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These 8 lessons will, without a doubt, enrich your yogic experience both on and off the mat.

Yoga can teach us many invaluable lessons about life and our practice. And there is no better place to learn than at our favourite yoga class, meeting with like-minded friends and dedicating undivided time and attention to yourself. Just a few simple words of wisdom from a teacher can strike the deepest chord, guiding us to reconnect with our mind, body and soul for the coming hour of practice.

8 Lessons you will learn at yoga class…

1. You are exactly where you are supposed to be
It may sound cliche but it can be the most important teaching that you will learn in yoga. You cannot and must not force your body beyond it’s natural limits. Releasing any expectations you may have and learning to accept whatever comes is one of the greatest gifts you will give yourself. Trust and honour the process, for it will all come in time and only when you are ready.

2. Everything is temporary 
The concept of impermanence is woven throughout the fabric of yoga and you will likely be reminded of this in your class. For every beginner and in each challenging posture yoga brings, you can progress in the knowledge that nothings stays the same for very long. Often we will put up a fight merely because it is what we believe we should do. But the process will eventually teach you that you’re strong in mind and body. Every moment is a fresh start.

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3. Each practice is different
Just as it is wise not to expect yourself to be a master on day one, it is also important to remember each and every practice will bring about its own set of rules. Things are not made to be within our control all of the time and yoga is no different. Yes you will find balance and harmony in your practice but it doesn’t automatically mean it will be a perfect. The left and right sides of your body are not necessarily equally strong and flexible and what your body can do one day it may not be able to do the next.

4. Don’t struggle
Even the most well practiced yogi will need to rein it in sometimes. If you find you push yourself too far beyond your comfort zone in class, you could be in danger of causing an injury. More than this, you will be far flung from the real practice of yoga and its truest intentions. There is really little point in placing extra pressure upon yourself, panicking and tensing up. Rather, letting go of any falsehoods and experiencing the practice within the boundaries of your own abilities will free the mind and allow you to focus on a fluid rhythm of breath.

5. Nothing is impossible
It might just seem to you that a lot of yoga is about acceptance, and this is true but don’t be disheartened. With dedication and time will come exciting new advances in your practice. You are capable of amazing things and sometimes the trickiest asana will suddenly happen with ease, without you even realising it. Giving up because you think you “won’t ever be able to do a pose”, or “will never be flexible enough” is a destructive mentality that won’t get you any closer to your goals. If you believe that one day you will get there, you will strive for it and it may not even take as long as you think!

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6. You will never stop learning
As the saying goes “It never gets easier, you just get stronger”. Opening yourself up to new challenges and finding new perspective is the essence of a yogic life. Just as you think you might have perfected a pose, your teacher will re-align you and bring your attention to adjustments in your practice. Indeed these are not commands but suggestions, which remind us all that there is always something to learn in every new moment.

7. Seek support
Turning to your teacher for help is important should the need arise in your practice. They are there to guide you and ensure you are in safe and correct alignment. It’s always important to inform your teacher of any injuries or concerns you might have before you start. Perhaps you might benefit from using the additional support of a block or bolster at classes. It’s best not to enter into a pose with a strong sense of fear so make sure you are comfortable and at ease.

8. How to improve
One of the most practical lessons you will learn in class (as opposed to home practice alone) is the benefits of any given asana. Many yoga classes will have a focus running throughout a session, whether it be core, hips, arms, strength, flexibility, digestion. Understanding the ways in which each posture can benefit your body and bring you closer to your goals will motivate you in your practice. And as you become more confident in your abilities you may wish to focus on specific areas of the body that will help you to expand and enhance your yoga repertoire.

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