Yoga for Beginners - 9 pro tips

You see people in the gym or on social media doing all these complicated yoga poses and think to yourself, "I could never do that." Don't worry, you're not alone. Yoga can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering benefits for both the body and mind. While it can seem daunting for beginners, with a little preparation you can easily get started.

Here are 10 tips to help you get started on your yoga journey- 

1 Choose the style of yoga you want to learn

There are many different types of yoga, from more active styles like Ashtanga and Power Yoga, to more gentle styles like Hatha or Restorative Yoga. Find a style that you think you will enjoy, and that fits your lifestyle. If you're not sure where to start, try taking a few different classes to see what you like best.

2 Find a good teacher that you can connect with

A good teacher will be able to provide guidance and support as you learn the poses and begin to build your practice. Look for someone who makes you feel comfortable and who can offer modifications for any poses that may be challenging for you. 

3 Pick comfortable natural clothing to wear in class

When choosing yoga clothes, it's important to find something that you'll be comfortable moving in. Avoid anything too tight or constricting - you want to be able to breathe and stretch freely without feeling restricted. Natural fabrics like cotton or bamboo are ideal, as they are breathable and won't irritate your skin. Ultimately, the best yoga clothes are whatever makes you feel good and lets you move without any restrictions.

4 Choose a good non stick mat

A good yoga mat is an essential piece of equipment for any yogi, especially for a beginner. A good mat will provide cushioning and support, helping you to feel stable in each pose. Look for a mat that's made of a material that has some grip so it doesn't slide around, but isn't too cushiony it's difficult to move on it. Avoid mats that are made with synthetic materials. Natural rubber, cotton, and jute are all great options to pick from. If you're just starting out, look for a mat that has some cushion to help with your balance. As you get more experienced, you can look for a thinner mat that will give you more stability.

5 Focus on your own practice

Don't compare yourself to others in the class or try to force your body into positions it's not ready for. Listen to your body and go at your own pace, progressing when you're ready. Yoga is about connecting with yourself, not competing with others around you. So instead of worrying about what everyone else is doing, focus on your own breath and being present in the moment.

6 Use props to modify poses for yourself

If you have any injuries or limitations, there are many props that can help you modify poses so that they are safe and comfortable for you. These props can also help you adapt poses so they're more appropriate for your level of flexibility or strength. Don't be afraid to use a wooden block, a yoga belt, a chair or even a wall as a prop - they can be a great tool for helping you get the most out of each pose. A yoga block can help you lengthen and support yourself while a belt can be used to do deeper into postures.

7 Make your foundation strong

Don't be in a hurry. In order to avoid injury, it is important to build a strong foundation before moving onto more advanced poses. It takes time to develop a strong yoga practice, so be patient and remain focused...just enjoy the journey. 

 8 Respect your body's limitations

Remember that every body is different, and what works for someone else may not work for you. If something doesn't feel right, or if you start to experience pain, back off from the pose and try something else instead.

9 Maintain a regular practice

The benefits of yoga only come with regular practice, so make sure to attend class regularly if you want to see results. Even just a few classes per week can make a big difference over time! 

If you haven’t tried it before, we hope these tips have inspired you to give it a go. Yoga is a great way to increase flexibility and strength, find more balance in your life, and improve your overall well-being. Just remember to listen to your body and take things at your own pace. With regular practice, you’ll soon start to see – and feel – the benefits of yoga in your everyday life!

Join a class today and start reaping the benefits of this ancient practice!

Sandhya wears the Koi Bharni bra top and the Deep Teal Baka leggings.