Yoga is for everyone - this is why you should get started.

Yoga is a low intensity work out that was made with so many levels that anyone can do it.

I have been doing yoga for over 5 years now. Over the years it has become my favorite way to exercise. People may have misconceptions, labeling the exercise as "easy" but any Yogi knowns that different types of Yoga can have you sweating. Yoga is universal due to the fact it has different levels. All ages and genders can enjoy yoga at what every level fits them best. Still unconvinced? Here are a few reasons why I started doing yoga.

1. It is good for your mental health

When ever I feel anxious, stressed, or all of the above. I crave the calmness that Yoga brings me. Whether it is the calming music, stretches, or breathing, yoga is a great way to create a healthy mindfulness.

2. Improves Sleep

Yoga has been proven to improve sleep by relaxing your muscles and mind. If done right before bed time it will causes your brain to sleep faster and help you keep asleep through the night. A great pose it so put you legs straight up against the wall, this will increase circulation and relax nerves. Do this pose for 5 - 15 minutes.

3. Health Benefits

Regular yoga practice can reduce weight, inflammation, blood pressure, back pain, ease tender joints, and increase energy. Studies show yoga’s benefits in arthritis, osteopenia, balance issues, oncology, women’s health, chronic pain and other specialties.

How I got started

The first time I dipped my toes into the world of yoga, I took a beginner class at a yoga studio. At most yoga studios you can sign up for classes one by one, so there is no commitment that most gyms force upon you. Because of this I felt less restricted and could go to classes when I really felt like it. My beginner Yoga flow classes, transitioned into other types of yoga such as Power Yoga, Restorative yoga, Vinyasa yoga, etc. A couple months of classes I was able to advance into harder classes. Although I still like to switch between different classes and levels depending what I am feel that day.

Equipment

The only "mandatory" items in yoga is a yoga mat and yourself. Other items that can be helpful throughout your yoga journey include yoga blocks, yoga, wheel, yoga strap, and for restorative yoga it can be more comfortable to have a pillow and blanket. In terms of clothing there are many different items. If you like to wear long pants and shirts try leggings and a tight shirt. I personally avoid flowy clothing so it doesn't swing in my face during exercises . If you tend to get warm during working out tank tops or sports bras a great option along with shorts or spandex. Most people so not wear shoes when they are doing yoga, although socks with grips can be helpful so you don't slip. Here are a few of my favorite items.

Classes

There are a lot of different options when it comes to classes. You can find class a all sorts of places such as yoga studios, gyms, country clubs, and universities. Most of these places will have specific times you may sign up for. Some may require a membership others may let you pay by class. At these facilities I advise you bring your own Yoga mat and towel.

Since covid kept us home for months, I started doing classes at home online. You can pay for memberships the apps such as Lululemon Studios, or Peloton. You may take classes for free on youtube. Some of my favorite people to subscribe to are @yogawithadriene (all levels), @bohobeautiful (advanced), @yogawithkassandra (all levels).

Different types of yoga

There are many different types of yoga ranging from classes where you lay down most of the time (in yoga known as shavasana), to high intensity yoga. The main types of yoga are Ashtanga, Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, and Kundalini Yoga.

Hatha Yoga: focuses on posture and breathing techniques, traditionally to channel vital energy source.

Ashtanga Yoga :Very dynamic and athletic form of Hatha Yoga.

Vinyasa Yoga: an approach to yoga in which you move from one pose directly into the next.

Kundalini Yoga: derives from kundalini, defined in tantra as energy that lies within the body, frequently at the navel or the base of the spine. This yoga tends to be more spiritual.

Yoga for people with limited mobility

Yoga is a great way for older generations or those with limited mobility to keep in shape. There are many different modifications to the exercises based on the extent of your mobility. If you are unable to comfortably be on your knees or back, are simply do not enjoy getting up and down from the floor, a chair is a great option. Seated yoga classes can be taught at yoga studios, gyms or senior centers. You are also able to do seated yoga from the comfort of you own home.