Due to the easy access to information on websites, books, and videos, there is currently a strong tendency for us to be more and more self-taught when it comes to the practice of physical exercises as well. However, it is necessary to be aware, because there are limitations to this self-learning process that are usually neglected.
Teachers’ guidance and regular attendance at classes is very important, but so is personal practice, because the students' development improves when they start practicing on their own, both in the sense of using the techniques, and through reflection on values and concepts that contribute to the way we look at the world and how we act in it.
Nevertheless, it is essential to understand that the teachers’ role is vital. It is important that all the information has been passed on to us by a teacher.
In individual training, it is necessary for us to take a series of precautions before performing the postures since the possibility of hurting ourselves with inadequate conditions is great. So, to ensure our safety and comfort, I leave you with some important tips to help enrich our personal practice.
Practice with a Yoga teacher
If you have never practiced Yoga, the best option to follow is to see a qualified teacher in this area and start attending classes. This will improve your training at home by yourself and, whenever you can, alone.
It is not very wise to start individual training without guidance and some knowledge of yoga. You may not recognize certain mistakes, not only in posture but also in breathing, and you will continue to make them for an extended period.
Draw up a lesson plan to follow based on your Yoga classes, and as your practice matures, add postures. If you have difficulty, ask your teacher for advice on the best ásanas to perform at home, especially if you have any specific health problems.
Create a harmonious space
It is possible to practice Yoga anywhere, but having a specific space helps concentrating. So, choose a quiet place with enough open space, in your home, to give you complete freedom of movement.
It is recommended that you do not have any furniture nearby to avoid accidents in a likely fall. If possible, place some pillows around the mat. This will help with your safety during the first few months of training. You can also set up an altar with an image of a Hindu god, candles, incense, and flowers.
Choose a quiet time
Practicing Yoga requires a great deal of focus and concentration. Initially it will be hard to concentrate on the exercises due to external noises. Therefore, choose a time by yourself, or a time that you know you will not be bothered, do practice the movements and thoroughly follow them.
Having your cell phone and TV on a sleep mode is another valuable suggestion. The more focused you are on your practice, the faster you can enjoy the benefits of Yoga in your daily life. This is a moment dedicated to you, don't forget!
Purchase safe and ecological material
The Yoga mat is the first object you should buy when you start Yoga. It’s important to buy a good quality mat, otherwise as soon as you begin to sweat, it could become slippery and dangerous while you practice. The risk of injury is greater. Therefore, it is extremely important to look for a quality Yoga mat, non-slip and ecological, as well as the block. You can also purchase a blanket and blindfold to use for relaxation.
Maintain a cleaning routine of your Yoga mat after each class.
Choose the most suitable clothing
To ensure complete freedom of movement, choose clothing that is tighter fitting and made of breathable, flexible, and comfortable fabrics. Clothing that is too loose can get in the way and is not appropriate for your practice. You will learn which clothes best suit your personality as time goes by.
Create a playlist for your own practice
During class, the mind usually tends to wander, so chanting the mantras allows us to let go of external experiences and influences, leading to silence by opening the inner space. Focus is essential, bringing us back to the present moment, so the mind becomes lighter, with fewer repetitive thoughts and worries.
To make your experience more enjoyable, I share with you my Bliss playlist of my favorite mantras. They are simple to learn but profoundly transformative to chant or simply listen to.
Maintain slow and steady progress
Start with 20 minutes a day, and then gradually increase the length of the practice and the difficulty of the postures over time.
Don't forget to prioritize safety. Prepare your body well with the basic postures and stretch and warm up properly before you start your personal practice. This way you will avoid feeling tired and creating future injuries.
There is no point in trying to progress faster than your natural ability. Listen to your body, identify what it needs at that moment, and accept its limitations. In this way you will have a gradual and safe evolution, essential to enjoy all the benefits of the activity.
Be persistent and assertive!
