Making yoga a lifestyle Have you ever wondered how yoga can transform your life? Or what is the journey like from being a beginner to becoming a dedicated yogi? The short answer is commitment. But you also need a curious mindset to start exploring the transformative power of this ancient practice. In this article, you will learn why and how you can cultivate your daily ritual. Why should we incorporate yoga into our lives?
It is scientifically proven that yoga will improve your overall well-being and quality of life in many ways. As cliché as it is these days, yoga offers truly a holistic practice. In India, yoga has even been been offered as a treatment in hospitals as a part of integrative medicine techniques for decades. This is what I also like to emphasise in my classes, yoga should be treated as a healthcare routine. And to me healthcare equals selfcare. If you feel emotionally grounded and strong and flexible in your physical body, it is much easier to take a few deep breaths to encounter life's challenges as they come on our way instead of panicking and stress. Not to mention the social well-being. Whether you practice yoga alone or with a group, you will always feel supported and a sense of belonging to something wider.
How to make yoga your lifestyle?
There are several theories around for how long it takes an individual to build new routines and habits. To reap the benefits of yoga, it is essential to start gradually and see which ones of its learnings and methods would suit your life in the best way. After all, yoga is supposed to enhance your life, not to add any more stress to it. Below I've listed some considerations to make before you begin your yogic journey.
The type: Starting something new can be intimidating, especially when it comes to yoga. That's why it is important to try out a variety of classes and even workshops that cater to beginners. Whether you're brand new to yoga or have been practicing for a while, it is still refreshing to try new ways of doing things. You never know if something else could be better for yourself. There is so much too choose from! Power vinyasa yoga, ashtanga yoga, yin yoga, hot yoga... Only the sky is limit these days. Our life circumstances change too. Sometimes the style of yoga you're used to may not suit you in your current situation. When you start mapping out yoga classes it is important to ask from yourself - what am I looking for from this practice? To incorporate yoga as a part of my fitness routine? A moment of silence? Or perhaps finding a like-minded community? It is perfectly fine to want to improve your flexibility but it is important to keep in mind that yoga is not just about the physical practice. Often times mental well-being and spiritual growth come as a side benefit after practicing for a while. You can evaluate how deep you would like to delve into the spiritual side of yoga. Often the immersive experiences allow you to connect with yourself on a deeper level and explore the transformative power of yoga beyond the mat. If you do not know where to begin, start by reading some class descriptions of studios or online classes. You can also talk to yoga teachers, they're happy to help you in your journey.
The venue: One of the central pieces of your yoga experience is that you're practicing in a comfortable and supportive environment. Whether that is a yoga studio or some spot from the comfort of your own home. A great tip is to test practicing outdoors. Many yoga teachers offer classes in the parks or seaside (like Saraste yoga!) which adds an element of nature to your practice. You won't regret it. You can switch your yoga venues as you feel. Imagine that it is the practice that moves with you wherever you are. I personally have a yoga corner at my home where I do my morning practice. I also own a light travel yoga mat which I take with me every time so I can stick to my practice where ever I am. Every now and then I pop into a yoga studio to have a sense of community. Spend some time to find the perfect space for your yoga practice.
The timing: When I was becoming a yoga teacher I learned that yoga is traditionally practiced before or during the sunrise as the Surya Namaskar (sunshine salutation) implies. However, you can do yoga whenever it suits you the best. You can do yoga even in your bed. For any habit to form, I swear by consistency. This is why I practice yoga always in the morning as a part of my morning routine. This routine is only 20 minutes and I finish off with 10 minutes meditation. My day always looks a whole lot different if I stick to my routine. Try and find yours and make it work with your own lifestyle. Company: Again it really depends on your preferences how you would like to practice. If you're a beginner, it may be easier to start with in-person classes in yoga studios where you are able to get guidance on proper alignment. However, you can find very well guided beginner yoga classes online if you prefer practicing in solitude. Sometimes going to a yoga class with a friend is a nice way to connect but you can also find friends from the class. We normally come and practice yoga alone and give everyone peace for their own practice. I refer this as your "personal yoga bubble". Still, I would like to find ways in building a community in my classes and find connection beyond the mat. Teaching: Last but definitely not least, it is so important that you'll be guided by knowledgeable and experienced instructors who will lead you through a series of poses and movements but also proper breathing techniques. If you're a beginner they should be able provide modifications and adjustments to suit your unique needs. Yoga teachers should always make you feel comfortable and welcomed. Yoga is not a sport and yoga teachers should understand that even an experiences yogi may have days when they would just like to rest. Yoga is not a competition but rather a journey in which we're all in together. From days to years, we stand by one another and help each other to grow into our truest selves. So, whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of yoga or an experienced yogi seeking to deepen your practice, Saraste Yoga is here to guide you on your journey. With our inclusive and holistic approach, we will help you transform your life through the power of yoga. Book an in-person private or group class or join online classes and experience the transformative power yourself.
I wish light in your day,
Sara
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