There is nothing quite like that feeling of walking away from the perfect yoga session. If you’re not sure how to achieve that post-yoga blissful feeling, you’re at the right place! I’m going to tell you how to create the perfect yoga session.
After that, I assure you, your body will feel relaxed, yet revitalized, your mind will be calm yet stimulated.
It is one of the things that keeps so many people coming back to yoga, again and again.
My Tips on How to Create the Perfect Yoga Session
Be Prepared
It doesn’t matter whether you are practicing at home or attending a public class, being prepared will help make sure you get the most out of each yoga experience.
If you are attending a class then you don’t have to worry as much about preparing your environment, as this will be done for you.
You do, however, need to make sure that you are personally prepared.
You need to check whether you need to bring your own yoga mat, or if anything else is required (e.g. the appropriate change if you are paying per class).
Other things to consider include:
- Appropriate clothing – Wear clothing that enables you to move about freely and isn’t restrictive or inappropriate.
- A water bottle – Have a water bottle close by for you to sip from should you require can make a real difference to your level of comfort during a yoga session.
- A towel – You might like to bring a towel with you.
- Switch your phone off – Make sure you switch it off or leave it on silent so that it doesn’t disturb you or any of the other people during the class.
Doing Yoga at Home
If you are practising yoga at home, then along with the above preparations, you should consider your environment before beginning.
Some considerations include:
- Pick your location – You want to choose a space that isn’t going to be disturbed by other people. Ideally one with fresh air and soft lighting.
- Set the mood – You may wish to have soft music playing, candles or incense burning, anything that you feel will help you relax and be present and focused as you practice your yoga.
- Set up your equipment – Before you start, it is important to make sure you have everything you might need there ready for you, such as a yoga mat, and any pillows, blankets or supports you might use.
Also, if you’re considering doing any kind of workout at home, I suggest you read this first.
Leave Your Ego at the Door
This is a really important one when it comes to yoga. Yoga is not about who can balance the longest, stretch the furthest or be the strongest.
It is about working with your own body to gradually build on your strengths and work on your weaknesses. So try to leave your ego at the door.
As soon as you enter your place of yoga, keep your focus on yourself and try not to compare yourself to others. This way you will get a more focused and grounded experience.
Let Go of Expectations
Expectations often lead to disappointments, and this is very true for yoga.
If you enter a class expecting to practice specific asana, or have a specific teacher, or feel a certain way afterwards, then you are setting yourself up for disappointment.
These expectations also tend to get in the way of enjoying what each particular class does have to offer. This happens because you are too focused on what it doesn’t have.
Remember, sometimes change is good! So keep an open mind and you will find that you enjoy your experience much more.
Stay with Your Breath
Focusing on your breathing is an excellent way to keep your mind from wandering. Also, it helps you to stay focused and mindful of your body as you move through each practice.
Being mentally present is a very important aspect of yoga. Use this focus of breath to help keep yourself centred and aware of your body and mind.
Listen to Your Body
As I mentioned before, yoga is not a competition, nor is it about trying to contort your body as much as possible.
It is about working within your own abilities and gradually increasing your own strength, flexibility, and balance.
Having said this, it is important not to push yourself past what is comfortable and safe for you.
Yoga is not meant to be painful. Even though some practices might stretch you just outside of your comfort zone, they should never hurt.
So listen to your body. If you are feeling pain, then this is your body indicating that you are pushing too far.
Either ease back a little or use a variation to make the practice more appropriate for you.
Namaste
By being prepared, both physically and mentally, staying present with the breath and listening to your body, you can ensure you gain the most out of each yoga practice.
I hope these tips wll help you in creating the perfect yoga session.
It’s FREE