Yoga for Beginners

No age is too young or too old to begin practicing yoga

It’s said that every journey starts with difficulties. This comes to mind with beginner’s yoga.

Yoga has wide range of students - from babies of 18-months to the elderly. Many individuals are interested in yoga exercise, yet hesitate to experience this ancient science of the body and mind due to their concern with their body’s flexibility.

There are so many types of yoga to choose from including Bikram, Kundalini, Ashtanga, Hatha, Tantric, hot and power yoga. If you’re unsure which you’d like most, start by taking a variety of classes or by viewing various videotapes and books. Despite a few aggressive styles of yoga, most are known as gentle, slow practices that are combined with deep breathing, a few bending stretches and complete relaxation. You might think you’re too old, too stiff, too young or too out of shape, but if you ventured into a yoga class at your local YMCA you’d see a variety of people, just like you, practicing yoga.

You see, the yogis believed that yoga was accessible to everyone - including you. When you decide to enroll in a yoga class (it’s wise to start with group classes), the professional yogi will teach you the proper poses and how to adjust them properly to ensure your safety. In beginner classes, instructors start with simple poses that stretch your shoulder muscles, spine, lower back, hips and groin. Think of a yoga class as your yoga foundation.

Once you get the proper postures down, you can perform yoga almost anywhere. For instance, lots of people like practicing yoga at home because home is the most familiar and comfortable place. It provides you more freedom and, perhaps for some, less awkwardness when you practice alone. Buying good quality yoga props and equipment is particularly important for beginners. A sticky mat, a soft blanket or towel, a big pillow and a chair with arm rests are the basic stuff you’ll need to start. Yoga props help you to perfect your balance and complete the poses at first.