Those who establish even a minimal home practice are quick to discover the rewards yoga has to offer. Practising even just a few asanas (poses) at home on a regular basis, will reinforce what is taught in the yoga class, and best prepare you for the class when you are ready. Students who have a home practice, find themselves not only becoming progressively more flexible and strong, but more resilient and calm in the face of life’s inevitable ups and downs.
Here are 5 tips that have helped me in practising yoga at the comfort of my home.
[Read: Yoga Poses To Do Under Trained Teachers To Avoid Injury]
Tips To Practice Yoga At Home
1) Set Aside 15 Minutes A Day
Set aside a minimum of 15 minutes every day, if you find this difficult to fit into your schedule, begin by making a commitment to do at least Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations) each day. Some days, when the schedule is packed, do not get discouraged, keep going! But on those days when more time is available, extend your time into a longer practice.
Allowing yourself the time to do yoga is often a bigger challenge than the yoga itself!
2) Create An Uncluttered Space
Find a place in your home for your practice, and clear the space, so you can easily put your mat down when the time arrives. Decide which direction you will face on your mat, and place a candle or make a small alter at the front. Depending on the amount of space you have, you may decide to keep this space sacred, and make your dedication to yoga a part of your permanent living space.
For me, I have created a space uncluttered, so that I can be easily able to convert it into a yoga space when I practice.
3) Schedule It At The Same Time Every Day
Note the times of day that are ideal for your home yoga practice. Maybe it is the first thing in the morning, or maybe after work. Whenever it is, try committing to practise at the same time, and make it a priority.
4) Wear Comfortable Clothing
Wear loose, comfortable clothing – do not worry if you do not have that perfect yoga outfit, perhaps you have a comfy pair of sweats or even your pajamas! Wear clothing that is comfortable to you; you would not want tight body-hugging outfits coming in the way of doing some wide stretches!
5) Maintain The Poise
Respect your body and do yoga poses gently with a smile. Doing them fast or going beyond what your body can take will not bring faster results. It will only make the practice more difficult and painful. Let go of perfection and fear of failure. The beauty of your home yoga practice is that you listen to your body and find the teacher within.
Remember, distractions happen. Dogs come and lay on your mat, your cat curls up on your lap when you meditate, the kids show up to watch, or your partner decides it is a good time to talk. This is the practice of yoga.
It is learning to be present and receive the gifts of your life. It is letting go of expectations and goals, it is returning to your breath and being mindful of your response to the distractions. This is yoga, this is life. Take a breath and start!
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