Beginner yoga is for all ages, shapes, and sizes. You first start out in Yoga as a novice and progress upwards until you are a master of the art.
In my opinion, I call it an art as Yoga for beginners is a combination of exercise combined with meditation and therefore it is much more than just running on a treadmill or lifting weights. In fact, the exercises associated with yoga are non-traditional in the modern sense, you don’t need to go to the gym, but I would advise newbies to go to a qualified instructor to get started. The exercises involve postures and balance, as well as controlled breathing, unlike strength and speed or aerobic type training in other disciplines.
It is important for me to point out the fact that there are many different types of Yoga. They all have the same goal in mind and that is to improve the mind, body and spirit. Some emphasize more or less on different main areas, such as meditation, nutrition or exercise. The most common form in the Western world is Hatha Yoga. This is because it is the most applicable to our Western culture and Westerners more easily associate with the methods involved.
I suggest that before you start with yoga you briefly research the different varieties and choose the one that best suits your lifestyle.
If you don’t have a local class you can go to, Yoga for Beginners can be learned through instructional DVDs, books, and multimedia, as well as online. So it’s easy to get started. You really don’t need any equipment. Although a good yoga mat or yoga blanket is recommended. When you’re ready to start, find a quiet place in your home and follow the exercise plan you’ve decided on. It can’t get any easier than that!
Some people prefer relaxing music when they practice their meditation and yoga exercises. Yoga is normally done without shoes or socks, but there are special socks you can buy that don’t slip if you prefer. All forms of Yoga have health benefits. They combine the elements of exercise through postures, controlled breathing exercises and meditation as mentioned above, but you have to be clear about what Yoga is ultimately about. Regular practice is excellent for strengthening the mind and body.
Yoga beginners will find an almost immediate benefit from starting out and this can very often be seen within the first two weeks or even less. Most people are surprised by the rapid results they achieve in such a short time.
Yoga for beginners is like anything that involves movement of the body. You should always start with a gentle warm-up. Gently stretching is also important. Find a place where you won’t be disturbed. The time required varies and can largely depend on what level you are at. I personally use on average about 1/2 hour a day. When you do it is up to you. For me, the best time is first thing in the morning, but this is not always possible during the week, so after work is my usual time.
To get the most out of yoga, it needs to become a part of your lifestyle. Many beginners in Yoga find that it helps them to rest and relax. They find it invigorating and calming. It also improves the flexibility and muscle tone of your body.
There is yoga for children, yoga for pregnant women, so it is practically for everyone. If your goals are to reduce stress and have more energy, improve your body strength and much more, I urge you to consider Yoga for Beginners, it is where you should start.
