HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT YOGA STUDIO FOR YOU

There is a lot to consider when choosing the right yoga studio for you. Maybe there are several where you live, so how do you decide which one would be the best fit for you? 

Well, as with most things in life, go with what feels right for you. You’ll know soon enough whether or not it is right for you especially if you have a good idea of exactly what you are looking for.  But there are always a few things worth bearing in mind…

The Setting:

Sometimes, you’ll know as soon as you walk in if the setting is right for you.  Simple things can make such a difference.  Little things like the size of the room, the amount of space there is between participants, whether or not the heating is on, mood music and lighting, but, most of all, does it have a welcoming feel?  Will you be able to relax and find the sense of inner calm which is so important when practicing yoga?  Do you need to bond with the other participants or do you prefer to withdraw into yourself?  Remember, yoga is not competitive, it’s not about who is doing the most difficult stretch, it’s about you connecting with your body and focussing your spirit.  Is the setting conducive to this?

The Teachers:

I think it’s important, at least it is for me, to have a good relationship with your yoga teacher.  This person will be your guide in a journey that is both physical and spiritual, so it is important that you feel entirely at ease with them and are satisfied that they have the knowledge and experience to push you when necessary, but also to slow things down when your body and/or mind needs a change of pace.

The Wider Environment:

There are probably some practicalities you might want to consider.  Can you leave the car at home and walk to the studio?  If you have to park, will you be worrying towards the end of the lesson about whether or not your ticket is about to run out of time?  If so, will this disturb your ability to participate in Savasana, the final relaxation which gives the mind and body the chance to properly absorb the benefits of the session?

And finally:

Bear in mind that there are a number of different styles of yoga, each with its own emphasis and appeal. It might be worth considering trying a studio that offers the opportunity for you to experiment with some of the different disciplines to help find the right one for you.  Kundalini places an emphasis on using your breathing to help focus yourself, Hatha is one of the gentler forms of yoga, Vinyasa is strong and aerobic and Iyengar is all about aligning the body to its best advantage.  

So be adventurous, try some of these alternative approaches and different studios. Chat with studio owners and teachers and take advantage of any special offers & exclusive events, so that you can experience different classes, teachers, and studios and find one that feels right for you. It should be a space that helps you to relax and focus on connecting your mind, body and spirit. 

Natalie is a teacher on MylYSLife Discover more and Practice with Natalie