no fear - tips for the new yogi are here

1. start simple - seek out a studio that offers a beginner's class (aka yoga basics) this will allow you to explore your yoga without intimidation of what other more seasoned yogis may bring to their practice and build a strong asana foundation (the community section of craigslist.org and yogafinder.com are great places to start for local offerings).
2. let your body tell your mind - for an hour out of your day, allow your body to feel and tell your mind how to feel rather than your mind controlling your every moment.
3. breathe easy - despite your eagerness, the breath is the most important part of your practice. if you find yourself constricting or even stop breathing, back out of the pose otherwise you might pass out in 'attempted pretzel.'
4. child's pose is your friend - fight your ego, listen to your body and embrace child's pose. this pose is great for resetting your body and mind, so if your thoughts begin to wander, come back to your inner child and find center.
5. be prepared - come with an open mind, a clean body, use the restroom and blow your nose before you enter class, and limit heavy meals for 2 hours prior to your time on the mat.
6. resist resistance - embrace this new journey and allow yourself to just experience your new practice - your openess will set you free! leave your judgments at the door.
7. comfort is key - dress in layers of light weight clothing so that you can remove and add clothing as your body heats up and cools down. regardless of the many options, yoga isn't a fashion contest but a self-practice (however if you are looking for some apparel inspiration check out victoria keen - she's having a sale on her very unique line!)
8. props - a mat and bare feet are pretty much the only props you'll need! many studios offer mat rentals if you not ready to invest in your yogic real estate just yet. other props that are helpful include: straps, blocks and blankets.
9. water breaks - come to class hydrated and try to limit water breaks until after class.
10. commit to the whole class - svasana, the final resting pose, is critical to your practice, don't skip out on it - it's not a nap, but a time for your body to absorb your practice and learn.