Yoga For Beginners – Must Know Information!
Yoga for beginners: You need to know information!
Have you thought about trying yoga? Anxious? Okay, do not worry. Many people feel a bit intimidated or afraid to start practicing yoga, but there really is nothing to be afraid of. Here are some tools and tips to help you start your beginner yoga practice in no time.
What is?
In Sanskrit, the ancient language of India, Yoga translates as “union.” It refers to the union of body, mind and spirit. The physical poses or postures that many western people think of when they think of yoga are called asanas. These physical postures or asanas are just one part of the eight limb yoga system. Most of this system deals with the spiritual and mental aspects of the self rather than the physical.
What style to choose?
There are many different styles of yoga to choose from. Gyms and studios often offer hatha and vinyasa yoga classes for beginners. The word hatha actually refers to yoga in general, since all styles of yoga are hatha yoga. However, classes referred to as hatha are usually slower, gentler, and focus on the basics of stretching and breathing in different poses. Vinyasa classes involve more movement and are more vigorous. Both are fine for beginners. Just remember to find classes labeled yoga for beginners.
There are many styles of yoga to choose from and choosing the right style for you will have an impact on whether or not you stick with it. Try different styles and teachers until you find one that resonates with you. Check out the different styles, including hatha, vinyasa, ashtanga, power, iyengar, kundalini, bikram, hot yoga, anusara, jivamukti, forrest, kripalu, holistic, moksha, sivananda, laughter, and others.
Where to start… Home, gym or studio?
Learning from a real, live teacher is second to none, so it’s best to take a beginner yoga class at a local gym or studio. Classes at gyms generally focus more on the physical training that yoga provides, while classes at yoga studios involve more aspects of mind, body, and spirit, such as meditation, breathing, and chanting. in addition to the asanas.
If you don’t have the resources or desire to start a class, the best thing to do is get a beginner yoga DVD to use at home. Yoga books and decks of yoga cards work well for learning more about the technique and specifications of the poses, but starting with a beginner yoga DVD will be easier as it requires less effort on your part. There are also many great beginner yoga resources online, such as virtual classes and step-by-step guides.
What do you need?
You will need a yoga mat and comfortable clothing that fits well and is not too big. That is all! That’s all you really need. Additionally, you may want to have a couple of blocks, a strap, and a towel or yoga mat depending on the type of class or style you choose, but a yoga mat and comfortable clothing is all you really need to get started.
Things to do and know when taking classes:
o Shoes without shoes: You must remove your shoes when entering a yoga studio. This helps keep the space clean. Yoga is done barefoot, without shoes or socks.
o Cell Phones Off: Before entering the facility, turn off your cell phone.
o Arrive on time: Arrive at least ten minutes before class so you have time to sign in, put your things away, talk to the teacher, and set up your mat.
o Let the instructor know you are a beginner/new – Talk to the instructor so they know you are new/beginner and if you need help.
o Stay for the whole class: Refrain from leaving in the middle of the class as it is rude to the teacher and disruptive to the class. If you decide you don’t like the class or the teacher, it’s good etiquette to stay until the end.
o Don’t skip savasana: This is the final resting pose and is one of the most important and enjoyable. Many people find that it is one of their favorite poses.
Put the tips and tools above to work and you’ll be comfortable with your yoga practice in no time! For more information on yoga for beginners, click here.