What not to worry about when starting yoga

What not to worry about when starting yoga as a complete beginner and a little bit of help to get started.

'I'm not flexible enough...'
THE comment every yoga teacher has heard more than once! It's very easy to think that yoga is all about being flexible when the glossy picture in magazines show ladies bending backwards and touching their toes to the top of their head but alas, there is so much more to gain than flexibility! How about calming the mind or learning to meditate to achieve a bit more inner peace? Flexibility comes from dedication and persistence and unless you are lucky enough to be built like a piece of rubber achieving the most beautiful advanced poses takes a long time. So don't fret about not being able to straighten your legs completely when forward folding, just enjoy the stretch, breathe and smile :)

'I'm going to be really bad...'
Everyone has to be a beginner at some point to become an expert! And that's why we use blocks, blankets, straps, walls and chairs in yoga. Everyone needs help at some point, whether it be for balance or because of tight, restricting muscles, the props are there to aid and ease the practice (and most importantly to not let you injury yourself or get frustrated cause thats no fun.) Even if you do fall over or can't sit still while doing some pranayama, the most important thing is to smile, laugh and keep going. 

'I'm not spiritual...'
I can perfectly understand that some people feel uncomfortable during spiritual aspects of yoga which is why you should always do a bit of research before trying different types. Some styles are very spiritual and include a lot of meditating and working with energy within the body, such as kripalu and kundalini yoga whereas others focus more of the physical elements, such as triyoga or yin yoga. If you have any questions about the yoga you are interested in don't be afraid to ask the teacher. They'll be able to sort out any queries you have and give you some more insights into whether the style is right for you. There is a style of yoga for everyone so give a few ago and have fun with them!

'I don't have time...'

One of my all time favourite quotes is "If you have time for Facebook, you have time for yoga." Man, it gets me so motivated every time I read it! I want to slam my laptop shut and jump onto my mat like an excited puppy! It also helps to get my nose out of my technology and tune into my body which is vital for everyday happiness. So, next time you want to try some yoga but feel like you haven't got any spare time, get off the internet for an hour or put your phone away and have a stretch. If your time management means your schedule is packed out there is always a spare few minutes for some stretching in your desk chair or breathing in the car while waiting at traffic lights. Give it a go and let the endorphins flow and the smile grow!

So, being a beginner can feel a little daunting if you've never tried yoga but be brave and you could try a couple of videos on your own to try some different styles and ask any questions you have to your local yoga teacher. Before you know it, 20 minutes every other day could turn into an hour a day. Have fun, listen to your body and smile!