Group classes – at a studio, YMCA, or gym – are by far the most common yoga experience for most Americans.
You know the drill: you show up, take off your shoes and socks, unroll your mat, and begin with some breathing or light stretching, then soon you’re off to doing synchronous poses (called asana) with the rest of the class.
That’s the general gist!
Here’s what to expect at Little Switch.
Courtesy
Make sure to arrive five minutes before classtime at the latest – because it will take you time to remove your coat, shoes and socks, and to find a place to unroll your mat.
If you haven’t yet reviewed my paperwork and signed the waiver, make sure to be there at least fifteen minutes early – that’s 5:15. Don’t worry, you just have to read and sign the waiver once!
All are welcome!
I know almost all yoga studios say this kind of thing, but I have been to many “Beginner” classes where suddenly the instructor was throwing down incredibly difficult asana or vigorous flow sequences.
This can feel so incredibly discouraging for a Beginner.
As an instructor leading a group class, it’s not possible to personalize each asana for each student (that is what private instruction is for). My job is to hold space.
But I often teach TO the beginner (inasmuch as I can in a group class), trusting that the more seasoned practitioner can still find usefulness in each asana.
If you ever have a question if a class or particular Series are a good fit for you – simply ask me!
I do not touch students without consent.
In my first few months of class, I won’t be touching you at all! This is so I can focus on setting up the space, my verbal queueing – that sort of thing.
I am more likely to provide adjustment during private instruction, but only when needed (and usually it is not needed).
But in every case I ask before I adjust a student. I will never assume consent – ever.
I like to use props.
I am currently working on gathering more props because the more we have access to – the better!
I’ve written about props a bit before. My preference is that EVERY student brings them nearby before class starts. Even if you think you “don’t need them“ – they will benefit your practice a great deal, and lead you into a better and stronger place for the times you practice without them.
We conclude on time.
Just like you can expect me ready to start class on time – I’ll end class on time, too. In the first limb of yoga we practice the Yamas – and the third Yama is Asteya: non-stealing. I don’t steal your time. Your time is your most precious resource.
We end class with a longer savasana.
If you want 59 of your 60 minutes to be booty-toning, abs-busting sweaty workout – frankly, I’m just not the instructor for you.
Savasana (final resting pose; corpse pose) is important to allow our bodies and minds to absorb our practice, to allow us to begin to feel gratitude – and to let our parasympathetic nervous system kick in and provide us that rest and recover stage of physical exertion.
I recommend you bring cozy socks, blanket, hoodie, et cetera – feeling warm, supported and restful during savasana is worth it!
You can trust me.
Again: my job is to hold space for my students, and to lead you through the practice of yoga asana. I continue
I did not start Little Switch as a money-making enterprise – I am only teaching a handful of times each week.
I started Little Switch to teach all eight limbs of yoga, to foster more health, wellness and self-care to Grays Harbor, and to create a strong yoga community here.
I’d love to see you in class!
You can sign up here.