YOGA FOR BEGINNERS

Are you a beginner to yoga, wondering how to get started with the practice? Here are a few quick tips to make your journey simple and enjoyable.

1 Learn yoga under guidance: It is best to start learning the yoga practice under the guidance of a qualified yoga teacher who can lead you through the correct way of doing each technique. This would help you learn yoga postures properly and avoid possible injuries. Some of the philosophies or techniques taught in yoga may be new. It is a good idea to keep an open mind as it will help broaden and enhance your yoga experience.

2 Consult a doctor and inform the yoga teacher: If you have a medical condition, inform your yoga instructor prior to the commencement of the training. It will help the teacher customize your yoga posture practice.

3 Keep the yoga wear simple: Wear comfortable clothing while going for the yoga class or when practicing yoga at home. Also, avoid wearing belts or excessive jewelry as it could get in the way of yoga practice.

4 Set the morning alarm: Although it is best to practice yoga postures early morning, if it doesn't happen, don’t let it be an excuse to not practice yoga at all! You can do it any time of the day as per convenience.

5 Practice yoga on a light stomach: It is advised to practice on an empty stomach or at least 2-3 hours after your last meal.

6 Warm-up before practicing yoga postures: Sukshma Vyayam or gentle warm-up exercises help loosen up the body and prepare it for the yoga postures coming ahead. 

7 Smile throughout the yoga practice: See the difference for yourself. Keeping a gentle smile relaxes the body and mind and helps enjoy the yoga postures much more. 


8 Be steady and comfortable in the yoga posture: The ancient yogic text, Patanjali Yoga Sutra, defines yoga posture (asana) as Sthira Sukham Asanam. Do only as much as you comfortably can and then just stretch a bit more (to improve body flexibility). Use the breath as a reference point, when it is light and long, then the muscles begin to relax, but when it is jagged or uneven, it means you have over-exerted. Going slightly beyond your comfort zone will keep the yoga practice interesting and will add a spark of challenge as you progress and adopt new postures.

9 Your yoga posture is unique just like you: Wherever you are in the yogic posture, that is fine for you. Avoid comparing yourself to other students in the yoga class. Remember that each body type is unique and different people are at different levels of expertise. Some might easily perform a particular asana, while the others may need a little more time and practice to get there. Therefore, don't feel pressurized and exert yourself.
Do not be alarmed if you experience some soreness in the muscles during the initial days of the practice. But if there is any pain, inform your instructor immediately.

10 Are you consolidating the energy produced? As you complete yoga posture practice, don't be in a great hurry to get up and start moving about with the tasks lined up for the day. It is a good idea to lie down in Yoga Nidra for a few minutes, as it helps cool down the body and consolidate the energy produced through yoga posture practice. Yoga Nidra is also beneficial in completely relaxing the mind and body after the yoga workout.

11 Drink up: A lot of toxins are released in our system during yoga and meditation. Drink at least three litres of water every day to help flush toxins out.

12 Be regular with your yoga practice and have patience: Yoga, as any other discipline (learning an instrument or a sport) cannot create magic overnight.
You will be able to experience its subtler and deeper benefits only by practicing yoga regularly over a period of time. Yoga encompasses yoga postures, timeless ancient philosophy, pranayamas (breathing techniques) and meditations, which take you beyond the body level, offering a deeper spiritual experience.

So give yourself that time and be patient. The rewards of regular practice will unfold in ways you could not imagine before. Happy practicing, yogis!

If you’re looking for a holistic experience of yoga, contact your nearest Yoga center and find out about Sri Sri Yoga classes.