We hope your first visit to the WYC is fulfilling and joyful!
Here are few things you need to know when you are coming to the school for the first time…
No prior reservations are needed at the WYC. You may choose your class and just arrive there 15 minutes before class so you have time to register, change, get comfortable in the school's surroundings and meet the teacher. Please let the teacher know of your prior Yoga experience, injuries or health issues so you will receive the best care during your class!
If you are completely new to yoga we suggest taking a Basic Beginner or Level I class. However, feel free to jump into an Open Level class which will provide you with the supportive energy of the more advanced students. Please see Classes and Schedules and Rates for more details.
Please wear comfortable, fitted clothes that allow a full range of movement. No shoes are allowed in the studio and we practice without socks so be ready to go barefoot!
We have mats available for a $1 rental fee per class. All other props, such as blocks, blankets, straps, and chairs are provided.
If you have any other questions please have a look at the frequently asked questions below or call our office at (212) 877-4153.
1. Q: What is the best clothing for Yoga practice?
A: Yoga is practiced with bare feet in clothes that breathe and do not constrict your full range of motion. Gym shorts, tights without feet, stretch pants, and cotton Yoga pants are all fine for your practice. T shirts, tank tops, leotards are fine as well.
Jeans, tight clothes, belts, and heavy jewelry will be in your way. Some people are allergic to perfumes so be aware not to wear strong scents.
2. Q: Can I change into my Yoga clothes at WYC?
A: Yes. We have changing rooms with bathrooms for men and women. WYC is environmentally conscious. We provide filtered water, use eco-friendly supplies, biodegradable mats and wind-generated electricity.
3. Q: What about eating?
A: The ideal is to practice on an empty stomach. Do not have a meal for two hours before class.
4. Q: If I have an injury, a health issue, or am recovering from
surgery, what shall I do?
A: It is essential that you inform the instructor of any injuries or health issues before class begins so that you will be well taken care of during class.
5. Q: May I bring my own mat?
A: Yes! We have no space to store them for you at the school so you must take your mat with you when you leave. If you wish to rent mats we have new biodegradable mats available for $1 per class. You can add $8 to your series to prepay for your use of the mats, bringing the series total to $120.
6. Q: How do I know which class is the best one for me?
A: See Classes. If you do not get a clear idea of which class to take from these descriptions or if you have any other questions, please call 212-877-4153.
7. Q: How do I find out the daily schedule of classes, updates and who is teaching?
A: For the schedule and the most current information on who is teaching that day, see Schedules and Rates or call our recording at 212-787-4908 for the daily updated message. A hard copy of the schedule is available at the school as well.
8. Q: What else goes on at the school?
A: We have special workshops, a monthly open meditation evening, periodic Kirtans/ Chanting, three retreats a year – Summer, Fall and Winter in the Tropics, Anusara Yoga Immersions and TeacherTraining. We offer a mentoring program to our students: private instruction for Hatha Yoga, Meditation and transformational counseling. Call 212-877-4153 for information.
The two-hour Sunday 10 a.m. Open Level class has a lengthier meditation and a longer period of restorative Yoga.
9. Q: How do I hear about programs?
A: If you have been away from class, you will hear about our programs and other happenings by being on our mailing list. The sign up sheet is at the door as you come in. Be sure to write legibly.
10. Q: How long does a class series last and what happens if I do not use all my classes before the expiration date?
A: An 8 class series lasts eight weeks and costs $112. You can come as often as you like per week to the classes of your choice. When you have used all 8 classes on your card, you can buy another card. If you still have unused classes left after the expiration date, you are still entitled to those classes but lose the discount rate. You pay an extra $3 for each overtime class. (The discount rate is $14 per class and the single rate is $17 per class.) Even if you will be away for a few weeks, it is still good savings to buy 8 classes at the discount rate.
11. Q: What happens to my series card if I have to be away for a few weeks?
A: You just forfeit the $3 discount on the classes you have left on your card when you return.