find a seat or lay down if you feel light-headed and exit the studio whenever you need. Our lobby area is kept comfortable and cool, and we have some comfy chairs for you to catch your breath and return when you’re ready.
The best thing you can do to prepare for the heat is to HYDRATE! Before, during, and after your heated practice.
I’m worried about the way I look and how awkward I will feel!
We know that the yoga world has not always been the warmest and most welcoming place for people who look and feel “different.” At Society Yoga, we’re challenging traditional yoga in more than one way, but at the top of the list? Radical acceptance of you—that means whatever you look like, and whatever baggage you may be carrying.
You will often hear themes of non-judgment (of the self and others!) sprinkled through each instructor’s messaging. You’ll be encouraged to look inward, only looking off your mat to find inspiration and connection with other members—never judgment. You’ll also be encouraged to FALL! Yes, we want you to push past your comfort zone and get messy!
We honor you and your experience. We can only hope to prove to you that Society Yoga is different, you are welcome here, and that yoga is for YOU and every single body.
Above all, remember: it’s just yoga! It’s not that serious! :)
Namaste, and we cannot wait to meet you!
Psst… watch a full sculpt class on our YouTube Channel here!