I hear all the time when I teach yoga, “I'll be at the back because I am not very good” or “I can’t do yoga because I am not flexible” or even “yoga is boring”.

Yoga isn’t about being good at something or even looking a certain way. It's about breath, connection, and awareness. What shows up on the mat, I believe, is a reflection of what is going on in your everyday life.

So with that said, if you are judging yourself on your yoga mat - where else are you judging yourself? If you are looking at your watch and wishing you were somewhere else, not staying present - where else are you not present in your life?

In this blog, we'll explore how to get started in yoga, as a beginner. I'll cover my 5 top tips for getting on the mat.

1. Find the right practice for you and your needs

There are many styles of yoga and each one is honestly very different. If you are brand new, you might want to find a beginner's Vinsyasa flow or a basic Hatha class. Yin yoga is also such a great practice if you need to slow down and ground yourself.

When I first practiced Yin yoga, I found it incredibly difficult. Staying in a pose for 5 mins and relaxing. You would think that was easy, but no. All sorts of things happen when you slow down.

If you want more of a strong practice, I would recommend Power, Rocket, Mandala, or Ashtanga. However let me warn you, if you scroll Instagram and have the perception that yoga is easy, think again. I thought I was fairly strong and flexible, but when I first tried yoga, I was proven otherwise! Expect to be physically and emotionally challenged.

If you're still not sure which style of yoga suits you best, speak to an experienced yoga instructor who will help you find your way.

2. Find a teacher you love and enjoy practice with

This can take a little bit of time, so be patient. Over the years of practicing and then becoming a teacher, I have realised every single person brings their personality and fun to a class. But, just like in life, you aren’t going to love everyone.

Sometimes I have found the reason why I haven’t liked a class isn’t because of the teacher but because it brought something out in me. Again, what comes out on the mat is a reflection of everyday life.

3. Don't worry about what to wear

You don’t need fancy clothes to attend a class. You can practice in your pajamas online in your bedroom if you like. My one and only top tip, are to check your leggings aren’t see-through. If they are, wear big pants with them. We tend to spend a lot of time with our bums in the air so you don’t want to feel self-conscious. H&M has some great affordable sportswear so if you don’t own a pair of leggings or workout trousers, start there.

"Yoga isn't just something you practice in class - it will start to change the way you live your life."

4. Create the time

Fitting yoga into your schedule is going to require some time. If you are a super busy person then practicing at home might be a good option or finding a local studio and working out what times and classes you can manage.

When you start to fall in love with your practice you will find that it turns into a non-negotiable part of your day or week. Yoga isn’t just something you practice in a class - it will start to change the way you live your life.

5. Don't give up

It’s a slow process but quitting won’t speed it up. Like anything worth having or changing it's going to take time.

For me, yoga is now a lifestyle. Sometimes I practice more than others but it's a part of me and who I am. The more I practice the more I am connected to myself, make better decisions and physically feel better. Someone once told me, Your body is your temple. Treat it with the utmost respect that it deserves.

"The more I practice, the more I am connected to myself, make better decisiosn and physically feel better."

If you're looking to get started in yoga, explore my bespoke yoga package. My aim is to help you reconnect with your body and mind, and feel good in your skin. The package not only will help you get on track with your yoga package, but is personalised to suit you and your lifestyle. I'll work closely with you looking at various elements of your life to help you get the best out of your practice and help you transform your body, mind and ultimately lifestyle.