Starting Out
Sign up for a yoga class so you'll learn the different positions and the proper form. Once you have mastered the basics, you can pretty much practice yoga anytime, anywhere.
Target areas:
There are many different types of yoga, ranging from the peaceful to the very physically challenging. But all forms promote flexibility and, to a lesser degree, muscle strength, which in turn gives you good posture and long, lean muscles. Many forms of yoga will make you sweat, but yoga generally does't confer aerobic benefits. Other pluses: Since yoga is a form of meditation, it helps relieve stress. It also improves your balance and concentration.
The Warm-Up and Cool-Down
Yoga incorporates both a warm-up and a cool-down into the discipline. Since yoga is comprised of stretches, you won't need to do any before getting started, unless you have muscles that are particularly tight. You may want to set aside a few minutes to clear your mind and prepare mentally for class.
Your instructor should take you through a cool-down, but if she doesn't offer one or if you're doing yoga at home, just shake your body out and walk around for a few minutes.
The Right Stuff
Having some basic gear and clothing will make all the difference in your enjoyment of a sport, not to mention your performance. Here's what you'll need:
Clothing: Wear clothes that allow freedom of movement. You don't need shoes or socks.
Mat: One should be provided in class. A towel is a decent substitute.
Pro Talk Mini-Glossary
Want to talk like a pro? The mini-glossary has the terms you need:
Ashtanga: The most intense form of yoga, in which you constantly change positions. This type requires a more thorough cool-down.
Yogi: A master or instructor.
Asanas: The many positions of yoga, which have names such as Sun Salutation, Lotus Posture and Shooting Bow Posture. Asana is a Sanskrit word that literally means "to sit down or sit in a position."
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