10 Common Questions from Those Who Want to Start Practicing Yoga
1. What is yoga?
Yoga is a practice that combines physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation to enhance both mental and physical well-being.
2. What are the benefits of yoga?
Benefits include improved flexibility, strength, balance, reduced stress, and relief from anxiety and depression symptoms. Yoga also fosters self-awareness, which can help you transform and change physical and mental habits that might be harmful. The meditation aspect of yoga helps you become less reactive, creating space between thoughts to act consciously rather than simply reacting to external circumstances—or even your own thoughts.
3. Do I need to be flexible to practice yoga?
No, yoga adapts to all levels of flexibility and physical condition. In fact, practicing yoga can help improve your flexibility over time.
4. How often should I practice yoga?
It’s recommended to practice at least 2 to 3 times per week to experience yoga’s wonderful benefits. The more, the better! I always suggest starting at home with 5 rounds of Sun Salutation in the morning. You can find online classes to guide you and easily incorporate this quick, transformative sequence into your day.
5. Which type of yoga is best for beginners?
Hatha or Vinyasa yoga are great options for beginners as they are more accessible, but any style can be adapted for beginners. Learn more about yoga styles and class formats in this post.
6. Can I practice yoga if I have injuries?
Yes, but it’s advisable to consult a doctor for proper guidance based on your specific condition. Yoga is not about perfect postures or forcing your body; it’s about the journey, your breathing, and building the pose in your body gradually, without pain and with necessary adaptations. A good instructor will adjust postures to meet your needs.
I, Caína, started yoga because of a lumbar hernia. I practiced with limitations but kept evolving. Surprisingly, one of the hardest poses for me has always been Shavasana—lying down, surrendering, and relaxing.
7. Can yoga help with stress?
Yes, many studies show that yoga effectively reduces stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and well-being. The practice cultivates presence and teaches you to use your breath more effectively to relax both body and mind.
8. Do I need special equipment to practice yoga?
A yoga mat is essential—having your own is important. Since you’ll sweat and come into close contact with the mat, it’s a personal and hygienic item. I don’t recommend using mats provided by gyms or studios. If you’re attending a trial class, bring a towel to place over the mat.
Other accessories like blocks, straps, cushions, or zafus are optional but can support your practice. Depending on the type of yoga you choose, these might even be provided by the studio.
9. Is yoga a religion?
No. While yoga has roots in spiritual traditions, it can be practiced regardless of personal religious beliefs. Some places include chanting mantras or references to Indian deities, but that’s not universal. Many studios and instructors offer yoga practices without religious involvement. However, yoga often fosters spiritual connection through introspection and expanded awareness achieved via meditation.
10. Do I need special yoga clothes to practice?
No, you don’t need specific yoga clothing to start. And that’s coming from us, who make yoga wear! What truly matters is comfortable clothing that allows your body to move freely and breathe without restricting movement.
At Iná Yogawear, we design clothes that provide this comfort and well-being, with sustainable production, cutting-edge fabric technology, and high quality and durability. Our pieces are made to move your body and soul.
Want to start practicing with ultimate comfort and style? Pick your favorite piece here and get on the mat—no excuses! 😊