5 Things to Know Before Starting Yoga
With yoga influencers and stylish workout pants on the rise, this ancient Indian practice is one of the most widely known forms of exercise of the 21st century. If you want to join the much talked about hype, first you need to familiarize yourself with the various types of yoga–Hatha, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, and Kundalini, among others–and the spiritual and physical benefits that they can bring to your body and mind. Here, L'OFFICIEL rounds up five things to know ahead of embarking on your journey to become the next yogi.
Get in Touch With the Right Instructor
It's essential to have a good understanding of your instructor, their way of transmitting knowledge, and how they guide and listen to students. The ideal teacher should allow you to discover and enjoy yoga little by little, always at your own pace.
Avoid Crowded Rooms
Avoid taking yoga classes in overcrowded spaces, it will be difficult for you to keep pace and you will get lost in the crowd. Opt for more peaceful courses with no more than 10 students. This allows yoga instructors to see what you are doing, help you correct bad posture, or even suggest alternative poses that are more suited to your body. Now, there are plenty of virtual classes you can take at home, too.
Choose the Right Type of Yoga
Before you get down to practicing yoga, it's important to choose the style that suits you best. Test the various types of yoga available out there. Your instructor should be able to arrange a beginner tutorial session for you to see what style is right for you.
Don't Try It Alone
With so much technology available at our fingertips, it is tempting to learn the basics of yoga alone at home. However, diving in without professional guidance can cause injury. Yoga includes precise postures as well as breathing methods that only a professionally licensed instructor can teach you. Don't hurt yourself, and join a class!
Consult Your Doctor First
If you're ready to become a yoga master, don't forget to consult your doctor first. It is important to get the advice of a professional and a thorough physical examination before taking the yoga plunge.
