Getting Started with Yoga

You’ve probably heard that doing yoga is good for you. Of course, once you saw a few pictures of people doing yoga, your views may have changed. Faces contorted in painful grimaces, limbs bent at angles that surely can’t be natural.

“Not for me, thank you,” you say.

Not so fast. Yoga can help clear your mind, relax you and give you a sense of clarity. Not only that, but it can increase your flexibility, reduce joint pain and it’s a great way to get those morning kinks out.

If you’re looking to get started with yoga, the best way probably isn’t by rushing off to buy a yoga mat. Instead, a quick search on ‘Google’ or your browser of choice can give you an idea of what yoga is and isn’t, and whether it fits into your overall fitness goals. Also, since there are many different types of yoga, you can find what style may be right for you.

If you’ve decided to take the plunge, the next step is to find a class in your area. If you live near a college or university, you can likely find a class to sign up for. If not, try your local parks and rec or see if there is a class available through your gym. At least at the beginning, working face-to-face with an instructor can provide you instant and valuable feedback as well as encouragement. If a class simply isn’t available in your area, there are also plenty of online or DVD instruction videos that are almost as good.

Yoga is a great way to stay fit without spending a mint on equipment and gym memberships, so ‘stretch’ your workout routine by giving it a try.