Guest Author - Jen Blackert

If you haven’t start a yoga practice... or maybe you have just taken one yoga class and want to try something else... or maybe you are afraid of going to your first class because you have not idea what to expect or what to wear and bring, then this article is for you.

What do you need to know about yoga?

I think it is important to note that ... Yoga is not a religion. It's not! People who practice yoga can be Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Agnostic, or any other religion they wish. Yoga does have some Hindu tradition, but it is not of the Hindu religion. Yoga is about balance, control, focus, and peace of mind.

1. Let start with the class you should take… If you are in good shape meaning you don’t have any major aches and pains then you should consider going to a class called “Hatha”. Most studios have classes called beginner or basic.

There are many different styles of yoga, each with its own focus. Some common styles are astanga, bikram, bhakti, hatha, karma, laya, and tantra. Each has its own style of movement and thought. You will want to stay away from classes called Astanga, Bikram or Advanced when you first start your practice.

2. Choosing and buying a mat: you don’t need to take a mat to your first class. Studios usually allow you to rent a mat for a dollar. If you do choose to purchase a mat, you can buy an inexpensive mat at Target or Walmart. Better mat can be purchased at yoga studios or online at huggermugger.com

3. Choosing what to wear: You want to wear fitted clothes because you are often upside down and in lunges during a yoga class. I like to purchase clothes online at www.bepresent.com and www.prana.com.

Good luck! If you have additional questions, please visit the BellaOnline Yoga forum at: Bella Online Yoga Forum