The Path To A Consistent Yoga Practice

Realistic tips for practice on and off the mat.

Embarking on a yoga journey can be transformative, offering wondrous benefits to both mind and body. As someone who has dedicated nearly a decade to practicing and teaching yoga, I've encountered countless inquiries about maintaining consistency in practice. The key to a steadfast yoga routine lies not just in the physical movements but in the mental and emotional connections we foster with ourselves.

Here's how you can cultivate a loving and sustainable yoga practice:

  • Find Love in Practice: The most crucial aspect of consistency is loving the way yoga makes you feel. Recognizing the positive changes in character and mood on days you practice can motivate you to maintain your routine. If you're new to yoga or haven't been active recently, avoid starting with intensive classes. Opt for a gentle approach, allowing your body and mind to acclimate to the practice through mindful breathing and gradual movements.

  • Listen to Your Body: Don't force yourself into achieving the “perfect” posture immediately, especially if it feels uncomfortable or unattainable. Yoga is about understanding and feeling the pose internally rather than mirroring others.

  • Incorporate Yoga into Your Routine: To ensure regular practice, integrate yoga into your daily schedule. Designate a specific time for yoga, minimizing distractions and commitments to fully engage in the moment.

  • Embrace Short Sessions: Even a brief 5 or 10-minute practice can be profoundly beneficial. Starting with short, manageable sessions can help build the habit and eventually lead to longer, more frequent practices. It's okay if daily practice isn't feasible. Begin with what's manageable, even if it's once a week, and gradually increase as you become more comfortable and committed.

  • Consistency Over Intensity: Regular, even if brief, practice is more beneficial than sporadic, intense sessions. Aim for consistency to reap the full benefits of yoga. Practice at a consistent time. Whenever possible, practice at the same time each day. This helps your body and mind anticipate and prepare for yoga, enhancing the overall experience and benefits.

  • Find a Teacher: Having a teacher can significantly enhance your yoga journey by providing consistency, direction, and progress. Whether you're practicing at home or have limited access to studios, there are numerous avenues to connect with a teacher, including online platforms. A knowledgeable instructor can offer personalized feedback, adapt practices to suit your needs, and inspire you to explore new aspects of yoga. 

  • Embrace Mindfulness in Daily Activities: It's important to recognize that yoga extends beyond the mat and traditional Hatha practice. If circumstances prevent you from engaging in physical postures, consider the practice of observing your breath and cultivating mindfulness in everyday activities. Whether it's washing dishes, doing laundry, or simply walking, being fully present and immersed in the moment is a profound form of yoga. This approach allows us to maintain a connection to yoga's core principles, fostering a sense of peace and awareness in all aspects of our lives.

Abhyasa (practice) is a dedicated, unswerving, constant, and vigilant search into a chosen subject pursued against all odds in the face of repeated failures, for indefinitely long periods of time.

BKS Iyengar

I understand that balancing yoga with the demands of family, work, and relationships can be challenging. Life's responsibilities often seem to impede our ability to maintain a regular practice. But it's crucial to recognize that the benefits of yoga extend beyond our personal well-being. When we feel rejuvenated and more centered after practicing, it positively impacts everyone in our lives. By prioritizing even a short practice, we not only invest in our health but also contribute to a more harmonious and supportive environment for those around us.

Private Online Classes

For those seeking to build a strong foundation and delve deeper into their personal yoga journey, one-on-one sessions can offer tailored guidance and support. I'm pleased to announce that I have a few slots available for private online yoga sessions. If you're interested and would like more details, please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected]✨.

Here’s another divine piece of music that flows so beautifully with the yoga practice.

Until next time 🧘‍♀️