4 Tips For Beginner Yogi's

When I tell people that I'm a yoga instructor, most people are really excited and interested and then proceed to tell me why they cannot practice yoga or why they have never tried. Look, I get it, going to a yoga class is SCARY. Heck, going to any kind of new class is scary. I think the reason that so many people hold back is because they think they physically cannot do the postures. The most common thing people tell me is "I'm not flexible!", which definitely is not a requirement for yoga. I've never really considered myself a flexible person either.

First, the postures are only one part of a yoga practice and the benefits are more than just physical. Breath work is also a huge component of the practice and though it may seem silly, most of us don't actually breathe properly throughout most of the day. Second, yoga is not about being flexible, it's about connecting with your body wherever you may be at in that moment and building self-awareness. Instead of using injuries as a reason to not practice, use yoga as a tool to help you heal. Lastly, not that the goal of yoga is flexibility, but hey, if you're struggling with flexibility, yoga could help out with that!

Goddess Pose in Nashville, TN

A few things to know before you go...

1. Do some research - Signing up online and reading the class description is a great way to see what you're in for. If it's unclear, you can always call or email the studio to ask what the class is like. TIP: Ask if they have mats or if you need to bring your own.

2. Arrive 10-15 minutes early - If you're new to a studio, it's likely you'll have to sign a waiver and they'll want to show you around the studio. You don't want to be rushed into class and it can be disruptive if you arrive late (most studios won't let you in class if you arrive late).

3. Turn your phone off - Or better yet, don't bring it at all! You want to make sure you're free of distraction during your practice so you can be present and you also don't want to disrupt anyone else's practice. If you want to get a picture to post on social media - ask someone after class to take a photo of you!

4. Be open minded - You might not understand what they are doing in the class or why, but just go with it! It's going to feel weird in your body for the first few classes. Remember - everyone had to start somewhere. Keep in mind that some of the people you might be practicing with have done it for years, so it's also important to not compare yourself to anyone in the class (though admiring other peoples practices is a great way to get inspired).

Beach Yoga @ Cannon Beach, OR

While going to a yoga studio and learning from those around you is not only a great way to learn yoga, it's also a wonderful way to connect with your community and find like minded people. That being said, it can still be very intimidating to go to a yoga class for the first time. There are plenty of online resources that are FREE and you can practice from the comfort of your own home (YouTube is a great place to start).

Let me know your thoughts, questions or if you have anything else that may be holding you back from trying yoga in the comments below! <3

#beginnersyoga #yogapractice