Let’s start from the beginning, because this is a good place to start. Yoga undoubtedly originated in the Sanskrit Vedas some 2-3,000 years ago. Let’s break it down, Sanskrit is one of the oldest written languages in the world. The word itself should be translated as “to shape, refine, perfect or polish”. The Vedas are Indian religious texts that present yoga in its most basic form as the study of the mind and body.
So what does “yoga” mean? Often found decomposing to the root of yug, meaning yoke. Yoga can be thought of as a practice that uses movement, breath, and focus as vehicles to help bring the mind, body, and spirit into alignment. Historically, yoga was passed down from teacher to student. Written some 2,000 years ago, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras contain 195 verses, or threads, that serve as a kind of instruction manual for facing and surviving the inevitable challenges and struggles of human existence. These scriptures speak of how we can control and even master our mind and body.
As you embark on your yoga journey, it’s important to be aware of your physical, mental, and other limitations. It’s also worth realizing that the journey only begins with the body. There are many advantages there:
1. Less stress
2. Increased Strength (Physical and Mental)
3. Increased flexibility (mind and body)
4. Benefits of Movement, Balance, and Overall Body Awareness
5. A space to safely acknowledge, name, and process emotions
6. Boosts overall health, immunity and energy
There are many, many more.
Many paths, many walks, one (contemporary) idea, yoga
Many paths, many walks, one (contemporary) idea, yoga
Decisions about what to wear, what mat to buy, do I need to buy, what else do I need, which studio to go to, what class to take in which studio, how to choose an instructor, what are the requirements or preparation, how often should I practice, and if it hurts What to do, should I practice with a human or a video of a human blah blah blah.
Pause, take a deep breath, let the exhale flow out of your mouth, and know that this will be new to everyone at some point. Also, there is no wrong answer as long as you respect yourself first.
What should you wear to yoga class?
what to wear to yoga class
Head to Toe: If you have long hair in a bun, it’s best to braid it or braid it, since you’ll likely have at least one break at the back of your head (i.e. a bun, bun, or ponytail). may be uncomfortable). A shirt that is comfortable, breathable, and not baggy is a good idea. You may find a loose shirt falling in front of your face or on your head as you get into an inverted V, known as Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) or any other inverted pose. The same general principle applies to trousers. Too loose and your pants need to be pulled up or pulled up a lot. If the pants are baggy, you can step on them, or kick your legs up when you turn around (like legs on a wall, no handstands, don’t worry). , comes later and only if it fits and works for you). Also so tight that your movement and breathing may not be restricted. No matter what your training preference is, it’s the perfect undergarment. You can go barefoot, but if you’re uncomfortable with that, grippy tabi socks work really well. Plus, the level of seriousness, style, and money you want to invest in yoga clothing is 100% a personal choice.
What’s in my yoga bag?
what to pack in my yoga bag
Actually, the only thing you need to bring is yourself. Most studios, gyms, etc. have everything you need. Worst case they don’t and you have to practice without a mat, no big deal unless the floor is really slippery. However, if you decide to bring a bag full of stuff, leave your phone in the car or put it on airplane mode. Whether you practice yoga or not, a refillable water bottle is always a good idea. Some studios with heated floors or other special floors will ask you not to bring them into your practice. A yoga towel or hand towel is a great idea if you’re taking warm or hot classes, or just sweat easily. Sweaty palms and soles make it difficult to maintain posture unless you have a mat designed to grip better when wet.
Which brings us to the broad topic of yoga mats. The pads that most studios provide work well. Some people are lucky enough to have some pricier mats with more grip to make the practice more comfortable. Most are free to use, while others charge a dollar or two to rent. Prices for yoga mats range from less than $10 at major department stores to over $100 at select and specialty companies. Cushions can be made entirely of oil-based materials, natural rubber, cork, hemp, jute, or even wool or a combination of these materials.
Things to consider when deciding to invest. What is important for the type of yoga you want to practice (we’ll get to that later)? Good traction, density or thickness, eco-friendliness or your ethical standards? Aesthetics can be at the top of your list. This is a personal choice and there is no wrong choice as long as it works for you and improves your time on the mat.
Something else to consider for your yoga bag is any number of props. Typically, studios provide blocks (arm extensions or floor risers), straps, mats, and blankets. If you don’t like sharing germs with others, you might consider bringing your own. Otherwise, your instructor will let you know which props you need to set up when you arrive. Lip balm, hand cream, baby powder, deodorant, a change of clothes, membership cards, etc. can also be optionally put in the yoga bag. most people like this