Advice for a new Yogi?

brdoyle8

Hi all!

I started attending a gentle yoga class when I was visiting my parents for the holidays. Unfortunately, I attend university in a rural area which doesn't offer gym amenities or a yoga studio off campus, so I purchased a yoga Matt, downloaded a yoga studio app and have been making it work in my apartment. It's been a nice addition to my week, but I'm looking for some advice from any more experienced yogi's!

I assume that the first piece of advice is probably incorporate as much in person class practice as I can, and I'll work on that!

Nikki10129

Yoga with Adriene on youtube! I very rarely go to yoga classes, they're too expensive for me! But I love her videos

eok902

OP, I agree that in-person class practice is important as it will help you develop good form and allow for instructor feedback. I also agree with @Nikki10129 : the Yoga with Adriene YouTube channel is a great at-home route (ideally in parallel with classes) because she embodies the spirit of yoga, of it not being a competition for the best pose but actually an ongoing, reflective practice. I love her videos!

ETA: I haven't done them but she has videos on individual poses that will be useful for good form.

CafeRacer808

+1 for attending in person classes, especially when you're first starting out.

As for other advice, most every yoga teacher I've ever had always reminded us of the same things: be present, listen to your body, focus on your breathing (particularly when holding a pose for a long time), it's OK to rest in child pose if you're tired, and most importantly, go at your own pace. Don't try to force yourself into a pose you're not ready for. There's no shame in doing variations until your strength and flexibility improves.

Namaste!

macgurlnet

Yoga with Adrienne is great. Make sure you modify poses as needed.

Some additional items you might want to have are:

1) A yoga strap - if you already have several belts, you can use one. Just make sure it's something you can hold taut.
2) Yoga blocks or some hardcover books - I often find my body is a bit too tight and I need to elevate myself. The blocks are a nice solid support.

I've never taken a class myself, but I've loved doing videos at home. Enjoy your practice!

~Lyssa

brdoyle8

Thank you all so much for the advice!! I'll try to look around for in person classes as well

Psychgrrl

Good form is really important. The poses build on one another and the strength/flexibility gained from doing them correctly will set you up for a happier, more injury-free practice later. Sign up for a couple classes or even a weekend retreat if you need to travel. But even most small towns have a studio of some kind.

I completely agree with the props--blocks and a strap are really helpful in supporting you as you learn. And a folded up blanket/towel is helpful for tight hammies.