Yoga Tips from a Beginner

I have recently taken up yoga. I am only a few classes in so I am not going to pretend like I am an expert by any means. I wanted to pass along some tips I would have found helpful before I went into my first class.


Tip #1: Always speak to your instructor prior to your first class about any medical or health issues you are currently going through. This can be both beneficial for you and the instructor. The instructor may be able to guide you into a class that works best for you and your needs.

Tip #2: Verify ahead of time if you need to provide your own mats or any other equipment that may be needed during class.  A lot of places today provide these either complimentary or for a small rental fee.  Never assume they are included in the class cost.

Tip #3: Wear comfortable, yet formfitting clothes. When I went into my first class I was wearing comfy clothes, however they were a little baggy in the legs and I kept getting caught on my pant legs in certain positions.

Tip #4: Leave your phone at home (Or at least turned off). The atmosphere is very quiet and relaxing. The last thing you need is to have your phone going off or your mind on that last message you read right before you walking into class. I find leaving my phone home all together allows me to have a nice peaceful class along with a relaxing peaceful drive home.

Tip #5: Breathe! Yoga is all about using your breath. If you forget to breathe or keep your muscles tense, you could end up pulling a muscle and being sore after.  Never a fun option.

Tips #6: Accept help. Never feel embarrassed if your instructor corrects your position. They are only trying to help you get it correct so you can get the benefit the position is meant for.

Tip #7: Keep a positive attitude while practicing. The energy is amazing with a room full of people all focusing on a better well being. Smile often and always be kind to those around you.

Tip #8: Ask questions if you don't understand something being taught to you. If you allow the question to go unanswered you may become frustrated every time you practice.

Tip #9 Bring extra layers and water. At the end of the class after you have completely let yourself relax, you may become cold. Have water if you need to hydrate after.

Tip #10 Practice what you have learned in your everyday life. Learn to use your breath to relax you in a stressful situation. I have definitely used these techniques a few time and it is amazing how much better you feel when you apply what you learn.

Do you practice yoga? What tips would you add?



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4 comments

  1. Great tips - one thing I would say is if you are practicing at home do it in front of a mirror s you can see you position and correct it if you need to :)
    Laura x
    fbl-savvy.blogspot.co.uk

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  2. I love yoga and you've shared some great tips here.

    You're right, it is important to speak to the instructor prior to class... I've had a very personalized yoga experience because I've done this (I have a bad shoulder that my instructor would help me work around).

    Thanks for sharing and for linking up to the #SHINEbloghop.

    Wishing you a lovely day.
    xoxo

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  3. I've never done yoga, but I've contemplated doing it a hundred times at least. I always don't because of not knowing what to expect or know and that's fairly common I think. So these tips will definitely help.

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  4. These are great tips! I have been practicing for awhile now and am in a teacher training program, and I would add these:

    1. Don't be afraid to take a break if the poses get to be too much. Rest in child's pose and then rejoin the class when you're ready.

    2. Don't be late. Come to class a few minutes early so you can be ready to go at the start.

    3. Unless you really need to pee or there is some other emergency, don't leave the room. Often your body (or mind) is using this as an excuse to avoid something that has come up in class. Try to refocus your breath and stay with it.

    Good tips!

    Found you on the SITS Blogging Sharefets, BTW. :)

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