How to Begin a Yoga Practice

Yoga is such a versatile form of exercise for the mind, body and spirit that it’s easy for anyone to get started. People of any age and fitness level can find benefit in a regular yoga practice.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A yoga mat
• Other optional yoga props

1. The best way to start a yoga practice is to take a beginner’s class at a yoga studio. In fact, take classes from different places to get an idea of which style is best for you.
2. Familiarize yourself with the various forms of yoga. The most common ones are hatha, asthanga, anusara, Bikram, Iyengar and vinyasa. Find the styles that fit best with your philosophy and physical condition.
3. Purchase a yoga mat. These are sold online and at massage studios, yoga studios and some health food stores. The yoga mat is a portable rubbery performance area approximately five to six feet long.
4. If you are committed to a serious yoga practice, consider purchasing additional yoga props that will help you with your practice. These include yoga blocks, a strap, a bolster, blanket and perhaps an eye pillow.
5. If you’d like to develop a strong home-based practice, consider buying DVDs from a teacher whose teaching style you enjoy. Your local yoga studio instructor may have her own, or you can research many online and read reviews about them.
6. Once you’ve found a yoga studio you like, purchase a pre-paid class card. These are offered at a discount for paying up front for a bulk of classes (usually 10). They will not only save you money, but they will encourage you to go to class because they may have an expiration date.
7. Clear a space in your home that will be used as your space for yoga practice. If you’ll be following along with a DVD or CD, make sure you have the equipment in that room. Keep the space uncluttered, simple and distraction free.