1. Be Peaceful Yoga's primary goal is peace of mind — a fit body, increased flexibility, and improved health are just fortunate side effects.
2. Be Inclusive Yoga is a user-friendly activity. It is for anyone, at any age, at any level of fitness.
3. Be Aware Yoga is not gymnastics; it is a 5,000-year-old system designed to enhance self-awareness and well-being.
4. Be Silly Bring a sense of humor to the mat. Learn to smile and laugh at yourself. Being overly self-conscious and critical is counterproductive in yoga and in life.
5. Be Sensitive Feel more and think less. Focus on how you feel in a pose rather than how you should look in a pose.
6. Be Childlike Be willing to make mistakes. The more so-called mistakes you make the better, because that means you are learning. Children are most often the fastest learners and, without a doubt, they make the most mistakes. They are not as judgmental and do not care about looking perfect.
7. Be Joyful Approach yoga with a sense of joy and fun. Smile at your teacher and fellow students; they could probably use a boost of good energy.
8. Be Helpful Yoga is not a competition with yourself or with others. It has nothing to do with competitive sports.
9. Be Consistent Practicing yoga on a regular basis will make it easier and more familiar.
10. Be Adventurous Try out different yoga studios, teachers, and styles until you find an appropriate fit. One size doesn't fit all.
11. Be Lighter Replace the “no pain, no gain" approach with one of lightness, joy, and ease.
12. Be Patient Learning anything new takes time. Can you imagine trying to learn to play the violin in just a few lessons? The same applies to yoga.
Next page: More yoga tips for beginners.
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Comments
Tom Morley really said it all. People turn to yoga for many reasons. Many start with exercise & wellness in mind. Some end up embracing yoga as a spiritual path. Whatever the reason is, yoga is good for everyone! It is not something that one should be hesitant to go into but something that should be explored freely and with an open mind and heart. Namaste!