As our culture becomes more productive and faster, it’s important to incorporate mindfulness practices into our daily lives. We all want a more comfortable way to exercise and meditate, which is why doing yoga at home is a great way to supplement your self-care journey. No matter your lifestyle or the size of your home, you can now create your own retreat! Here are 15 tips on how to practice yoga at home and make it part of your routine.
1. Set your intentions
set your intention
The intention with which you practice is perhaps the most important foundation of your yoga journey. ask yourself…
Why do I want to do yoga?
How many times a week can I do this exercise?
What do I want to change in my life to achieve my intentions?
Once you have a clear idea of your intention, write it down. You can even use post-it notes and stick them on the wall to remind yourself of your goals. It’s okay if your goals change over time. Be true to yourself and follow your inner guidance.
2. Create your space
Dedicate a part of your home to yoga and meditation. If you have a spare room in your home, turn it into a mini studio! Unless you have the space, all you really need is room for your body and a pad. You can still turn any small space into an oasis.
Make sure your room or area is relatively clean and quiet. Consider this area a sanctuary for mental and emotional health. If you’re a minimalist, your mat might do the trick. Otherwise, you can decorate your walls with yoga art, create an altar to display inspiring objects, and add plants or water features.
Temperature is also important. Yoga works best in temperate or warm climates.
3. Create a schedule
create schedule
When you set your intentions, create a committed schedule. If you have a tight schedule throughout the week, set aside a specific time slot and mark it on your calendar. Exercising at the same time on the same day, if possible, will help make this routine a habit you can stick with. Whether you take home classes once a week or once a day, think of your home yoga practice as an appointment with yourself!
If you feel like your goals are too big to plan a daily practice, start with small steps. Once a week is a good start for most people, but at least stick with it and make yoga a priority in your life!
4. Go to class first
Even if your focus is on decorating your home, taking a yoga class or two might help. If you’ve never taken a yoga class before, choose a beginner-level class. This will help you lay the groundwork for solid practice. Go to vinyasa, hatha or recovery classes to start.
For frugal options, research donation-based classes or community yoga gatherings in your area. You can also bring a group of yogi friends to practice at a park or local recreation center.
5. Find your way
find your way
There are plenty of tutorials and guides online, and you really don’t need to leave the house to take a yoga class. Some options are paid and some are free. Any trainer should always talk about safety and instruct you on how to adjust your posture. If you’re trying advanced poses like arm balances and headstands, it’s best to let someone discover you first. Find what works for you and explore different teachers, lesson times and styles.
Use yoga cards as a class when you feel your practice is solid and your body has good muscle memory. Instead of having a trainer tell you what to do next, it’s listening to your body more carefully.
6. Keep a journal
Throughout your journey, documenting your experiences can be transformative. If you are not used to journaling, write down what comes to mind. Ask yourself these questions…
What am I noticing about my body today?
what’s going on in my head
Has anything changed since I started practicing at home?
Yoga is the practice of observing yourself without judgment. DKV Desi Kachar
Keep your answers short and try not to tell stories. Strive to make the truth your only narrative.
7. Meditate
meditate
An important part of yoga is meditation. However, the process of staying still at home can be challenging, especially when a lot is going on around you. Fortunately, it is for this reason that you have created a beautiful resort!
Find a time to meditate without distractions. This could be at 6 a.m. before you start your day, in the middle of the afternoon, or even right before bed.
Meditation and focus are the pathways to a peaceful life. Ram Dass
Start with a simple mantra meditation to focus your thoughts. Repeat that word or phrase with your natural and rhythmic inner voice. If you’d rather be guided, choose guided meditations. Set aside at least 20 minutes for each meditation practice before, during or after your asana practice.
8. Spend time doing Savasana
Savasana is as important as any other pose! Integrate your practice by doing a corpse pose at the end of each yoga class. Our bodies are most receptive to the benefits of posture by entering a state of relaxation and withdrawing our senses.
Spend at least 5 minutes lying on your back on the mat. Place a roller or pillow under your knees to provide lumbar support. Breathe in deeply through your nose and through your mouth to release tension in your body and mind. Drop it all and enjoy relaxing!
9. Practice breathing
practice breathing
Pranayama is a breathing practice and basic asana in yoga.