10 EXCELLENT YOGA TIPS FOR BEGINNERS

Beginner Yoga Tips

The fact that you’re interested in starting a yoga class is a step in the right direction. There are many ways that you can make your yoga practice work for you, even if you only have a few minutes each day to dedicate to it. Use these yoga beginner tips as a jumping-off point to get started. You do not need to use all of them—allow your yoga practice to naturally grow and develop over time.

1. Wear comfortable clothing.                  
   
   The right clothes can make a world of difference in class. Ideally, you’ll want to select a supportive top and yoga pants made from breathable materials with moisture-wicking features. For cooler weather, you may want to invest in thermal athletic gear you can easily layer to stay warm.                                                  
2. Use a clean non-slip mat
   
   A yoga mat allows you to work through your routine without worrying about slipping in the poses. It also provides padding for your joints, especially your wrists and knees. Make sure you choose a mat with enough stickiness or grip to hold your hands and feet in place. Also, clean your mat regularly to maintain its traction and prevent unpleasant smells.       
3. Avoid making comparisons
   Because yoga is your own journey, there is no point in checking out someone else’s progress for the sake of comparing and judging yourself to them. You can draw motivation, appreciation, and inspiration from their bodies’ capabilities; however, don’t beat yourself up if you aren’t at that point yet. Regular practice will help you get there.                                        
4. Go slow
   Don’t rush yourself through each pose or the class. Yoga is purposeful, mindful, and fluid. By moving slowly, you can continue to make sustainable progress as you practice. Also, it can help prevent injury, boost your mindfulness, and improve your overall concentration.             
5. Focus on your foundation.          
   Much like the foundation of a building, your hands and feet form the foundation of your body. Your body depends on having a strong and steady foundation to properly hold the poses. Pay attention to the way your hands and feet are positioned and spread your fingertips and toes to build a firm base of support.             
   
6. Set an intention                               
   Setting intentions for your yoga classes can help you feel motivated to work towards your goals. An intention is a purpose for your practice, which can change for each session if you prefer. Your intention is a tool to focus your mind away from thoughts and distractions, towards feelings of peace, kindness, acceptance, or whatever else you feel is needed in your life.                          
7. Breathe
   The flow of your breath is essential in yoga classes. By breathing slowly and deeply throughout your regular routine, you increase circulation and reduce stress while stimulating your mind and body. Yogic breathing helps reduce the risk of injury, allowing your body to relax as it moves through different poses.
8. Eat mindfully
   Be mindful of your eating habit particularly if you prefer to eat before your yoga class. If you’re hungry, a light snack can help you fuel up for your class. Many people prefer to snack on small portions of almonds, fiber-packed fruits, or sports bars. Avoid greasy or garlicky foods before your class. Try not to eat anything 2-3 hours before class otherwise you’ll feel some discomfort in poses that put pressure on your belly.             
   
9. Respect your body’s limits
   Discovering and knowing your physical and mental limits is vital to succeeding in yoga. Listen to your body as you stretch, move, and breathe. If you have trouble breathing or experience pain, adjust the pose until you can do it without struggling. Also, keep in mind that some poses shouldn’t be attempted for those with certain conditions, such as injury, pregnancy, and chronic illness.                         
10. Maintain a regular yoga practice
    Frequent short practices will be more effective than fewer longer ones. Just a few poses for 15-30 minutes a day can have a very beneficial impact on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. You can achieve much more benefits from a daily discipline, and you will also boost your learning and mastery of the practice.