How did you start yoga?

[Nect]

Was it hard? I used to be really flexible, but then over the years I always jumped right into and out of a workout without the warm up nor the stretching afterwards...as a result, my body is very tense these days and no matter how many hours I spend in the gym, I still feel 'blah' after...a good workout should never make anyone feel that way. SO, I want to try yoga - and I need you yoga people for some advice :D

I look like :eek: when I flip through those yoga books seeing very interesting poses, of course, not thinking of doing those just yet! But what should I be aware of when I start yoga?

Nect

[Twilight Garden]

Ooh Ooh - I just started Yoga. :D I'm doing it to a video. It seems a pretty decent one for a very beginner. My mom did yoga for years. Since I'm just starting out myself, I'm curious, too. There was a similar thread to this a little earlier. I'll see if I can find it and bump it up.

[shnen]

I started a few years ago in a class. I would advise a class to begin, there are certain things you need a teacher for. Then once you learn them you can go on your own.

I am quite flexable to begin with, but your flexability and strength increases the more you do it and the more advanced you get.

The key to yoga is the breathing and meditation. Yoga will help you, but you should really find a teacher. I took my through a con-ed course at night... professionals and all, but it is cheaper.

I would not suggest you just start on your own. You will need someone to help you be aware of your body, positions and for you to do te poses right. A book or video can't see you and correct you.

I practiced with a yoga pro since I started, I am now searching for a new one, but I know what to do and look for while I practise at home... and I would never try any new advanced postitions with a pro there to show me the right way to do it. You can seriously hurt youself if you do it incorrectly.

sorry, a bit longwinded, but very important to note...:)
if you have any questions feel free to ask! :):)

[Lavender]

I've been doing yoga for a while now & absolutely love it! I usually attend 2 classes a week. One focuses more on the exercise & stretching & the other instructor is more spiritual. Did you check out the yoga tape thread? There's a couple of suggestions for yoga tapes there.

You can teach yourself yoga through a tape but it's best if you can find a class. That way, someone can check your posture & positions. Sometimes, it's pretty hard to tell if you're a bit out of alignment. When I first started, I was flexible in some poses & stiff as a board in others. The main thing to remember is not to over do things. Listen to your body. The most important thing about yoga is the breathing. Eric Schiffman (sp?) has a good book - he talks extensively on how important the breathe is in yoga.

I find I use my yoga breathing in meditation & magic too. Yoga very helpful as a precursor for doing magic & focusing energy.

[shnen]

Originally posted by Wildchild
I find I use my yoga breathing in meditation & magic too. Yoga very helpful as a precursor for doing magic & focusing energy.

I totally agree! :D:D:D