Tips for Beginners for Yoga Practice

Yoga was not just a way to stretch or exercise. It originated in India a long time ago, around 5,000 years ago.

In the beginning, it was about finding peace of mind and spiritual growth. The word “yoga” means “to unite.”

It aims to bring your mind, body, and spirit through meditation, breathing, and more. In the 1800s, yoga made its way to the U.S. and changed a bit focusing more on physical fitness such as stretching, and breathing exercises.

Nowadays, a lot of people practice yoga in various styles, but most of them include poses, such as breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques.

If you are new to yoga, here are some tips for beginners to get started with your practice.

Accept that you don’t know the basics

When you learn to play instruments, bake a cake, or drive a card, you accept that you are a beginner.

So, when it comes to yoga practice, keep in mind that being a beginner is totally fine. If you feel annoyed that your hips are not good enough for the classes, or you are confused about the postures, don’t forget that you are a beginner.

Just like you take time to get perfection in playing an instrument, or baking a pastry, the same way your body takes time to adapt to those postures.

Go Slow

There are a lot of fast-paced yoga classes out there. However, if you want to cultivate an uplifted mind and sense of power, go slow. Doing too fast can lead to injuries when you are not familiar with the postures and transitions.

So, we are patient for a few days of practice and register for the classes that are a bit slower. It can help you with the alignment and movements on the mat.

Breathe

Sometimes we find it challenging to stay in the posture and difficulty in balancing the same. When we breathe in an even and relaxed way, we actually send a message to the body and brain that everything is okay.

It can reduce stress levels while increasing a sense of well-being. Well, yoga classes will look after these things, even if you are not. 

Get a suitable mat

If you are using a suitable mat, it can prevent you from slipping and sliding. Get yourself a yoga mat that keeps your hands and feet movements comfortable.

Restrict from applying hand cream before class and choose a mat that is not thick. Trust me, all these things can help you feel confident and focused during your yoga practice. 

Release Expectation

You need to release expectations. If you only focus on the outcome of the situation, you deny the ability to really be present and be in the moment.

The result, outcome, or achievement of any practice is not something you have control over, so don’t think about being good at yoga. Focus on the moments you are present right now. 

Forget the pictures and focus on yourself

Sometimes, people consider yoga as bending like a pretzel or doing handstands because of the fancy pictures on social media. However, the trust here is everyone is unique and people do yoga for various reasons. 

There is no right way of doing yoga, and it is not just about flexibility. Don’t worry about those perfect yoga poses that you see online. Your yoga practice is about how your body feels. 

Conclusion 

Whatever the reason you are starting yoga, the benefits are huge and you will feel it immediately. More and more research supports yoga and the people practicing it already experience good benefits for body and mind.