With a new year just around the corner you may be thinking about a yoga practice resolution. Now we all know that resolutions have proven themselves challenging, often our resolutions are pointed towards a deeper, more complex, lifestyle change. This type of change is gradual, and it’s slow to achieve. So here are a few tips on how to stick to your yoga practice goals.
Be honest with yourself We have a lot of expectations of what we “should” do based on external pressure from those around us. If you’re not a morning person, why drag yourself to a 6:00 am class? There is no right or wrong way, it just has to work best for you and your lifestyle. Find a teacher and class that you LOVE When I see my favorite teacher on the schedule, it makes me so excited to get to class. I can’t wait to see her and what she has in store for us. Find a teacher and yoga style that you truly love and it will add another layer of motivation to stick to your practice!
Get prepared Set yourself up for success by getting everything you need ready, prior to your practice. This means pack your yoga bag with everything you need for your practice. When you see your bag, it’s a cue to remind you of your goals and to stick to your plan for that day. It also cuts down on time and stress of scrambling to get things ready last minute before you’re trying to leave.
Create a routine When you find out what works for you, make it a routine. That way, when every Monday (or whatever day) comes around, you’ll automatically think: it’s yoga day! Block out a chunk of your calendar for yoga and treat this time as non-negotiable/essential time.
Be gentle on yourself Don’t beat yourself up if you fall out of your routine for a moment. Life happens. Things will come up. So, remember to keep things in perspective—you are making a lifestyle change. Each day is another day to take small steps towards your goal. I hope these tips help you to find what works best for you. Remember to let go of external pressures, you and your practice are unique! For more information on our private yoga classes in Marbella visit balancedmindandbodyyoga.com or email balancedmindandbodyyoga@gmail.com
ABOUT OUR TEACHERS
Susan Perry
Based in Marbella, Spain and originally from Australia, Susan holds a RYT 200 hours certification with Yoga Alliance and is currently completing her 500 hours. Susan teachers Vinyasa, Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra and Pilates. With an emphasis on balancing the physical, mental and emotional state through a guided practice.