Yoga at Lulu Bandha's with Kira Ryder in Ojai, Calif.


"I feel self conscious about coming to a class. I am overweight and am nervous about feeling out of place."
We want to see you. Yogis come in all sizes and shapes. And in truth most everyone else is just as self conscious and focused on themselves. Also, most people end up practicing with their eyes closed as the inner world becomes way more curious and enticing. But try practicing at home using the online videos. Some people find that a few private lessons with a Lulu Teacher help build confidence.
	Connect with us about scheduleing a Private Yoga Lesson

"How do I choose the right teacher for me?"
The relationship between a teacher and student is sacred and mysterious. Communication happens on many levels and while our pull towards one teacher over another is not always clear, trust your instincts. Sometimes this relationships builds and grows and lasts for a long time, and sometimes you realign with another teacher as is appropriate. We are a small group of teachers at Lulu Bandha's in a valley brimming with yoga. If you do not find a match here, do not stop seeking.

	Learn about other Yoga Resources in the Ojai Valley



"Is the class mostly women?"

It's true that more women do yoga than men. At Lulu Bandha's, the classes are always mixed and sometimes, especially in our Stiff White Guys Classes on Saturday and Sunday morning, the group is mostly men.

"Is Yoga a Religion?"
Yoga is a scientific approach to self study and can be pursued safely and easily by anyone of any faith.

"I heard you have a class that gives the proceeds back to local environmental groups."
Yes, our Green Yin Yoga on Wednesday Nights is our fundraiser. Already in it's 7th year, we have raised over $8000 for our various organizations including Ojai Land Conservancy, Ojai Raptor Center and the Matilija Dam Coalition.


"Can I just drop in to a class at the studio or do I need to sign up?"
All of our classes are drop in and most of the time there is plenty of space. Obviously the weekend classes tend to be more crowded, but we just make room. If you are new, we ask that you show up about 10 minutes early so we have the chance to connect before class starts.


"What do I need to bring?"
If you have a mat, bring it. If not, no problem, we have mats, blankets, straps and blocks for your use.

"What Should I Wear?"
Generally, the same clothes you might use to exercise or workout in are appropriate.
Men
Shorts or Loose pants with a drawstring or elastic waist. A tighter fitting top that will not fall over your head when you bend over is reccomended. Many men wear UnderArmour like tops, fitted ribbed tank tops, or shirts that move with you easily. Some men choose to remove their shirts while practicing.

Women
Many women wear loose or tight fitting athletic pants that have a drawstring or elastic waist. An athletic top that keeps everything in place is recommened. If you wear a shirt over the top, choose one that will not slip over your head when you take a forward fold.

"What else should I know?"
Generally we recommend arriving with an empty stomach. A little tea or something super light before class can sometimes be okay. But you know best. We practice in an enclosed space, so we ask that you refrain from wearing any scents like perfume, cologne or strong smelling oils. Bathing before practice is a fantastic way to 'clean the slate' before class but not necessary.


"Is there a good book about yoga for a beginner?"
There are so many books about yoga. We have a suggested reading list, but two we highly recommend are Erich Schiffmann's, The Spirit and Practice of Moving into Stillness and T.K.V. Desikachar's, Heart of Yoga.
	See Our Reccommended Reading List (TBP)


Have questions that we have not been able to address here? Connect with us directly here. Or call us at 805.640.7868.