Start your Yoga Journey in 2023
Happy New Year yogis. If one of your intentions for the next 365 days is to cultivate a yoga practice, specifically at home, here are some of our best recommendations. There are many benefits of starting a yoga journey and more importantly, you can do wherever you have space and time!
Find a quiet place in your home.
Find a sacred place in your home. Turn off any distractions and make sure you are comfortable. You can do yoga anywhere, but having the space to do it is important to get into the groove of things. You can surround this space with things you love; candles, journal or anything else you may need during your practice.
Wear comfortable clothes.
You don't need any fancy yoga gear. Wear something that feels good on your skin, whether it's leggings or sweatpants or pyjamas.
Grab a mat.
Although a mat is not necessary (sometimes a towel or carpet is sufficient), it can make your practice more comfortable. When it comes to buying your first yoga mat, there are several options available. You can head over to your local fitness store or even order one online. Most people have their own preference when it comes time for choosing the right type of mat for them so be sure that before making any decision ask yourself what works best?
Start with deep breaths
Before you even get started, it's important to start with your breath. This is the foundation of all yoga poses and will help you focus on your own body and mind. Deep breaths are a great way to relax and let your mind focus on one thing at a time, which can be especially helpful if you've had a stressful day.
Introduce gentle movements
A yoga asana (pose) practice can start with a few foundational postures such as seated cross legged, side bends, cat and cow, forward fold and downward dog. One of our favourite starting points is a Sun Salutation. Find a video on youtube that helps break it down for you and allows you to slowly learn the postures.
Follow accounts online that inspire you - maybe a Youtube class helps!
You want to find an online community you can connect with. If a yoga class isn't working for you, try a different teacher. If that doesn't work, try something new! Don't be afraid to ask questions and don't feel like you have to stick with something that isn't working for you. But don't give up either!
Remember its a journey!
Yoga is a practice. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to do yoga. By simply being present, breathing and moving you are doing yoga.