Yoga for Beginners and New Students - Frequently Asked Questions

There are many different styles of yoga.  Vinyasa Flow is both a physical challenge and a moving meditation. We start with yogic breathwork (pranayama) and warm up our bodies with gentle movements.  We then move into a more rigorous flow where we connect our breath with our movement through various yoga postures.  Modifications are offered for beginners and those with conditions and injuries.  We then wind down with relaxing postures and deep rest.  In these classes you can expect to build physical strength, balance and stamina.  You will also develop a mindfulness practice and better body awareness.  

Prior to COVID-19 we offered the free use or our mats, blocks and straps.  We aim to make Yoga for beginners easily accessible so new students may still use our equipment for their first class and then you should purchase your own equipment to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 and other illnesses.  

• Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to class.  To avoid disrupting class, late arrivals will not be admitted.
• BEFORE  yoga class, advise your teacher if you have any injuries, if you are  pregnant, or if you  have other medical conditions about which the teacher should be aware. Beginner yoga students, advise your teacher if this is your first ever class.  Your teacher will provide appropriate modifications.  However, you are responsible for your body.  If a  posture or movement doesn’t feel right, please don’t do it.
• Absolutely no use of technology during class.  No mobile phones or cameras.  If you wear a smart watch please ensure it is on silent and that the screen is in theatre mode.

Wear comfortable, fitted sports clothes.  Yoga is done in bare feet.

• Yoga Mat
• 1 – 2 Yoga blocks
• Yoga strap
• Bottle of water

Students should bring a yoga mat and if possible, 1 – 2 yoga blocks.  Sanitised blocks are available for use at the studio however, we  encourage everyone to bring and use their own equipment.  

We recommend purchasing yoga equipment from Ekotex.  They are here in Edinburgh and focus on sustainable, eco-friendly products and packaging.  Use discount code 'TWISTANDBLISS' to receive a 10% discount! (Twist & Bliss Yoga also earns 10% from your purchase, win-win!)

For Yoga classes held at Waterfront Dance Studio in Davidson's Mains, please leave personal items such as bags, mobile phones,  shoes and coats in the changing room. Please avoid bringing personal  items into the studio where class is held. As the changing room is  connected to the studio, please ensure mobiles are placed on silent mode  or turned off completely so they do not vibrate or ring.

For Yoga classes held at Turtle Dove Play Cafe in Davidson's Mains,  place personal items at the back of the room.   Ensure mobiles are placed in silent mode or turned off completely so they do not vibrate or ring.

If you need to eat before yoga class, keep it light to avoid  discomfort during class. Be sure you are well hydrated before class and  bring a bottle of water into the studio with you.

Practicing yoga while pregnant is a great way to take care of yourself physically and mentally however,  some postures can be dangerous during pregnancy.  Due to the style of yoga practised in our classes, only experienced yoga students should our attend classes when pregnant and they must notify Twist & Bliss Yoga of their pregnancy prior to attending.  You will likely be asked to arrive 30 minutes early to your first class so your instructor can provide advice on modifications.  Always remember, you are  responsible for your body and your baby.  If a  posture or movement doesn’t feel right, please don’t do it.

If you are new to yoga and would like to try classes while pregnant, please seek pregnancy-specific yoga classes.

Your teacher will greet you upon arrival.