If you’ve never tried yoga before, and you’re a little curious about giving it a go, here are some things this yoga teacher would like you to know.
You don’t need to be flexible
Many who come to yoga class have the idea that you need to be super fit and flexible before trying it out. This is not the case! The beauty of the practice of yoga is that it can fit in around your lifestyle and needs. There are many different styles to choose from, the trick is to pick a style and teacher that suits you. (More about that later).
Yoga will certainly help with your body’s flexibility, but this is not the end goal of the practice. You will also gain strength, stability, and a whole lot of body awareness. And don’t let a lack of flexibilty or strength stop you from coming to the mat – the only flexibility you will need is in your mind.
Your breath is king!
Yoga is all about connecting your body and mind to your breath. Many of us don’t breathe to our full capacity, yoga will teach us to breathe deeper and fuller. Throughout the practice we keep returning our attention to the flow of breath – to keep the mind focused here and now and to keep our attention in the body.
The breath is a powerful tool to help bring your body’s systems into balance and to relax and calm the mind. Take a few long, deep breaths right now, maybe with your hands on your tummy – focus on the in and out breath – expanding and contracting. Notice how you feel afterwards.
You don’t need to practice for an hour to make it count
I will say that attending a regular yoga class is hugely beneficial as you will receive guidance from a qualified teacher. Plus there is something magical about a group of people sharing their practice and their energy in one space.
However you can bring yoga into your everyday life. Give yourself time (even five minutes!) to focus on your breathing, bringing the breath deep down into the belly. Notice what feels good in your body during class and practice one or two postures at home.
Listen to your body – where needs a little love today? Take time to stretch and move. Tending to your body and mind is yoga! A few minutes here and there all adds up, and is a wonderful way to bring yoga off the mat and out of the class.
Find what resonates with you
Do some research on different styles and teachers available in your area. Ask friends if they would recommend anyone. Contact teachers and have a chat with them.
What will keep you coming back to the mat is finding a teacher and style that suits you – do you want high energy, fast paced classes or a slower, more chilled style? Find a teacher you like – someone who resonates with you. And find a class time that slots into your weekly schedule. You want to make it easy for yourself to get to class.
Look to your pets for inspiration
If you have any furry friends living in your home you’ll have noticed how much time they spend stretching, especially after slumber. They like to move their bodies a lot! Take a leaf out of your pet’s book and start to stretch more.
Pets are also always in the present moment, whether it is play, eating dinner, snoozing – they aren’t worried about what happened this morning, or what’s going on later tonight.
If this has sparked your interest and you’d like to try yoga out for yourself, I am starting six week beginners courses around the county, from next week. Check out Mary Kavanagh Yoga on Facebook for more details. And if you have any questions or feedback, do get in touch. Have a beautiful week!
READ ALSO – Mary Kavanagh: Schedule time in your week that’s just for you
