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If you've never done yoga before — or you've tried it and felt lost — read this first. These are the honest answers to the questions almost every beginner asks before they get onto the mat.
What is yoga?
Yoga is a many-layered and intricate set of practices set out thousands of years ago to lead a human being, step-by-step, to live life consciously, compassionately and with full intention. Although these teachings are ancient, the wisdom is completely applicable to this day and age. In the West, yoga has come to be known as the physical practice — the asana practice — but yoga is so much more than just the physical. It is an entire philosophy and way of life.
Do I have to be flexible to practise yoga?
When I tell people I teach yoga the first response is, "Oh, I'm not flexible enough!" This is like saying, "I'm too hungry to eat." Same same. The physical practice of yoga helps to make you more flexible — it is a result of the practice, not a requirement. Being inflexible is a great place to start. It gives you the chance to really get to know your body, your strengths and your limitations. Yoga is not about touching your toes; it's about what you learn on the way down.
What do I need to get started?
An open mind and a willingness to learn. A yoga mat is very helpful. Traditionally, asana was not practised on a mat or with any props — a yogi-in-training would sit at the feet of their teacher and learn. In the West we've done everything in our power to make the physical practice more comfortable. A good-quality mat, appropriate props and comfortable, stretchy clothes help take us deeper and make more difficult poses a bit more accessible.
What are the benefits of yoga?
Yoga introduces flexibility and strength to the body and helps calm the mind. It can ease chronic pain — lower back pain, arthritis, headaches — and improves posture. The poses work on all the body's systems, including the endocrine and lymphatic systems, boosting immunity and helping manage stress. Deep breathing strengthens your lungs and oxygenates your blood. Regular practice creates mental clarity, sharpens concentration, and brings calmness. And that's just for starters.
Is breathing important in yoga?
Breathing is the most important part of the physical practice. You could do all the poses beautifully but if you're not breathing, it's a stretching class. You could come to a class, sit quietly and breathe consciously for the whole hour, and you would be practising yoga. We use Ujjayi breath — a deep, full breath in and out through the nose, gently constricting the back of the throat so the breath is audible. The sound of the ocean, or of Darth Vader. The sound gives the mind something to focus on and keeps you present.
Why is child's pose so beneficial?
Child's pose is a really beautiful and humble pose. It's a resting pose — to be taken whenever you need a break or need to reconnect with your breath. Breathing deeply in this pose, especially extending the exhale, helps to bring your heart rate down and lower your blood pressure. It's so beneficial to just pause, take a moment, reset your breath and intention, and then continue with your practice, revitalised.
Why is savasana so important?
Savasana is the most important and most difficult pose. It's our final relaxation — translated as Corpse Pose, in no morbid way. We are practising how to completely surrender and let go. It's the most difficult pose because you don't have your breath or the sensations of movement to keep you present; you have to take control of your mind. Savasana assimilates the benefits of all the poses you've practised. It gives you the chance to relax completely, release any tension, and rest your body.
What if my mind keeps wandering off?
Our minds naturally jump from thought to thought — that's why we call them monkey minds, constantly swinging from branch to branch. We use yoga to train the mind to stay in the present moment. It helps to use something physical to return your attention to: your breath, or a simple mantra like "Let Go". On every inhale, say to yourself "let"; on every exhale, "go". Breath and mantra together are a very powerful training tool.
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