Yoga and You: Taking Your Practice to the Next Level by Sheila Johnson

If you’re struggling to maintain your yoga practice, it may be time to reevaluate how you approach the form. Building self-awareness through yoga is not only possible, but it’s nearly guaranteed if you take the right steps. Moving your body can bring you agency and help you relax, and yoga is one of the best ways to accomplish that. With the right tools, technology, and equipment, you can achieve self-awareness and meet your goals. Here are a few tips for how to make sure you are getting the most out of your yoga practice — and creating the self you most want to see in the world.

Don’t compare yourself to others

It may be easy to do an internet search for “best yoga workouts” and end up in a rabbit hole of self-defeatist thought. Beginners may not be able to do the more body-intensive workouts; after all, you’re just starting out! It’s human nature to compare yourself to others, but try not to let it ruin your motivation. Treat yourself kindly and celebrate your small accomplishments. Then, you can build up to the harder activities. Tools: Yoga videos that give you attainable exercises for shorter periods of time can provide some mental energy.

Practice frequently for short periods

Another important part about maintaining mindfulness and allowing yourself room to grow is giving yourself permission to do shorter workouts. If you don’t have time, it’s okay. If you don’t have the mental energy, that’s also okay. Allow yourself the mental space to practice a mindfulness routine for five, six, or seven minutes per day. And don’t worry if you don’t do it for longer than that — the important part is creating the habit. After all, some exercise is better than none. In fact, shorter workouts have been shown to be beneficial for several reasons. They help you manage stress and stay positive, because the endorphins released from any exercise at all are still potent, as well as provide a sense of control. Short workouts have also been proven to help people lose weight. Equipment: Just your body is necessary for this one. Let your muscles tell you what you need.

Set a specific goal

If you have a measurable, attainable fitness goal for the week or month, you can more easily see if you are reaching your intended weight or fitness level. Setting fitness goals can help you lose weight or get stronger in a more efficient way, as well. And, as you achieve your goals, you will be more motivated to continue making the progress you see along the way. Technology: Use an app on your phone to track your progress and see if you’re attaining the goals you’ve set. Smartphone apps help you measure progress easily and quickly.

Create a positive space for your practice

Having clutter-free and organized space can ensure good energy flow, which is essential for a mindful yoga practice. Divest your sanctuary from anything that could create negative emotions or thoughts; this is your space, and the only emotions here should be calm, positive ones. Equipment: Open blinds, open minds! Let in some light and a breeze to brighten the space. Tools, Technology, Equipment — and you Your mind is the most important tool in the journey of having a better, more effective yoga practice. Keeping yourself informed and making sure you are all in is key. Motivation starts with the mind — don’t forget that! Thank you for your article, Sheila. We walk the same path. Yoga fits self-awareness, mindful exercises, and metacognitive techniques into our everyday lives. https://www.wellsheila.net/blog/