When we first start practicing yoga, we typically associate it with strenuous, limb-twisting postures. And don't you ever believe to yourself, "I can't even touch my toes. How am I supposed to practice yoga?" Yoga isn't about reaching your toes or continuing to the northeast at 98 degrees. It's a straightforward method of connecting with yourself by using your breath, body, and thoughts. It's also simple in yogitimes.
So, it doesn't matter whether you're not Ms. Flexible or Mr. Stretchable, if you're starting yoga at 40, or if you have hidden love handles that are worrying you out - bust those misconceptions before you start your yoga practice! You are the only one who is watching you, so take a deep breath and relax. This trip will offer you a lot of pleasure and relaxation!
- Study yoga with a certified yoga instructor.
It's ideal to begin studying yoga with the help of a certified yoga instructor who can show you how to perform each technique correctly. This will assist you in correctly learning yoga asanas (postures) and avoiding injuries. Some of the ideas or methods taught in yoga may seem novel, but keeping an open mind can help you expand your perspective and improve your yoga experience.
- Inform the teacher if you have any medical problems.
If you have a medical issue, please notify your Sri Yoga teacher before beginning your yoga instruction. It will assist the instructor in tailoring your yoga asana practice to your specific needs and avoiding any problems or injuries.
- Do you know what to wear to yoga?
When attending a yoga class or doing yoga at home, wear comfortable clothes. Also, belts and heavy jewelry should be avoided since they may obstruct your yoga practice.
- Be a Consistent Yogi: When Should You Practice Yoga?
Although it is ideal for performing yoga asanas first thing in the morning, you may do so at any time of day as long as you are consistent with your practice. If mornings aren't your thing, don't use that as an excuse to stop doing yoga altogether!
- Keep it Light! : What to Eat and How Much to Eat for Better Yoga
It's best to exercise on an empty abdomen or within 2-3 hours after your previous meal. It's also a good idea to drink at least three to four liters of water throughout the day to flush the toxins out of your body produced during your yoga practice.
- Before you begin, warm up. Sukshma Vyayam, or soft warm-up movements, on the Yoga Mat, assist relax up the body and provide it for the asanas ahead. Here are some warm-up activities to get you started:
Massaging the head, brows, nose, and cheeks: We automatically put a hand on our heads whenever we make a mistake. This indicates that your brain's blood circulation is poor, and you should get a massage!
To alleviate stiffness, rotate your neck clockwise and anticlockwise. To shake off the drowsiness, pump your shoulders and shake your hands.
- Maintain a pleasant grin when doing asanas.
Maintaining a soft grin relaxes the body and mind, allowing you to take in more of the yoga asanas. You may push your body's limitations farther and stretch more than usual if you keep your mind relaxed.
- Push Your Boundaries - One Step at a Time
The Patanjali Yoga Sutra, an ancient yogic book, describes yoga asana as Sthira Asanam. First, do only as much as you can do comfortably, then extend a little more (improve body flexibility). Remember to use your breath as a reference point: when it's light and lengthy, the muscles begin to relax; when it's jagged or uneven, you've over-exerted yourself.
As you develop and embrace new yoga asanas, going slightly beyond your comfort zone will keep the yoga practice exciting and spark challenge.
- Just like you, each yoga asana is unique.
Be content with where you are in your yoga practice and don't compare yourself to other students in the yoga class. Keep in mind that everyone's physique is different, and various individuals have varying degrees of experience. Some people may effortlessly execute a yoga asana, while others may need more time and practice. As a result, don't feel rushed, and don't overwork yourself. Regular yoga practice will enhance your flexibility and power in doing yoga postures.
If you feel muscular pain during the first few days of the practice, don't be concerned. However, if the discomfort continues, notify your teacher right once. The key is to be consistent with your yoga practice and to be patient. Yoga asanas, like any other discipline, will take some time for the body to adjust to.
