Everything You Need To Know If You're About To Try Yoga
New experiences on any level can be a challenge but couple that with the lack of knowing where the experience is going to take you, and it can be downright terrifying. All of these feelings, I came to discover, are perfectly normal. Almost every first-time yogi has them.
So today, after journeying on the YOGA trail for over 5 years and now teaching this beautiful science of the body and mind I would like to offer a platform of confidence for beginners in a way of: Top 8 Tips For Beginners (and we are all forever beginners aren’t we?)
1. EveryBODY can do yoga.
It doesn’t matter how tall you are, how old you are, how much you weigh or how flexible you are. If you can breathe, you can practice yoga.
2. Be patient.
The beginning will be challenging, but beginnings usually are. As you begin to absorb the new practice, it gets easier and will start to come together in an effortless series of breakthroughs and openings. Be patient, all is coming.
3. Every day is different.
Today your mind and body is a direct reflection of what you did yesterday. Tomorrow your mind and body will reflect what you did today. Some days the energy flows freely, other days it can feel stagnant. Don’t judge. Just show up. That’s why it’s called a yoga “practice.”
4. Your practice is always your own.
Turn it up, turn it down, modify, dilute, and discover what you need from your practice each and every day so that the practice services you. When stepping on your mat, ask yourself: “What do I need today?” Let the answer be your guide.
5. Yoga is accumulative.
The more you practice, the more it benefits you; mind, body and spirit.
6. Let your breath be your guide.
Keep your breath even, steady and comfortable. Like a tour guide who took you the wrong way, drove too fast or spoke to slowly, in order to enjoy the ride stay on the right road.
7. When frustrated, work at 80%.
Some days… poop happens. We are frustrated, upset or purely unmotivated, anxious. Come to your practice with the intention of working at 80%, soften your mind, open your heart and let it all shine through.
8. Feel it to heal it.
You might feel sore muscles after your first few practices or you might feel emotions you have never felt. This journey is designed to open you up, and to allow you to shed what no longer services you in order to make room for that which nourishes you.
Find comfort in knowing that we all get butterflies.
