Can I Take Classes at Whole Yoga & Pilates if I’m a Beginner, or if I Have an Injury?

In general, yes! We are committed to helping everyone enjoy the benefits of yoga, but please consult your physician before practicing with us. All yoga poses can be modified, and our instructors are experienced with students of every level. Laurie and our other instructors would be happy to discuss their personal healing experiences with yoga, too—just ask us!

If you've never done yoga before, or you've been sedentary for awhile as a result of injury or illness, consider starting with a Beginner Workshop if one is scheduled soon—we can give you modifications to help you stay safe during regular classes, and you'll get more out of your practice. You might also try a few Restorative or Gentle classes to get your body moving. Once you feel comfortable on the mat you can easily add a more active class, such as All-Levels Yoga Flow (Vinyasa), to your practice. And despite its reputation for being challenging, Pilates is beginner-friendly; just remember that not every exercise will be appropriate for every body!

Studio Guidelines

• Please arrive for class on time; all sessions start promptly, and we may need to lock the front door. This is because of our small operation, but also because every class begins with centering and information you'll need for that day's practice.
• Leave cell phones and other valuables at home or in your car; please bring only what you must have for a comfortable practice into the studio suite.
• Wear unrestrictive clothing, preferably light layers that you can remove as needed; comfort is the most important consideration. Yoga is practiced barefoot. We have cubbies for storing your outerwear and shoes.
• Please do not wear perfume or strongly scented body products to class. (And please don't smoke before your practice!) You will be breathing deeply, and detectable scents can disturb your practice and that of your fellow students. Gum is also not permitted in the studio—combined with deep breathing it's a health hazard!
• Unfortunately, Whole Yoga & Pilates does not have the space (or staff) for childcare. We hope to be able to offer family yoga classes eventually, so stay posted! Until that time, please leave the kids at home.

Helpful Tips

• Make a commitment to yourself. Whole Yoga & Pilates does not require advance sign-up (or a series commitment) for most classes, but you will get the most benefit from a consistent practice. As the Yoga Sutras note, a practice will succeed only if it is followed for a long time without interruption; the greater the effort, the greater the attainment.
• Don’t be afraid of a challenge! “Power Yoga” can sound intimidating, but students are often amazed at how quickly their bodies adapt and accommodate to even a rigorous class when they commit to a regular practice and move mindfully. Achieving crazy poses, however, is not the goal. Standing on your head can be invigorating, but the practice itself is the point—your journey is its own reward!
• Everyone will need a “sticky” mat. We recommend that you use your own, although we do have some mats for students to borrow. We also have mats available for purchase, including great natural-rubber mats from Jade.
• It’s best to practice both yoga and pilates on an empty stomach. (Follow your doctor's advice, of course!) If you get too hungry, you might try eating a piece of fruit no later than 40 minutes before class.
• Be sure to re-hydrate after your practice.