Welcome to the world of hatha yoga! Whether you’re a complete beginner or have tried other forms of yoga, it is good to start this journey with a solid foundation of knowledge.
First, what is hatha yoga? This type of yoga is one which utilises the combination of the breath and asanas (postures) to increase strength and flexibility. The asanas are held for a couple of breaths, focusing on alignment. It is quite a common type of yoga, one which will be found in most yoga studios!
In this article, we will outline five key steps to help you embark on your hatha yoga practice with confidence. By following these steps, you’ll set yourself up for success and experience the numerous benefits of this gentle and rejuvenating practice.
Step 1: Set Your Intention: Begin your hatha yoga journey by clarifying your intention. Reflect on why you want to practice yoga and what you hope to gain from it. Whether that be to find time for yourself or become more flexible (yoga can do much more!), it is good to understand why you want to start practicing. Setting a clear intention will help you stay motivated and focused throughout your journey. Another thing you can focus on is seeing yourself as a yogi. Through changing the language we use to talk to ourselves, our thoughts, actions, and intentions become clearer. For example, say to yourself “I am a yogi”, rather than “I want to be a yogi”. Believing you are takes you halfway there!
Step 2: Find a Qualified Instructor or Yoga Studio: To learn hatha yoga effectively, it’s crucial to find a qualified instructor who resonates with your goals and teaching style preferences. Yoga studios are quite common, and they often have discounted or free trial passes. Search around and try a couple different spaces to see which you feel the most comfortable in. There are many instructors with various teaching techniques and styles. Look for those who have experience working with beginners and can provide proper guidance and adjustments during your practice. Through finding a balance between an instructor and studio will prove beneficial in facilitating an enjoyable journey within the realm of yoga.
Step 3: Start with Basic Poses: As a beginner, it’s essential to start with foundational hatha yoga poses. Focus on fundamental postures like Mountain Pose, Downward-Facing Dog, Forward Folds, and Warrior Pose. One of the most common misconceptions regarding yoga is that you need to be flexible or be able to do arm balances. This is incorrect. Yoga is for EVERY body! Practice poses that feel good for you, and then progress towards more complicated or harder asanas. No matter the pose, you will build strength, flexibility and body awareness while establishing a solid yoga practice.
Step 4: Practice Mindful Breathing: Breath awareness is a fundamental aspect of hatha yoga, being referred to as Pranayama. As humans living in a fast-paced society, it is often that we forget to breathe deeply. In yoga the breath is incorporated into the movement, and practicing like this will allow for a greater breath awareness throughout everyday life. It is amazing to notice the difference in stress levels, and our ability to control our emotions when we focus on the breath. You can begin with simple techniques such as breathing deep into the belly, or by matching it to your movement. For example, inhale to Cow pose, exhale to Cat (see below) and repeat. This can enhance relaxation and focus during your sessions.
Step 5: Establish a Consistent Routine: Consistency is key when starting a hatha yoga journey. Create a realistic and achievable practice schedule that aligns with your lifestyle. You might start by going to a couple classes a week, then you can implement the practice into daily tasks! For example, sitting on the floor and stretching at night whilst watching TV or reading a book. Dedicating a specific time and space for your practice can also help, even if it’s just a few minutes each day. Routine will reduce the stress around trying something new and make it exciting instead! Consistency will help you build strength, improve flexibility, and experience the transformative effects of hatha yoga.
Embarking on a hatha yoga journey can be a rewarding and transformative experience. By following these five key steps, you’ll establish a strong foundation for your practice as a beginner. Remember to set your intention, find a qualified instructor and studio, start with basic poses, incorporate mindful breathing, and establish a consistent routine. Embrace the journey, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits that await you on your hatha yoga path.
Happy practicing! Namaste
