The following are tips that may help you to prepare for your yoga practice at home, to enable you to fully enjoy your time.
If possible, create a space that you can use as your yoga space, if it is not possible then try and keep some things familiar. Some people find having a nice smell in the space helps them with their practice… if it doesn’t interfere with your breathing and it is practical to do so, light some incense, candles, spray a nice smell or perhaps, if possible, open a window for fresh-air smells. This is not an essential part of your practice just a suggestion that may or may not help you to relax during your practice.
If you would like to use music for your practice then please feel free to use relaxing music in the background.
It is important, if possible, to decide on the temperature of the room or consider layered clothing in case you become too hot or cold. It might be helpful to have a blanket in your space in case you need it.
Roll out your mat and check that it is comfortable for you – and that you are not going to bump into things and hurt yourself.
Check what props you might need, pillows, blocks (books also do the same jobs) blankets and anything else that might help to make you to feel comfortable.
Children and pets are all very welcome… if possible, this time is for you so try not to let them distract you – if they want to join in or to be near you, then don’t worry – this is all good. The main thing is that you are OK with whatever that looks like.
It might be useful to go to the toilet prior to the session to avoid being distracted whilst practicing.
If possible please turn your mobile phone off or on to silent, to avoid distracting others from their practice.
Unlike when we are together in a room, I will only be able to see a small part of what you are doing – and depending on your camera-angle and comfort, might not be able to see you at all. Therefore, it is really important to listen to your body, if it doesn’t feel right then the chances are it’s not!
Please remember that all bodies are different – they move in different ways and we don’t all look the same – that is the beauty of being human. Be compassionate with yourself as you move through the postures and enjoy the experience.