5 Steps for Introducing Yoga to Your Body

Something I tend to share over and over again is that I actually didn’t start doing yoga until I was 31 (I’m 37 now). It really is something you can begin at any age, which is one of the things I love most about it! Starting my practice has transformed my life in more ways than one, so helping others get to that starting point and then encouraging them to visit their mat often is incredibly rewarding for me. Especially when it’s to remind you that you are stronger and more capable than you think you are.

If you’ve found yourself curious about starting a yoga practice but don’t want to go too hard too fast, below are five steps I’d recommend for introducing your body to it slowly but surely. No need to jump right into headstands - you’ll work your way up to them in no time! ;)

Wear something you feel comfortable in
There are no rules when it comes to what you have to wear while doing yoga. The only thing you want to do is show up to your mat wearing something you’re comfortable in. That can mean lots of layers, cozy sweats, a bodysuit, or whatever ya woke up in! I know there are lots of cute leggings and tops out there, but you certainly don’t have to have a closet full of them to begin your practice. Be comfortable, that’s it!

Above all else, focus on your breath
When I first started yoga six years ago, I wanted my body to be super flexible and able to hold poses for the maximum amount of time right away. I prided myself on being a collector of asanas but I was missing one of the biggest points. *I learned it quickly though*. Truthfully the best thing to give your focus to right when you’re beginning is your breathwork. Focus on inhaling and exhaling - even if it means your expression of the posture isn’t your max depth/hold. You can’t be perfect at everything right out of the gate, so think about your breathing first!

Embrace the wiggles and exploration
You’re going to be exploring all kinds of movements and postures at the beginning of your yoga journey so don’t be afraid to embrace all the wiggles and exploration. Your body will need time to get stronger and become accustomed to the type of workout yoga offers and that’s nothing to be ashamed of. There is no rule saying you must find stillness in every pose - embrace it!

Be openminded as you discover where your body is at
And to continue to echo the step above, you don’t have to be strong, flexible, or have a prior background in body movement to start doing yoga. You just have to be willing and open-minded. If you have these two things, the rest will come.

Never worry about someone else’s capabilities
Finally, never worry about what everyone else is doing or capable of. It’s such a joy thief and honestly, it’s very rare that someone else is truly looking at you and judging your postures and holds. In my experience, most everyone is just in their own space, doing their own thing, waiting for their next breath.

I hope you found these steps approachable as you introduce your body to yoga. Your time of practice really is unique to you so find what works for you as you get started and only positive things will come from it.