Starting a home practice can be an exciting part of changes you are bringing about in your life. Right thought, right action, right choices and priorities lead to a balanced life. A home yoga practice promotes a mind body connection to support your efforts. Make a plan and start your home practice today.
1. Find a quiet spot where you can roll out your mat and work in solitude, away from distractions (electronic and family/ pets as well).
2. Take a journal to class and jot down ideas and impressions after class. Reflect on and record favorite pose sequences and make a plan for a short and simple class based on favorite poses linked by sun salutations. Creating new sequences isn't necessary. In class we learn pose sequences designed to flow and alignment cues that are safety oriented. Carry these into your home practice too.
3. Set aside 10 minutes per session to start. Maybe plan a morning and evening sequence for the first few weeks. For example, first thing in the morning, you start in sukasana (easy seated position) to find your breath and set an intention. Perhaps you will want to create a mantra to coordinate with your breathing. After a few rounds of alternate nostril breathing, you come into your ujjai breath (deep and even, in and out those the nose to warm the muscles). Lengthen the spine and enjoy a slow twist to each side, breathing deeply. Then moving to hands and knees, you enjoy flexing and extending the spine in Bakra chakrasana (cow/cat flow). Pushing back into Balasana (Child’s Pose), you breath into the lower back, puff the kidney and release tension in your muscles. If you choose, drape a blanket over yourself as you end in savasana. Daily practice can be as simple as that.
4. Use your notes at first to keep you focused until you learn your sequence. Light a candle and some incense to signal your special time. Keep water handy so you are not straying from your mat. Celebrate with a cup of tea afterward and jot notes in your journal. Consider tacking on a meditation block to close your practice before setting up savasana relaxation.
5. If you want help getting started, schedule some one-on-one time with Joan to go over your class at home.
Listen to the body, breath and feel. Let go of competition, judgment and expectation. Over time, you can increase your home practice sessions and reap the full benefits of daily safe and effective yoga class in your own home.
