Nervous about starting yoga classes? Read this.
So you’ve got your yoga leggings, mat, and the time to stretch it out on the floor of your living room or in a group class. But… you’re just not quite sure how to start, or what to do. Sound familiar?
Taking the leap into yoga can sometimes seem like an intimidating, illusive or even flat out unapproachable exercise—especially if you don’t know how to begin your practice. Luckily, the perks of yoga are super simple and are just a couple breaths away—literally. Here are some manageable steps to making your beginning practice that much more rewarding.
1. No judging
Leave all your assumptions and expectations at the door. Yoga is for every body at every level. The very basis of yoga is about breathing and meditation – not unlocking levels of complicated poses or competing against yourself or your neighbor. You may get into funky poses and deep stretches down the road, but start out by focusing on what your body can do, which is pretty impressive.
2. Set an intention
An intention might be as simple as remembering to tune into your breath, focusing on a feeling of gratitude or trust, or even centering your attention on a person whom you want to give more love. Focusing on an intention in your practice is a great way to keep your mind and your body in sync.
3. Just breathe
You’re actually really good at this already. If your mind starts to wander or you start to feel frustrated, just remember your breath. Spend a moment or two inhaling for four counts and exhaling for six. This is a simple tool to re-calibrate your mind and body.
4. Go for it
Your yoga mat is an excellent place to experiment! The inversion or modification may feel uncomfortable at first, but remember – there’s no judgement, and child’s pose is just a movement away if you need it.
5. Listen to your teacher and your body
Your body knows best. As soon as it starts to tell you, “nope!” listen to it. If you’re in a class, ask the instructor for help or guidance when you need it. That’s what they’re there for!
6. Wear the right outfits
If you’re new to exercise, you may think any outfit that’s loose, baggy, and 100% cotton is what you’re supposed to wear. However, if you tend to sweat a lot, cotton outfits like t-shirts and sweatpants will soak up your sweat and become quite heavy, clingy, and quickly uncomfortable. That’s why technical fabrics are so important and the reason moisture-wicking activewear is a serious game-changer. Check out our fast drying plus size activewear collections QuikWik and SoftWik to fully prepare yourself for kicking butt in yoga classes, on the trails, or wherever your active life takes you.