It feels like everybody is a yoga expert these days -- and if you haven't tried it yet, it's easy to feel like you're behind. How did everybody else get so good at it? How can you catch up? Do you really need to buy those yoga pants that cost like two hundred dollars? (Spoiler to that last one -- no, you do not.) We're here to help you feel a little bit calmer; isn't that what yoga's all about? Here are five ways you can get started:

1. Make sure you actually want to learn yoga

There are so many benefits to learning yoga, but if you end up hating it, it's not really worthwhile. So do your research! An easy way to 'try before you buy' is to head to YouTube. That way, you're not letting a class that you hate eat up your bank account, and you're getting a feel for the types of yoga you'd like to get more serious about. (And if you don't end up liking it? Hey, no judgment! Kudos to you for not trying to keep up with the Joneses.)

2. Don't be afraid to ask questions

Okay, you've found the class you know you'll love, but you definitely don't love the idea of looking silly in front of your new classmates. Shape recommends going to your classes early so you can introduce yourself to the teacher and ask about any items you might be using during the session, or get confirmation on anything else you might be wondering!

3. Keep a yoga journal

Just like any other class you take, you'll want to take notes! Care2 recommends this so you can keep track of your progress and note what you like or don't like about the day's session. You can also write down terms you're learning, so later you'll actually be able to remember the difference between a vinyasa and a shavasana. Before you know it, you'll be a straight-A yoga student!

4. Know Your Limits

Rome wasn't built in a day, and you're not going to become a master at this craft on your first try. Don't push yourself too hard! Realbuzz has some great tips on yoga for beginners, and they recommend being aware of your limits. So if you feel like a pose is too painful or awkward to do safely, just skip it -- it's not worth hurting yourself over! (And the more practice you get, the easier the more advanced poses will be. Nice!)

5. Dress to impress

Yoga gear doesn't have to be super expensive, even the super cool Maryland-themed ones! We've got a nice selection of yoga pants and leggings (and if you're following us on Facebook, you got a look at our upcoming yoga mats, too!). You can be the most stylish one in your yoga class, even if you're not the most experienced one of the bunch. And wearing clothes you love will make you even more excited to go to class!

We'd love to see your MD yoga gear in action! Show them off on your favorite social media account -- we're on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

All photos via Pexels.