How To Start Practicing Yoga

Today many people are taking advantage of the health benefits of yoga.  When practiced, yoga will improve flexibility, strength, and posture, and it will also help relieve stress and help you to maintain a healthy weight.  If you have decided you would like to start receiving the many benefits that yoga has to offer, you may not be sure of where to begin.  Here are the things that are important to consider when you would like to begin practicing yoga.

First, you should pick the type of yoga you would like to practice.  The type you should choose depends on skill level and what you are looking to achieve when practicing.  There are various types, but some of the more well known are Anusara, Bikram, Power, Sivananda, and Viniyoga. 

Anusana

Anusana is the perfect fit for nervous beginners.  It offers an upbeat vibe and it was created to allow everyone to express themselves through poses to the best of their ability. 

Bikram

Bikram yoga is also known as hot yoga.  The room temperature is ideally 105°F (≈ 40.6°C) with a humidity of 40% and it is the best for weight loss and for people who were once serious athletes, or those who feel like they need to seriously sweat to feel like they worked out. 

Power Yoga

Power yoga was inspired from Ashtanga yoga.  Isometric movements increases calories burned, and this is best for athletic types. 

Sivananda Yoga

Sivananda yoga is great if you are looking for a spiritual boost.  There is a five-point philosophy that breathing, relaxation, diet, exercise, and positive thinking all work together to form a healthy lifestyle. 

Viniyoga

Viniyoga is an individualized practice of yoga that personalizes the practice and is great for those who suffer from back pain.  After you have chosen the best yoga option, you then need to decide where to practice.

Some people perform better in a class setting with an instructor there to help.  Classroom settings also can allow you to make friends that will keep you challenged and ready to show up to class.  Without that reinforcement, for some, it is difficult to keep up practicing at first.  If you find that you need to be challenged, then find a class in your area.  Look online and at local gyms for options.  For ex-athletes and the strong-willed, then at-home practice may be another option.  There are many resources that provide yoga sequences for home practice.  This also includes very helpful yoga DVDs with the instructor telling you what to do.

You will also need to be sure you have the best tools for practicing yoga.  Your clothing should be comfortable, breathing, and stretchy.  If you are practicing at home, you will definitely need a mat, while at classes you can either rent or borrow a mat.  A recommendation would be to still get your own mat so you will know you are the only one whose feet have been on it.

After you have begun to practice, you will notice that yoga is not just transforming your body, but your mind as well.  You will feel more in tune with your body and less stressed.  Start practicing today.  Take advantage of all things that yoga offers, and you will surely be glad you did.

Image by: lululemon athletica