So You’re Thinking About Starting Yoga…

Let’s just start here: you’re more ready than you think.

You might feel unsure, awkward, or even low-key terrified to walk into your first hot yoga class—but the fact that you’re curious? That’s the first and most important step.

Whether your journey with yoga is a lightning bolt that changes your life from day one, or a slow burn that sneaks up on you and suddenly feels like home… you belong here. And I hope this becomes part of your life—whether that’s daily, weekly, or every now and then when you need a reset.

Honestly? Even if you leave class swearing you’ll never do that again (which… please don’t give up after one), you’ll still walk away having done something courageous. You showed up for yourself—and that’s a big deal.

Why Just 60 Minutes Matters So Much

I only get one hour (okay sometimes 65 minutes, I like to sneak in the good stuff) to show you a practice that’s changed my entire life. And I take that seriously.

Yoga gave me my strength back. It gave me peace when life felt anything but peaceful. And now, it’s my honor to turn around and offer it to you.

That short amount of time on your mat? It might just open up parts of yourself you didn’t know needed attention, healing, or celebration.

Yes, It’s Hot. Yes, It’s Challenging. And Yes—You Can Do It.

Let’s not pretend this is easy. The room is hot. The practice asks something of you. The postures can feel confusing, awkward, and a bit like you need a decoder ring the first time around.

But here’s the truth: you’re not supposed to get it perfect. That’s not the point.

The heat, the movement, the breath, the method—it’s all intentional. It’s all meant to connect your body and mind in a way that starts to clear the noise and bring you back to yourself.

We’ve All Been That New Student

If the thought of walking into a room full of experienced yogis makes you want to run the other direction—I get it. I walked out of my very first class before it even started. I didn’t think I belonged. Spoiler: I did. And so do you.

Everyone in that room had a first class. A first wobbly balance pose. A first moment they felt too sweaty, too self-conscious, too unsure. And they came back. Because they realized something beautiful was waiting for them if they kept showing up.

Studio Etiquette (aka How to Feel Comfortable When You’re Not)

You’ll notice our practice space is quiet. That’s on purpose. It’s not because we’re stuffy or unwelcoming—it’s because this room is a space to unplug. A space to breathe without distraction. So chat it up in the lobby, laugh in the changing room, make friends before and after. But in the studio, let it be a little sacred.

We open the doors 25–30 minutes early so you can come in, lay down, breathe, and get in the zone. Take advantage of that time. Your nervous system will thank you.  Try to be in the room on your mat by the time class starts, I understand life (aka Boise and Meridian traffic) happen.  But out of respect for the teacher and other students, do your best to be on time please.  Another random thing, we usually don’t think of, I don’t recommend setting your mat up directly behind another mat, it’s nice to be able to have a clear view forward.

Learning to Listen (To Me, Then To You)

During class, listen. First to me (or whichever teacher is guiding you), then to your body. You’ll start to notice that your physical body has its own language, separate from your busy thoughts. You’ll get better at hearing it, understanding it, and trusting it. Let’s work together to make that happen.

Here’s the magic secret of yoga, you ready?  Every time you practice, you’re not just doing yoga—you’re learning how to be more present in your life. That’s where the magic happens.

And Hey—We Laugh, Too

You’ll hear me crack jokes in class. Some of them won’t land. That’s okay.

I do it to remind you that while this practice is deep and powerful, it doesn’t have to be so serious all the time. You’re allowed to laugh. To smile. To wobble. To try again.

There will be days your practice feels off. Days you walk in at 60% and feel like you’re supposed to give 110%. Don’t. That’s not what yoga asks of you.

Yoga asks you to be real.
To be honest with yourself.
To take breaks when needed.

To start over and jump back in.
To practice showing up as you are.

You’re Not Doing It “Wrong”

If I offer an adjustment or give you a new way to move in class, it’s not because you’re doing it wrong. It’s because I see you. Your unique body. Your effort. Your experience. And I just see an opportunity for you to try something “different.”  You don’t have to like it, or change the way you do it from forward, but be open to feeling it.

Some days I’ll encourage you to push. Other days, I’ll tell you to ease off. Either way, you’re learning how to honor where you are. That’s the practice. Not the perfect pose.

This Is a Safe Space

Every single teacher at Authentic Yoga Studio has had that class. We’ve cried on our mats. We’ve struggled. We’ve wanted to bolt. We’ve battled our bodies and our minds in the heat of it all.

You’re not alone. And when you show up, even when it’s hard, even when you’re not sure you belong—please know, you do.

This space is for you. For your healing. For your growth. For your peace. For your real, messy, beautiful self.

Final Thoughts From Me—Amanda

I’ve poured my life into this practice. Into these studios. Into every class I lead. I’ve trained hundreds of teachers and practiced thousands of hours—and it still excites me to watch a new student walk through the door.  Amanda Mendez Owner of Authentic Yoga Studio

If you have questions, ask them.
If you’re unsure, talk to us.
We’re here. Not just to guide you through postures, but to walk beside you in your journey—whether it’s your first class, or your 500th.

Yoga really did change everything for me. And it might just do the same for you. But you’ve got to give it a chance. A couple more classes. A little more patience. A lot of self-love.

You are strong enough. You are ready enough. And you are absolutely welcome here.

I can’t wait to see where your mat takes you next.

With love,
Amanda Mendez
Founder | Authentic Yoga Studio
Lead Facilitator | Authentic Yoga Retreats