What to Expect in Your First Yoga Class at Emerald Yoga Studio
Thinking about trying yoga for the first time? Maybe you’ve been meaning to come for a while, but something keeps holding you back. Maybe you’re worried you won’t know what to do, or that everyone else will be more advanced.
Take a breath. You’re not alone. And you’re definitely not the only one who’s felt that way.
Trying something new can be intimidating, but it helps to know what to expect. At Emerald Yoga Studio in Pembroke, we do our best to make sure your first experience feels welcoming—not overwhelming.
Here’s what it’s like to come to your first class.
When you walk through the door, you’ll step into a calm, friendly space. Someone at the front desk—usually your teacher or a staff member—will greet you and check you in. If you’ve signed up ahead of time online, great. If not, we’ll walk you through it right there.
You’ll take off your shoes and leave them in the front cubbies. Then you’ll head into the studio and find a space for your mat. If you don’t have a mat, we’ve got plenty you can borrow. We also have props—blocks, bolsters, blankets, straps. You can use as many as you want, and if you don’t know how, we’ll help you get set up.
Before class starts, you might see people stretching quietly, sitting with their eyes closed, or chatting softly with someone nearby. If you’re not sure what to do, just sit or lie down and take a moment to breathe.
Your teacher will come over and introduce themselves. They might ask if you’re working with any injuries or if it’s your first time. That’s your chance to let them know, and we really encourage it. We’re not here to judge—we’re here to support you. They will give you a full tour of our studio so that you know where everything is. You should also get a green folder with all of the information you’ll need about our schedule, registering for classes, some guest passes, and more!
Once class begins, you’ll be guided through a series of movements. Every teacher has their own style, but they’ll all focus on breath, mindful movement, and choice.
That means:
You’ll get clear instructions for each pose
You’ll be offered options and props to support you
You’ll be reminded to breathe often
You’ll never be pushed to do anything that doesn’t feel right
This isn’t about pushing through. It’s about tuning in. If something doesn’t feel good, you’re encouraged to pause or rest. And if you’re not sure what to do, we’ll be there to guide you without calling attention to you.
You’re not expected to know everything. You’re just invited to show up and try.
At the end of class, there’s usually a few minutes of stillness lying on your back—this is called Savasana. There’s nothing to do here but rest. Let your body soak in the experience and your breath settle.
When it’s time to go, you’ll roll up your mat, grab your things, and head out. Most people feel calmer or lighter after their first class. Some feel emotional. Some aren’t sure what they just experienced. All of it is normal.
Here’s what matters: if you came and tried, you did it right.
You don’t need to be flexible. You don’t need to know the poses. You don’t need fancy clothes or your own mat. And you don’t need to wait until you feel “ready.”
You just need to show up as you are. We’ll meet you there.
Find your first class at Emerald Yoga Studio in Pembroke, MA.
No pressure. Just a soft place to land and a community that’s happy to have yo