New to Country Zen Yoga

Guidelines & Etiquette

• Upon entering the front door, please whisper or use a soft voice to respect the atmosphere as class may be in progress
• All new students are required to fill out our waiver form before attending a class
• Students under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian sign their waiver form before attending class
• Please arrive minimum 15 minutes prior to class to ensure a spot and give yourself some time to relax and settle in
• Be mindful to remove shoes at the front entrance
• To maintain our zen atmosphere, please practice silence in the studio room and be respectful to those meditating and relaxing
• Help maintain a fragrance-free zone by coming clean to class and avoid wearing perfumes or hairspray
• Cell phones must be set on silent while inside the building. Personal belongings are not permitted in the studio room, please make use of the lockers free of charge (lock not provided)
• Be sure to mention any injuries or concerns to your teacher prior to class start
• Take each class at your own pace, drinking lots of water and coming into any resting posture when needed.

*Here you can print and sign our STUDIO WAIVER to bring along with you to your first class

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS HOT YOGA AT COUNTRY ZEN?

Hot yoga is simply physical yoga classes practiced in a heated environment. Heat infuses muscles in the body, allowing them to release and soften as circulation increases. Lighting is typically dim offering a unique experience of calm and focus however the teacher may choose to allow for more light to enhance their desired vibe for a specific class.

What is offered as a “hot yoga class” can vary greatly from studio to studio. If you have practiced hot yoga before, we may be a little different than what you’re used to! Here’s some insight into the class setup at Country Zen:

*General Temperature guidelines – “Hot” 92-98 degrees, “Warm” 82-85 degrees
*Heated by efficient radiant ceiling panels
*Humidity in the practice room is controlled by a heat recovery ventilation system in an aim to keep humidity levels at a comfortable 40-50%
*Due to the warmth, even more focus is placed on form to create a yoga practice that can be safe and functional. While mobility in the body may be an area of benefit for some, it can be problematic for others. Our classes stress a balance of mobility paired with stability, flexibility with strengthening.
*Country Zen is an independent studio and not affiliated with other hot yoga franchises, chains or studios

WHEN SHOULD I AVOID HOT YOGA?

Hot yoga classes are not always suitable for all. If you have concerns or injuries we recommend consulting with your doctor prior to attending class. Hot yoga is contraindicated in the following situations:

• – Doctor advised to avoid cardiovascular activity
• – Un-medicated high blood pressure
• – Pregnancy
• – Conditions of extreme hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
• – Children under the age of 14

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

Comfort is key! Light-weight, breathable materials such as moisture-wicking athletics or light-weight cottons are preferable. Short-sleeved shirts, shorts or yoga crops/pants are most comfortable when practicing in a heated room. For safety and comfort we recommend always practicing in bare feet.

DO I NEED TO BRING ANYTHING?

A yoga mat, water bottle and beach-sized towel for over your mat, as well as a smaller towel by your side. A towel on top of your mat will keep you from sliding when you begin to sweat! Mat and towel rentals are available to rent at the studio for $2 each. Filtered water is provided in addition to Flow Water that is available for purchase.

*Tip! Before class: avoid eating large meals 2 hours leading up to practice. A snack before class will help to keep energy levels up, such as a banana or some nuts. Come to practice well hydrated as you will be sweating out a lot of water. Continue to hydrate throughout.