Yoga is an increasingly popular exercise form. If you are thinking of trying out a class at the gym or in your home, here are five essentials you'll need first.
1. A Secure Mat
A yoga mat is the one piece of equipment that you really shouldn't skimp on when it comes to having a great class experience. There are all sorts of yoga mats on the market at just about any price point you can imagine. While you don't have to spend a fortune to get a good quality mat, you also want to ensure you have the right one for what you want to accomplish in class. Consider this: If your mat is too thin, you may feel pressure on joints in certain poses. If it is too thick, you may struggle to stay balanced during standing postures and more fluid sequences. In addition to getting a mat, you will want to look at a safe and gentle cleanser. Homemade cleaning sprays and wipes are nice because they afford more control over ingredients. When D Gary Young founded Young Living, he may not have envisioned his products being used to clean millions of yoga mats, but homemade sprays are incredibly popular. Try one of the many recipes available online to find one that gives you the best results.
2. Accessories and Props
While a mat is very important, it isn't the only equipment to consider. You may want to bring a few other pieces of gear to make your class more enjoyable. These can include:
Towels: If you expect to break a sweat in your first yoga class, an absorbent yoga towel is a must-have item. Look for one with antimicrobial properties to minimize any funk that can accumulate.
Blocks: These are used for a variety of poses and positions. Blocks can also be incredibly helpful if you need to modify poses to accommodate stiff joints or lack of flexibility.
Straps: Another great prop for class, a yoga strap can help you get a deeper stretch without causing injury. In a pinch, you can use a rolled towel instead.
A Bolster: These are basically oversized pillows that can be used to support your body. If you are doing restorative yoga, a bolster may be a good idea.
3. A Soothing Drink
Hydration is important in any exercise, and yoga is no exception. However, drinking cold water or sports drinks during class is considered off-limits for many people. In traditional circles, it is said to interfere with balance inside the body. So, while many yoga studios encourage in-class hydration, it is actually not a regular part of traditional yoga. For that reason, it's a good idea to find your chosen studio's policy before you arrive for your first class. Either way, it is important to be fully hydrated beforehand and to have a soothing beverage ready for after class. An herbal tea, such as chamomile, is an excellent choice.
4. The Right Clothes
You can do yoga in all sorts of clothing, but having the right outfit will make your movements more comfortable and secure. Pants can be tight or loose, but they should allow a full range of motion without binding or rubbing. Tops can range from tanks to sweatshirts depending on the style of yoga you choose, but they should not restrict movement in any way. Shoes are not usually worn in yoga classes, with the exception of some chair classes for older adults or those with physical impairments. If you don't want to go barefoot, a good set of yoga socks will help you keep a firm grip on the mat.
5. An Open Mind
Yoga is a personal experience for each and every student in the class. As such, it must be a judgment-free zone. When you walk through the door, be open and willing to accept that the gentle motions can help you feel better both inside and out. You'll get the most out of class that way. A good yoga mat, accessories and appropriate clothing are a few of the things that will make your next yoga class go well. Keep an open mind and you might be surprised by the results.