As interest in yoga surges among Australian adults, it’s essential to recognize its rich history dating back to ancient India. Despite its modern portrayal as a new trend, yoga transcends physical exercise. Contrary to the intimidating Instagram images, anyone can practice yoga, irrespective of body type or flexibility level. Dispelling common misconceptions about yoga, is crucial for honouring its origins and maximizing your practice. Here are some important perspectives to grasp before stepping onto the yoga mat for the first time.
1. Yoga is Not Just Fitness
Yoga, an ancient practice originating in the Indus Valley Civilization around 2700 BCE, extends far beyond its portrayal across social media. To truly appreciate yoga, it’s essential to recognize its profound history and philosophy, which were ingrained in daily lives long before modern times.
Classical yoga, known as Raja yoga, comprises eight interconnected limbs, each contributing to the holistic philosophy of “unity,” or “yoke” in Sanskrit. Whilst the Western emphasis often centres on asana, the physical limb, the other seven limbs are equally vital. These include yamas (social principles), niyamas (philosophical principles), pranayama (intentional breathing practices), pratyahara (withdrawing to your inner self), dharana (effortful concentration), dhyana (concentration becomes more effortless), and samadhi (meditation, stillness, and connection).
Understanding the broader context of yoga allows practitioners to delve into a more comprehensive and authentic exploration of the practice, unlocking its transformative potential beyond physical fitness.
2. Embracing Yoga as an Inclusive Practice for All Bodies
Yoga is an inclusive practice accessible to individuals of all body types and fitness levels. The heart of yoga lies in its universal accessibility, no matter one’s physical and mental characteristics.
Yoga welcomes anyone with an open mind and heart, eliminating the need for judgment or expectations based on external factors. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to physical activities, yoga provides a space for self-discovery without societal constraints. The practice encourages focusing onshifting stagnant energy, developing inner growth and well-being, emphasizing that every body is a yoga body.
3. Navigating the Vast Landscape of Yoga Styles
The world of yoga offers a diverse range of styles, each with its unique approach and benefits. From the dynamic flows of vinyasa to the meditative pace of yin yoga, choosing the right style can be daunting for beginners. Understanding the differences between styles and their suitability for various individuals is crucial in ensuring a positive and enjoyable mat experience.
For those seeking a well-rounded introduction, hatha yoga, characterized by a slower pace and emphasis on physical postures, serves as an excellent starting point. Restorative yoga, with its focus on deep stretches, long holds and meditation, is also a great way to begin the yoga journey.
Vinyasa, with its focus on breath-linked movements, suits individuals with a good understanding of alignment. It’s advisable to inquire with local studios about classes recommended for beginners and explore different styles to discover the one that resonates most.
4. Understand the Structure of a Yoga Class
Yoga classes, while diverse, often share a common structure that goes beyond physical postures. Initiating the session by connecting with your breath sets the tone for mindfulness. This is followed by an opportunity to set your intention, fostering a purposeful mindset. The class then unfolds with poses designed to decompress the spine, promoting flexibility and mobility. Moving through poses and flows, the instructor may guide hip-opening movements for flexibility, and spine-strengthening exercises for stability. A well-rounded class typically culminates in pranayama (controlled breathing) and meditation or relaxation in Savasana (Corpse Pose). Understanding this flow allows embracing the holistic nature of yoga, connecting mind, body, and breath.
5. Cultivate Sattvic Qualities
It’s essential to keep the principle of “sattva” in mind for pre-yoga routines. Sattva, a core tenet in yogic philosophy, embodies purity, clarity, and harmony. Indulging in heavy meals, alcohol, or smoking before yoga can introduce disruptive “rajasic” and “tamasic” qualities associated with agitation and lethargy, impeding sattva development.
By avoiding these habits, practitioners create an environment nurturing sattvic attributes, fostering equilibrium, tranquillity, and spiritual advancement during practice. Abstaining from heavy meals, alcohol, and smoking before class prevents discomfort and digestive issues, ensuring optimal focus, coordination, and participation. This proactive approach boosts the overall experience while encouraging mindfulness, amplifying physical and mental benefits.
6. Dress Comfortably
Choosing the right yoga attire is about both comfort and enhancing your practice. Opt for leggings/shorts allowing unrestricted movement, ensuring clothing absorbs sweat effectively. For women, a supportive sports bra provides comfort during poses. A light, breathable t-shirt/tank allows your body to move and stretch freely. Practicing barefoot engages the muscles in your feet, promoting balance and grounding. Form-fitting attire minimizes distractions and helps focus on the mind-body connection yoga cultivates.
7. Introduce Yourself
Arriving early provides an opportunity to introduce yourself to the instructor. As a beginner, communicate your status and any pre-existing injuries/concerns for a personalized, safe practice. Skilled instructors value open communication to tailor modifications to individual needs. Building this connection fosters support, enhancing confidence and experience. Effective communication allows adjustments/guidance during class for alignment with capabilities/goals.
8. Embrace Yoga Etiquette
Beyond the physical aspects, yoga practices mindfulness and respect, reflected in class etiquette. Leave electronics behind when entering, minimizing distractions. Disable smartwatch notifications. Align your mat respectfully, ensuring ample room as class progresses. Punctuality demonstrates respect for instructor and fellow practitioners.
9. Don’t Stress About Poses
Yoga is deeply personal, with individuals progressing at their own pace. If a particular pose feels challenging, don’t stress. Skilled teachers provide modifications to ensure participation at comfort levels. Open communication allows guidance on modifications or alternative approaches. Understanding yoga is about self-discovery/growth enables approaching classes with openness. Embrace the learning process and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when needed. Every practice contributes to evolving understanding of yoga’s physical and mental aspects.
10. Embrace Soreness and Injury Prevention
Post-class soreness is common as yoga engages underutilized muscles. This “good pain” signifies activating different groups and initiating positive change. However, differentiate soreness from joint/ligament pain indicating injury. Listen to your body’s signals. If soreness persists for days or you have joint/ligament discomfort, consider professional advice. Yoga fosters wellbeing and understanding your body’s response helps ensure safe, sustainable practice.
11. Open Your Mind and Embrace the Journey
As you embark on your yoga journey, feel excited yet remain free of self-judgment. Release expectations or notions of how you should perform. Remember, yoga connects you with yourself, not others. Embrace opportunities to explore body, mind and breath in a supportive environment. Be patient, be consistent and trust each class brings more confidence in yoga’s transformative power.
12. Develop Guru-Shishya Parampara
In the traditional yogic wisdom, the guru-shishya parampara represents the sacred student-teacher relationship on the yogic path. As many modern yoga studios offer introductory packages and discounts, it’s tempting to “studio hop” and continually try new styles. However, once you find a teacher whose wisdom and teaching style resonates with you, consider committing to deepen that connection over time. Rather than chasing deals, invest in your personal growth by developing an authentic guru-shishya bond with your instructor. Allow their guidance to root you in yogic journey.
What to expect at Repose Yoga
At Repose Yoga Studio, I strive to honour the ancient, authentic traditions of yoga in an intimate, judgment-free community. The small class sizes, never exceeding 8 students, allows for personalized guidance on each person’s journey. The studio, which has been established for 15 years and serves the local community of Mount Waverley and surrounding suburbs, offers a variety of class styles including Restorative, Hatha, and Vinyasa yoga. Students foster meaningful bonds with a multigenerational community during and after each rejuvenating session.
So, what should a newcomer expect in one of my classes? A little sharing, barrels of laughter, and immersion in traditional techniques – the core pillars of asana, pranayama, and meditation. Expect to breathe fully, release what no longer serves you, and tune into your inner wisdom. Trust in the gradual process of learning and allow yourself to repose as you reconnect with your most authentic self on the mat.
At Repose Yoga Studio, we hold space for students to rejuvenate, rediscover their inner light, and unwind with bliss.
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