Yogasana practice has myriad purposes including both inner and outer strength, mental harmony, and physical tension relief. Above all, asana practice should be enjoyable. If you find yourself neglecting your daily asana practice or are unable to really get into your practice, you may be doing some things that are counterproductive.
Here are five very simple ways to have continuity in yoga practice:
1.Remove all distractions. Whether it is kids, your dog, or your cell phone, keep all distractions out of your practice space. You can even draw the curtains, light incense and a lamp with a bright burning flame or a candle, and close the doors if these things help you to focus and relax.
2.Don’t push yourself. Yogasana isn’t about trying to stretch as hard and as far as possible during your practice. It’s not about feeling the burn or putting yourself through immense amounts of pain either. True Yoga is only about finding your limits and working to transcend those limits, slowly optimizing your energy and the mood of the moment.
If you’re in pain after each practice, this could be one great reason why you aren’t enjoying it! Yogasana is not about pushing to the limits but is all about pulling deep into one’s being, core or essence.
3.Make sure to practice Shavasana. Even if you tend to fall asleep, it is worth it. It’s so easy to stay in the Shavasana pose for a few minutes while your mind wanders, but you’re cheating yourself if this is not how you end each practice. Shavasana actually has a lot of health and mental health benefits – plus, it’s the best way to close your practice and move on with your day. Don’t skip it!
4.Practice yogasana with an empty stomach. It’s really tough to concentrate on your body when your stomach is bursting with lunch or dinner. Eat a small snack one hour before you practice, but not just before you begin. Ideally, you want to keep both body and mind completely clear while you move through each pose.
5.Let your practice help to clear your mind. Instead of allowing your mind to wander as you go through each asana, allow your practice to completely clear your mind of all problems. Concentrate on your breath instead of on any thoughts that come your way. Focus on your body, on the breath in each asana, and listen keenly to what your body is telling you. Yogasana is extremely therapeutic when you treat it as such. It is a movement meditation when done with one-pointed focus.
Author: Brahmacharini Shobhana
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