Helpful Advice
Here is some helpful information and advice about safely practising yoga both at home or in a class*
Do not practice yoga if:
Pregnancy - Yoga is beneficial during pregnancy but needs special help and guidance. It is not a good idea to start yoga whilst pregnant unless you are having private sessions with a qualified pre natal teacher or in a specific class for pregnancy. If in any doubt about anything, consult your doctor or a healthcare professional.
General Advice
Do not practice yoga if:
- you are unwell or injured
- you have just eaten - wait at least 2 hours after a meal
- you have been drinking alcohol
- you are taking painkillers
- you are over tired or fatigued
- you have a chronic condition like high blood pressure, heart condition, arthritis etc. (Always consult your doctor first)
- you are overweight
- you are recovering from surgery or have just had a baby (Wait until you have had the 'all clear' from your doctor)
- you are new to yoga or you have not done yoga for a period longer than a month
- you are menstruating
Pregnancy - Yoga is beneficial during pregnancy but needs special help and guidance. It is not a good idea to start yoga whilst pregnant unless you are having private sessions with a qualified pre natal teacher or in a specific class for pregnancy. If in any doubt about anything, consult your doctor or a healthcare professional.
General Advice
- Wear loose and comfortable clothes
- Use a yoga mat - (I always have spare mats if you do not own your own)
- Always work within your own body's limit - "strain but no pain" "work with your body not against it"
- It is important to remember that yoga is non-competitive - no two peoples bodies are the same and so it doesn't matter if you can't do the same movements as the person standing next to you!
- Yoga is progressive - don't expect to be able to do everything with ease first time - be patient, with regular practice you will soon be able to feel the immense benefits of yoga.
- You will notice that depending on how your body feels on a particular day your level of strength or suppleness may differ. It may be one week you can touch your toes and the next you can't - this is normal. Learn to listen to your body and how it feels.
- Don't rush the postures - take your time to enjoy and explore the posture.
- Be attentive to the exact position of the limbs, head, trunk etc. to attain the correct posture and maximize the benefits
- Focus the mind and steady the breath when preparing to enter a posture
- Unless stipulated, breathing should be carried out through the nostrils
- When a posture is difficult there is always and easier alternative and postures can be adapted to the needs of an individual
- Learn to relax and let go of the mind yoga is not just about the postures.
- Remember to stay in the present moment and enjoy every pleasant feeling and sensation.