Yoga at home
Practicing yoga at home is a tempting idea, as it offers numerous benefits—especially if you're already familiar with it. Those who work shifts or long hours often don't have time to attend morning or evening classes. If you have small children and a busy schedule, the option of practicing yoga at home is all the more appealing: You dream of creating personal space for yourself and then working in peace. Finally having time for yourself!
However, this idea is deceptive if you're not consistent: It's best to train at home at specific times and make sure no one disturbs you during those hours. Your workout doesn't have to be long; maybe you only have 15 minutes in the morning; but if you do it several times a week, you can easily reach a total of half an hour, an hour, or even an hour and a half. So keep at it!
We have compiled a few points here to help you see more clearly whether yoga at home is suitable for you:
- You can practice yoga at home if you
- don't have time for a group
- would like to practice with your children
- already have previous knowledge of yoga or at least a very good body awareness
- are disciplined enough
- you can clear some space
- find the peace and quiet you need for your exercises or demand it from your family
- has a few utensils such as at least one exercise mat
- Time : You practice whenever you have time, and only as much as you want. This saves you travel and fuel, and you're not committed to a routine that usually lasts 90 minutes. You can also practice smaller sessions several times a week instead of just attending one appointment. However, some people cope better with a fixed weekly appointment; discipline at home is often lacking.
Costs : You save the often quite high course fees, and of course also travel costs. To do this, you will need to purchase a mat, possibly blankets, pillows, clothing, and other equipment, as well as books and DVDs with instructions.
Teacher : Many people prefer to be instructed by a teacher rather than learning the instructions on their own at home. However, you'll then have to implement what's required in the class, even if it's not your style.
Skills : You only need to do exercises at home that you feel confident and comfortable with. On the other hand, the challenge of trying new things is missing – unless you're curious (and cautious). You should definitely avoid exercises that put you and your body at risk – you need someone by your side to support you or tell you if your posture is correct (very few people own a large wall mirror at home).
Progress : Due to the lack of guidance, there is usually less progress, whether in performing a familiar exercise or in learning new ones with a higher level of difficulty. The alternative: You create your own training plan.
Environment : It's not always easy to create a calm, neutral environment at home. Some people prefer to attend a class, partly to unwind. However, we offer several options for creating a dreamy, harmonious atmosphere: Try our wonderful candles, for example.
Practicing yoga at home makes sense if it feels right for you and you're aware of your physical characteristics—including your body's limits. Yoga isn't about competition or going faster, higher, further, but rather a very individual form of movement and harmony. No one is like you, not even in yoga! If you have any questions, we welcome your input and will be happy to answer them! ©iStock.com/AndreyPopov
