The word “commitment” implies discipline and finding the time to develop a regular practice. “Yet another routine to fit into an already hectic lifestyle”, you may say. The very word “commitment” can be off-putting. But wouldn’t it be wonderful to devote some time to slowing down, taking a deep breath and letting out all the tension!
Once you start to incorporate yoga into your daily life, it will quickly become an enjoyable and natural habit rather than a chore.
Once you begin to realise the benefits of a system that not only promotes well-being but also reduces the accumulated stress of your working day, the discipline no longer seems such a chore. The mind will soon become accustomed to accepting yoga practice as a part of everyday life – a natural and enjoyable habit. Forget about the problem of finding the time. You will achieve more in each day when your mind is focused, your pulse is normal, your blood pressure is regulated, your muscles are more relaxed and your breathing patterns are steady. The more often you consciously allow yourself to become centred and balanced, the more empowered and successful you will become. You can’t afford not to find the time. All that is then required in peace, quiet and commitment. It doesn’t matter how out of shape or inflexible you may be to begin with, your increased vitality will definitely lighten the schedule of your day. Don’t forget – your health and happiness are your responsibility.
Creating Your Own Plan
Reading is an excellent start to finding out what yoga is about. The deeper your understanding of the yoga philosophy, the more your will be able to focus on how yoga can be of benefit to you. You can apply all you know to your own personalised programme. Over time, however, the best way to learn is with a teacher who can give you proper guidance, answer your questions and help you fine-tune the postures. You could begin by committing yourself to a class once a week, and then perhaps make a plan to practise one or two- half hour sessions at home. The most important objective is to practise regularly. Stick to a plan and soon the benefits will become obvious. Remember that yoga is not about guilt. Some yoga is better than no yoga. No two bodies are alike and no particular technique is suitable for everyone. You may need to experiment for a while with different styles of teaching until you find your own particular path.
Guideline For Practising Yoga
- Ideally the session should take place somewhere quiet and peaceful. To avoid unexpected interruptions, disconnect the telephone, turn off the mobile phone and remove your watch.
- Work on a non-slip mat that is long enough for your entire body to rest on comfortably.
- Practise barefoot and in light, comfortable clothing.
- Don’t practise on a full stomach. You will need to wait for up to four hours after a large meal, and two hours after a snack.
- Remove contact lenses and tie up long hair.
- If it is cold, work in a heated room. As you become more adept you will be able to generate your own body heat.
- Start at the appropriate level and go at your own pace. Yoga is not about competition.
- A yoga session always requires a warm-up period. Your muscles need to become more fluid before you attempt the complex stretches.
- Do not force yourself into the postures. Push yourself just to the “edge” of discomfort, breathe into the muscles involved and hold the position for a few breaths. With practice you will ease yourself deeper and deeper into the posture until one day – whoosh – the breakthrough will occur!