7 Yoga Essentials for Beginners

The age-old practice of Yoga has interested and brought together seekers from diverse backgrounds. Today, a great number of seekers from across the globe enroll themselves for  Yoga teacher training courses in India. Consequently, a majority of these enroll themselves for a Yoga teacher training in Rishikesh - the world capital of Yoga. Although Yoga may seem overwhelming to a beginner, the best part about it is that anyone can practise it, at any level. These Yoga schools offer month long complete immersion courses which are one of a kind - 100 and 200 hour YTTCs for beginners and 300 hour YTTCs and more like Yoga retreats for advanced learning. Listed below are a few Yoga essentials curated especially for beginners to help them get into the zone and feel comfortable during their practice -

1. Yoga Apparel -

The most important thing to take note of is to wear comfortable and breathable clothing, that allows you to stretch and move with ease. Invest in clothing like sports bras, tank tops, Yoga pants, leggings and a pair of Yoga socks that absorb all your sweat. Ensure that you get the right fit for yourself.

2. Yoga Mat -

Naturally, the next most important thing is your Yoga mat. Consider the following things before getting yourself a Yoga mat - your body type, place of practice and the mat’s texture, thickness, stickiness & durability. Possessing your own Yoga mat will help you set your personal space in class and render a sense of belongingness.

3. Yoga Towel - 

Based on your preferred style of Yoga, you may work up a sweat during your practice. This will end up  making your mat slippery and likely to cause an injury and hence it is important to invest in a Yoga towel. While a beach towel would serve the purpose just fine, you may consider getting yourself a towel made from an extra-absorbent material if you intend to indulge in power Yoga or a similar practice.

4. Yoga Strap -

A Yoga strap is an amazing Yoga prop for beginners as they assist in alignment, balance and posture whilst practising Yoga. These straps provide length when you can’t reach your feet, allowing you to stretch your body further and enhance your practice.

5. Yoga Blocks & Wheel -

Yoga blocks are advantageous for practitioners of all levels as they offer great stability and improve alignment whilst practising. Available in different sizes and materials, these blocks can be used as a hand or foot rest and can help you deepen your stretch and reach a difficult pose. A Yoga wheel serves the same purpose - offers support and improves flexibility and is loved by Yogis for its versatility.

6. Yoga Bolsters -

Yoga bolsters are essentially pillows that offer support to your body during and after the practice. They help you hold your pose for longer while remaining steady and comfortable. Yoga bolsters are widely used in restorative Yoga classes as they help your body relax and stretch while allowing you to focus on your breath.

7. Water Bottle -

Lastly, do not forget to carry a water bottle to your Yoga class. Yoga involves performing poses and practising breathing exercises, which tend to cause sweat and exhaustion. Hence, to be able to practice well it is of utmost importance to stay hydrated regardless of the style of Yoga.