A great yoga practice doesn’t start when you roll out your mat; it starts with the way you prepare your body and mind, both before and after. Having a good routine around your yoga session can really help you make the most of your practice and feel amazing long after. Here’s a guide to preparing for yoga, enjoying it to the fullest, and winding down afterward.
Before Yoga:
To get ready for yoga, it’s helpful to warm up your muscles gently. Simple stretches, like shoulder rolls, arm swings, or light leg stretches, can help loosen your body and increase blood flow. Cat-Cow stretches are also excellent as they wake up the spine and gently engage your core. Spend five to ten minutes warming up to prepare your body for deeper movements and poses.
When it comes to hydration, try to drink water about 30 minutes before starting. This gives your body time to absorb the water without feeling full. Eating is best kept light and done about 1-2 hours before your session; a banana or handful of nuts are good options, providing some energy without weighing you down. Yoga on a very full or empty stomach can feel uncomfortable, so find a balance that works for you.
As for timing, yoga can be practiced any time of day, depending on your lifestyle. Morning yoga is energising and can help set a positive tone for the day, while evening sessions can be relaxing and offer a good way to unwind before bed. Many find early morning, when the mind is clear and free from daily stress, to be a fantastic time to practice. But if mornings are tough, it’s perfectly fine to do yoga whenever it feels right for you.
During Yoga:
Focus on your breathing as you move through your poses. Breathing deeply and evenly helps you stay centred and improves each stretch, twist, or pose. Take breaks if needed, and always listen to your body—pushing too hard can lead to soreness or injury. Enjoying your practice is key to making it effective and sustainable.
After Yoga:
Cooling down after yoga is as important as warming up. Gentle stretches, like a seated forward fold or lying spinal twist, help release any leftover tension in your muscles. Practising Savasana (corpse pose) for a few minutes lets your body absorb the benefits of your session, leaving you feeling refreshed and centred.
Afterward, drinking a glass of water can help you rehydrate, especially if your session was intense or you practiced in a hot environment. Avoid heavy meals immediately after yoga; stick to light, nutritious snacks if you’re hungry, like a smoothie or a handful of nuts, as they’re easy to digest and give you a quick energy boost.
By building these simple routines around your yoga practice, you’ll feel more energised, relaxed, and balanced both on and off the mat. Just remember: yoga is about connecting with yourself, so listen to your body’s needs and find a routine that works best for you. Enjoy the journey, and let your practice enrich your day!