First yoga class with me?
Whether it’s your first ever yoga class, or your first with me, you may have a a few questions.
Below I’ll pose and answer some of the queries that I think you might have if you are considering trying your first yoga class with me. Not answered your question? Pop me an email to lucy@lucyoga.co.uk
Q. I've never done yoga before, can I come to the class?
A: Absolutely. Everyone has to start somewhere! My classes are for all abilities and many of my students are total beginners.
Q: I've done lots of yoga before, is this class suitable for me?
A: I would be delighted to welcome you to the class. As well as using physical asana, Dru Yoga works with the mental, emotional and spiritual layers of yoga. The practice can bring an alternative perspective to an existing yoga practice. It can sit very comfortably alongside other traditions, particularly those of a more physical nature, or allow you to take a new direction into this very rich and layered approach.
Q: I'm not flexible at all. Is that OK?
A: Yes. That is a very good reason to come to yoga. All the movements and postures in Dru Yoga can be adapted to suit all bodies, so that everyone can do them.
Q: I have health issues, can I come to yoga?
A. Yes! It is important though to let me have some more information if you have any specific health problems. This is so that I can advise you personally on what postures or techniques will be best suited to you. Safety is paramount and I will keep anything you tell me confidential.
If you are under the care of a doctor I will ask you to seek their advice before starting yoga with me.
Q: I consider myself to be overweight, can I come to yoga?
A. Absolutely. If your weight means you find any of the postures challenging we can work to adapt them. But first and foremost, you are very welcome.
If you are under the care of a doctor I will ask you to seek their advice before starting yoga with me.
Q: I consider myself to be underweight, can I come to yoga?
A. Absolutely. If your weight means you find any of the postures challenging we can work to adapt them. But first and foremost, you are very welcome.
If you are under the care of a doctor I will ask you to seek their advice before starting yoga with me.
Q: I don't look (or feel) like any of the pictures I've seen of people practising yoga, can I come?
A. Most definitely. My classes are a safe, body positive space. I welcome all LGBTQIA+ folx, all body shapes, all cultural and racial backgrounds and all levels of fitness. There is no gender discrimination at any Lucyoga session.
If you are under the care of a doctor I will ask you to seek their advice before starting yoga with me.
Q. What do I wear to a yoga class?
A. Something you feel comfortable in and that allows you to move freely. You could wear loose-fitting trousers such as tracksuit bottoms or leggings. On top, you might be comfortable in a long-sleeve top, t-shirt or a vest top. Wear what feels right to you, that you can move in a variety of ways in.
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable. You will get quite warm in class, and then cool off in the relaxation, so wearing layers is a good idea.
Q. What footwear do I need?
A. None. Yoga should be practised in bare feet. Some people like to wear socks, but this is not advisable as you may slip. I sell yoga socks (with grips on the sole) if you feel you’d prefer not to be barefoot.
However it is nice to bring socks with you for the relaxation as your feet might get cold.
Q. What equipment do I need?
A. You will need a yoga mat, a blanket and, preferably, a yoga block. If you find lying on your back difficult you may like to bring an extra cushion or a bolster to put under your knees.
I have a few spare mats, blocks and blankets for those new to the class, or for whom its not feasible to purchase their own. Please email me to reserve these if needed.
If you would like to buy a yoga mat or yoga block (or any other yoga equipment) please get in touch and I can order one for you to purchase at the class.
Q. Is there anything else I need to bring?
A. Yes, you should have a (reusable) bottle of water with you or a reusable cup. All my venues have free access to drinking water. Dru Yoga detoxifies the system so it is important to drink water whilst at the class.
Q. Is it OK to eat before yoga?
A. No. It is not advisable to eat a large meal less than two hours before practising yoga. If you are coming straight from work you may want to eat a banana or another light snack to make sure you don’t get too hungry, but wait until after the class before you eat your lunch or tea.
The same goes for alcohol – please do not drink alcohol before a yoga class and take care if you do decide to drink afterwards.
Q. What actually happens at a Dru Yoga class?
A. When you arrive you should place your mat so that you can easily see the teacher without turning your head. Then sit or lie down and relax until the class starts.
When the class begins we will usually start by activating the body and warming up, and then progress on to a series of flowing movements and traditional yoga postures, along with various exercises that will prepare your body for the postures. At the end of the class there will be relaxation, which is an essential part of the class.
Q. What is Dru Yoga, why is it different from other forms of yoga I have heard of?
A. One of my students described it like this:
“Dru Yoga seems to be all about restoration and inclusiveness. Movements are slow, deliberate and therapeutic, and focus is very much on establishing a mind-body connection to enhance overall feelings of relaxation. You are encouraged to reach the stage you are able to, working with and accepting your abilities, rather than fighting your natural capabilities.”
Or the official line, taken from the Dru Yoga website:
Dru Yoga is a graceful and potent form of yoga, based on flowing movements, directed breathing and visualisation. With its foundations set firmly in ancient yogic tradition, Dru works on body, mind and spirit—improving strength and flexibility, creating core stability, building a heightened feeling of positivity, and deeply relaxing and rejuvenating your whole being.
Designed to be practised by people of all abilities, all fitness levels and all age groups, Dru is a style of yoga that can be quickly dipped into or learnt in more depth over a lifetime.
In 2005, 450 graduates and participants in Dru Yoga Courses all over the world were asked about the effects of their practice.
> 72 % found Dru Yoga reduced back pain
> 93 % experienced improved spine flexibility
> 86% enjoyed increased energy levels
> 89% experienced improved breathing with yoga
> 89% can now reduce and control stress levels
> 81% have greater confidence and self-empowerment
> 84% benefited from enhanced mood since practising Dru Yoga
> 83% felt emotionally balanced
> 91% gained peace of mind by overcoming negative thinking
Ready to give it a try?
Book your first class now