If you’re new to yoga or already have a regular yoga practice, having a special place at home for your daily enjoyment is both easily accessible and nurturing.
When we return to our mats we can transform ourselves to our own island of peace and relaxation, be that be your local yoga class, with friends in the park or practicing at home through live stream classes or pre-recorded or devising your own.
Practicing at home can also be a great way to grow your confidence if you’re new to yoga and not yet ready to attend a class. Equally if you attend a class regularly having a special space at home has many benefits, including easily returning to your mat when you need time for yourself to rekindle mind and body.
Setting up a space at home doesn’t need to be expensive, all you really need is a space to roll out your mat or even a towel to start, and a few yoga props such as yoga blocks and a strap, both of which can be substituted with items you may have already in your home. Alternately, with the popularity of yoga and the proven benefits of the practice, there are now many stores selling everything you need from entry level to high end prices.
To get you started here are some tips and ideas to set up your own yoga space at home.
The space
Firstly, find a space in your home where you can roll out your mat giving you enough space to lay down and stretch out.
When you have found it, declutter the space to bring calmness to the mind and body in the surroundings
Keep the space clean and organised
You may like to add one or more of the following to your yoga space
Add indoor plants
Candles to create a gentle light, you may like your favourite scent to soothe your senses
Incense for the scent and the meditative swirl of the smoke
Salt lamp
Something meaningful that makes you smile
Your favourite essential oil, you may like to rub a drop in the palms of your hands and inhale before you start your practice
Inspirational pictures
A Buddha or something that is meaningful to you for your practice of yoga
Low lighting for Yin
A Pillow for savanna or supporting you in a posture
An eye mask for savasana
Music to energise or relax you depending of your yoga practice
Home prop ideas
If your still deciding if to buy your own yoga mat and equipment you can improvise with these ideas
Use a towel or small rug for your mat
Use a rope, belt or resistance band in place of a yoga strap
Use a Tupperware container or thick book in place of yoga blocks
Any final tips?
Let your family members know when your doing your practice to keep you uninterrupted and at peace
Turn your mobile phone to silent
Turn off any email alerts to prevent any distractions
Inspirational cards to pick one and read at the start of your practice
Don’t over think it, keep it simple
You may also like to have your some clothes you change into which symbolises you time for the mat
You really don’t need anything fo fancy to enjoy the many benefits of yoga x
