Where to Start with Yoga

1. Set Your Intentions: Before unrolling your yoga mat, take a moment to set your intentions. Whether it's stress relief, increased flexibility, or improved focus, having a clear purpose can guide your practice. 
2. Choose the Right Style: Yoga comes in a variety of styles, each catering to different needs. For beginners, Hatha or Vinyasa yoga are excellent choices. Hatha focuses on foundational poses while Vinyasa emphasises the flow between poses. 
3. Invest in Basic Equipment: All you need to start is a comfortable yoga mat. As you progress, consider adding props like blocks and straps to assist in certain poses and enhance your practice. 

Yoga Mats: Balance is vital when practicing yoga which is why you should invest in a good quality yoga mat. At Core Balance, we have a range of grippy yoga mats to meet your needs and requirements. As an added extra, all of them come with their own strap, so there's no need to mess around if you're in a hurry.

Yoga Blocks: As a beginner, you might struggle with poses and stretching, which is where a yoga block can help. By narrowing the gap between you and the floor, it helps to support your weight and improve balance. While cork blocks are firmer for better support, foam blocks are softer and great for restorative yoga. 

Gym Ball: Gym balls make certain poses easier by supporting your weight and enhancing your flexibility. They also help to strengthen your core and improve your balance, body alignment, and posture. At Core Balance, we have gym balls in a variety of colours and sizes to suit your style and height.

Tree Pose (Vrikshasana): Plant one foot on the floor and rest your other foot against your inner thigh. Then, clasp your hands in prayer. Perfect for strengthening ligaments and tendons in your feet.

Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): Step one foot back, bending your front knee, then reach your arms overhead. This pose strengthens the legs and opens the chest, promoting a sense of empowerment.

Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): Start on your hands and knees, then lift your hips towards the ceiling. As well as stretching your body, it's great for strengthening your arms and legs.

Child's Pose (Balasana): Kneel on the mat, sitting back on your heels, then reach your arms forward. Because the Child's Pose is a resting pose, it's perfect for relaxation and releasing tension.

Tips for a Successful Yoga Journey

1. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body feels during each pose. Never force yourself into a position that causes pain. Yoga is about self-discovery and self-care. 
2. Consistency is Key: Like any skill, progress in yoga comes with consistent practice. Aim for regular, shorter sessions rather than sporadic longer ones. 
3. Breathe Mindfully: The breath is a crucial aspect of yoga. Focus on deep, rhythmic breathing to enhance your practice and promote relaxation.