Many yoga enthusiasts know that all it takes is one yoga class to become addicted to its seriously positive benefits.

If you’re a beginner yogi, however, you may be wondering what steps you can take to enhance those positive feelings and effects, and also improve your practice. No matter your situation, there are ways to learn and grow -- and here’s how!

1. Take Classes at Home

 Consistency is vital for improving your yoga practice, and you will see the most progress and benefits by committing to self-practice at least three times a week, in addition to your regular yoga routine. So if you can get into this helpful habit, don’t let being stuck inside throw you off!

Take a look at portable TV sticks for streaming, and maybe pick one up so that you can have access to your favorite online classes, relaxing playlists, and instructional videos. You can even get yoga content on your phone, which can be helpful when you’re building your strength in more challenging poses.

2. Inspire Yourself to Practice at Home With a New Yoga Room

Being able to practice right now can help you stick to your new yoga goals. If you’re having trouble committing to that home practice, creating a dedicated yoga space may provide the extra motivation you need to stay consistent.

You can use an extra room or even an extra corner of your home to create your own sacred yoga and meditation area, but try to choose somewhere that will be free of distractions that can interrupt your practice (e.g., pets, kids, being near a window). To enhance your practice, make sure the room is cleansed of any negative energy by opening windows, giving the area a deep clean, and fanning burning sage around the room. Then all you need is some basic gear, such as a mat, blanket, and mirror, to get your regular home practice started. You can find more information here regarding creating a meditation space.

3. Change Things Up by Practicing Your Postures Outdoors

 If you love the relaxing benefits of yoga, which can include shifting your body to the more relaxing parasympathetic nervous system and producing more feel-good hormones in your brain, then there is a really easy way to take those benefits to the next level. The benefits of connecting your yoga practice to the outdoors do not stop there, though, since practicing outside can also enhance vitamin D production and awareness.  

So grab your mat and practice yoga in your yard! Consider doing your sun salutations in the great outdoors, or end your day with some restful poses under the stars.

4. Complement Your Yoga Practice With Your Lifestyle Choices

Most beginners think of the physical postures, or asanas, when they think of yoga. In truth, building a truly meaningful yoga practice involves making modifications to other aspects of life as well. Dedicated yogis, for example, know that yoga provides the most benefits when practiced before a full meal. If you need an energy boost, try a light snack before you hit the mat, like some pieces of fruit with nut butter or a handful of healthy nuts, but anything heavier may feel uncomfortable during all those bends and twists.

As your routine becomes more consistent, you may find yourself inspired to make other lifestyle changes for max benefits. Getting enough sleep, practicing compassion, and engaging in meditation are a few more ways to live a healthier and more yogi-like lifestyle.

5. Don’t Feel Bad About Using Props to Support Your Practice

One of the hardest concepts for new yogis is understanding postures look different for everyone, and that’s okay! Your anatomy can determine which poses you can easily get into, which require more practice, and what modifications can help you reap the benefits of yoga without sustaining a serious injury. By recognizing these differences, you can truly honor yourself and your practice, and even use props to do so.

Yoga can be so much more than just a physical practice. It can be a positive lifestyle that can see you through the stress of a pandemic, but it takes commitment to reap maximum benefits. For other ways to enhance your routine and improve your life, explore our offerings at Wicked Obscura.