New to Yoga?
Whether it’s your very first yoga class or you are coming back to yoga after time away, we want to make your experience pleasant and rewarding. Below is some useful information.
Special offer for new students
New Student Intro Pass: 14 Days for $49 – come try as many classes as you like to see what works for your body and your schedule.
Getting started
We encourage you to explore our diverse range of classes. For beginners, we recommend starting with our gentle or beginner-level classes to find the perfect fit for your needs. See all our classes here. We’re here to support you on your yoga journey!
How to sign up for classes
Classes are held in the studio and on Zoom. Follow these steps to register:
- Visit the class schedule page and find a time and class type that works for you
- Click "book"
- Select a payment method. New students can chose to book with an intro pass—14 days of unlimited classes for $49! We also have other memberships available, or you can pay for a single class at the drop-in price.
- You’ll be prompted to sign our waiver, please do so.
- Remember to cancel 24 hours in advance if something comes up to avoid being charged for the class.
Tips for beginners
Here are a few tips that will help you prepare for your first class:
- Our studio, nestled right next to the Saddle River, can be hard to see from the parking lot. There are pinned videos at the top of our Facebook and Instagram pages that walk with you from either parking lot to the studio.
- Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your class start time. We begin and end promptly. It’s nice to have a few minutes to get settled, sign in for class and relax.
- Choose the right class for you. Beginners can feel confident in any of our Gentle or Beginner level classes. We recommend starting in an easier class and then building up to more challenging classes. Questions? Call or email Rachel at 201.822.1131 or Rachel@Shreeyoga.com
- Please turn off cell phones, smart watches, or leave them in the car.
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that won’t restrict your ability to move and bend. Exercise clothing, t-shirts, sweats, leggings or shorts are all fine.
- Inform the teacher of any physical challenges or issues you might be having so he/she can help you modify the poses to best meet your needs that day.
- Bring a yoga mat and a water bottle. If you don’t have a mat, you can use one of ours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if I’m doing yoga “right?”
A: There are no “right” or “wrong” poses in yoga. If you feel better in any way after class, you are doing it “right”. Our teachers continually walk around during class and will guide you to find what works for your body.
Q: Do I need to call or make a reservation?
A: Yes. Reserve, sign the waiver and pay online before coming to class. Find details here.
Q: I’m new to exercise, how do I know if I’m “overdoing it”?
A: Yoga should never hurt. You will feel the sensations of your muscles stretching and working, but it should never be painful. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort during class, inform your instructor so they can help you modify so you are comfortable.
Q: I don’t feel like I have the right body for yoga. Should I wait to get in better shape?
A: Anyone, in any condition, can do yoga. It is a versatile practice. You and your teacher can modify any pose to suit your particular physical abilities. Don’t wait — yoga will help you to become more flexible and to feel better about yourself. Weight loss can be a natural off-shoot of this. One of our students lost 8 dress sizes without dieting, simply from doing yoga several times a week. There is a yoga level for everyone, regardless of physical condition. Talk to your teacher to make sure you are in an appropriate level class.
Q: How many times a week do I need to come? Is once a week enough?
A: The more often you come, the more results you will experience. However, once a week is a great place to start. For those who have scheduling constraints and cannot come more often, their weekly class often becomes a haven to carry them through the rest of the week. We can help you create a schedule that works with yours. Our different payment options offer you complete flexibility.
Q: What is the difference between hatha yoga and yoga at Shree?
A: All the various styles of yoga are in essence hatha yoga taught with different areas of emphasis. Yoga at Shree is a particular style of yoga that offers a holistic, heartfelt approach. Our teachers are highly trained in understanding not only the physical body, but also the subtler energetic body and the ways that they work together. In our classes, you will learn an elegant method of alignment, including energy loops and spirals and biomechanical principles. This method enhances body awareness and creates increased balance, strength, and flexibility. Many of our teachers have studied in the Anusara Yoga method.
Q: Has it been proven that yoga is good for you?
A: Yes. Western science has been studying yoga for more than 50 years, and the research suggests numerous physical and psychological benefits from Yoga. Interestingly, there seems to be something about Yoga – vs. exercise and controlled breathing – that is particularly beneficial. For example, a recent study with heart patients showed that those who followed a stress reduction program that included many yoga practices did better than patients who exercised or did nothing. Further, preliminary studies in the United States and India suggest that yoga may be helpful for specific conditions, such as asthma, epilepsy, anxiety, stress and others.
Q: What is yoga?
A: Yoga is the oldest holistic system of personal development. It is a practical method of self-improvement, which includes the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of ourselves. Yoga consists of postures, breathing exercises and meditation. The postures stretch, tone and strengthen muscles, joints and the spine. They also stimulate internal organs, glands and nerves. The postures can liberate vast resources of trapped energy. As we practice yoga, we become increasingly aware of the interconnectedness of body, mind and spirit. Many people enthusiastically attest to the increased energy and strength that yoga brings them; others love the relief from stress or their aches and pains they find through their yoga practice.
Q: What can you expect from an Anusara class?
- A focus on aligning mind, body and heart through careful movement, based on a deep understanding of the body’s skeletal, muscle and fascia structures;
- A highly-trained teacher who is eager to share their love of Anusara with newcomers and experienced practitioners alike;
- The opportunity to connect the heart, body and mind through meditation and reflection;
- Increased strength, flexibility, balance and awareness.