Tim Seutter: Some tips on finding the right yoga class for you

Paddleboard yoga. There are many different yoga teachers, yoga styles; where does one begin? Photo / File

I love yoga and I think everyone should do it! Why? Well it helps bring the body and mind into balance and create a different perspective in yourself and how you view the world.

Now is the time to get started, the birds are chirping, we've "sprung" ahead, and summer is just around the corner. "Fine", you say, "I'll give yoga a shot", but this is where things can quickly become complicated. There are so many different yoga teachers and styles, where does one even begin?

There are some simple ways to figure out what kind of yoga you want to do and what will be a good match. There are a variety of factors to consider and there isn't a one size fits all. This is really great because then you can find the type of yoga class that works for you. We are constantly changing and there is a yoga form out there that can work for you.

Here is a list of things to consider so you can find the right class for you:

Horse and carriage pose in chair yoga, one of many different types of yoga. Photo / File

1. What intensity level do you want to work with?
Some yoga classes are designed to be gentle and some require a lot of strength. There are also a huge range of classes in between these points. Many times, people try a yoga class and it's the wrong one for them and think that all yoga classes are like that one.

Fortunately, this isn't the case, with so many options out there you can narrow your focus by picking your intensity level first. Once you have decided the level of challenge you are after, you can then move on to the next question.

2. Are you after physical change, deeper philosophy, or meditation/mindfulness?
Yoga has a lot of different nuances and with that you can find a style that works for you. Finding the right class takes understanding why you're interested in yoga in the first place. Some people are after a physical form of yoga and want to prevent injuries and become more mobile in their bodies. Others are looking for ways to calm their body and mind and aren't as interested in challenging themselves physically. Understanding that there are different yoga styles that focus on these different aspects can help find the right class.

3. How long/often can you practise?
Yoga is something you can do everywhere, especially in this modern era, with yoga studios and yoga classes you can stream online. If you have only a short time to do yoga, maybe finding an online option is good for you. Maybe it feels good to be a part of a community, so going to a local yoga studio can put you in touch with other people who have similar interests. Figuring out how often you want to practise will help you decide where to look for a class whether at a studio or doing a class online.

4. Do you want to practise in a group setting or have an individualised private session?
Tied to #3, figuring out if doing yoga in a room full of people verses having a private session with a yoga teacher where you get individualised attention is a definite consideration. Some people enjoy the group dynamic and others like small classes. There can be a big difference in price between the two so figuring out your budget and how you can get the best bang for buck is important.

These questions are to help you figure out what kind of yoga will work for you.

Just because a certain teacher or style of class wasn't the right fit does not mean you are forced to stay at that class. Find a teacher, whether at a studio, or online, who gives you the style of class you are after.

Over time, what you want may change and so realising there are different ways to do yoga can empower you to take charge of your health and wellbeing.

Regular yoga - whatever style, length or place you decide - will change your life.

According to yoga guru B.K.S Iyengar, "Yoga does not just change the way we see things, it transforms the person who sees". Yoga will reduce stress, help you feel better in your body and mind, and view yourself and the world in a positive way. So, take the plunge, get on a yoga mat, and see how yoga can change your life!

• Tim Seutter is a firefighter, yoga teacher and manager at The Loft Yoga and Pilates Studio, Whangārei.