The first five minutes of your yoga class might just be the most important part of the entire experience. Think about it—this is when you establish the energy of the room, create a sense of safety and belonging, and help your students transition from their busy lives into the practice.
If you rush through this moment or start on an uncertain note, your students will feel it. But if you begin with confidence, warmth, and a clear sense of direction, they’ll be able to settle in, trust you, and fully engage in their practice.
Here are practical strategies for starting class with confidence, common mistakes to avoid, and how to craft a class opening that serves both you and your students.
The First Five Minutes Matter More Than You Think
When students walk into your class, they’re coming from all kinds of circumstances. Some are rushing in from work, still thinking about emails and deadlines. Others may be navigating personal stress or dealing with physical discomfort. Your role as a teacher is to create a container—a space where they can set everything aside and arrive fully in the present moment.
The way you start class sets the tone for everything that follows. If you feel scattered, hesitant, or rushed, that energy will ripple into your students’ experience. But if you’re grounded, welcoming, and intentional, they’ll feel safe and ready to engage.
Let’s talk about how to make that happen.
Before Students Arrive: Set Yourself Up for Success
A great class opening doesn’t start when students walk through the door—it begins with your preparation. Give yourself at least 15–20 minutes before class to:
• Set up the space. Adjust the lighting, temperature, and props so everything feels inviting and ready. If your class uses props, have them already set out. This small touch makes students feel welcomed and cared for.
• Review your class plan. Take a moment to refresh your memory on your sequence and theme so you feel clear and focused.
• Ground yourself. Check in with your own breath and body. Take a few moments to center yourself so you can be fully present for your students.
If you’re flustered and rushing in at the last second, your students will pick up on that energy. But if you arrive early, prepared, and calm, you’ll be able to welcome them with genuine presence.
Greeting Students: Be the Welcoming Host
Think about your favorite restaurants. When you walk in, the host greets you warmly, shows you to your table, and sets the stage for a great dining experience. Your yoga class should have that same thoughtful beginning.
As students enter, make eye contact, smile, and greet them by name if you can. If you have new students, use a simple, open-ended phrase like: “Are you a new face for me?”
This allows students to share whether they’re new to yoga, new to your class, or just new to you—without putting them on the spot.
If your studio uses preregistration, take a minute to glance at the roster beforehand. Seeing names ahead of time can help you greet students personally and start building relationships.
Another great way to connect is to ask, “Is there anything you need from your practice today?” This signals that you care about their experience while keeping things within your scope of practice. Remember, you’re not diagnosing or fixing—you’re simply inviting students to check in with themselves.
The Official Class Opening: Setting Expectations
Once everyone is settled on their mats, it’s time to officially open class. This is where you set the structure and tone for the experience.
A simple, effective framework for this is the Five W’s and One H—the same method journalists use to provide key information quickly and clearly.
• Who: Introduce yourself, even to a room of regulars. “Hi everyone, I’m Sage, and I’ll be guiding your practice today.”
• What & When: Give a quick overview of the class style and duration. “This is a 75-minute flow class. We’ll wrap up with a long relaxation at 7:15.”
• Where: Offer logistical details. “If you need to step out, the exit is to your right. Props are at the back wall.”
• Why: Share the focus or intention for the class. “Today, we’ll be exploring balance—not just physical balance, but the balance between effort and ease.”
• How: Give a quick reminder of class guidelines. “Everything I offer is optional, and you’re always welcome to modify or take a break as needed.”
This takes less than a minute, but it gives students a sense of clarity and security. They know what to expect, which helps them relax into the practice.
Don’ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced teachers can fall into some common traps when opening class. Here are a few to watch out for:
1. Apologizing
Saying “Sorry the room is cold” or “Sorry I’m running late” immediately undermines your authority. If something needs addressing, acknowledge it without making excuses.
2. Information Overload
You don’t need to front-load every detail about the class in the first five minutes. Keep your opening clear and concise—students will absorb information better when they’re settled.
3. Skipping Logistics
Make sure students know where props are, how long class will last, and what to do if they need a break. This practical information helps them feel comfortable.
4. Inconsistency
If your class opening changes dramatically every time, it can feel unsettling for students. A consistent, predictable structure helps them transition into practice smoothly.
5. Rushing Through It
Treat your class opening as part of the practice, not just a formality to get through. Give it the same attention you’d give a well-sequenced posture.
Adapting Your Opening for Different Audiences
Different classes call for different approaches. Here are a few ways to tailor your opening:
• For beginners: Offer more explicit guidance and avoid jargon.
• For corporate/workplace classes: Acknowledge the shift from work mode to yoga mode.
• For morning classes: Keep it gentle—lying down might feel too much like going back to bed!
• For trauma-sensitive spaces: Emphasize choice and agency. “Everything I offer is an invitation.”
No matter the setting, the goal is always the same: to create a smooth transition from daily life into the practice.
Final Thoughts: The Power of a Thoughtful Opening
Your class opening isn’t just a warm-up—it’s a crucial part of the practice. It sets the stage for connection, presence, and transformation.
Approach it with intention, refine it over time, and trust that your confidence will help your students feel at ease. When you start class with clarity and warmth, you create a space where students can truly show up—for themselves and for their practice.
Looking for more insights on teaching? Listen to episode S1E25 of Yoga Teacher Confidential here!
