Yoga Newbie?
Choosing the right yoga style can be sort of like dating. While it is possible to go on a blind date and have it all work out, chances are also good you could wind up in an uncomfortable situation that will leave you hesitant to go the next time. Before deciding which yoga style is right for you, it is best to ask yourself a few questions.
People find yoga for all sorts of reasons; physical fitness, stress relief, mental clarity, emotional well-being. It is important to ask yourself what you hope to get from your yoga practice. The mind/body connection is key to getting the most out of your practice but sometimes we dive more into one aspect of yoga than the other as we get our feet wet and try it out. Either way, first of all, you must determine your physical limitations? Are you flexible? What is your level of fitness? Are you working with an injury? Knowing where you are physically can help you select a yoga style that will keep you comfortable while allowing you to work to your edge. Be sure to always tell your instructor of any physical limitations so that you can be fully accommodated in class. Once you have decided what you are looking for physically, it is good to ask yourself what you are trying to get out of your yoga mentally and spiritually. Perhaps these are aspects of yoga you never even thought about. Now is your chance to do it!
Once you have determined what your needs are physically you can select a style of yoga that accommodates those needs. If you are a beginner and are looking for something a little easier, a Beginner Yoga class or series is the right place to start. This style of yoga focuses on stretching, breathing, and teaching the basic poses in a loving and supportive environment. There won’t be anyone doing handstands next to you to throw you off your game as you learn to relax and breathe deeply. Another great option for new students, are private lessons. While this will cost a little bit more than classes, the benefits will be immediate upon your first time on the mat.
Another great yoga style for someone just getting started or working with an injury is Yin or Restorative yoga. Yin doesn't focus on body alignment as much as the myofacia release of those hips and shoulders, also while calming the mind. Supported and relaxing poses are held for extended periods of time to really allow the benefits to take shape. Restorative yoga may be another good place for you to start if you are experiencing stressful turbulence in your life or are recovering from an injury or health concerns. This style allows the body and mind time to heal and reflect. I alsways refer to my restorative classes as a “glorified nap” and you always leave class feeling refreshed.
For those who find themselves to be fairly physically fit, Vinyasa could be right for you. Vinyasa uses fluid movements to move from one pose to another - one breath, one movement generally. This form is a bit more vigorous, matching movement with breath and moving practitioners through a series of synchronized and powerful poses. This is great for people who have a hard time calming the mind.
For those who are also looking to work on their spiritual health, Kundalini is a great choice. It focuses on drawing up the untapped energy from the base of the spine and opening up the 7 chakras. Like Vinyasa, it is a marriage of movement and breath, but it combines aspects of meditation and chanting offering a rigorous physical and mental challenge.
The bottom line is there is no single right way to find the practice that is right for you. The important part is THAT you practice. Try new things, push your limits, and slowly move out of your comfort zone. Just like those blind dates, some are better than others, some fit and others don’t. If you go to one, two, even three classes you don't like. keep going and keep searching. The right class and teacher are there for you, I promise. Yoga is about you, so get out there and find yourself.