Contrary to popular belief, yoga is not a sport, but rather a philosophical discipline from India based on asceticism, meditation, and physical exercises. These exercises are intended to help you gain control over your body and relax. In general, yoga is associated with a number of benefits, as the activity is good for both body and mind. However, very few beginners know how to get started with yoga, and for this reason, we have compiled a few points in this article that you, as a layperson, should consider.
Get good equipment
To practice yoga correctly, you need good equipment. This doesn't just involve choosing a yoga mat ; it also includes other items such as bolsters, meditation cushions , yoga blankets, and yoga straps. You should also get appropriate clothing , which should be both breathable and allow for freedom of movement.
Consider your breathing
One of the most important factors in yoga is breathing, so it's best to pay attention to proper breathing from the very beginning. Mastering the breathing techniques required for yoga will have a positive impact on your success. You'll also notice a difference in your everyday life, as proper breathing can help reduce stress.
Turn off your smartphone
Most of us can no longer imagine life without a smartphone, and for many, these devices even become a kind of drug . For this reason, you should definitely turn off your smartphone, as this is the only way to detach yourself from the stresses of everyday life. The ringing of your smartphone will pull you out of meditation, and in some cases, these devices can even be dangerous, as they may startle us and thus increase the risk of injury.
Enjoy small progress
Getting started with yoga isn't exactly easy, as many of the exercises can be quite complicated. However, don't let that discourage you; no one is born a master, so you should enjoy small improvements. It's especially difficult if you don't have a history of physical activity and your body isn't particularly flexible. However, it will get better over time, so you should just keep at it.
Listen to your body
Although yoga isn't a sport per se, you should still pay attention to your body's signals. If you feel like performing an exercise is simply impossible, it's best to try an easier one. Of course, it's good to push yourself to your limits, but you shouldn't exceed them, as this could lead to serious injury in the worst case scenario.
It is best to practice yoga on an empty stomach
To perform certain exercises, your stomach should be empty, as yoga is best practiced on an empty stomach. So, try not to eat anything and drink less for about two hours before your practice. Don't overdo it, though, as adequate hydration is part of physical activity.
