Yoga Tips For Beginners - Know the Benefits of Practicing Asanas
by V Gomala
Updated Apr 03, 2024
Yoga Tips For Beginners
Yoga is an old practice that is getting more and more popular. Many people are doing yoga as part of staying healthy. It is great to have a good yoga teacher to help you get better at it and feel good mentally and physically. But it is also important to do yoga on your own, in a space that feels right for you, so you can connect with yourself and enjoy it.
There are many yoga postures that keep you fit and healthy. Doing yoga also relaxes the mind. So, both physical and mental problems are sorted out by doing Yoga. If you are a beginner who is wondering how to start doing Yoga, scroll down and read the tips provided by us to keep you fit and healthy.
1. Creating Your Own Space to Practice Yoga
If you have a spare room for yoga, fine! Leaving your yoga mat out all the time makes it easy to get started whenever you want.
But if you don't have space, you can still find a quiet spot and it’s helpful to have a wall nearby.
You can do yoga anywhere, as long as you have enough space. So, get creative with your space, get on your mat , and start doing yoga. Make it a regular practice and enjoy your yoga postures.
2. Find a Yoga Instructor
It is important to start learning yoga with a qualified teacher. They will show you how to do each pose correctly and prevent injuries. Some yoga ideas might be new to you, but stay open minded to improve your experience.
If you have a health issue, tell your yoga teacher before starting. They can adjust your practice to keep you safe.
3. Practice Yoga on a light stomach
Remember to do yoga on an empty or light stomach. Wait about 2-3 hours after eating before practicing yoga poses or meditating.
It is advisable not to eat for an hour or two before yoga and only have a little water before, not during, practice. Also, avoid alcohol, sugar, or caffeine before yoga.
4. Concentrate on Your Diet
It is recommended to practice yoga when your stomach is empty, or at least 2-3 hours after eating. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, about three to four liters, to help your body flush out toxins released during yoga. To keep yourself healthy, avoid processed foods. Eat a protein based food and a lot of veggies.
5. Try to improve body flexibility
Don’t push yourself too much. Only do what feels comfortable, then gently stretch a bit more to improve flexibility. Pay attention to your breath. If it is light and long, your muscles relax. But if it is uneven, you might be pushing too hard.
Try new poses and hold it for a few seconds. WIth practice, you can achieve everything, so be consistent.
6. Start off easy
If you are a beginner, start with easy steps. As a beginner, it's normal to feel overwhelmed by different types of yoga like Vinyasa or Ashtanga. But to begin, start with simple yoga postures and stretches.
Once you are comfortable with the basics, you can try more advanced poses with a qualified yoga teacher. They will help you understand the details of each pose and progress in your practice.
7. Practice Regularly
All the yoga knowledge you have gathered will not help if you stop practicing after a few days. To keep yourself fit and healthy, you should do yoga regularly. Try to include yoga in your daily routine, so it becomes a habit. Because, doing yoga will cleanse our soul and mind. So, make it a habit. Do it every morning.
8. End with Shavasana
After your yoga session, end with Shavasana, also known as the 'Corpse pose'. Lie flat on the floor and relax your body consciously for five to 15 minutes. Don't hurry to get up. When you are ready, roll onto your right side and slowly sit up.
If you are new to yoga, you don't need to buy a lot of equipment. A yoga mat is important to prevent slipping on floors.
9. Be Safe
Be aware of your body's boundaries and vulnerable areas. These include your knees, hips, spine, and neck. If you feel any pain, adjust, soften, or come out of the pose if needed. Don't force or push yourself.
Warm up before trying advanced poses. Pay close attention during transitions between poses, as these moments can result in injury when we are less focused on alignment.
Start with Surya Namaskar
Surya Namaskar is a great exercise that combines different poses, making the body more flexible with practice.
First Step
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Second Step
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Benefits of Practicing Yoga
Become more flexible and strong
Doing yoga helps stretch your muscles. Standing poses work your legs, and certain poses like downward dog and arm balances make your upper body stronger.
Strengthen the muscles
Yoga poses can strengthen the muscles around your stomach and back. This makes your core stronger, which helps you stand and sit with better posture, preventing back and neck problems.
Feel less stressed and anxious
Yoga includes breathing exercises that make you focus on your breath. Deep breathing helps you relax quickly, reducing stress and anxiety.
Reduce back pain
Practicing yoga regularly can ease long-lasting back pain, improve how well you move, and make your life better.
Improves Sleep
Studies show that yoga can help older adults, people with arthritis, pregnant women, and others sleep better.
