How to Start your Yoga Journey Now

I’m sure you’ve heard “Yoga changed my life” by someone in your contacts. You’ve wanted to give it a try, but studios and gyms are expensive and making the classes on time is hard during your busy lives. You-time always gets thrown to the wayside. However, starting your journey to self-awareness, self-love, and a healthier body is much easier than you might think. Here is how to start your yoga journey now.

1. Find access to YouTube

As long as you have internet access, you can get free, high-quality yoga videos on YouTube to do right from the comforts of your home or out in nature. Of course, I’m going to recommend Yoga with Adriene because she’s knowledgeable, calming, funny, and she helped turn my anxiety frown upside down. She also has videos for whatever you might be feeling. Tight lower back? Here you go. Having a panic attack? Here’s a wonderful meditation video for anxiety. She also has videos broken down by time length, if you need a quickie. Giggity.

I am about 2 years into my yoga journey, and I’ve stepped inside a studio once. Don’t get me wrong, being with other yogis totally gave me a sense of community and I will definitely be returning. However, on a regular basis, I do my yoga on my living room floor.

2. Purchase a Yoga Mat

While it is totally possible to do yoga without a mat, it’s hard to enjoy the effects of some of the poses if the ground is killing your knees. You’ll be amazed at what a few millimeters of padding will do for your experience. Not only is it more comfortable, it is your literal and figurative place to LET IT GO. When I’ve realized I’m lost in thought whilst practicing, I remind myself, “Not on the mat.” It’s a designated place to think about your breathing and your body.

There are tons of mats out there. If you’re willing to spend a little extra, I recommend a mat from Manduka. With wonderful reviews, top of the line durability and comfort, the Pro Series mat is highly recommended by teachers and yogis worldwide. Plus, the Pro Series has a lifetime guarantee. They also have more cost-effective options, and even a line of biodegradable and eco-sensitive mats.

If you’re looking to spend less, Gaiam Print Yoga Mats have gorgeous color options and are about 85% cheaper. While they may not last as long, they will do just fine as you begin your journey.

3. Have an Open Mind

Dr. Dan Siegel’s incredibly informative book, Aware, discusses the hugely positive impacts of a consistent meditation practice on your brain and overall well-being. Giving yourself time to unplug from the external world quite literally helps your brain continue growing and developing. An acronym that stood out was Dr. Dan’s suggestion to strive for a COAL state of mind. Letting yourself be Curious, Open, Accepting, and Loving are really good starting points for your yoga journey.

As my mom told me at the beginning of every school year growing up, "Give yourself 2 weeks to get used to everything." It’s important to remember that just as you weren’t immediately good at a sport or building Lego, you won’t immediately be good at yoga or meditation. Your brain needs practice, as everything else in life. In the beginning, you will find yourself distracted over and over again. Start small, and give yourself grace. A habit my husband and I have gotten into is to say "I love you" to initiate a deep breath. When you're distracted, you can even say it to yourself.

With time, you will be amazed at how your focus of attention changes, on and off the mat. You will cherish your time, the simplest pleasures of life, and others by simply being aware. To quote Dr. Dan again, “Presence cultivates happiness.”

In conclusion, it’s much easier to start yoga than you might have previously thought. If you’re ready for increased strength, a healthier heart, better sleep, more energy, less stress, and a more mindful life, start your journey. You will not be disappointed.