Yoga practice helps you build strength, increase flexibility, and develop greater mental focus. This guide gives you the basic information to get started. Remember, the hardest part is walking through the studio’s front door! Try different classes and talk with your teachers (they like questions). Over time, you can tailor an individualized practice that emphasizes exactly what you need.
First Visit Advice
Please arrive 15 minutes early. We have some simple paperwork to complete and you can speak with the instructor about any special needs you may have.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Yoga is practiced in bare feet for traction and safety. Our studio has changing rooms and cubbies to store your belongings.
Don’t eat for an hour before your class. A little water is okay, but too much liquid can be uncomfortable.
Students typically practice on a yoga mat — bring your own, buy a new one from us, or use one of our free loaner mats.
What Type of Class Should I Take?
The first place to start is class descriptions. Read these to find classes that appeal to you. Then look at the daily class schedule to see when the classes are available. Each class has a link to the instructor. You can read the instructor’s bio to understand his/her training and style.
If you need advice or have questions, please feel free to contact us and we can help to point you in the right direction. Just use the contact form on the right side of this page.
On the Mat
Yoga practice typically involves a series of physical postures that are coordinated with full breathing and a mental focus on the present moment. It is a lifelong practice of progressive change and there’s no need to do it all on the first try. There are many modifications available for the physical poses to make them more or less challenging depending on your needs.
Remember it is not a competition with others or yourself. Challenge yourself but don’t push too hard – yoga should never be painful. If you can’t breathe, it’s a warning to back off a little and reduce the intensity of the pose.
In the beginning you may want to practice in the back row so you can observe other students – they’ll help you get a feel for the different poses and class flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
See our FAQs to learn more about yoga in general, yoga terms, and yoga etiquette.
How to Register and Purchase Online
See our section to learn how to register and purchase online to set up your account and make purchases for class passes, gift certificates, and other retail items.
30-MINUTE PRIVATE CONSULTATION FOR $20
One-time only introductory special. Must be scheduled in advance.
THREE CLASSES FOR JUST $29 SAVE 35%
One-time only introductory special. Explore a range of classes, meet our instructors, and discover the practice that’s right for you.
Just print the coupon(s) and FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW and we'll call you within 24 hours to discuss your particular situation. You can also call us at 630-262-9642.
NOT SURE WHICH CLASS IS RIGHT FOR YOU? We can help with that!
What students are saying
"My introduction to yoga was at a fitness center where I injured myself because of improper or poor alignment. I was thrilled to find Prana Yoga Center where the emphasis is solely on yoga--and doing it properly to avoid injury. Each instructor has his or her own style of teaching, but all of the instructors are hands-on, experienced, and dedicated yogis. They make this place a joy to practice yoga. I never feel intimidated, even when I've walked into a class above my level, or into a class style I've never tried, as they are welcoming and accepting of all students' levels of practice. The studio, located adjacent to Wheeler Park, is a peaceful place to practice, and practicing at Prana restores my sanity and brings balance to my life."
