Whether it’s a pile of laundry, scores of emails, rambunctious children or the draw of a binge-worthy series, carving out time to practice yoga at home can be a challenge. But if you decide that your yoga is all about balance, creating an at-home routine may be easier than you think. Here are a few tips to get you started.
- Make your yoga about self-care. You don’t need another thing on your to-do list, so allow your yoga practice to be a tool for self-compassion, not self-criticism.
- Empower yourself. Your practice doesn’t have to look the same every day. Check in with yourself frequently and let your movements, breath, and intention be informed by what you need to feel balanced in the moment. Some days may require more strength, while others may require softness.
- Don’t watch the clock. If you have 60 minutes to practice, then great! If you have 10 minutes to practice, then great! Or maybe you carve out chunks of time throughout the day for multiple mini-sessions. Ideas include: 10 sun salutations before lunch; hourly 5-minute yoga breaks from the computer; after-dinner gentle practice (aka – rolling around in your pajamas.)
- Make a routine. Sometimes it helps to set a specific time each day for your practice. If this is not possible, try linking your practice to other tasks that you’re already doing. For example: standing stretches while the coffee brews; mantra while you garden; mediation in the shower.
Set the scene. Create a set-up in your home where you feel grounded and inspired. Keep your props and yoga accessories handy. If you don’t have props, get creative and make your own. Sofa cushions make great bolsters. They’re more supportive than bed pillows. Belts and scarves work perfectly as straps. Throws and towels can easily substitute for traditional yoga blankets. No blocks? No problem. Raid your pantry to find items of different heights. Just make sure that they are sturdy and won’t collapse under your weight. Pictured here are two laundry detergent containers (with handles!) and two jars of spaghetti sauce.
- Live your yoga. Read uplifting books and articles, practice mindfulness while you do the dishes, breathe well, get outside and move, forgive yourself when you forget to practice, and above all – be kind to yourself and others.
Keep at it, and know that all of us at Radiance Yoga are here for you. Our new set of online classes will release soon (stay tuned!) so we can continue practicing together from home. We look forward to seeing you in the studio again soon!
