Have you ever noticed how many people are doing Yoga these days? It has become one of the most widely used fitness practices in the country. If you have ever thought about trying it out, we recommend it. It is a very effective method for not only staying healthy physically, but mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well. The benefits of doing yoga stretch into all aspects of your life, and help you throughout the day.

Before trying out Yoga, take time to learn some of the basic considerations you should be aware of. This will help you to decide whether you want to try it out or not.

Lets go through some do’s and don’ts. Don’t be afraid to show your feet. Yoga is always done barefoot. It would be impolite to your instructor to wear shoes. It would also make the experience less effective.

Don’t be chompin’ on gum the whole time. Spit it out beforehand. Yoga requires you to be very still for extended periods of time, to help you focus your mind. This is impossible if you’re chewing gum the whole time.

Don’t eat before you go. You will find it much easier to bend and stretch and concentrate if you haven’t eaten for several hours. Plan ahead for your yoga class to arrange for this. If you do Yoga in the morning, you could consider eating something light, just to get your metabolism going.

Yoga is all about self control. Therefore if you have any addictions such as smoking, alcohol, or coffee, tea or anything else, try to quit and break the habit immediately. This will greatly enhance your ability to focus and gain control of yourself.

Pay attention to what you wear. Make sure your outfit is comfortable and keeps you feeling free. If you wear jeans, dresses, or dress shirts, you will wish you hadn’t. Make sure to wear clothes that keep you uninhibited from moving as much as you want. This will make a big difference.

Follow the tradition of using a Yoga Mat. You may not think it is important, but your mind can focus better when you use a mat because it perceives the mat as “your space” and doesn’t worry about taking in all of your surroundings as much. Also if you fall you will be grateful for your pad.

If you’re not flexible, don’t worry. That will come. Just give it the best you can and you will see results in your body, in your mind, and in your spirit.

Good Luck!