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When to do Yoga?
The very best time to practice yoga is first thing in the morning
before breakfast. Upon waking, empty the bowels, shower if you wish,
then commence the day with your regime of yoga practices. The second
most conductive time is early evening, around sunset.
But is it of course far better to do something at a
time of the day which suits one, rather than to miss out by being too
rigid or idealistic. Always remember integral yoga is a balanced
recipe which maintains: That to get the best from your yoga practice,
you should whenever possible, mix and match the necessary elements of
practice which will improve and enhance your spiritual growth and
awareness.
Yoga Positions (Asanas) may be practiced at any
time of day except within 2-3 hours of having eaten. You can do
postures when the body feels stiff, tense, tired or hyped-up. Be aware
not to do too many over-stimulating postures just before bedtime.
Asanas are best practiced first in your yoga routine, followed by
breathing (Pranayama) and then meditation.
Pranayama may be practiced at any time of day
except within 2-3 hours after meals. It may be done when tense or
tired or when space does not allow room for postures. Pranayama is
best practiced straight after asanas without breaking the flow of
awareness. Pranayama is a necessary pre-requisite for successful
meditation.
Meditation may be done at any time of day when you
feel both awake and relaxed. For best results don’t do meditation
within 2-3 hours of eating, when sleepy, nor when mentally “hyped-up”.
Yoga Nidra can be done at any time of day, even
directly after meals so long as you do not fall asleep in the
practice. Don’t do Yoga Nidra when you feel tired or sleepy. More will
be gained when you are both awake and relaxed.
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Place of Practice |
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It is best is to have fresh air in a quiet and
clean place that suits the concentration and awareness yoga will
create. |
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Do not practice yoga in direct sunlight or after sun-bathing.
Outdoors is OK but avoid cold wind and insects. |
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Awareness |
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Throughout a yoga practices, try to keep your
awareness on what you are doing. Don’t be concerned with others in
the class or outside the room. |
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Proceed slowly and carefully. Follow the
instructions exactly. |
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Never force or strain. Relax briefly between each practice.
Remember the golden rule: “If it’s uncomfortable – DON’T” |
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Breathing |
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Always breathe through the nose both in and out, unless specified
otherwise. Remember “Nose for breathing-Mouth for eating”. |
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If you do have trouble breathing through your nose, practice “Jala
Neti” (Nasal Cleansing) or visit a doctor for medical
inspection. |
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Restrictions & Precautions |
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There are no age limits either young or old for
the practice of yoga. However the application of the techniques
will vary according to the abilities of the practitioner. Keep in
mind the following. |
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Never practice any yoga techniques under the
influence of alcohol or mind altering drugs. |
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Those with disabilities, severe, acute or
chronic medical conditions should consult both with their medical
practitioner and their yoga teacher to assess any dangers or
difficulties which may arise. |
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There are no hard and fast dietary rules
necessary to begin the practice of yoga. One does not have to give
up smoking, become vegetarian, or be a purist to learn yoga. |
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Yoga Supplies (Equipment)
While yoga does not require equipment as such, however there are
some supplies which you must have to make your practice smooth,
comfortable and satisfying
Yoga must be practiced on suitable
Yoga Mats.
The mat should be such that can help you perform yoga poses,
meditation and relaxation postures with equal ease while making
you feel good.
Click here to read about the only real 3-in-1 yoga mats.
Wear loose comfortable yoga clothing so there
there is no restriction around the limbs.
Remove spectacles, watches or any cumbersome
jewelry or ornaments and keep beside you in a yoga pouch.
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