Few yoga tips for beginners
If you are thinking about beginning a yoga practice, you might want to read a book on the subject and learn about the history of yoga and its benefits. When planning to attend a class for the first time, you can contact the yoga studio beforehand and get some tips to help you prepare.
Here are a few thoughts on how to begin your practice:
When not to practice yoga
If you have any medical condition, you should check with your health care professional before starting a yoga practice.
Modify the postures for your body
The instructions and pictures of the yoga postures are the “goal,” meaning the direction you are going toward, not where you need to be. Experiment and explore different positions and alignment to make the posture work for your body.
Moderate the level of intensity
You can make your yoga practice as challenging and vigorous as you want. We recommend you start slowly and make sure you understand the alignment of postures. You can increase the intensity of your practice in three ways: one, hold postures for longer and longer periods of time; two, slowly build your practice up to more advanced and challenging postures; three, move quickly between postures.
How to choose postures
Choose to practice postures that look like you can do them. Postures done on the floor are going to be easier than standing postures as they do not require as much strength or balance.
Duration of practice
Your daily practice should be between 15 to 90 minutes long and done 1-6 times per week, depending on your schedule, goals and ability. Practicing more frequently with shorter practice times will yield greater results that practicing less frequently with longer practice times.
What to wear
Loose comfortable clothing or tights work best. It’s important to wear something that will not restrict your movement.
Drinking and eating
It is not advisable to eat or drink right before a yoga practice. Eat approximately 1-3 hours before and drink only small amounts of water before practice, and do not drink during your practice if possible.
Adapted from com