Those of us who teach yoga classes on a regular basis know the wonderful side effects it has on our lives. Those who have never practiced before may have heard of the benefits, but they may not necessarily put a lot of stock into them because they haven’t seen firsthand results. If you’re a beginner, follow a few practical tips to get the most out of your beginning yoga experience.
Get the Right Gear
Yoga doesn’t require a lot of pricey equipment, but it is important to invest in the right gear from the get-go. Get a sticky mat and clothing that clings to your body and doesn’t detract from any of the poses. Consider getting a set of blocks or bolsters and a strap also to help modify some of the trickier poses.
Keep a Journal
You’ll learn poses, terminology, and yogic philosophy quicker if you jot down a few key ideas or new poses in a journal after each practice. Draw stick figures of the poses you learned, write the benefits of each pose or keep a log of important concepts you can apply to the rest of your life.
Make Space to Practice
If you plan on practicing in your home, create a refreshing space that is free of clutter and noise. You’ll be more apt to practice at home when an inviting space is waiting for you.
Keep to a Regular Schedule
Decide how often you want to practice yoga and stick to it. Depending on your other commitments, you might only be able to practice once a week. That’s okay. If you feel like you want more from the practice, set a schedule for yoga that you stick to and treat it like any other commitment that you honor on a regular basis.
Focus on Yourself
If you practice yoga in a class environment with other people, you’ll most likely have the urge to compare yourself to others. Try to avoid these comparisons by focusing on yourself only.
Be Patient
Remember that fluidity will come with time and practice. Don’t push yourself too far too soon. Be patient and you will steadily improve in your practice.
Feel Each Posture
Some postures might seem really easy or like you aren’t doing much of anything. Instead of dismissing the posture, breathe deeply and let it work for you.
Practice Breathing
Even when you’re not formally practicing in a yoga training session, practice taking deep breaths throughout the day.
Let Your Body Take the Lead
Leave your mind behind and let your body take over as you stretch and breathe your cares away.
Dedicate Yourself
Once you make the commitment to practice, it’s important to truly dedicate yourself to the ideas, techniques and lifestyle. If you’re not giving it your all, then you probably won’t get the expected results. You don’t need to become a yoga teacher next week, but set realistc goals as you move forward with your practice.