Why
Have a Home Practice?
Coming
to class on a regular basis is only the beginning of the yoga
path. Students who establish even a minimal home practice
are quick to discover the rewards. Practicing even just a
few yoga asanas (poses) at home on a regular basis, will reinforce
what has be taught in class, and best prepare the student
for what the next class presents. Students who have a home
practice find themselves not only becoming progressively more
flexible and strong, but more resilient
and calm in the face of life's inevitable ups and downs.
Since
every person's lifestyle is different, you need to consider
how often and when you can do yoga. A few poses after you
wake up will be an invigorating start of your day. A few poses
when you come home from work will be a calming way to end
your day. Some people try to find a few minutes at work to
do a few poses, particularly if they sit a lot. The key is
to find a time that works for you.
Ideally,
it is most beneficial to set aside a minimum of 15 minutes
every day, and do a series of poses. If you find this difficult
to fit even 15 minutes into your schedule, begin by making
a commitment to do just one (1) asana each day. Some days,
maybe that is all your time will allow. But on those days
when more time is available, you will find yourself extending
your allotted time into a longer practice. Allowing yourself
the time to do yoga is often a bigger challenge than the yoga
itself! The only risk is that you will find your practice
so compelling that you'll be induced to reassess your priorities
in order to find more time to practice.
To help
you develop a regular at home practice, we have put together
a list of the basic asanas appropriate for each class level.
Print this page out, and put it out where you will see it
as a reminder-- on your refrigerator, where you keep your
yoga mat, etc.
If you
don't have a mat, yoga blanket, or any of the yoga props
you need, talk to Nancy after class-- she has various items
for sale.
Remember,
it is best to practice yoga before eating or at least two
hours after a meal! Practice in a clean space free from distractions
such as phones, family and pets.
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