How to Follow a Yoga Video at Home

Yoga has been around for several thousand years. As with all exercise routines, doing yoga becomes easier the more you practice it. If you've never done yoga before and have just purchased a video to learn, here are some tips to make the experience enlightening.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Yoga video
• Loose fitting clothing
• Yoga mat or long towel
• Miscellaneous equipment required by the video

1. Watch the video several times before attempting any of the asanas. Pay attention to the proper form and the goal of each asana.

2. Take note of any additional equipment the video says you may need.

3. Begin your practice by starting at the beginning of the video. Do any warm-up exercises the video suggests.

4. Do the asanas to the best of your ability. It takes years to stretch and loosen the muscles of the body to achieve perfect position.

5. Stop if any asana is painful or otherwise causes extreme discomfort. Push your body only as far as it can go comfortably.

6. Finish your practice in a guided meditation if the video offers one. If not, sit silently in a comfortable position for a few minutes after your practice to allow your body to rest.

Tips & Warnings

• Yoga is not a 'no pain - no gain' exercise routine. Push your body only as far as it is willing to go without pain.
• Many items recommended for yoga practice can be substituted with everyday objects. Chairs or pillows can be used for blocks, towels or a belt can be used as a strap.
• Yoga is meant to be both physically and mentally relaxing.
• Some yoga asanas can be practiced anywhere, including your desk at work. Do an Internet search to find workplace yoga asanas.
• If you find you enjoy doing yoga, it's time to find a class. An experienced yoga teacher can help you perfect the asanas.
• Yoga is a wonderful and beneficial exercise routine for the whole family.
• Doing yoga with your spouse can bring the two of you closer together.