What are the benefits of going to a teacher led yoga class?

Last week we talked briefly about the variety of ways and locations in which we can practice yoga. This week I wanted to look a little deeper into the benefits of practicing yoga in a teacher led class or by using DVDs, books or You Tube.

Today we’re going to look at the benefits of teacher led classes.

Guided Teaching

1. Teachers (good teachers) will always ask anybody new and the class in general if they have any injuries or specific concerns before the class begins. This helps the teacher adapt the practice so it suits the individual.

2. In teacher led classes, even when classes are very popular and positively overflowing, teachers have an overview of what you’re doing and can always come and correct your postures or give you advice on how to adapt your pose so you don’t cause yourself an injury or put your body under any undue strain.

3. In most yoga studios all the equipment and props you will need for your practice are usually catered for. Many practices recommend the use of props such as bolsters, blocks, straps and blankets etc to support your poses and these can take up a lot of room and can be expensive.

4. Yoga studios offer a variety of classes at differing times and levels during the day. This makes it easier for you to try different classes and work with a variety of teachers. As teachers bring not only their knowledge of the practice to a class but also their personality you may find that specific teachers are more suited to your style of learning and personality.

5. Many yoga studios consist of more than just yoga and Pilates classes, they often provide other services such as treatments and access to therapists.

6. Going to a yoga class can also be great socially. You meet lots of different people from different backgrounds and it’s a good place to make friends!