Tips for Yoga Beginners
Most often people look at long term practitioners get into pretzel shaped poses and decide yoga is not for me as I am not that flexible or bendy. Reading these basic yoga tips for beginners may ease your anxiety and intimidation of stepping into a new class.
1. You don’t have to be an ace tennis
player to learn the sport, likewise you don’t have to be a yogi/ yogini to
begin the practice. Just begin at whatever level you are and a steady committed
practice will take you a long way.
2. Find a class that suits your needs. There
are different types of yoga. Click here to find out which one is for you.
3. Many studios offer different levels
of classes and also open level classes. You can either look for beginner
classes or open level classes. If you don’t find any beginner level classes in
your area start with a gentle Yoga session.
4. Find a good Yoga teacher in your
area, you can always watch videos and practice at home, but it is equally
important to learn and practice yoga with a certified teacher as they will help
you on your journey and also with alignment. You could check for reviews or
visit a couple of teachers before you find the teacher that resonates with you,
as every teacher’s style varies.
5. Before you begin your practice, it is
essential that you discuss your health condition with the teacher and also
imperative that you get a consent from your health practitioner.
6. Arrive 5-10 minutes early as this
helps you to settle down and gives you time to talk to the teacher if you have
any concerns. You can also get to know other students and socialise with them.
7. As with any exercise form it is best
to practice yoga on an empty stomach. Avoid heavy meals before the practice. Have
a meal two hours before and a beverage or light snack (like a fruit / two
biscuits) half an hour before the practice. If you smoke avoid smoking half an
hour before the practice.
8. Wear loose comfortable clothing, ones
that move with your body. Too loose/ baggy clothing will cause discomfort
during inversions.
9. Investing in a good sticky mat will
be a excellent decision. It is always good to carry your own mat for various
reasons but mainly for hygienic purposes.
10.Set an intention for your practice,
each time you step onto the mat. This will help you to stay focused and
committed to the practice and also helps grow your practice. Usually most
teachers ask their students to set an intention before the practice.
11. It is best to keep your eyes on your mat during
the practice, what I mean by this is, do not compare yourself with others
during the practice. It is your practice and best to begin where you are and
grow from there. Yoga is a non-competitive practice and it is best to turn your
focus inward on your progress.
12. During the practice listen to your
body and let the body sensation guide your practice. If a pose is painful or
feels wrong in terms of extending your limitations back off.
13.Focus on your breath during the
practice. Yoga is all about connecting the mind, body and breath. Yoga also
helps you develop a deeper breathing practice, always anchor yourself back to
your breath.
14. Stay committed to the practice and don’t
give up too easily. Do not expect immediate results, at least attend around 10
sessions before you decide to quit, and for all you know by then you might be
hooked onto yoga.
15.Enjoy the Shavasana at the end of the
practice and do not be in a hurry to leave early. This is the time to assimilate
the practice and to relax and feel rejuvenated.
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