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25. How to Start Class with Confidence: The First Five Minutes Matter Most

Episode 25 Published 1 year, 3 months ago
Description

The way you begin your yoga class determines everything that follows. In this episode, I break down how to create a welcoming environment, set clear expectations, and guide students into a focused and engaged practice. From greeting students to setting the tone with your voice, presence, and language, I’ll share practical strategies to ensure your class starts with confidence and ease.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why the first five minutes are the most important

• How to create a welcoming environment before students arrive

• What to say (and what NOT to say) when greeting students

• The importance of setting clear expectations with the “five W’s and one H”

• How to guide an intentional class opening that transitions students into practice

• Common mistakes to avoid when starting class

• How to adapt your class opening for different audiences

Join the Comfort Zone Yoga 200-hour yoga teacher training—curriculum is open now and our live cohort runs September through November 2026. Be sure to tell your students who are interested in teaching, too!

Read all about it here.

Want to become (almost) everyone's favorite yoga teacher? Join Comfort Zone Yoga, my virtual studio focused on teacher development. I have a ton of Sage advice in there for you!

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And come explore my mentorship program, Yoga Class Prep Station membership, continuing education and 200/300/500-hour teacher training programs, and my many books for yoga teachers. It's all at sagerountree.com.

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