Ever since yoga became mainstream in Western culture, we’ve seen different styles, trends, and gimmicks added to the practice to make it more modern, enticing, and sellable. There is an abundance of offerings in this global community, and it can be tough to navigate your options with so much out there. Yoga is not ‘one size fits all,’ and it’s important to remember that everyone’s practice will look different, no matter what style of yoga you practice. If you’ve never tried yoga because it seemed too intimidating, or if you are just looking for a new style, here are a few tips on how to find a yoga practice that works for you.
Mix it up! Take a few different classes or videos online. No two classes or instructors will be the same, so trying out multiple styles and methods is a great way to find a practice that resonates with you while also introducing your body to new movement, which is always a good thing.
Do what your body/mind needs.
If you’re stressed and anxious one day, a heated, power vinyasa class is probably not the best idea. Check in with yourself and think about what you need in that particular moment, or how you want to feel at the end of your practice. Maybe you need deep breathing, and grounded, slow movement. Or, maybe one day you need a flow class to get out of your head and get lost in movement. Sometimes, just a quick child's pose for a few minutes can be your style of yoga for that day. Yoga will look different for you every time you practice, and that’s perfectly okay.
Don’t take it too seriously. Listen, yoga is a beautiful, sacred practice that everyone experiences differently, and at the end of the day, we are just moving and breathing. Everyone has their opinion about what is right and wrong, good or bad, what is yoga, and what is not yoga. In my opinion, your practice should feel good and make you feel better, in both mind and body.
So, whatever type of yoga you practice, remember that showing up with more kindness, compassion, and love for yourself and each other is the best style of yoga out there.
Love + light
Alba Avella
You can connect further with Alba at www.thealbamethod.com or IG @movement_by_alba
