Class fees are nonrefundable. Can I make up a missed class? Yes, you may make up any class, but only during the current session. If you are registered in one location, you may attend a makeup class in the other location space permitting. Make-ups cannot be used during the following session. Extenuating circumstances will be considered on individual basis. Fees are structured so that if you miss one class during a session you are still paying less than a drop in fee per class.

What type of yoga mat should I buy? Yoga mats come in a variety of sizes, prices, quality and materials. For all yoga classes, it is important to get a mat that has some tackiness to prevent slippage in yoga poses. Minimum thickness  (about 1/8 inch) to a maximum of about 3/8-inch thickness is suitable for most classes. Anything less than 1/8 inch would be used primarily for travel. Density is very important. Denser mats provide firm cushioning and stability. A very thick spongy mat provides a nice cushion for the knees; however, it is too thick to provide good traction and stability in a standing or balancing pose. If looking online and the descriptions state that it leaves footprints, then it will be spongy. Prices range from about $15 -$100. You can buy an inexpensive one to begin if you are unsure of your commitment, but we do get what we pay for…. as the saying goes. Some students use a towel or blanket under the knees when needed.

What is a good size yoga mat for me? Average length is about 70-72 inches. If you are very tall, you can find online mats in the 80-100 inch lengths. If you are close to or over 6 feet tall, you would be better off using a longer than average mat. Otherwise, when lying down on the floor, your feet or head may hang over onto the floor. Real inexpensive (in price and quality) are usually 65-68 inches.

What type of yoga belt (strap) is best? That depends on how you will be using the belt. The shortest ones are usually 6ft long. You can get a cinch or D-ring buckle. The ones found at the discount stores are always 6 ft cinch buckle straps. The cinch buckle is a plastic buckle, with teeth serrations in them. They are sometimes packaged with a yoga block. My personal preference is an 8ft belt with a D-ring buckle. It allows more versatility for different types of poses, using this prop. D-rings are much easier to make a secure loop with. I always waste time in class trying to figure out the cinch buckles. You can usually buy a strap for between $6-12, depending on the company.

Which type of block is best? Again, this is personal preference and depends how you wish to use them. Most students that carry their blocks with them to class prefer a foam block. They are usually 3-4 inches wide by 9 inches long. A minimum of 1 block is needed. If you are using them under both thighs for support, then 2 are best. Blocks also come in cork and wood. Wood is best used as a prop in balancing poses that require a lot of stability (such as half-moon, ardha chandrasana pose). They are heavy to carry and hurt if dropped on your foot, accidentally. Cork is lightweight and fine to use. Blocks usually range from $6-15, depending on the website.

Do I need a blanket? Yes. Most of my students use at least one firm Mexican or wool yoga blanket. If you have difficulty sitting cross-legged on the floor, then you probably need 2 blankets or more. I can make that assessment after seeing you in class. If sitting on the floor cross-legged, and your knees are more than 4-6 inches from the floor, then you definitely need more than one. I have a few to share, but if you need more than one then please purchase one or more of your own to bring. Mexican blankets vary widely in quality. Cheaper blankets have a very loose weave and provide less support. Heavier weights provide firmer support. (This is good). Woven and nonwoven wool yoga blankets are always thick and provide good support. (I personally use the wool blankets.) Many students do not like or are allergic to wool. Thick cotton blankets with batting in them and not good except for extended relaxation on the floor as a cushion. Mexican blankets range in price from $12-25 each. Wool blankets are usually $20-$30 each.