There are many benefits to practicing yoga regularly including improved posture, better breathing, stress reduction and a sense of calm that pervades your entire being. It also helps with flexibility and strength. Many people want to know how to be good at yoga, but don’t know how to start. There seems to be so much information that it can become overwhelming and paralyzing. The good news is that it’s not as hard as you may think.
There are many different styles of yoga. Regardless of the style you choose, here are some tips to make your experience more enjoyable and more effective:
- Pace yourself. Don’t try to do too much at once. If you’re new to yoga, start with a gentle class or a basic DVD and progress from there as you feel comfortable.
- Many people find a male teacher easier to follow than a female one. Since yoga is an internal practice, it might not matter as much, but most teachers are women so it’s natural for students to relate better to them.
- Practice regularly and don’t overdo it.
- Keep an open mind. Don’t get hung up on being able to perform the moves perfectly or in the “right” order. If you can’t do a pose, just hold the position for as long as you can until your body gives out on you, then try again later when you’re stronger.
- Be flexible in your schedule and don’t compare yourself to others. Yoga is not a race; it’s something that should be done slowly and at your own pace.
- Plan your practice. If you want to get the most out of your time on the mat, plan exactly what you’re going to do before you take up your yoga mat. It’s better to have a clear focus than to just drift from one posture to another without direction. Choose a length and style of class that works for you. Depending on your goals, there’s plenty of variety out there.
