Whether you are a beginner or an advanced student, yoga requires a lot of self discipline. The postures (also known as asanas) are designed to be slow and steady. None of these postures are meant to be painful, but they are challenging. When you are practicing your postures, be careful not to extend far enough to cause yourself discomfort. As you practice, you naturally extend the reach of your muscles and at a point; you will find that you are able to relax into each of the stretches with ease.
As with any activity, there are tips that will allow you to progress more quickly. The tips for practicing yoga that you should remember are:
- Clear your mind, let go of your worries and put the day dreaming on hold
- Yoga requires peace and quiet prepare yourself by turning off your phone and do not answer the door
- Prepare your body and mind for your lesson. Take a warm, relaxing shower; wear loose comfortable clothes that will allow you to stretch easily.
Many people find that clearing your mind takes a bit of practice. Aromatherapy is one external method that is designed to help you relax; a few of the others include subliminal tapes, "sounds of nature" type of tapes, and even "white noise" machines. If you find that you are having trouble relaxing, consider using one of the many external methods at first. This "practice" relaxation, just like your posture practicing will train your mind and body to relax. Practicing with an external method will soon have you able to relax on your own.
Once you are able to relax at will, you will find that it becomes easier for you to control your thoughts and clear your mind. You will be able to begin your yoga sessions more quickly and will achieve better results with each session.
There are several small items that you will want to buy. These include:
- A yoga mat. Resting on the pad keeps you from slipping and sliding on the floor. This allows you to maintain your focus.
- Belts or ropes. These are used to help you extend your legs by pulling them into a better stretch. (Remember that you should not extend them far enough to cause yourself discomfort, just enough to extend your current stretch.)
- Blocks or balls. These are used to sit better, for standing posture and to prop yourself up.
Remove your shoes and socks if you would prefer. Pull your hair back, or take it down, whichever is the most comfortable for you. Adjust the lights if you like (or leave them alone and work in the sunlight).
Many people starting out prefer to take a yoga class. This gives them the confidence of knowing that they are performing the postures correctly. The social aspect is another advantage of a class setting.
Whatever you decide, remember that although the yoga postures are important, getting them perfect is not the real goal. Yoga is not just a physical exercise; it includes controlling your mind and body. It is a spiritual exercise as much as a physical one. Learn to control your mind and body and you will have much greater control over your emotions and reaction in other areas of your life.
Belinda Nelson is a free lance copywriter who enjoys writing on a variety of subjects. Each article is carefully researched and put together for the benefit of the reader. You are invited to find out more and leave your own comment about her findings on the subject of 411flirt.com self improvement by visiting: 411flirt.com 411flirt.com/ Be sure to sign up for your free gift while you are there!
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