5 Tips to Start (or Restart) Your Yoga Practice
Yoga can be a wonderful journey whether you’re just starting out, looking to restart your practice, or hoping to spice things up. No matter where you are on your yoga path, these five tips will help you create a spark in your practice and reconnect with your body, mind, and spirit.
1. Start Where You Are
We all have different bodies, stories, energy levels, and experiences on the mat. It’s essential to accept where you are in your practice without judgment. Whether you’re using props like blocks, straps, or bolsters, remember that these tools are for everyone—not just beginners or those who need “extra help.” Yoga is not about perfection; it’s about practicing with curiosity, listening to your body, and making choices that work for you.
If you’re a beginner, I recommend starting with classes that are labeled as beginner-friendly or Hatha yoga, which will help you learn the foundational postures and feel more embodied in your practice. At True Love Yoga, we even have a flow chart on our website that directs beginners to the classes that are best suited for them.
2. Find a Style That Works for You
Yoga isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are so many different styles—from vigorous, active practices to deeply relaxing ones like Yoga Nidra (the yoga of sleep). If you haven’t found a style that resonates with you, be open to trying different types. Some days, you may need something more dynamic, while other days call for relaxation and restoration. Yoga is about choosing your own journey, and there is a practice for everyone.
3. Find the Right Teacher and Community
The right teacher and community can make all the difference in your yoga practice. Whether online or in person, it’s important to feel a connection with your teacher and respect their teaching style. Every teacher offers something unique—some excel at creating beautiful playlists, while others are great at helping you tune into your internal sensations through somatics.
Just like there are a variety of teachers, there are also many yoga communities. Finding one that feels inclusive, welcoming, and supportive is key. At True Love Yoga, we’ve worked hard to create a warm and inviting space where everyone feels seen and supported. It’s worth exploring a few different communities until you find the one that fits best for you.
4. Be Patient with Your Progress
Yoga is a lifelong practice, and rushing through it won’t serve you in the long run. It’s important to honor your “edge”—the place where challenge feels appropriate without pushing into pain or injury. Overexertion can lead to burnout or injury, so take the time to figure out a pace that feels sustainable for you.
Progress in yoga isn’t just physical. It’s also mental, emotional, and spiritual. Maybe you’re working on a challenging posture like crow pose—it might take time (sometimes years) to get there, and that’s okay. What’s important is enjoying the process and staying patient with yourself along the way.
5. Embrace the Full Yoga Experience
Yoga is about so much more than just the physical postures. It’s about cultivating a deeper relationship with your body, your breath, and your mind. Over time, yoga helps you develop compassion, curiosity, and a new awareness of yourself.
If you’re enjoying yoga and want to go deeper, I encourage you to explore the philosophy behind it. You can start with reading resources like Living the Sutras, attending workshops, or diving into podcasts like this one. Yoga is a deep and ancient practice, so there’s always something new to discover.
Start Your Journey Today
Whether you’re new to yoga or looking to reignite your practice, these tips can help guide you. If you’re in the Kansas City area or want to practice with us online, check out our offerings at True Love Yoga. We have classes for all levels and would love to support you on your yoga journey.
You can also listen to more episodes of the Deepen Your Practice podcast for more insights into yoga, philosophy, and how to deepen your practice.
