So many times over the years I’ve heard people say: I can’t do yoga. I’m not flexible enough…strong enough…coordinated enough.
Yoga is for everyone.
The beauty of yoga is that it is for everyone. Yoga accepts you for who you are and meets you where you are at in life. In fact if you don’t feel flexible, even more reason to do it. If you don’t feel strong even more reason. We all have things we are working on. Everyone of us.
Yoga is nonjudgmental
There is no need to be intimidated by yoga terminology or the things that you don’t know. What’s most important is that you carve the time out of your schedule to practice. I sometimes have the theme for class -“just show up” . In other words, come as you are. You made it here! You have the full hour to calm the mind, strengthen your body, focus on an intention and steep in good energy.
There a few things that are helpful to know as a beginner:
Bring a mat (sometimes extra mats are available, but best to have your own)
Layer clothing. We can go from cool to warm to cool again in Savasana. Layers will help you feel comfortable.
Allow yourself to relax and fun. Leave your phone in your bag and put it on silent to help make this to happen. Check your to do list at the door.
Listen to your breath, it calms you. It can also be an indicator if you're working too hard and need to slow down.
Don’t push yourself. It’s great to find your edge, but be patient with yourself. Rest when you need it. This is YOUR practice!
I am often approached by students before or after class: I don’t think I’m doing pigeon right. Will you look at my form? …..or….I’m not sure if my feet are positioned correctly in bridge. Will you help me with that?
Ask away. I enjoy helping students. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you are not sure. And please let your teacher know if you are injured. It’s our job to support you. I can suggest modifications in class and there is always time afterward for more support.
One pose to calm the mind
Child's Pose: This calming pose is a good default pause position. You can use child’s pose to calm and refocus. It can also replace downward dog in Sun Salutation or in that moment when there is a pause in your practice. Child’s pose gently stretches your lower back, hips, thighs, and relaxes your spine, shoulders and neck and gently stretch through the spine and hips.
Modification: If you have knee injuries use a bolster or towel between your thighs and ankles is helpful. Rest your head on a cushion or block if your neck is fatigued.
One pose to strengthen the core and the whole body
Plank Pose: Plank builds strength in the core, shoulders, arms and legs. Essentially the whole body. Plank pose is good if you are looking to tone your abs and build strength in your upper body.
Modification: You can modify it by placing your knees on the floor. Especially if you have low back pain. Also helpful if you have sore wrists. I’ve been known to roll the front edge of my mat for extra padding under my hands.
As a certified yoga instructor and reiki therapist based in Seattle, I like to blend a variety of techniques into my practice to ensure that your body feels healthy, strong and balanced. I teach group in-person classes, live virtual group classes and also offer custom private or group sessions on a by request basis. Click Here for Details