How to start yoga FAQs

Are you that person who wants to try yoga but not sure where to start? Have you been offered a virtual yoga class at work but think you’re not the right fit? And what about all those other questions you think are silly but actually they’re not? Well, we’ve put together this basic yoga FAQ so you don’t have to feel embarrassed about asking these questions. And hopefully, this will get you on a mat in no time!

Helen Faliveno, one of our yoga partners for any yoga-related content on our app, answers all the most common questions:

How flexible do I need to be?

One of the most common “yoga myths” is the idea that you have to be flexible, but the truth is all bodies are welcome to the practice. Becoming more flexible is just a lovely byproduct of yoga.

Is there an age limit to practising yoga?

Absolutely not, the more the merrier! One of my eldest clients is in their eighties.

What kit do I need if I want to take a yoga class at a studio?

During the pandemic (and when yoga studios are allowed to open again) studios are encouraging people to bring their own equipment. To join a class you would just need comfortable clothes and a mat. A yoga block and strap would be nice add-ons if you don’t mind carrying them.

What about the kit for doing yoga at home?

No specific kit is required for an at-home yoga practice, just comfortable clothes and a comfortable surface, like a rug or the carpet is a great place to start. You might consider purchasing a yoga mat for more grip and some props. However, if you don’t want to spend any money, you can swap out yoga blocks for books and use a towel or belt as a yoga strap.

What type of yoga should I be doing?

I would say if you’re not sure, try lots of different types and see what clicks for you. You might like to try a Vinyasa class or dive into Ashtanga; meditation or pranayama may suit you more, or something more quiet and inward like Yin yoga. There are so many branches of yoga to try and I think that’s the interesting part of any yoga journey.

When is the best time of day to practise yoga?

There are different styles to suit different times of the day. So for some of us waking up and doing a sunrise Ashtanga class feels great, a quickie lunch break practise might suit others or a soothing Restorative yoga class or meditation before bed.

Should I eat before or after a yoga session?

You may find it more comfortable to do a yoga class on an empty stomach or a couple of hours after eating. However, if you are pregnant a small snack like a banana before class is a good idea.

How long can I practise yoga for in one session?

There is no set time frame for a ‘valid’ yoga practise. 1 min breathwork or a 90 min flow class are both great practices.

I’m pregnant, can I still practise yoga?

Absolutely, you’ll just need to make a few changes. It is recommended that you wait until after the first trimester before joining a physical class (there are lots of lovely meditations and breathwork practises that can be done in the 1st trimester though). Always let the teacher know you are pregnant before starting the class, so they can show you ways to adapt poses and movements to keep you and baby safe. However, you might want to stick to a specific pregnancy yoga practises if you’re unsure.

I have some injuries, what should I be mindful of if I want to do yoga?

If practising in a live class, always let the teacher know of any injuries or conditions beforehand, so they can help you adapt and modify the practice. If practising at home, move in a mindful way that allows you to listen to your body. If anything feels painful, back off or modify the pose. It’s also good to note that asana (the physical postures of yoga) are just one small part of the practice, reading philosophy books, meditation, pranayama and more make up this wonderful practice.

Where can I learn more about yoga?

Related posts:

When the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band first got together in 1966, Bob Dylan had just released “Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again.” Yes, that’s 56 years-ago — before John Wesley Harding…