Top 10 Yoga Tips for Beginners in Kamloops and Beyond

1. Don't worry about what people will think: Yoga is not a competitive sport. Everyone started as a brand spankin' new beginner at some point, and they all know it takes a bit of courage to even show up to class. You're there for you. If you feel judged or uncomfortable, check with yourself - it might be all in your head. However, if you somehow find yourself in a class where you don't feel supported by the teacher or the vibe, go find a different class where you can feel at home.

2. You don't need to be flexible to do yoga: This is one of the biggest excuses I hear, "I can't do yoga, I'm not flexible." It's an understandable misconception, but it's groundless. Yoga allows you to work at your own level, and you will gain flexibility with time and practice. Sure, it's challenging, but the benefits are worth it, and you start getting the benefits immediately.

Developing your flexibility is a lot better than living with pain that comes from tight muscles pulling your body out of alignment, isn't it? And remember, yoga also makes you STRONG. It's not all about stretching.

3. Find a skilled teacher that you like: The range of training yoga teachers have is VAST. You can think of it like the difference between someone going to Harvard or taking an online weekend workshop. Some teachers have studied for years with the world's top instructors and have honed their teaching skills to a point of mastery. Some yoga teachers have taken a weekend fitness yoga course, and simply haven't learned as much about alignment or philosophy or how to really support the student in the best way. And there's everything in between.

A good idea is to try different classes and instructors, and take the time to ask them what kind of training they've had. Contact the teachers ahead of time if you can. Find out not only how long they've studied and what style of yoga they teach, but also if they practice with the class or walk around the room. Teachers who practice with the class don't have as much ability to see the alignment of students (and often don't know as much about alignment), which makes it a lot harder for them to help the students find optimal alignment.

Find a teacher who makes you feel safe, someone who sees you and will help you in a way that is kind and knowledgeable. You should feel empowered and uplifted when you leave a yoga class. I highly recommend Anusara® yoga instructors, as they are among the most skilled yoga teachers in the world.

4. Listen to your body: Ultimately it is your responsibility to keep yourself safe in yoga class. Even the best teacher doesn't know exactly what you're feeling. Yes, there will be a bit of discomfort when you stretch, but it should be a sensation that is spread out over an area of the body. If you feel sharp, acute pain, back out of the pose and re-align. If you don't know how to get into the pose without acute pain, signal your teacher so they can help you or give you a modification.

If you have an issue that needs more time to resolve, consider a private lesson with a skilled instructor. PLEASE, make sure you tell the instructor BEFORE class if you are injured, have past injuries that need to be considered, or have any other health concerns.

5. Take it one practice at a time: Think of yoga like the process of a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. It happens over time, yet a great metamorphosis occurs. Your own transformation is a continual process, and it won't help to rush it. Enjoy the journey, one breath at a time.

6. Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water after class, and during the day before class. Not right before or during class though, as that can be uncomfortable. One of the benefits of yoga is detoxification, so you want to be sure to stay hydrated so the toxins are flushed out of your body.

7. Be prepared: Some logistics you should know. You want to do yoga on an empty stomach. If you need a snack before hand, try to give yourself at least an hour, and eat food that you can digest quickly and easily. Wear fitted clothes - a loose t-shirt might end up over your head when you're in a forward bend.

Having your own yoga mat is nice, because you know only your feet and hands have been on it, but most studios have mats you can use. You might want to talk to an instructor about different kinds of mats before you go out and get the cheapest kind you can find. If you're taking a class at a gym, or anywhere other than a yoga studio, it's a good idea to bring a blanket or towel to sit on or use to cover up and keep warm.
Lastly, many yoga studios only take cash or check, so don't show up with your only options being plastic.

8. Lighten up: You can have fun! Sure, yoga can be deeply profound and sometimes intense, but it can also be playful and humorous, especially if you have a teacher who agrees with this attitude. Don't let yourself get stressed out about yoga - it defeats the purpose. When in doubt, just smile and breathe.

9. Stick with it: Chances are you'll be surprised at how hard the first class is. Don't let that scare you, it's SO worth it! Keep going to class, and create a consistent yoga practice that becomes part of your life. You'll be rewarded by the many health benefits, and you'll learn to stay centered and create more happiness in life.

10. Consider private or semi-private classes: If you're still feeling intimidated and the only thing keeping you from going to yoga is fear of the public class, or if you have an injury or condition that you want to know how to work with, a private class is a great idea. You might even want to get a few friends together and have a semi-private class. Getting started one on one with a skilled instructor will give you the confidence you need to then go to a public class.

Remember, the teacher and style of yoga make all the difference. Interview the yoga instructor to get a feel for who they are and how they teach. Be patient with yourself, breathe and listen to your body.

To find out more about how I teach and what classes I offer, visit my Yoga Kamloops page. Even if you don't live in Kamloops, this may give you more ideas about what to ask prospective teachers. Plus there's a whole site of information there that can help you learn more about yoga.

Also, if you're looking for a fun and effective way to get in shape, check out the Kamloops Yoga Fitness Boot Camp for Women.

(Don't worry - You don't have to do this pose. Definitely not right away. Unless you want to, of course. Because yoga is all about re-creating your capacity to creatively express yourself!)