1. First Things First
Yoga is a form of exercise, and like any other exercise, it requires certain precautions before beginning. If you have any injuries, old or new, or have a medical condition, you should consult your doctor to find out if yoga is safe for you. Additionally, you should research the types of yoga available, as styles vary greatly in physical demands. For example, Ananda yoga is practiced for meditation, Bikram is used to cleanse the body and is performed in extremely warm temperatures, while fast-paced Power yoga is extreme and not for beginners.
2. Beginning With the Basics
While many people are more comfortable practicing yoga in the privacy of their homes, beginning with a qualified instructor can help to prevent yoga injuries. Instructors which have the proper credentials and teaching experience are not only the perfect live example of the poses, they will be able to guide you through the basics, such as breathing and pose variations which will reduce the risk of injury during yoga practice. Always ask if you are unsure about a pose or feel that you need a variation.
3. Exercise 101
The first thing we learn about exercise is to warm-up before beginning, and this rule is no different when practicing yoga. Take a short walk, do some jumping jacks, jump rope or find a way that works for you to get your tendons and muscles warmed and ready to stretch in order to avoid injury when practicing yoga.
4. Find Your Fashion Sense
When moving into various yoga poses, restrictive clothing can create pressure on your body, causing discomfort or even injury. Make sure that your yoga clothing is not too bulky and allows for lots of movement of your entire body. Additionally, always practice yoga barefoot for better traction and reduced risk of ankle, knee and other injuries.
5. A Helping Hand From H20
Again, yoga is a form of exercise, and you will sweat, so you must rehydrate your body to replenish lost fluids. Drink plenty of water before, during and after practice which will not only prevent dehydration, it will also help flush released toxins from your muscles and lubricate your body, helping to prevent injury while practicing yoga.
