How Do I Get Into Yoga?
A lot of my conversations about yoga start with “I’ve always wanted to get into it. How do you like it?” Generally my answer begins with “it has changed my life. Everyone can get something out of yoga.”
But when it comes to getting into it, here is how I recommend navigating it:
If you’re too nervous to roll around on the floor with other strangers in public, but would like to work your way there, I recommend trying a few online classes.
Most people’s online go-to is Yoga with Adriene. She has classes for all types of movement. Maybe search for something “light” or whatever time of day you’re in “morning wake up stretch” “afternoon recharge stretch” “nighttime slowdown”.
An alternate would be to search for a class for a part of your body that is bothering you. Even 5 minutes can make a world of a difference. Move slowly and intuitively. It seems silly, but most of yoga is reminding yourself that you’re allowed to take the time just to stretch your body. The key is to not undervalue what you’re doing for yourself, even if it’s only a few minutes.
You know your body. Don’t be scared. If it hurts, back out of it. If you have injuries or medical conditions or think you might be pregnant, speak to your doctor beforehand.
If you’re ready to jump into a classroom and start learning, I recommend finding a local studio that offers level 1 classes. A lot of local studios offer a first time student discount. In my area most studios offer a first month unlimited package for $40.
When I was first trying to find a studio I liked, I took advantage of that! I tried every studio in the area for $40 until I landed where I am now. I love my studio and it is well worth their regular unlimited package. I was able to try each place for a full month of unlimited yoga and then when I decided on my monthly membership where I am now, I knew I would be there all of the time. It’s close to my house, I like the teachers, I like the pace, I like the community and message it is sending into the world.
One of my close friends and I go there a lot and I’m always inviting people to join. It’s hot. It’s sweaty. It will kick your ass. You start to see the same faces again and again. It’s like church. It’s where you go to connect to yourself. Remind yourself to be in your body and to not let your mind get the best of you. You can do hard things. It’s incredible to see how much your body changes after you’ve been doing it for a while.
Poses I thought I would never be able to hold are now poses I’m trying to modify into more difficult poses.
I am grateful for this practice.
I want to share the wealth and peace it gives me with everyone I know.
Peace & love,
Domenica
