A yoga lifestyle incorporates training the mind, body and breath and connecting with your spirituality. Physical exercise, or hatha yoga, is one component of this lifestyle. "Ha," which means "sun," and "tha," which means "moon," refers to the balance or union of masculine sun aspects -- active or hot -- and feminine moon aspects -- receptive and cool -- that exist in everyone. Types of hatha yoga include ashtanga, Bikram, gentle, iyengar, kundalini, restorative and vinyasa.
Learn Proper Technique
Attend yoga classes to learn how to perform the yoga poses, or asanas, properly. Find a qualified instructor registered with the Yoga Alliance. This certification means the instructor has completed 200 hours or more of training in yoga technique and teaching methods. In addition to yoga studios, yoga classes are offered at many gyms, YMCAs and community centers. If you prefer to practice yoga in your home, you could also learn from a good yoga DVD.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Choose clothing that allows your body to move freely. Stretchy leggings or shorts and a fitted T-shirt or tank top are good options. Special shoes are not required because yoga is practiced barefoot.
Get Equipment
Use a yoga mat to provide grip and cushioning while performing your poses. Yoga mats are available in discount and sporting goods stores, online and at yoga studios. Optional equipment, which allows you to modify poses to make them less difficult, includes a yoga strap and yoga blocks.
Move With Your Breath
Connect the movement of your body to the rhythm of your breath. Breathe evenly, in and out through your nostrils. Inhale deeply before each pose and then exhale slowly as you move into the pose.
Use Correct Alignment
Resist the temptation to strain to do a pose "perfectly." Maintain correct alignment to maximize the benefit of each pose and to help prevent injury. Depending on your fitness level and flexibility, you may need to do less strenuous poses by only moving partway into the pose or by using a yoga strap or blocks.
Cultivate Awareness
Be attuned to any discomfort or pain in your body. Don't worry if you find some poses too difficult. Yoga is not a competition and you should not compare yourself to others. Keep in mind that some people are naturally more flexible than others.
Practice on an Empty Stomach
Refrain from eating two to three hours before doing yoga. Hatha yoga is a physical practice that requires bending, twisting and even turning upside down. Having undigested food in your stomach can cause discomfort or cramping. If you must eat immediately before yoga, choose foods that are easily digested, such as fruits.
Be Consistent
Do yoga three or four times per week. While even an occasional yoga workout can relieve stress, a consistent yoga practice is needed to increase flexibility, strength, endurance and balance. The online site Teens Health reports that you need to exercise at least three days per week for about 4 to 6 weeks before your body begins to release the feel-good endorphins associated with exercise.
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