Yoga Workouts at Home

Practice the classic art in the comfort of your own home

The good thing about yoga is once you know about the proper poses, you can practice anywhere. Some practitioners choose to do their own home-based yoga workouts either after work or before going to bed. For most people, home is the most comfortable place to be, because you can practice on your own time.

Yoga workouts at home are popular are because you don’t need to wear special clothing, you can save your driving time and money, you might feel less embarrassed posing in front of others, and you can use your own props, straps or pillows.

Many use yoga videos because they can watch, pause or replay pose instructions and work at their own pace. Home is so familiar that you’re able to relax and enjoy the wonderful solitude of practicing in your well-lit living room or even in the lushness of your backyard.

The following are some useful tips for creating your own safe yoga haven at home:

• Before doing yoga solely at home, attend some yoga classes first to get feedback from instructors, and so you can learn the proper postures.
• Establish a routine by practicing yoga regularly, at the same time of day, in the same setting.
• You don’t have to dress professionally, but comfort is a must - wear a tank top or a loose T-shirt, loose cotton pajama pants or boxers and bare feet. Some practice at home because they prefer to wear nothing at all.
• Make sure the temperature of the room is comfortable. The lighting should be soft and relaxing music or sounds should provide the background. Many people light scented candles to further relax the senses.
• Practice in a place where there’s enough room to stretch out your arms and legs.
• Don’t forget to use quality props such as a sticky mat, at least one block, and a strap or bolster to help you work on those deep stretches.
• Eat a light snack about an hour before your yoga session - like organic wheat crackers and cheese, fresh fruit or veggies - to provide you with adequate energy.
• To reduce the distractions from kids or pets, you might need to close the door, mute your phone and turn off your TV.
• Listen to your body. If you experience pain stop practicing immediately.
• After your yoga workout make sure to drink lots of water to keep you hydrated.

There are some drawbacks to working out at home - including the lack of feedback and motivations from others. Also there will be no helpers to adjust your poses and you will lose out on the sense of community that so many class participants enjoy.