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Finding Your Path
Finding Your Path
Published 23rd April 2025 | By Elizabeth, Circle Yoga London
Hello there! If you're reading this, you might be curious about starting yoga but perhaps feeling a bit uncertain about where to begin. I remember that feeling well - the mixture of curiosity and slight nervousness before my first class. Let me share some thoughts that I hope will make your journey into yoga a bit smoother.
What Is Yoga, Really?
What Is Yoga, Really?
While many people think of yoga as just physical postures (asanas), it's actually so much more. Yoga is an ancient practice that combines movement, breathing techniques, and mindfulness. The word "yoga" comes from Sanskrit and means "to unite" or "to join" - pointing to how it connects body, breath, and mind.
Yoga has evolved over thousands of years, and today there are many different approaches and styles. What I love about yoga is that it can meet you exactly where you are, whether you're looking for gentle movement, strength building, stress relief, or a way to become more present in your daily life.
Getting Started: What You'll Need
Getting Started: What You'll Need
The beauty of yoga is that you don't need much to begin:
A mat (though a towel on carpet works fine to start)
Comfortable clothes you can move in
An open mind (truly the most important bit!)
A bit of space where you won't knock things over
That's it! No need for fancy gear, perfect flexibility, or any previous experience.
Common Concerns (That I Had Too!)
Common Concerns (That I Had Too!)
"I'm not flexible enough for yoga"
This is like saying you're too dirty to take a bath! Yoga helps develop flexibility—it's not a prerequisite. I've worked with students who couldn't touch their toes when they started and now practice advanced poses.
"I don't know what all the poses are called"
Neither did I when I started! No one expects you to know Sanskrit terms or every pose name. Good teachers will guide you through each movement.
"I'm worried about looking silly"
When I first started, I was constantly glancing at others to see if I was doing it "right." Now I realise everyone is so focused on their own practice that they're not watching you. Promise!
"I'm not sure if yoga aligns with my beliefs"
Yoga can be practiced in many ways. While it has roots in ancient Indian traditions, many people practice yoga today purely for its physical and mental benefits without any spiritual component. In my classes, I focus on movement, breath, and mindfulness in ways that respect each person's individual beliefs.
Different Types of Yoga You Might Encounter
Different Types of Yoga You Might Encounter
There are many styles of yoga, and finding one that resonates with you is part of the journey. Here are a few common ones:
Hatha - Often gentle, focusing on basic poses and breath. Great for beginners! This is what we focus on in my Friday evening classes.
Vinyasa - Links movement with breath in flowing sequences. My Tuesday morning classes take this approach, helping you build strength and awareness.
Restorative - Slow-paced, holding gentle poses with props for deep relaxation. My Sunday sessions are perfect if you're looking for this nurturing approach.
Yin - Involves holding poses for longer periods to target deep connective tissues.
Your First Class: What to Expect
Your First Class: What to Expect
Whether you're joining one of my online classes or attending elsewhere, here's what typically happens:
Arrival - Find a comfortable spot and settle in
Centering - A few moments of stillness to arrive and focus
Warm-up - Gentle movements to prepare the body
Main practice - A sequence of poses (asanas)
Cool-down - Slower movements to prepare for rest
Final relaxation - A few minutes of complete rest (often called "savasana")
Helpful Tips I Wish Someone Had Told Me
Helpful Tips I Wish Someone Had Told Me
Listen to your body - This is crucial! If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. There's a difference between productive discomfort and pain. Pain is your body's way of saying "stop."
Don't compare yourself to others - Your body is unique with its own history and capabilities. What matters is your personal experience, not what the person next to you is doing.
Breathe - When in doubt, focus on your breath. If you notice you're holding your breath, that's often a sign to back off a bit.
Ask questions - Good teachers welcome questions! I'm always happy when students ask about modifications or clarifications.
Be consistent - The benefits of yoga reveal themselves through regular practice. Even 10-15 minutes a few times a week can make a difference.
A Personal Note
A Personal Note
I remember feeling quite intimidated when I first started yoga. Would I be able to keep up? Would I understand the instructions? Would my body cooperate? But I quickly discovered that yoga isn't about "keeping up" with anyone else—it's about meeting yourself where you are and moving forward from there.
Some days my practice feels strong and fluid; other days it's wobbly and challenging. Both are perfectly fine. Yoga has taught me to be kinder to myself on all days, and that's perhaps its greatest gift.
Join Me for a Beginner-Friendly Class
Join Me for a Beginner-Friendly Class
All my classes welcome beginners and include options for different levels of experience. If you're just starting out, I'd particularly recommend:
Friday Hatha Yoga - A gentle, grounding practice focused on fundamentals
Sunday Restorative - Perfect if you're looking for deep relaxation
Have questions before you begin? Feel free to email me at circleyogi@gmail.com. I'm here to help make your yoga journey accessible and enjoyable.
Wishing you well on your path,
Elizabeth x
Classes at Circle Yoga London are designed to meet you where you are, whether you're a complete beginner or looking to deepen an established practice. Join us online from anywhere in the world for Vinyasa Flow, Hatha, and Restorative sessions.
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