Yoga 101 for Beginners
What is an asana? What yoga gear do I need? I have this specific physical problem…can yoga help me with it? Do I need to meditate to do yoga? If you’re new to the world of yoga, you may have asked yourself one or two of these questions. As with any form of physical activity, it’s important to learn the basics. But more importantly, yoga has a valuable history with philosophies and etiquette that any beginner should know. This guide will not only keep you informed, but also make you further appreciate yoga.
Origins
The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit root yuj, which means “to yoke or join together” and has been interpreted as a “union” of mind and body. It’s believed to have originated in India over 20,000 years ago. There is no written history of the exact origins of yoga, however, it was around 2,000 years ago when the Indian sage Patanjali began collecting statements for the Yoga Sutra, which is considered the authoritative text on yoga.
Yoga is often viewed as a practice involving spiritualism and this idea is accurate since yoga is one of the six schools of philosophy in Hinduism. Followers of Buddhism also use yoga for meditation. But don’t mistake yoga for a religion–it is not. It is, essentially, a philosophy that happens to be interwoven with other religions, none of which you need to study or follow to do yoga.
Types of Yoga
Yoga comes in many different styles, each with its own techniques and benefits. Some are meant to be relaxing, while others more physically challenging. Among the most popular types of yoga are: Ashtanga, Hatha, Hot, Kundalini, Iyengar, Restorative, Yin and Vinyasa.
Benefits of Yoga
Yoga has physical, mental and spiritual benefits, making it one of the best practices for your overall health. While not necessarily a cure to ailments, numerous studies have found yoga to be beneficial for people coping with a variety of issues.
Physically, yoga can improve flexibility, strength, balance, stamina, and body alignment. Mentally, yoga has been found conducive to stress reduction, body awareness, better sleep, self-confidence, and relaxation.
Yoga Gear
Depending on the type of yoga or posture, you may not need all of these things to practice yoga. Acquiring a yoga mat is a usually a good place to start.
- Yoga mats come in different lengths for different heights and thickness for extra cushioning. For sanitary reasons, it’s best you get your own mat.
- Straps are beneficial for a variety of poses for different parts of your body.
- Blocks provide support when it comes to extending to the floor or stability when holding asanas.
- Blankets help to elevate you in particular poses, usually when you’re seated.
- Bolsters give extra support and especially useful for pregnant women and anyone practicing restorative yoga.
Yoga Etiquette
When joining a yoga class, it’s good to observe these guidelines out of respect for not just your classmates and the instructor, but for the practice of yoga and for yourself.
- Arrive early. If you’re late, it’s better to wait for the next class.
- Take off your shoes before entering the practice area.
- Power off or silence your phone and other devices.
- During the class, when a pose seems too difficult, perform one that is more comfortable instead.
- Unless under extreme circumstances, don’t leave the class early as this will disrupt others and you’ll miss the cooling down or relaxation phase of your routine.
