Easy Tips for Yoga Beginners
The wonderful world of yoga can be overwhelming for newcomers, especially with all the equipment you're bound to see once you walk into a classroom. However, the benefits of yoga are well worth the frustration that can come with trying anything new, so here's a guide to help ease you into yoga.
Right off the bat, the first thing you'll notice in a yoga classroom is going to be the mats. While mats are not absolutely necessary (especially if you have a soft carpet to practice on), they certainly come in handy to make your yoga class or routine far more comfortable. Mats typically start at only $15, although price can vary depending on what type of mat you need. For beginners, a basic mat will do just fine.
Next, you may notice that a lot of people use blocks during yoga. Blocks are a sort of stepping stone to ease beginners into the stretches that come with yoga. If you're already fairly flexible and don't foresee any issues with the different stretches and positions associated with yoga, this is one of the things you can skip on. However, for most beginners, this may end up being a necessity. If you're going to a class and aren't sure if you need a block or not, feel free to go without it. Your instructor may be able to lend you during the class at least, if not outside of it. In the event that there are no blocks available for you, assume the position as best you can, and if you simply can't do it without the block, your instructor will understand and eventually, your flexibility will increase.
For those of us who are interested in yoga and want to give it a shot but don't have the time or resources to go to a class, there are many books that can walk you through a beginner yoga routine. That said, if reading a book while twisting yourself into a pretzel doesn't quite appeal to you, there are many popular Youtubers who have tutorials online that will show you a basic routine for yoga practitioners at any level!
Whatever route you end up choosing, as long as you keep to it and regularly practice, yoga has many benefits you'll be sure to see the results of in just a matter of time and practice!
