Yoga at Home, How to Begin?
It is very easy to forget that physical activity is not confined to a gym’s four walls, or that exercise must be done using special equipment to reap its infinite physiological and psychological benefits. Nowadays, it has never been more motivating to develop fitness skills and master exercise techniques at your own pace.
Such is the case of yoga, which can be practiced anywhere, even in the comfort of your own home. There are only a few guidelines to follow in order to create a space of tranquility and harmony within your home.
Where?
Having a room large enough to place a yoga mat is more than enough. Try to find or create a calm and quiet place. If possible, create the biggest amount of space around you. You can make this enjoyable, and even light candles and incense.
What is incredible about this exercise is that you can practice it anywhere, and all you really need is a good yoga mat (preferably non-slip). Ideally, you can have a pillow or cushion nearby for the more complicated postures that need extra support.
Remember: when performing any physical activity at home, you should always be conscious of the most vulnerable parts of our bodies. In yoga, the particularly sensitive areas are: the knees, hips, spine, and neck. If you feel pain in any of these areas, gently adjust your posture and do not force your body.
How?
It is very important that you adequately stretch before you start. Warming up your muscles through aerobic movements helps your body wake up and signals it that something productive is coming. This will help you correctly transition in between poses, which is where the risk of injury is most common.
Everything is in your routine choice. It is ideal to have a guide of the most basic and essential postures and another one of more complicated poses, so that once you find yourself on your mat, the first question you ask yourself becomes: “What do my body and mind need?” You will know what you should work and how. Remember that the more you practice yoga, the more you learn the postures’ benefits and you recognize what your body and mind need.
You should always give yourself time to relax before, during, and after exercising. The nervous system needs a moment to absorb the benefits it has gained during the practice. Otherwise, you may feel unnecessarily exhausted and depleted of energy.
Practice Regularly
Even practicing once a week is beneficial. Three days a week is perfect. The most important is to know what works for you. Set goals, fulfill them, and feel proud. Be honest and do what you can. A 10-minute yoga session is still a complete practice that counts.
Enjoy every workout. Do not try to execute a very difficult position in your first session. Everything takes time. Get on your mat, start, and everything will flow.
