The willingness to start something new is actually all you need to get started.

If you are interested in a weekly class that is relaxed, and you can come and go as you please, the Relaxation Yoga classes are good for all levels, including beginners.
Relaxation Yoga classes are on Mondays and Tuesdays. The detailed schedule is on the homepage.

If you need to totally overhaul your relationship to stress, especially if you have chronic pain and/or anxiety, you should go to the Stress Reduction INTENSIVE. The Intensive takes place in Boston in September, and then again in Medford next January. The Intensive requires an investment of time, money, and dedication. And it is a worthwhile investment that can change your life.

• NEW TO YOGA? This is what you need to know...

WATER
Proper hydration supports all parts of the body. Water also assists in the release of toxins. Bring a water bottle to class and drink water especially after class to help the body retain the health benefits of your yoga practice. (Reduce caffeine consumption as much as possible on yoga-day because it interferes with relaxation.)
EATING
An empty stomach is recommended. Do your best to finish your meal 1½ - 2 hours before yoga class begins.
PAIN
If you experience pain in a yoga pose, immediately release the pose. Do not strain yourself. Make sure to listen to your body and adjust according to your needs. The yoga teacher is only a guide, you are in control of your own yoga practice.
INJURIES
Tell your yoga teacher about your health concerns. It is most important for her/him to know if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, glaucoma, are pregnant, or had recent injuries to a joint.
SELF CARE
Throughout your yoga practice, consistently pay attention to your experience. Do what you need to take care of yourself. Accept any limitations you have, accept yourself as is. Yoga is a self exploration. There is no goal to reach.
BREATHING
Holding the breath is a stress response. In Relaxation Yoga classes, we consciously counteract stress by practicing deep breathing. Vocally sighing and/or yawning is also encouraged during class. Making those relaxing sounds helps the body to release tension. Sometimes new students find it strange to yawn loudly at first. With time, it seems perfectly natural.
POSTURE ADJUSTMENTS
A "posture adjustment" is when the yoga teacher either verbally instructs you or touches you in order to demonstrate the conventional way a pose is held. A posture adjustment doesn't mean that you were doing anything wrong. It just means that there is a way of doing the pose that is more standard, or perhaps better for your posture.
COMMUNICATION
This is your yoga class. Make sure to talk with you yoga teacher about what works for you and what doesn't work.
TIPS FOR RELAXATION
1 Breathe
2 Vocally sigh and yawn
3 Breathe
4 Drop your shoulders
5 Breathe
6 Accept yourself as you are, unconditionally
7 And breathe.

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