3 Important Tips for Beginning Yoga
If you’re looking for an exercise that not only works out your body but offers a sense of calm and peacefulness as well, yoga might be just what you need. But once you’ve bought your yoga attire and high-quality mat, you may not know exactly where to start. So if you’re new to yoga, keep on reading for some tips and tricks to help release the inner yogi in you.
Table of Contents
First off
You should start by creating a practice area in your home. While you don’t have to have an entire room in your house dedicated to yoga, you should have an open, quiet place you can practice. Even if you plan to primarily attend yoga classes, you should still have a practice area at home so you can do your yoga in a familiar area.
Second
Store your mat nearby and add some candles, a place to play music or background sounds, and maybe even an inspiring statue. Having a space dedicated primarily to your yoga will help you feel more relaxed and motivated to practice.
Third
When it comes time to practice, it’s important to remember that you should always listen to your body. While that may seem like a cliche saying, it’s one of the most important aspects of any exercise. Yoga shouldn’t hurt — so if you’re trying a new move and it’s painful, you’re pushing your body too far.
So if you’re experiencing any sharp pains, return to a resting position right away. Practicing yoga can be great for your body, especially if you’re one of the four in 10 people who try exercising to alleviate lower back pain. And while new sensations and challenges are normal, never keep pushing your body when you’re in pain.
And lastly
One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a beginner in yoga is setting expectations that are too high. It can be all too easy to get caught up in the idea of mastering tough yoga poses during your first class. But that’s not the goal of yoga — you should practice yoga with the intention of bettering both your body and your mind. You’re never too inflexible, too old, or too out of shape to practice yoga. Instead of focusing on mastering complex moves, focus on the state of your body and mind.
Getting into yoga is one of the best things you can do for your mind, body, and soul. So keep these tips in mind as you venture into yoga and your inner yogi will be released in no time.