A Personal Practice

So, how does one practice yoga at home by themselves, without the guided help of an instructor? And what do you do….how do you start.

Well, it’s not that hard. The most important thing is having the willingness to get started, and you’re already there, because you’re here. So, now that the scary part is over, let’s get down to business. 

First things first, you need a few things. But don’t worry, you shouldn’t have to go out and buy very much. 

Actually, probably the only thing you need to go out and buy right away is a yoga mat, and yes, it can be the one with the nice designs from TJ MAXX that only costs $9.99. Sometimes people get overwhelmed with all the different types of yoga mats made from all the different materials that promote so many benefits. And yes, as your practice develops, those things may be welcome for consideration, but at first start, a basic mat will do. 

The next thing I usually get asked about are the props. The standard is 2 blocks and a serape (blanket). These things are not particularly necessary, although they are nice to have around. But what are they for, and do you really need them? You will have to be the one that decides if you really need them, but I will let you know some of the many ways that they can help in your practice. Blocks are great for finding the proper alignment and for extending your reach. For instance, if your sequencing calls to hold a low lunge (anjaneyasana) and your arms can’t reach the floor on either side, you may end up putting undue strain on the wrong muscle, which could cause an injury. A block on either side would not only help you “reach the floor” and provide stability, but also set your shoulders and hips in the proper alignment which would not only help you breathe, but also allow for building both strength and endurance (in both body and mind). And similarly the serape will do the same thing. If you do not have the length in your stretched calf to hold Anjaneyasana for 5-7 breaths, you may need to lower your back knee. The blanket can be folded enough times to provide cushion for your knee while you hold the pose, which would help calm your mind (and stop some of those defeating thoughts) and in turn help build both strength and endurance-again, in both body and mind. Blankets can also be used during meditation, to help stabilize the Sitz bones, or as a covering when in Svasana. So do you need props? You decide. They may be great for now; you may not need them until later.

And then, there is the actual space. Most people don’t have a spare room that can be dedicated to yoga and meditation only, and that’s ok-I currently don’t either! You really just need enough space to throw your mat on the floor, and lay on it with your arms stretched out to a T. The space should be somewhere that you can be unbothered and at peace-loud noises or moving presences can be distracting and thus, make it difficult to find and keep your mind and breath controlled. A quiet space in your home, or a nice grassy area outside should do the trick. 

So let’s recap. Things you need to begin a personal practice at home: the will to do so, a yoga mat, possibly some blocks and a blanket, and quiet space that’s room enough to lay down in the floor and hold your arms out to a T. 

And you’re all set! The only thing left is to practice your flow, and if you don’t know where to begin, Sun Salutations are a great place to start!