When you begin yoga, you are worried about many different things. Will I look stupid? Should I practice at home or in a class? What are some easy poses to get me started? This page will help you alleviate all of your fears and begin a successful practice.

Will I look stupid?

Many new practitioners worry about joining a yoga class. They worry that they will not be good enough or look silly trying and possibly failing at some of the poses. If this is one of your concerns, look for a yoga class that says “beginners”; don’t try an advanced class right away. Remember that yoga is not a competition, if you try to strain yourself, you may become injured.

Should I practice at home on take a class?

It is always a good idea to go to a class. You learn correct alignment of your postures and new poses. You may also make new friends! If you are an introvert like me though, you may want to try a practice at home. Just remember, even I took class before I started a home practice. Getting your basics right is essential to avoid injury.

Before you begin class or at home, it’s a good idea to follow some of these yoga guidelines:

Yoga Practice Tips

It’s a good idea to do yoga with an empty stomach and bladder.Some of those poses can really put pressure on these areas so make sure that you wait three hours after eating before yoga and if you are in class, make sure and go to the restroom before class starts.

Practice yoga with bare feet. Trust me, I’ve tried to do yoga in socks and in running shoes and neither really work.

Stop if it is painful. Many yoga poses shown in books or on videos are the ideal. If you haven’t gotten there don’t exert yourself. If you gently stretch regularly, the poses will start looking more and more like the pictures. (I’m not there yet either)

Use a mat and other props if necessary Using a mat helps you to grip the floor better and is nicer on your knees. You can use a pillow, blankets or a strap to help make the postures easier on your body.

Yogic Breathing

You are supposed to relax your stomach and take belly breaths while doing the poses. As a newbie, you should hold the pose for 2 to 3 breaths and work your way up to 5 breaths.

Belly Breaths

Most of us breathe in a very shallow way. When you do yoga poses, you need to have a relaxed stomach and breathe using your diaphragm. Breathe as though you are trying to fill your entire lungs. Gentle though! Put your hands on your tummy and see if you can expand the area. Now gently release all of the air out of your lungs. This is how you should breathe for all your asanas or poses.

Here’s an easy standing sequence for beginners. Just make sure you’ve got the space and wear comfortable clothing.

Here’s a great kit for beginners, the best part? It’s only ten minutes a day.