You’ve caught a glimpse of mat-carrying, athleisure-wearing students emerging from a yoga studio. You’ve seen countless Instagram images of people making incredible shapes with their bodies and moving fluidly between them. Maybe you’ve even practiced Child’s Pose, Cat-Cow, or Downward-Facing Dog during your favorite exercise class (even if the instructor doesn’t call them that). Now you’re done.
Still, the question may be hanging over your head: what do you actually do? need before you start yoga? You might be surprised to learn that the answer is much less about external things than it is about a willingness to explore how you show up in situations that might surprise you (much like yoga itself).
6 things you need (and don’t) before starting yoga
All you really need before starting yoga is your curiosity to try something new. Additionally, the following tips can help you prepare before you step on the mat so you get the most out of your first experience.
1. You don’t have to be flexible
Despite what you may have seen on Instagram, yoga isn’t about putting your body in seemingly impossible positions. “Flexibility is not a requirement,” says Kim Richardsonyoga teacher and certified yoga therapist. “Don’t feel the need to push poses or keep up with the group.”
“You don’t have to do everything in yoga class either!” say Harpinder Mannyoga and meditation teacher and mindfulness teacher. You can always choose to take a break instead of getting into a pose.
And if you’re concerned about what’s being asked of you, don’t be afraid to say so before class. “I always encourage students to introduce themselves to the teacher and, if necessary, let them know of any conditions or injuries you are working with,” says Mann.
2. You don’t need a mat
No, you don’t have to spend hundreds of euros on a yoga mat. In fact, it’s wise to spend some time practicing yoga before investing money in your own yoga props. Although you will need a mat during class, most studios have mats you can rent for free or use to see what you like before purchasing. You can also test drive a studio’s bolsters, blocks and blankets.
However, there are inexpensive mats that some beginners may find useful, especially if you want to practice at home and/or if common props just aren’t your thing. In Yoga diary‘S review of the best yoga mats for literally everyone, beginners preferred the Gaiam Premium 5mm due to its thickness, grip and relatively low price.
3. You have to trust yourself
You may not know much about yoga (yet), but that doesn’t mean you’re not an expert in yoga. You. “Enter the room knowing that you are the wisest person when it comes to knowing how you feel in your own body,” says Richardson.
Only you know what is right and wrong for you in a yoga class. “The yoga teacher is there for guidance, but honoring your own inner knowing is what’s really important,” says Richardson. For example, it’s okay to opt out of practicing any pose or breathing technique, or to let the instructor know when you don’t feel comfortable.
If you attend an in-person class, gauge whether the overall atmosphere matches what you’re looking for. “Pay attention to the intangibles,” says Richardson. “Is the room inviting? Is it inclusive? Is the teacher encouraging? Are you happy that you showed up in the room? Be aware of your initial reaction. It can be very informative.”
4. You need a beginner’s mind
Yes, it can be scary – and exciting! – to start something new. But you can’t do yoga wrong. “There is no perfection in yoga,” says Richardson.
Like learning a new language, it’s a skill you practice, Mann says. “Give yourself time, patience, grace, and compassion as you begin to practice. You are truly invited to come practice and study just as you are.”
There is a saying in yoga about having a “beginner’s mind,” which means remaining curious as we approach every situation, rather than being afraid or judgmental. “A beginner’s mind is a wonderful way to approach anything new we undertake,” says Mann.
To put it simply? “There is no perfection in yoga,” Richardson adds.
5. You want to discover what works for you
There are countless different yoga styles, studios and instructors, each with their own unique approach to the practice. You may not feel good about the first class you go to, and that’s okay.
“I encourage beginners to try different yoga classes until they find a style, teacher, and community that resonates with them,” says Mann. “Find a yoga teacher who is warm, non-judgmental, and welcoming and makes you feel brave enough to be a beginner.”
That can take time. Explore all your options. You don’t have to find the “perfect” class for you right away. Maybe you practice along with a YouTube video, or Google to see if your gym or local library offers introductory yoga classes.
Perhaps it is an option for you to work privately with a teacher the first few times. “Beginner students sometimes feel more comfortable working one-on-one with a yoga teacher to learn the basics before going to a group class,” Mann explains. She also notes that some beginning students simply prefer a private environment.
6. You need to learn what yoga is
A common misconception about yoga is that it is solely about physical movement (known as asana). While that is what most yoga classes typically entail, it is actually an entire philosophy and way of life.
“Asana is not about perfecting poses or achieving perfect form,” says Mann. “Ultimately, asana aims to enable us to use our bodies with intention and awareness, allowing us to be fully present in the moment.” The idea is that everything you practice in class will translate to everything you do in life.
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