New to Yoga?
Your Questions Answered

Stepping into a yoga class for the first time can feel a little daunting. It’s always a joy for me to see how quickly newcomers start to relax and feel at home. Here are a few answers to questions I often get asked by newcomers.

"I am completely inflexible ~ can I still do yoga?"

For sure! This is the biggest myth about yoga. Saying you’re too inflexible for yoga is like saying you are too dirty to take a bath. Flexibility is a result of a regular practice, not a prerequisite. These Slow Flow Yoga classes are designed to help you cultivate flexibility, strength, and balance at your own pace. Lots of people use yoga props like blocks and straps to help practice posture variations. To join my classes, you do need to be able to sit down on and get up from the floor unaided. Chair yoga is wonderful if this is too tricky for you. There’s always a way!

"What class should I start with?"

If you are completely new to yoga, I recommend starting with the Slow Flow Foundations classes on Saturday mornings at the Quaker Centre. These sessions run at a slower pace, with careful attention to teaching you the correct alignment, how to move safely, and how to connect your breath to your movement.

"What if I have an injury, health condition, or I’m pregnant?"

It’s important I’m kept aware of injuries and health conditions that may affect your ability to move comfortably. With that in mind, newcomers are asked to fill in a confidential health questionnaire before their first class. This raises my awareness of any conditions you may have, so I’m well placed to offer helpful guidance. If a new condition crops up at any time, please have a chat with me about it before class, or drop me an email ahead of time.

• Injuries/Conditions: I’m trained to offer safe modifications for almost any physical limitation.

• Pregnancy: I am not personally trained to guide Pregnancy Yoga. Various studios across Milton Keynes offer pregnancy and antenatal yoga classes. There’s always a way!

"Do I need to bring my own yoga mat?"

If you don’t have a yoga mat at first, let me know and you’re welcome to borrow one. Most people prefer to bring their own mat. I recommend Yogamatters for mats and props. They’re a great company with a wide range of good quality, ethically sourced yoga gear you can buy online.

"What should I wear, and do I keep my socks on?"

Wear comfortable, stretchy gym clothes that you can move freely in (leggings, joggers, or shorts and a t-shirt).

• Top tip: Avoid overly baggy tops, as they can flip over your head when you fold forward!

• Footwear: Yoga is practiced barefoot to help you grip the mat and activate the muscles in your feet. We leave our shoes and socks just outside the door before entering the studio.

"How early should I arrive?"

Please aim to arrive on time, 10 to 15 minutes before the practice starts. This gives you plenty of time to have a chat, unroll your mat and settle in, without feeling rushed. Practice starts with a quiet meditation that is easily disturbed, so it’s important not to come in late.

“Can I eat before class?"

Moving, twisting, and bending on a full stomach can be uncomfortable. I recommend avoiding eating a meal for 2 hours before your practice. After a light meal you’ll probably be fine after an hour. If you need a little energy boost, a light snack like a banana or a handful of nuts before class can help!

"Do you offer a trial pass for beginners?"

Yes! I want you to make sure our practice is the right fit for you. You can purchase a single 90-minute Taster Class for £15, or bring a friend and the price is £25 for two (saving £10). This is the best way to check out my teaching style before deciding on a membership. As spaces are limited and all new students have to register with the practice beforehand, please email me at least 24 hours in advance to book your mat.
franceskeeley@gmail.com

"What is your cancellation policy?"

If you join up for a Ten-Week Term and want to cancel within the first five weeks, you can claim a refund of 50% of the Term price. Sustaining a regular practice is important. Generally, missed classes are at your own expense~ it’s a helpful motivational tool.