By Ginny Hain- Contributing Blogger
Been thinking of getting into yoga but feeling a little lazy to make the first move? I don't blame you. After all, the couch is super comfy and Netflix is already loading the next episode of that show you’ve been meaning to catch up on.
Before diving into completely ‘namastaying’ on the couch though, take a moment to listen really closely to yourself, deep down in your belly. If there’s even a little nagging feeling that by opting for the couch instead of honoring your yoga goals, you’re kind of copping out on yourself, listen to that feeling! It won’t go away, no matter how many seasons of ‘Game of Thrones’ you view.
Plus, the reasons to do yoga and the benefits it provides far outweigh the comfiness of staying curled up on the couch. To name a few, yoga increases flexibility, builds strength, and burns calories. It also helps improve the respiratory system, boosts energy and vitality and perhaps most importantly, it relieves stress. You deserve these benefits!
Here are some tips for how to get off the lazy train and into a successful and sustainable relationship with one of the oldest practices in the world (yoga is over 5000 years old!).
First, get rid of your preconceived notions of what a yogi needs to be. So, you can't reach your leg behind your head like the willowy, peace-exuding person you saw on the cover of that yoga magazine in the check out line? No big deal! Yoga is welcoming to everyone, regardless of their shape or stretchiness quotient. The only comparisons you need to make in your journey are between past yoga you and present yoga you. But if you do need a little more of a boost, check out @mynameisjessamyn or @fitqueenirene on Instagram. Both are full of body positive images of folks of all sizes getting flexible.
Next, remember that Rome was not built in a day and neither are sustainable routines. Starting small will help ease you into yoga. If you think you might prefer going to a class, try one a week. If home practice is more up your alley, beginning with 5-15 minutes a day is a great way to build in lasting routine.
If yoga at home is the way you want to go, why not try a yoga app? The market is rich with apps offering everything from introductory stretches to workout inspired routines that are sure to work up a sweat. Don't feel like paying money? Many of them, including '5 Minute Yoga', which is aimed towards newbies, and 'Daily Yoga', which provides plans to meet specific goals, are even free.
If going to a class is more your jam, do a little research. These days, yoga isn't limited to studios. Gyms, community centers, and sometimes even churches hold sessions. Go for whatever fits your budget and vibe, and remember, if the first place doesn't feel right, there are plenty of other metaphorical yoga fish in the sea. You'll be more inclined to stick with yoga if you're learning in a place where you feel at home.
Finally, remember who it's for and why you wanted to start practicing yoga in the first place. Chances are, it had something to do with improving upon positive aspects of your already rad self. Don't cheat yourself by allowing lethargy to stop you. Now, how about that sun salutation?
