Antwerp Yoga for Beginners

I still remember my very first yoga class. I was 17, not really sure what I was getting into. It was the 90s, and yoga wasn't as popular as it is now. There was no Instagram filled with inspiring (or intimidating) poses, no YouTube tutorials to help you get started. I just walked into a small studio with my classmates with a mix of curiosity and skepticism.

And to be honest? I didn't really like it.

At the time, I was in dance training, so moving my body wasn't the issue. But my mind kept wandering, and when the tension started to release, I felt giggly and a bit embarrassed. I had no idea why this was happening, but something in me knew, this was doing me good. Even after that very first class, I left feeling lighter, as if I had shaken off something I didn't even know I was carrying.

Maybe you're at the start of your own yoga journey now, wondering if it's for you. Maybe you've heard about the benefits but aren't sure where to begin. That's exactly why I'm writing this article for you, so you don't have to figure it all out on your own. Let's look at why yoga is such a powerful practice and which classes at Antwerp Yoga are best for beginners.

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Why start practicing yoga?

Yoga is much more than stretching or physical exercise. It's a practice that brings balance to your life; helping you feel stronger, calmer, and more present. Some of the key benefits include:

• Stress relief: Yoga helps you slow down and breathe, reducing stress and anxiety.
• Better sleep: A calm nervous system means better sleep quality and a more rested mind.
• Increased flexibility & strength: Even if you don't feel flexible now, yoga will help you move more freely over time.
• Mind-Body awareness: You learn to listen to your body, move with intention, and develop a deeper connection with yourself.

And the best part? You don't have to be flexible or experienced to start. Yoga meets you exactly where you are. That's exactly why I love yoga, it's a practice that effortlessly adapts to each person's unique needs. You just need to be willing to set the competition aside and focus on your own growth. :-)

Which yoga classes are best for beginners?

Choosing the right class is important when you're starting out. At Antwerp Yoga, we offer different styles to help you find what works best for you:

• Classes with "Basic" in the Name: If you're new to yoga, these classes are a perfect starting point. We guide you through foundational postures, breathing techniques, and movements at a slower pace.
• Morning Classes: All our weekday morning classes are beginner-friendly, creating the perfect way to start your day with clarity and energy.
• Mysore Program: You don't need experience to join this self-paced Ashtanga practice. The teacher will work with you individually, helping you grow at your own rhythm.
• Yin Yoga: A slower, meditative style that focuses on the breath, deep stretching and relaxation, ideal for beginners looking for a more restorative experience.

Your yoga journey starts here (I hope)

Starting yoga can feel a little intimidating, but trust me-you don't need to be "good" at it. You just need to show up. The first step is often the hardest, but once you begin, you might discover (just like I did at 17) that yoga has something special to offer you. Be sure to let your teacher know you're new to yoga so they can guide you as needed. And to truly explore different styles and find what suits you best, take advantage of our 3-week introduction pass; the perfect way to ease into your practice at your own pace.

We welcome you to Antwerp Yoga to take that first step and experience the practice for yourself.

See you on the mat!

Namas-té,

Ine