08/21/2026
Over the years, I’ve had many discussions with friends, family, and students about practicing yoga, and through those conversations, I’ve heard a lot of apprehension about practicing yoga or what to expect from certain yoga classes.
It got me thinking...
What is a "beginner", "intermediate", and "advanced" student in a yoga practice?
Are these labels something we print out and slap onto imaginary boxes, where we then sort certain postures and skill levels into those boxes?
But then I was like ...waitaminute...
Can class names unintentionally make students feel like they are being ranked on experience rather than invited to explore?
Yikes.
That made me feel uncomfortable because it seemed to directly conflict with Mandala’s mission, so I took some time to reflect on it and came to a conclusion.
"Beginner - Intermediate - Advanced" is subjective, at best. A student’s experience, strength, mobility, body awareness, and familiarity with specific postures can vary greatly, making these labels difficult to define universally.
Moving away from traditional labels creates a more inclusive and encouraging environment where students can focus on growth rather than comparison or perceived ability. These labels can sometimes make students feel that they need to reach a certain level to belong in a class or discourage them from exploring something new.
Using language such as Foundations, Exploring, and Evolving shifts the focus toward curiosity, personal development, and the individual experience of the practice. It allows students to challenge themselves and deepen their awareness without feeling defined by a level or expected to meet a particular standard.
This approach recognizes that every body and every practice develops differently, while creating space for students to continually learn, grow, and evolve.
At Mandala Yoga & Wellness, our mission is to cultivate a welcoming, inclusive space where individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities can come together to explore the transformative practice of yoga.
That’s what matters most. And that is what I hope is reflected in every ray of sunlight that fills the space with warmth and rainbow sparkles, and in every word written on the website.
Beginners → Foundations
Intermediate → Exploring
Advanced → Evolving
As you go to register for a class, you may notice that the names have changed, but the heart of each class remains the same. These new names are simply a way of helping you find the experience that feels right for you. Come as you are. Choose your practice pathway. Explore where you are today and give yourself permission to grow from there.
See you on the mat.
