Coming to a yoga and Pilates studio for the first time or returning after a break can be daunting, from nerves about being able to do everything in class to worrying you’ll do something wrong.
At Sandstone we believe that yoga and Pilates is for everyone and no matter your experience or background you are welcome in our classes.
Here are some general tips to help make your visit less daunting but please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions ahead of your class.
1. Arrive on time for studio and online classes
No-one likes to be late and rushing into a yoga or Pilates class is stressful for you and distracting for your classmates. So, make sure to arrive on time, our doors open 15 minutes before the class start time, and give yourself the time you need to check in, store your belongings, roll out your mat, and gather your equipment.
Those spare moments before the class starts give you an opportunity to really arrive for you class. Sit quietly and focus on your breath or do a few gentle stretches to warm up.
Our highly trained teachers carefully plan their classes and missing something in the beginning of the class could put you at a higher risk of injury later in the class.
2. Remove your shoes
Yoga and Pilates are practiced with bare feet, and we ask you to leave your shoes and other belongings in the cubby holes in reception. If you prefer to wear socks, we recommend you buy a pair with grippy bottoms to ensure your feet don’t slip.
By removing your shoes, you’re not only helping with studio cleanliness, but you’re also respecting a space that is valued by others.
3. Minimise conversation
Many students consider their yoga class and the studio as a space for quiet reflection and meditation. Maintaining a quiet atmosphere (if not an altogether silent one) supports students in doing this. If the studio is quiet and meditative, keep it that way by refraining from conversation with your friends and other class members once you enter the teaching space. It’s not only considerate, but it’s beneficial to your own state of mind.
For online classes make sure to mute yourself unless you are speaking to your teacher.
4. Be aware of the space
We don’t endorse reserving spots in the studio so you can put your mat wherever you like, however please be aware of the following:
- In a busier class you may need to make some space for those arriving after you, and please don’t be offended if we ask you to shuffle your mat to make space.
- We’re continuing to limit numbers in classes and it’s courtesy to give your neighbour some breathing room (unless you’re attending class with a friend of loved one) so please be mindful of allowing space between mats.
5. Inform your teacher of any injuries or conditions
Let your teacher know about your injuries or conditions and be open to using equipment and modifications to get the most out of your class. Our highly trained teachers advise everyone from beginners to experienced practitioners to use props and explore variations to really understand their own bodies and get the most out of the class.
If you are attending an online class you can send a private message through the chat so you don’t have to share details with everyone else.
6. Leave distractions at the door
We ask you to turn your phone off or put it on silent and leave it in reception. Your class is a chance to escape distractions and be fully present. If you take your phone into class (even on silent), you risk distracting both yourself and those around you.
Your class is an opportunity to leave the trials and tribulations of your day behind and enjoy a positive space. Be a part of creating that positive space. Be gentle and respectful in your communication. Be kind and respect others.
7. Tidy up
Yoga is a prop-happy practice, mats, blocks, blankets, bolsters and straps. If you’re borrowing our equipment, be sure to put it back at the end of the class. If you’re hiring one of the studio’s mats, pop it by desk in reception so we can clean it ahead of the next class. Leaving your space as clean as you found it is respectful to the studio and students in later classes.
8. You deserve it!
Your yoga or Pilates class is all about you. You deserve this time to focus on yourself!