Even after practicing yoga for years, many people still struggle to build a consistent practice. Here are 5 tips you can apply that will help you in maintaining a life practice. How do you maintain it then? I share the tried-and-true tips I have discovered with you in this article, that will help you continue to advance.
Life can be challenging. Yoga practice prioritization might be hampered by work, stress, responsibilities to family and others, as well as household chores and other duties. Since there is so much to do, it is simple to think, “I’ll just take a week off! I’ll then return to it.
In my own practice, I’ve seen that while I can “get away” with taking a few days off without suffering any repercussions, eventually my tension and worry will start to increase. Ironically, I often find that rushing around doing chores (which I assume will make me feel better) makes me feel angrier! Time slows down, I feel more at peace and grounded, and I can really concentrate better when I set aside 30 to 45 minutes 3 to 4 days a week for practice.
So, what is the first step in keeping your practice going?
Don’t believe everything you think! The ‘busy mind’ will constantly throw tasks at you that will seem more important than your practice. Trust me: this list is infinite, and crossing a couple of tasks off your list will only cause more to get added. A simple approach could be to establish a mantra that helps you let go of the constant internal chatter. Mine would look something like: “More patience, greater presence( mindfulness), less stress…”. When your busy mind starts to throw tasks at you, immerse yourself in your mantra, feel it shift your mindset, and let it wash away those distracting thoughts.
The second step in keeping your practice going: Shake it up! You naturally change day to day so your practice may not need to stay the same. Explore the wide variety of practice and styles that are on offer and keep your practice fresh. Ashtanga, yin flow, hatha, restorative, meditation… on days that you feel a little tired, give yourself permission to do a yin, restorative, meditation or pranayama practice – those count as yoga, too!
The third step? Recognize the value of a super short class! Not all practices need to be an hour long. Even a 5 to 10 minute practice creates some much needed perspective and space in your day. Or, do a few short practices through the course of your day rather than one long practice, and experience the benefits of weaving your yoga practice through your daily life.
The fourth step? Create a dedicated practice space. You don’t need to have a fancy yoga room, but you may set aside a corner in one room to place your mat and perhaps a candle or other objects like your favourite blanket to use as a prop. By setting aside a special space, you are telling your mind that your yoga practice deserves to take up some time and space, everyday. The more you infuse that space with the energy and attention of your practice, the more of a resource it will become for you over time.
Finally, put your practice into your calendar and plan ahead. Sometimes having to decide what to practice in the moment can feel a little overwhelming. If you plan ahead, it will be easier to start the class before your mind starts coming up with ways to wiggle out of it! Also, by putting your yoga into your schedule, you are helping to proactively make your practice a priority.
Enjoy!
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