WHAT TO WEAR
Wear comfortable, non-restrictive, clothing that you can move and stretch in. You do not need to wear yoga pants/clothes to practice yoga! In the winter it can be nice to wear layers and a pair of socks, especially for Yin and Restorative but I recommend removing socks during movement based classes so that your feet don't slip on your mat. Please avoid wearing perfume, scented lotion, or anything with a strong scent prior to yoga.
WHAT TO BRING
All of the props you will need are provided and set up prior to your arrival. You are welcome to bring your own props, if you'd like. Some students bring their own yoga mat and place it over one of our mats. The studio has water and herbal tea for you to enjoy before or after class. Basically all you really need to do is bring yourself!
SHOULD I EAT BEFORE CLASS?
In a perfect world, I would recommend that you come to class comfortable - not hungry and not full! You'll probably notice that you're hungry after a Yin or Restorative practice as those classes are more restful and allow for digestion. It would be okay to eat something light prior to one of those classes.
WHICH CLASSES SHOULD I TAKE?
If you're unsure which class to take, you can always reach out to me and ask. You can also book a private session so that I can get to know you better and offer a personalized recommendation. My classes are suitable for all levels as long as you can get up and down from the floor. I do my best to teach all of my classes with a beginner's approach; I cue body movements and actions instead of the pose names. Each class is different. To learn more about the styles that I offer, head to the Yoga or Booking page to read more about the class.
"I'M NOT FLEXIBLE"
That's perfectly okay! We don't begin yoga because we already have perfectly flexible bodies or because we can meditate with a clear mind. Yoga is a practice! We do yoga so that we can become more flexible, strong, stable, and resilient in all aspects of our lives. The idea that you can't practice yoga because you're not flexible is akin to saying, "I can't exercise because I'm not strong." We are all in different places in our lives, so there's no judgment. My classes allow for lots of freedom in movement, time to re-adjust, as well as prop suggestions for a little extra support. My students range in their ages and levels of experience and ability. Give yourself permission to begin where you are. Over time, you will notice positive changes - perhaps ones that you didn't even expect!
LOCATION & ARRIVAL
I know how intimidating it can be to begin a new practice and check out a new place so hopefully this helps you to feel more comfortable and prepared! The Yoga Branch is located kitty corner to the post office in North Branch.
You can park on the street or in the driveway if there's room. You'll come in through the side door by the garage/driveway. (The front door is a private residence). You'll be entering through my bodywork studio (yep, you're in the right place) and I will likely be there to greet you. Remove your shoes and jacket in the entry way. Be sure to silence your phone (and smart watch). You can leave purses/bags in the entry as that space will be locked during class.
Please plan to arrive in the studio and on your mat 5-10 minutes prior to the start of class! The door will be open no earlier than 10 minutes before class as I sometimes have other sessions before & after. Class will begin no later than 5 minutes after the scheduled time. If you are running up to 5 minutes late, please send me a text: 763.331.4841.
Due to the way the studio is set up we unfortunately cannot accommodate anyone running more than 5 minutes late.
Please plan accordingly and be mindful of traffic and weather conditions!
PRICING & OFFERS
I have a handful of discounted offerings for New Students.
New students can redeem their first class for $5 by using the code: 'FirstClass5' at checkout. This is an online offer only.
I also offer a package which includes a private 60 minute lesson and 5 class pass for $100. New Students are welcome to purchase the 5 Class Pass for $30. This is only valid for first timers with Atma Prema Wellness. If you've taken a class with me before, please choose from one of the other passes. To read more about my class passes and memberships, head over to my Plans & Pricing page.
POLICIES
Payment Options:
Class Pass, Cash, Check
Venmo: @alexandrastrongMN
Cash App: $alexandrastrongMN
Apple Pay: 763.331.4841
In Person Credit Cards +$5
Online payments accepted but not preferred
Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
If you should need to cancel/reschedule within 24 hours of your class, I kindly ask that you pay for class as space is limited. *This is done on an honor system, at your own discretion.*
Payments & class pass credits are non-refundable/transferable when cancelled within 24 hours of class