Yoga Hawaii

for the new student

We welcome new students to Yoga Hawaii!

If you're not sure where to start, here are some class suggestions:

First, check out our free introductory class, held each Friday at 5:45 p.m. This is geared specifically for the new student and provides an excellent opportunity to ask questions. [Sign up here]

Next, if you're interested in classes with a gentle approach, try one of these classes:

Yoga Basics—Level I or Mixed Levels
Yoga Basics—The Series


Or, if you're wanting a more energetic experience, you'll want to try:

Vinyasa Yoga


Our most athletic style of yoga is Ashtanga Yoga. You'll want to start in the beginning-level class:

Intro to Ashtanga Yoga (4-week series)

and then possibly progressing to...

Ashtanga Yoga (Half Primary)


These are only suggestions...remember you are welcome to try ANY of the classes to which you are drawn. Our instructors will give you modifications when necessary. And if you have any health concerns, please check with your doctor before beginning any new physical activity.

First class is only $5, for Hawaii residents. (Learn more about class fees.)

New student awarenesses

Here are some guidelines that can deepen your experience of yoga...

Each yoga class is a unique experience, however, these thoughts may assist you at this auspicious beginning:

  • Classes do begin on time. Please come a few minutes early to get situated and take care of any logistics with your teacher.
  • Please also plan to stay through the entire class. Leaving early is not only disruptive to the energy created within a class, but robs you of the chance to ‘seal in’ the experience you’ve had.
  • Bring a towel or mat to class. Other comfort-related items that some people like to bring, which are completely optional, are an eyebag for relaxation, a meditation pillow or bolster, a smaller towel for sweaty practices, or a lightweight covering to use during relaxation. (Yoga Hawaii sells a number of these items for your convenience.)
  • Wear either loose, comfortable, light clothing or stretchy fabrics that move with you. Before starting, remove your watch, belt and any jewelry which may interfere with your movements or energy flow. And please turn off your pager or cellphone.
  • It is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach. However, if your stomach is growling from hunger, your mind will probably be thinking about your next meal. Find an agreeable balance between feeling light in your body and not feeling overly hungry.
  • There are two bathrooms located within our studio. Feel free to use them whenever you need to, even during class. You are encouraged to listen to the urges of your body, not ignore them out of politeness.
  • You are also encouraged to talk to your instructor about any concerns that may come up for you. Most of our instructors have had a lengthy personal practice of yoga, during which they’ve experienced many of things you will experience. Allow them to guide you in your process of self-discovery; it’s good to have a friend along this path.
  • Listen to your body over any instruction you may hear. If something doesn’t feel good, don’t do it. However, sometimes a movement may not feel “good,” but it still feels “right.” Such a sensation will feel more like a deep intensity rather than “pain.” In the beginning though, it is recommended that you err on the side of caution until you learn to clearly distinguish between the two.
  • During menses, it is recommended that women do not invert their hips over their head. It is said to disrupt the downward flow of apana (an internal energy) that is necessary during this time. Instead, there are optional postures such as supine goddess or taking your legs up the wall, which are very comforting during this time. Your teacher can instruct you in these.
  • Drinking water during class is not recommended. Water will cool the tapas (the inner fires) which are best kept hot. The greater the inner fire, the more impurities are burned away. The inner heat will also keep the muscles warm and pliable. However, it is highly recommended that you drink plenty of water after class to continue flushing toxins from the system.

Yoga can be a beautiful sacred journey, bringing you back in touch with your body and mind in a new way. If there is anything we can do to assist you on your path, please contact us.

Thank you for allowing us to share this experience with you. Jai Bhagwan.