Start slow and steady with yoga

There’s no denying that yoga is one of the most popular forms of exercise worldwide. It’s a mind and body practice that has been around for thousands of years and is known to have various health benefits. Given how beneficial it is, it’s no wonder why so many people swear by this practice. However, for beginners, one may feel intimidated by all the poses and wonder how to get started with this exercise.

The answer is simple: start slow and steady with yoga. It’s essential to understand that yoga is a journey, not a race, and rushing through the process can do more harm than good. By starting slow and steady, you’ll create a strong foundation that’ll help you progress gradually, helping you get the most out of it. In this article, we’ll be exploring why it’s essential to start slow and steady with yoga and how to incorporate this into your practice.

Why start slow and steady?

Yoga is a practice that emphasises mindfulness, balance, and flexibility. These three elements help promote optimal health and wellness by supporting physical strength and emotional well-being. However, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of this exercise and end up pushing ourselves too far too soon. While there’s nothing wrong with working hard and trying to progress quickly, starting too aggressively will increase the risk of injury and burnout.

Starting slow and steady means being mindful of your body’s needs, listening to the signs it gives you, and taking things easy. It’s not about competing with others or pushing yourself beyond your limits. Here are some of the benefits of starting slow and steady with yoga:

1. Reduces the risk of injury

One of the primary benefits of starting slow and steady is that it helps reduce the risk of injury. By taking things easy and pacing yourself, you’re less likely to hurt yourself with a sudden movement or jarring pose. This is particularly important for those who are new to yoga or haven’t exercised in a while, as their bodies aren’t accustomed to the movements involved.

2. Helps improve flexibility

Another benefit of starting slow is that it helps improve flexibility. Yoga is a practice that requires a lot of stretching, and by easing into the poses gently, you’ll be able to increase your range of motion over time. This approach is especially important for those who are tight or stiff, as it helps prevent pain and discomfort associated with sudden movements.

3. Reduces stress levels

Yoga is an excellent practice for reducing stress, anxiety, and tension. By taking things slowly and mindfully, you’re more likely to stay present in the moment and focus on the sensations in your body. This approach helps you feel more relaxed and grounded, reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of calm.

4. Builds stamina

While it may seem counterintuitive, starting slow and steady can help you build stamina over time. By gradually increasing the intensity of your practice, you’ll be able to challenge yourself without overdoing it. This approach helps build endurance and develops a deeper sense of self-awareness, leading to a more sustainable yoga practice in the long term.

How to start slow and steady with yoga

Now that you understand the benefits of starting slow and steady, let’s explore how to incorporate this approach into your yoga practice:

1. Begin with simple poses

If you’re new to yoga, it’s essential to start with simple poses and work your way up gradually. This approach helps you get familiar with the movements involved and build a strong foundation to advance your practice. Some beginner-friendly poses include downward-facing dog, child’s pose, and mountain pose.

2. Practice regularly

Consistency is key in yoga, and it’s important to practice regularly to get the most out of it. While daily practice may not be feasible for everyone, aim to incorporate a few sessions into your weekly routine, and gradually increase them. This approach helps build a sense of discipline and establishes a sustainable routine.

3. Respect your body’s limitations

As mentioned earlier, yoga is a practice that emphasises self-awareness, and it’s essential to respect your body’s limitations. If you feel discomfort or pain during a pose, back off, and take a break. Pushing through pain can increase the risk of injury and exacerbate existing conditions.

4. Use props

Props like blocks, straps, and blankets can be incredibly useful for beginners. They help provide support and stability, and make poses more accessible. Don’t be shy to use them, as they can help you get into the correct alignment and prevent injury.

5. Breathe deeply

Another important aspect of yoga is breathing. The practice is centred around linking breath and movement, and it’s crucial to breathe deeply and mindfully throughout the practice. By focusing on your breath, you’re able to stay present in the moment and release tension and stress.

In conclusion

Starting slow and steady with yoga is one of the best ways to develop a strong foundation and get the most out of your practice. This approach helps reduce the risk of injury, improve flexibility, reduce stress levels, and build stamina. By beginning with simple poses, practicing regularly, respecting your body’s limitations, using props, and breathing deeply, you’ll be able to establish a sustainable routine that supports optimal health and wellness. Remember, yoga is a journey, not a race, and the most important thing is to enjoy the process and stay present in the moment.