Top Tips for Starting Yoga

Yoga is an ancient practice that encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It provides a holistic approach to achieving balance and inner peace

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But let's face it, a heck of a lot of people start yoga for the phyiscal benefits - getting moving, increasing flexibility (this is a super popular reason!), increasing strength. I was one of them and it all worked out great for me.

The mental and emotional part, well that's just a happy side effect, and actually the thing that kept me going back. Again and again.

Whatever your reason - and there is zero judgment here on your why - I have some top tips for you.

Tip #1 - Set Your Intentions

Understanding why you want to start yoga will help you stay focused and committed. It also helps you to define realistic goals. This often means starting with small, achievable milestones that will keep you motivated along the way.

A 15-minute session, two or three times a week, may not seem like much but little and often is absolutely the way forward. With yoga as well as snacks!

"Yoga is not for the flexible, it's for the willing"

Tip #2 - Find the Right Class and Teacher

Explore different yoga styles - there are SO many different styles out there, such as Hatha, Vinyasa, and Ashtanga. Take some time to experiment with different classes to find the style that resonates with you. YouTube is great for sneaking a peek into different styles and the kind of thing you can expect.

Seek guidance from experienced teachers. Look for certified instructors who can guide you through your practice, taking into account your personal requirements.

Tip #3 - Start Slow and Listen to Your Body

Be patient with yourself. Yoga is a lifelong practice and, like most things in life, takes time. Try to embrace being a beginner, learn to love the actual process and focus on your personal journey.

Honor your body's limits. Don't push yourself too far. Yoga should feel challenging yet sustainable. Maybe try a different option for a pose instead. Taking breaks and resting is postiviely encouraged!

Tip #4 - Be Open and Willing to Learn

A tricky one, granted, but definitely worth the effort of embracing the beginner's mindset. Try your best to approach yoga with curiosity and a willingness to learn. It can be so easy to focus on what you can't do or what you don't know. I am an expert on that!

But by letting go of any expectations or preconceived notions, you may find the whole experience that bit more enjoyable. Or not. It might still suck but at least you tried!

Tip #5 - Give yourself props

With my lighthearted play on words, I mean not only giving yourself proper respect and recognition for taking up yoga but also using actual yoga props.

You may want to invest in a comfortable, non-slip yoga mat that supports your practice and provides cushioning. And, depending on your needs, props like blocks, straps, and blankets can enhance your practice and assist in making your practice work for you

Don't feel like you have to spend money straight off - most yoga studios and gyms have mats and blocks you can use or you can use household items in place of common props.

In conclusion...

Starting yoga is an exciting and rewarding endeavor that can bring numerous physical and mental benefits. With the help of the above tips, you can establish a strong foundation for your yoga practice.

With time, dedication, and an open mind, you'll discover the transformative power of yoga as you find balance, harmony, and inner peace in your life. Or at the very least, you'll know some breath practices to calm you down the next time that BMW cuts you up in rush hour traffic.