Yoga, as we all know is for all shapes and sized and it’s never too late to hit the mat. But for a beginner stepping onto the mat for the first time is not always an easy task. Once you are determined to begin with your yoga journey a hundred question might pop up in your mind.
First and the foremost, whatever holds you back from practicing yoga just let that myth go away and begin with your yoga session. So here we will be discussing some important tips that you as a new yogi must be aware of. So, check out these things before you don yoga pants.
TEN TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Research and Find a Good Trainer: In these unprecedented times of corona we are all quite scared of going out frequently. In this case as a beginner you will have to do your homework and find a yoga studio that operates online.
You will also have to do your research on the trainers. If you come across any good yoga studio, go for try their trial classes for a couple of days later on continue if everything suits your criteria.
2. Go Slow: The purpose of yoga is not same as the purpose to join a gym. Yoga provides calmness, strength, flexibility, and balance to your body. While you may not have to dedicate an hour to yoga every day, but a three- four hours per work works well for anyone who is starting with their yoga practice.
3. Get a Good Yoga Mat: A good quality yoga mat should be the first in your list. Always remember to buy a non slippery mat with a solid grip for hassle free practice. Your mat should have comfortable cushioning and light weighted. Go for mats which have gripping on both the sides. The upper grip holds you firm while performing a difficult pose and the grip downward securely holds the floor.
4. Eating and Drinking: It is always suitable that you don’t eat for one or two hours before your practice. It is always best to stay hydrated; you can take small amount of water before you begin your yoga. It is always advisable to avoid alcohol, sugar and caffeine before yoga.
5. Build your Foundation: Once you join in as a new yogi your instructor will first train you with the foundational poses of yoga. As a beginner you should be familiar and comfortable with poses like:child pose, mountain pose, downward dog pose, baby cobra pose, corpse pose, plank pose etc.
6. Mind your breath: Yoga is solely linked with your breath. If you learn the skill of focusing on your breath while practicing any basic or complicated posture you simultaneously establish a connection with your body and mind. The breathing exercise (Pranayama) helps in reducing anxiety and develops concentration.
7. Find your flow: Finding your flow and style can be difficult in the beginning if you are a newbie. You can take a few attempts to be comfortable with your flow and then settle for a regular practice. This way your trainer will also understand the alignment of your body and help you with your postures in a much easier manner.
8. Read Books, Blogs on Yoga : Always support your practice with some additional reading. There are plenty reading material on yoga. Expand your knowledge with some books, blogs and videos.
9. Take Notes: Maintain a diary and take down notes of the various asanas and postures for better remembrance. Sanskrit might not be easy for you hence in order to keep up and not get lost its advisable you write down everything important.
10. Comfortable Clothes: Always go for stretchy yoga pants and leggings with a nice tank top or a sports bra (for women). A simple tee shirt is the best to have for both men and women. Just be sure that your clothes are giving you the space for proper movement.
11. Balance Diet: As a beginner you will have to make some nutritional adjustments in your diet. Slow carbs and fiber are a must. Add more of green veggies, fruits, oatmeal in your diet. Always advisable to intake something light couple of hours before your practice.
Nida Zakaria