4 replies to this topic

[Lola Burns]

It seems a lot of people here are into yoga (or at least into recommending yoga). Bikram seems to be the most popular (no way I'm doing that). My boyfriend is into Hatha yoga. I'm considering Restorative yoga, but I'm not sure if that would be the best choice for me. So, for those of you who do yoga, I have a few questions.

What kind of yoga? Why?

How long have you been doing yoga?

Do you take a class or do it at home? Why?

Indoors or outdoors? Mornings, afternoons or evenings? Why?

What is the duration of your sessions?

What are your reasons for doing yoga?

For those of you with full time jobs, how do you find the time?

Have you ever had any yoga related injuries?

Has it had any noticeable effect on your immune system, sleeping habits, skin, or patience level?

Is it a hobby, an addiction, a lifestyle or something else altogether for you?

[Ukulala]

Hello! I absolutely LOVE yoga and do it regularly, so let me offer my input.

I vary my practice, but I tend to do mostly Ashtanga and general Vinyasa (which is what many classes across studios are); I choose those because I like them and the studio that offers them here, and also - that's how I was trained, so it's pretty deep in there at this point.

I took my first yoga class about four years ago, but I only began practicing regularly about 16 months ago.

I both take classes AND practice at home/ on the road. Classes are pretty crucial for beginners, so you can get the fundamentals and make sure you're doing the poses correctly (doing them incorrectly can lead to a world of hurt, be careful!). Once you have that down, you can branch out, watch videos, make up your own practice, etc!

Indoors, at the studio, evening or morning, as those are when the classes are offered. On my own, it's at my discretion, and mostly in the morning. Outdoors if the elements allow it.

The classes I take are around an hour and 15 minutes. On my own, I usually go for half an hour to an hour.

I do yoga because it calms my mind, relaxes me, AND is a great, GREAT workout. I love feeling flexible, toned - and sweating quite a bit!

The job bit is n/a to me - but in busy times, I just sort of ... made the time. Carve it out. It's not impossible.

No, I have never had any injuries; in fact, yoga helped me through a light knee injury (contusion).

It has been very beneficial to me in toning me, relaxing me, and aiding in weight loss; for skin, it's undeniably helpful, as it is a healthy habit to pick up, and overall health will of course impact skin. It does help me sleep (i have trouble sleeping) ... patience, ha, sure. Mindfulness is a beautiful thing.

It is a lifestyle for me, as well a beautiful practice that I try and integrate in my every day!

ALSO -- Look around for a yoga studio. Don't just settle on the first one; try them out. When you find the right fit, it's heavenly. My studio is an AMAZING place and is a huge part of the reason I enjoy the practice so much.

I could not be a bigger proponent of yoga as part of a healthy, active lifestyle. It's been incredible for me, and I only wish everyone could reap the benefits! Good luck!

[Lola Burns]

Thanks Ukulala!

Yoga studios are as common here as Starbucks but there's one in particular I have in mind because I know a few of the instructors and I have some friends that go there. Although, it's changed owners recently and I heard that has changed the "vibe" of the studio, and not for the better. So I'm still exploring other options.

During my work week, I have exactly 30 minutes of free time in the morning and 30 minutes in the evening. Not quite enough time for a class. As a beginner, I know I need guidance so I don't hurt myself. So that means yoga during my work week isn't going to happen for a while. I want to get into yoga for the following reasons: 1. I want to improve my posture and flexibility. 2. Relieve stress. 3. Improve my sleep quality. 4. Regulate my moods (I tend to have a lot of irrational anger, that I'm aware is irrational. So I bottle it. Not healthy.) Would a once weekly class do me any good? Or is it a waste of time if I'm not doing it daily or at least several times a week?

[Ukulala]

Let me put it this way: Just like with meditation, there is no way that you will "waste" your time with Yoga. Once a week, once a month -- it's something, and it is SO worth it.

Try a weekend class, just to get your feet wet. See how it goes. Maybe you can do it both weekend days! Then perhaps you can watch some videos (there are definitely 30 minute yoga videos online and such), or create your own practice. Don't be afraid to try yoga, because it will only help you.

Good luck!

[Lola Burns]

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