Starting a yoga practice is an amazing way to exercise your body, improve your overall fitness, and have some quality ‘you’ time. When you first begin yoga, it can be really intimidating, especially when you see other people getting into crazy poses. Fear not, because everyone starts their yoga journey somewhere.
As a fitness instructor and nutritionist, Nicole Brar is on a mission to help people achieve their health and fitness goals. She provides instruction in all branches of yoga, including hatha, bhakti, jana and hot yoga. Today she shares 5 yoga tips for beginners.
- Find a good yoga instructor. Yes, it is true that there are a lot of great online tutorials, but going to an in-person class is really valuable because an instructor can correct your posture if you’re not quite in the right position (which is common for beginners).
- You don’t necessarily need to take a “beginner” specific class. Pretty much any position in yoga can be modified to suit whatever level you are at, including if you have certain physical limitations. If you’re worried, just talk to your instructor about it.
- Let go of your expectations, and start exactly where you are. It is perfectly fine if you can’t touch your toes or do the super intense version of the poses. What really matters with yoga is being able to connect with your body.
- Make sure you have the right equipment. All you really need to practice yoga is a non-slip mat, comfortable clothes, and maybe some straps, blankets, and blocks. Depending on where you take your yoga class, these things may be provided for you.
- Take it slow and don’t try to rush. Yoga is as much about meditation and mindfulness as it is about exercise.