Anyone can do yoga, but it’s not always easy. In fact, for some people, starting a yoga practice can be downright challenging. Yoga being challenging is especially true for those who want to move on to more advanced or demanding postures.
But with a bit of knowledge and preparation, you can ease into even the most challenging yoga poses and enjoy all of the benefits they offer. Here are our top tips for transitioning to a more advanced yoga practice.
Start With A Beginner’s Yoga Class
The best way to get started with more challenging postures is to join a beginner’s yoga class. A good instructor will be able to show you proper form and alignment for each pose and provide corrective guidance if needed.
In addition to learning the basics of yoga, a beginner’s class will also allow you to learn modifications and variations of poses that can be tailored to your level. This way, you can start with the most basic pose version and gradually increase the challenge as your strength and flexibility improve.
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask for Help
If you’re having trouble with a particular pose or movement, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Many yoga studios offer private yoga sessions with a certified instructor, which can be very helpful in gaining the skills and confidence you need to move on to more advanced poses.
In addition, many experienced yogis are more than willing to offer advice and guidance if you ask. Don’t be afraid to reach out and get the help you need.
According to Matt Scarfo, NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Resident Training & Nutrition Expert at Liftvault, "If you’re able to get some hands-on guidance, that can be one of the best ways to ensure proper form and maximize progress."
Practice At Home
In addition to attending yoga classes, you should also make time for regular practice at home. Doing this will allow you to work on poses and movements you struggle with within a supportive and comfortable environment.
In addition, practicing at home can help to deepen your understanding of the poses and increase your overall confidence in them because you can get familiar with them in your own time. You won't be rushing through a class or feel pressured to “keep up” with the group.
Be Patient
One of the more challenging aspects of transitioning to more advanced postures is staying patient with yourself. It can be tempting to try, and “force” your body into a pose or push past your physical limits to progress quickly.
But remember that yoga is a practice of self-discovery, and it’s essential to listen to your body and move at a comfortable and sustainable pace. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a yoga practice! You can eventually work your way up to more challenging postures with patience and regular practice.
Use Props When Needed
One of the best ways to transition to more advanced postures is to use props. Blocks, blankets, straps, and bolsters are all beneficial in providing extra support and comfort, making it much easier to get into challenging poses.
These props also provide additional stability, which can be helpful when balancing in challenging poses. Don’t be afraid to use props – they’re great for easing into more advanced postures.
Take Your Time
Taking your time means not rushing through a yoga practice. Instead of finishing as quickly as possible, focus on taking time and being mindful of each pose and movement.
By slowing down, you’ll have more time to warm up your body, practice proper alignment and form, and connect with each pose. Taking your time also allows you to gradually build strength, flexibility, and endurance – all of which are important for progressing to more advanced postures.
Breathe Deeply
Something that many yoga students overlook is the importance of breathing deeply. Deep yogic breathing enables you to relax and focus on the present moment, which can be incredibly helpful in easing into challenging poses.
By taking slow, deep breaths, you’ll be able to keep your focus and energy while moving through each pose. Doing this will also help ensure that your body is properly warmed up and ready for more advanced postures. Breathing deeply can also help better manage the symptoms of delayed onset muscle soreness.
Listen To Your Body
Part of breathing profoundly is listening to your body. Pay attention to how a pose or movement feels in your body and adjust accordingly. If a posture or movement doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to back off.
It’s better to take your time and practice with patience than to risk injuring yourself by pushing beyond your physical limits. By listening to your body and respecting its limits, you’ll be more likely to transition into advanced postures safely.
Don’t Push Yourself Too Hard
Getting caught up in trying to get the “perfect” pose or movement can be easy, but it’s important to remember that yoga is a practice of self-discovery and exploration. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to “get it right” – relax and enjoy the process.
Approaching your yoga practice with curiosity and openness means you’ll be more likely to transition into advanced postures gradually. Doing this can also help reduce anxiety or fear of failure, leading to a deeper connection with your practice.
Stay Positive
Finally, and maybe most importantly, stay positive! Yoga is a beautiful practice with profound physical and emotional benefits, but it’s important to remember that it’s also a challenge.
When transitioning into more advanced postures, it’s normal to feel frustrated or discouraged sometimes. So remember to stay positive and be kind to yourself – with the right attitude and a little patience, you’ll be able to ease into more advanced postures.
Bottom Line
These tips can help you transition into more advanced yoga postures quickly and confidently. As with any new activity, practicing safely and listening to your body as you progress is essential. With a little bit of patience and dedication, you'll be able to reap the full benefits of a more advanced yoga practice.
In addition, as you transition into more advanced postures, remember to focus on breathing deeply and listening to your body. Taking the time to warm up properly, practicing with patience, and using props when necessary can help ease into these poses safely and help you reap the full benefits of a deeper yoga practice. With the right mindset and dedication, you’ll be able to reap the full benefits of these poses and reach your goals.
