Beginning your yoga journey can be as simple as setting aside time to practice. Start by rolling out your mat and finding a class that feels right for you. YouTube is a great resource for getting started, with hundreds of free classes taught by certified yoga instructors.
Styles of Yoga
There are many different styles of yoga, but the two discussed here are vinyasa yoga and yin yoga.
Firstly, vinyasa yoga is a dynamic style of yoga that connects continuous movement with the breath. Vinyasa is a more active practice that challenges you physically while helping you connect with your inner strength. A vinyasa practice can leave you feeling connected, aligned, recharged, and centered.
Next, yin yoga is a slow-paced, meditative style of yoga where passive floor postures are held for longer periods of time. Yin yoga is a restorative practice that allows you to slow down, relax, and be gentle with yourself. It leaves a feeling of calmness and appreciation for the time you’ve taken to slow down and reconnect with yourself.
Finding the Right Class
One of the best things about practicing yoga through YouTube is the variety of classes available. You can find a practice to fit almost any need, schedule, or experience level. Classes can be as short as five minutes or longer than an hour.
You can find classes designed to start your morning and set a positive tone for the day, as well as evening practices focused on releasing the day and preparing your body and mind for rest.
There are also classes focused on stretching the entire body or practices that target specific areas, depending on what your body needs that day.
All you have to do is search YouTube for the type of yoga class you’re looking for. Once you roll out your mat and begin practicing, you’re officially a yogi!
As you continue your journey, you’ll discover teachers, styles, and classes that resonate with you. Over time, you can use those experiences to develop a practice that feels uniquely yours.
Below are some of my favorite teachers on YouTube: