The Beginner’s Guide to Surviving Yoga

Don’t let the intimidation of an instructor yelling HEAD STAND!, or the fear of contorting yourself into some crazy poses keep you from trying yoga. Ramapo offers both free yoga classes hosted by the Yoga Club and also two-credit yoga courses that you can work into your schedule, but this doesn’t mean you have to be an experienced yogi to sign up. Here are some tips for those of you who have always been interested in finding your “inner Zen,” but have just been too nervous to try it out:

• Wear something comfortable. This probably seems like a given, but it’s important to realize that just because you’re not hard-core sprinting or bodybuilding doesn’t mean you should just throw on whatever you find laying around. Wear something you’ll be comfortable stretching, bending over, and possibly going upside down in—so leave your see-through leggings at home! You don’t want to worry about your clothes not fitting right when you’re in downward dog.
• Pay attention to modifications. A lot of poses have simpler versions for beginners so you don’t have to push yourself quite as hard if this is your first time practicing. Many instructors are likely to take the time to show these modifications, especially if they know that their class members aren’t super experienced. This leads to my next point…
• Don’t beat yourself up. Just because the instructor is balancing on one hand with her legs wrapped behind her head doesn’t mean you have to also! Definitely push yourself so you can improve, but if something hurts or is painful, stop immediately! There is a difference between getting a great stretch and injuring yourself, and it’s important to honor that boundary. Also, if you can’t hit a position exactly like you wanted to, don’t get upset with yourself. Try not to set too high of expectations at the beginning of your class—just be proud of whatever you do achieve—and know that you’ll always have time to work on what you want to improve.
• Don’t compare yourself to your classmates. I know it’s challenging, but try your best to not stare helplessly at your neighbors as they move into a perfect head stand while you’re still left on the ground. The point of yoga is to practice and improve yourself, and it’s impossible to work on yourself when you keep looking around at everyone else in the class! Don’t focus on the advanced poses they can do—focus on how far you’ve come.
• Don’t give up! If you find yoga is for you, try to commit yourself to a class or a personal time of the week to practice. Not only will you be able to increase your strength and flexibility, but you’ll also achieve a healthier state of mind and find more internal peace.

Namasté!