What are the points to be followed before learning yoga?

When you decide to practice yoga for a better life and spiritual health, you need to keep the following in mind so that your body does not get hurt:

  • Physical condition of the person: Generally, it is recommended that people of normal health can practice yoga. But if you are suffering from some physical problems and are using yoga to cure it, then some precautions need to be followed as practicing yoga without proper precautions can have harmful effects on the body. This is because internal organs like heart, lungs, kidneys etc. are involved and damage can occur if you do not practice yoga properly. Hence, it is recommended that you follow the yoga techniques under the guidance of an expert.
  • Right Tip: You need a proper instructor to teach you yoga techniques. Usually, those who choose the profession of yoga teacher do not understand the scientific basis behind yoga practice and only impose their opinions and likes and dislikes on the students. They bring an element of mystery, charge exorbitant fees and introduce rites and rituals that are not part of yoga.
  • Age and gender: Yoga can be practiced by anyone, regardless of age and gender. However, it is important to note that certain yoga techniques should not be followed in certain circumstances. Pregnant or menstruating women should avoid Asana that put a lot of pressure on the abdomen. Children below eight years of age should not practice any yoga technique but should take yogic breathing only after twelve years. Very young and old people should avoid poses with intense twists. After a certain age, avoid strenuous exercise, but you can practice meditation and simple postures.
  • Location and surroundings: The place for yoga should be well protected from animals, rats and insects. If you choose an indoor room, it should be well lit and well ventilated. If you choose the outdoors, the surroundings should be calm. But avoid going outside if it is cold, rainy or very hot. The chosen land should be flat.
  • Timing: Morning is the ideal time for exercise as it involves regularity, but evening time can also be chosen as the body is already warmed up. Your stomach should not be too full. So if you have had your meal, you can do yoga after five hours.
  • Diet: Eat simple and nutritious food. Avoid over eating. Keep chilies and spices to a minimum. It is not necessary to be vegetarian but do not eat more than your body needs.
  • Intervals: It is advisable to be regular but if for some reason you have to miss a day or two due to a lot of work in the office or due to illness or any other reason, it is okay. But once the cause is gone, go back to your original routine. Do not take long and frequent gaps.
  • Clothing: Choose light and loose fitting clothing. If you live in a hot climate, you can opt for a sleeveless shirt or vest. However, in temperate climates, your clothing should provide protection from cold weather, but at the same time, they should not hinder your activities.
  • Asana: Always practice yoga on a mat or carpet, but never do it on the floor without a cover. 
  • Sequence of different techniques: When you are combining different techniques like Surya Namaste, weight training etc. with yoga, keep a fifteen minutes rest period between the two. Within yoga practice, begin with Asana techniques, followed by breathing techniques and techniques of mental concentration, in order.

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Rohita Singh was born and raised in Itanagar,Arunachal Pradesh and currently lives in Indore,Madhya Pradesh. She is a dedicated writer and planned to become a creative article writer.Now her dream comes true and started her career as article writer.