New Students & First Visit | Greenleaf Yoga Studio Portland

Before You Arrive

Your First Visit, Step by Step

Pick a Class

If it's your very first yoga class ever, start with Gentle Hatha. Already have some experience? All-levels Vinyasa is a great entry point. Not sure? Email us — we'll point you in the right direction.

Arrive 10–15 Minutes Early

Give yourself time to find the space, sign in, and settle in before class starts. First-time students get a quick orientation from the front desk — it takes about two minutes.

Tell Your Instructor

Let your teacher know it's your first class and mention any injuries or areas of concern. They'll check in with you during class and offer modifications so everything feels right for your body.

Set Up & Settle In

Mats are provided. Grab any props you need from the wall — blocks, straps, bolsters are all available and encouraged. You don't need your own gear to start.

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What to Wear

Comfortable, stretchy clothing you can move in. Yoga is practiced barefoot — no special footwear needed. Layers are helpful in winter since the studio warms up during class.

Avoid very baggy tops for inverted poses (forward folds, downward dog). That's the only real clothing tip.

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What to Bring

Must-have: Water bottle. Hydration is important, especially in Vinyasa classes.

Optional: Your own mat if you have one. A small towel for Vinyasa or hot classes. A light layer for Restorative and Yin.

Don't worry about: Props — we have everything you need.

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Food & Timing

Try not to eat a heavy meal in the 2 hours before class. A light snack 30–45 minutes before is fine. You'll be moving and twisting your torso — a full stomach isn't comfortable.

Post-class, many of our students grab something from the cafés along the nearby commercial strip.

Getting Here

Parking & Transit

🚗 By Car

Street parking is generally available within a 2-block radius. Portland neighborhood streets — expect to walk a half block. Paid lots are nearby if you prefer guaranteed parking.

🚌 By Transit

TriMet bus routes serve the area well. The studio is walkable from several major bus lines. Check TriMet for the current routes nearest to our address.

🚲 By Bike

Portland is a bike city — we love it. Secure bike parking is available directly outside. No locks provided, bring your own.

Common Questions

FAQ for New Students

Absolutely not. Flexibility is a result of yoga, not a prerequisite. If you're stiff, that's exactly why you'd benefit. Every pose has modifications — our instructors will show you where you need them.

Not at Greenleaf. Our classes are secular and physical in focus. We incorporate mindfulness and breath awareness, but there's no religious component to any of our offerings. You don't need to adopt any particular belief system to practice here.

Tell your instructor before class. Seriously — this is important. They can offer modifications for every pose and will keep an eye on you throughout. If you're unsure whether yoga is appropriate for your specific condition, we recommend checking with your doctor first, but most injuries are highly workable in a Hatha or Restorative class.

Rest in Child's Pose. Come back when you're ready. Skip poses that don't feel right. There's no competition in our classes — no one is watching you or judging you. Instructors expect students to take what they need and leave what they don't.

Yes, but let your instructor know at the start of class so they're not worried. Set your mat near the door so you can exit quietly without disrupting others. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable.

Yes — we have a small changing area and cubby storage for bags and shoes. Valuables are your responsibility; we don't have lockers. Most students wear their yoga clothes to and from the studio.

We ask that you arrive on time, especially for your first class. If you're unavoidably late, please enter quietly and set up at the back. Arriving more than 10 minutes late for a 45-minute class isn't fair to other students or the instructor — if that happens, we'll ask you to wait for the next class.

If you've reserved a spot, please cancel at least 2 hours in advance so we can open your spot to someone on the waitlist. For drops-ins (no reservation), simply don't show up — no action needed. Repeated no-shows may affect your ability to reserve spots in future.

Your First Visit

Your First 2 Classes — $30