New to Yoga? 5 Tips to Remember Before You Start Your Yoga Class
The first and the foremost step in starting Yoga is to decide to do it! However, many people stop there. Don't be intimidated!
Practising Yoga would only lead to ultimate happiness. So get started on yoga-
Pick a Yoga Type -
Do a little research before venturing out. There are many yoga classes, but you need to choose the right yoga class for beginners depending on your physical fitness levels and your personality.
For most beginners, a Hatha Yoga class will be most appropriate.
Hatha (Ha-sun; tha- moon) yoga refers to balancing the masculine aspects-active, hot, sun-and the feminine aspects-receptive, cool, moon-within all of us.
It creates a path toward balance and uniting the opposite forces. It strives to attain the union of mind and body by a series of asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises) as described in ancient Hindu texts.
These practices help activate the Kundalini energy and purify the body of negative thoughts. It is a very popular form of Yoga in the Western world currently.
It is a basic style that helps you increase flexibility and builds your body strength. You can always try something fancier later.
Find a Yoga Class For Beginners -
Once you have decided on the type of yoga, find a yoga class for beginners in your neighbourhood that can help you.
Search for the right yoga class using online resources, newspapers and magazines. Make sure you start with a basic level class.
Many gyms also offer yoga, which could help you narrow down your search. Along with the right class, it is very important to find the right person who can help you. This person can help you stick to your daily exercises and also help you with your weak areas.
What to carry to Yoga class on your first day-
On the first day, you do need to bring much except yourself and some comfortable, breathable clothing.
Opt for loose and comfortable clothing. You wouldn't want tight body-hugging outfits interfering with your stretches!
Also, do not wear any excessive jewellery and avoid heavy makeup. You could invest in the right yoga mat later. However, most studios have yoga mats that can be rented.
Warm-up before doing intense Yoga postures -
Warming up before any physical exercise is very important. But it becomes more important while doing yoga as you could risk straining your muscles.
Start your warm-up by doing a few stretches to bring flexibility to your muscles, before moving on to more intense yoga postures.
Some basic Dos and Don'ts before Starting Your Yoga Class -
Don't...
- Have a big meal right before class. Eat light meals 3 hours before your class. However if you have a fast metabolism and would be hungry during class, have some juice or nuts 30 mins prior to starting your exercises
- Wear shoes or socks during class. Yoga is practised barefoot and wearing shoes would restrict some movements
- Neglect persistent pains in spite of regular yoga exercises
- Over-exercise. You could damage your muscles. Realize your limits and take one step at a time
Do...
- Continue practising yoga even if you feel sore at the end of your first class
- Drink at least 3-4 litres of water during the day as it will help you to flush out the toxins that are released during your yoga practice.
- Tell the teacher it's your first class (you probably won't be the only one).
- Ask for help if you need it
- Relax at the end of the class. Lie down for a few minutes to allow your body to come back to equilibrium
Though Yoga can be practised without any equipment, once you join a class or gym, certain equipment would help you better while practising yoga.
Some Equipment That Can Help You In Your Yoga Class:
Clothing:
You need to wear comfortable, breathable clothes while doing yoga. A tighter shirt is recommended as few poses require you to bend over causing to your shirt to slide down.
Any exercise pants or shorts will do, although it's best to avoid super slick lycra-type pants since these would cause you to slip in some poses.
Yoga Mats:
If you plan to practice regularly, invest in a high-quality yoga mat. Cheaper "sticky" mats tend to fall apart.
The mat defines your personal space, along with creating traction for your hands and feet, preventing you from slipping, especially when you get a little sweaty.
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| Yoga Mats |
The mat also provides a bit of cushioning on a hard floor. Most studios allow you to rent the mats, for as low as a dollar or two per class.
However, these mats are used by a number of people and could be unhygienic. Yoga mats can be purchased for as little as $20 and it would be better to buy your own mat.
Optional Equipment:
These props are generally required by people following the Iyengar yoga. Using these props helps prevent injuries and allows the body to attain maximum alignment. A list of these props is as follows:
Blankets:
The folded blankets are used as props to sit on and lie down during class. For instance, you can sit cross-legged on a blanket to elevate your hips above the knees.
Also, the blanket keeps you warm during the relaxation session at the end of your class.
Blocks:
Yoga blocks are a great prop for beginners. Blocks are great using as a hand or footrest when you cannot reach the floor during a certain pose.
They also provide support to your back or limbs. With a lightweight construction, they are a great prop to attain flexibility and alignment during your exercises.
Yoga straps:
This prop is very beneficial for beginners and people who are not very flexible. They help you when your arms are not long enough to reach the floor or touch your feet.
They are available in either nylon or cotton fibres and are very useful. They also allow you to hold your pose longer.
Yoga Bolsters:
They are pillows that support your body and help you relax. They are great for beginners as they allow you to remain for a longer duration in any pose without being uncomfortable.
This is all about the basics of yoga for beginners. Yoga is a great technique to connect your mental and physical strengths. You will definitely enjoy it if you leave behind your apprehensions and doubts.
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