One of the greatest things about yoga is that it can be done anywhere. Sure, going to classes is great; but sometimes we don’t have the time to make it to a class during the week. And going to classes all the time can get a bit pricey. Incorporating a yoga practice at home has definitely improved my practice in general, and helped me save a few bucks along the way.
If you don’t know where to start with practicing yoga at home, first things first: get a yoga mat. Even a towel will do if you don’t have a mat! A mat does provide more support and comfort for your wrists. Find an open space where you can put your mat. Try to de-clutter the area so you have enough room to move freely. Make go to your bedroom, living room, or if it’s nice enough just go outside! In the spring and summer, I love doing yoga out on my deck.
Once you have an open space and your mat, you can begin your practice. If you feel uncomfortable going through your own yoga flow and making it up by yourself, there are plenty of YouTube videos that will help you. Watching these videos feels like there is a teacher in the room. They instruct you and guide you through each pose and transition which is a huge help. There are also different television programs that have yoga practices on them if YouTube is not your thing. Just like a regular yoga class, feel free to stop any time your body is not comfortable. When we keep pushing ourselves even though our bodies are tired, we lose that mind and body connection which is so vital to a healthy and strong yoga practice. If the teacher on YouTube or the television does not go into child’s pose but you feel the need to go into one, put yourself first and take that break.
Find what YouTube videos or television channel works for you. Just like we connect with different teachers at the studio, we will connect with various teachers on these different platforms. Remember that every teacher teaches in their own unique style, and finding the style of teaching that you like at home is just as important as finding it in a yoga studio. There are tons of different YouTube videos and television programs out there, so don’t get discouraged!
Aim to incorporate an at-home yoga practice at least once a week. Whether the practice is only ten minutes or an hour long, it is important to keep up with our practice so we can progress and make improvements. Keeping up with our yoga practice also ensures that our muscles will not tighten up too much and aids in our ability to be mindful in day-to-day life. Carve out time in your busy week for some time for yoga at home. Your body, your mind, and you deserve it!
