Yoga is a practice of physical and mental development. In many ways, it's an activity that can calm your mind and help your body feel comfortable to live in again.
That said, it's still a
rigorous activity. There are a few missteps that people make on a regular
basis, and those mistakes could set you back a great deal. We're going to
discuss a few of the beginner yoga mistakes to avoid, giving you the insight
you need to start your practice the right.
Hopefully, the ideas below set you
on the right track toward a truly rewarding practice. Let's get started.
1. Getting
Nervous About Appearances
Getting nervous about the way you
look is extremely common. It’s a hard pill to swallow, but you’ll move past it
in no time.
It’s especially tough if you notice
that everyone around you is really digging into the practice. Everyone else has
been where you are now, so there’s nothing to be anxious about.
2.
Treating It Like the Gym
It’s true that yoga provides
practitioners with a number of health benefits. Physical health will improve
and that often means you get a firmer bottom, toned muscles, and a generally
healthier appearance.
At the same time, the real purpose
of yoga is to improve both your mind and body. Poses relate to states of mind,
and breathing is one of the most important aspects of the process.
So, remember that the benefits of
yoga aren’t limited to your physical body.
3.
Excess Confidence
It’s great if you can do some of the
different yoga poses right off of the bat. That said, it’s not a “weak” thing
to use props and pillows. Yoga is hard, and overdoing it will lead to strains.
Trust the process, and don’t do
anything that makes your body feel uncomfortable.
4.
Missing The Point
Most exercise is goal-based. We set
out to lose ten points or pack on twelve pounds of muscle.
The goal of yoga is to improve your health and wellness,
however. You’re meant to enjoy the practice. Even if it’s hard sometimes, you
should always feel a sense of relief or enjoyment when you’re done with
yoga.
5.
Taking Breaks
The idea that something is relaxing
tends to mean that you don’t have to be strict about it. This isn’t the case
with yoga. It’s typically best to have a daily yoga routine.
A good practice is one that you’re
consistent with. You might not want to get to the matt every day, but you’ll be
thankful that you did. Make sure you hold yourself accountable.
6.
Thinking “You’ve Got It”
Another key mistake is assuming that
you’ve mastered a pose. Even the best yogis might not think they’ve
mastered different types of yoga.
Instead, you should aim to keep an open mind. Be receptive to the things you feel as you get better at
poses and allow yourself to follow the direction your practice takes you.
Want
to Learn More About Beginner Yoga Mistakes?
Hopefully, our look at beginner yoga
mistakes was useful to you. There’s a lot more to learn if you’re looking to
start a fruitful practice. We’ve got more information that might help you on
your way.
Explore our site for more ideas on yoga, wellness, health, and a whole lot more.
