Get Educated

Posted by C.L. R.

If you are hearing a lot about yoga and want to give it a try, it's important that you educate yourself about the realities of yoga before jumping in and expecting that your downward dog will amaze and astound. Plus, it's important that you have all the information ahead of time as there are several different types of yoga (and if you don't speak yoga, trust me, they all sound the same) so it's important to find what's appropriate for you. Before you plunk down the cash to start a year long series at a yoga studio, stop, take a deep breath and do these things: 1. Determine yours goals. Are you trying yoga because you want to be more flexible, healthier or for relaxation purposes? 2. Contact a yoga studio and ask them what type of yoga would meet your needs. Ask them to spell it. Say thanks and hang up. 3. Go to the bookstore. Get a book or interactive DVD on that type of yoga. 4. Try it at home until you are comfortable. (The best time to do yoga is early morning or evening). 5. Sign up for one class. Go, see where you're at compared to the class and listen to the instructions given on correcting your poses. 6. Officially join class when you feel you can keep up. Note: Some would argue that there are all different levels of classes and you should join whenever. Maybe. But it's important to keep up with a class, as poses are typically done in a certain order at a certain rate. I think it's best to prepare yourself to be comfortable, so you aren't wasting your time or money.