admin We all know it; the one constant in life is change. Just as life changes around us, the beloved yoga routine, which felt so right some years ago, may not be the best for us anymore.
How can you tell if it is time to change things? Here are five warning signs that your yoga routine may no longer be working.
Your practice hasn’t inspired you in a while.
You may not feel inspired to put out your mat every time. That’s okay. These times show us the importance of consistency and routine. When we persist, even in the tough times, we develop. If you haven’t been inspired in a while, it might be time to reflect on your practice.
Do you repeat the same poses over and over? Are you avoiding a particular sequence or pose? You may need to change it up. Choose a more difficult routine or do more mini-sessions throughout the week.
You have made major changes to your lifestyle.
You may have started your yoga practice at a time when you had more free time or if your physical condition has changed. Check that your approach still complements your current life. It’s not uncommon for life to be very hectic. If we add a lot of powerful yoga practice on top of that, our body and nervous system can become overwhelmed.
If our lifestyle, however, is very calm and mellow, then Yin yoga may be too similar. Consider your lifestyle off the mat and what might complement it. Consider yourself a holistic being, and take care of yourself.
After every practice, you feel exhausted and drained.
Do you have a goal-oriented and driven personality that is reflected in your yoga practice? You may need to listen to your body if you feel exhausted after every yoga session or during the routine. Yoga can help you build strength and muscle tone, but it doesn’t happen overnight.
You can practice the prep poses before you move on to the full version of each posture. Give yourself space and time to grow. If you find yourself out of breath, remember to take a break and dial it back.
Every pose is “nailed” by you.
When your practice flows smoothly, you’ll feel strong, light, and in tune with your breath. The mat can also be a place for exploration, a place where you feel vulnerable and are willing to try new things.
Beginners are in a good place; after all, Yoga is a lifelong journey. Being a novice offers humility and a curious spirit. Try something new! Explore your inner feelings by attempting the pose you find most frightening (within reasonable limits). Balance is key.
You have forgotten why you practice in the first place.
We usually start Yoga with a purpose or calling that goes beyond the practice of asana. This is what pulls us to the mat. We explore the world of Yoga with great curiosity and openness. Something fascinating and sacred is waiting for us.
Do you want to learn more about Yoga and explore its many facets? You may find it beneficial to incorporate more yoga philosophy, pranayama, or meditation into your practice to help you rediscover your motivation.
We should be able to adapt our yoga practice as we grow without feeling any guilt. Slow down when you need to, or spice things up when you have energy. But always remain open-minded about your practice.
What is your current practice like? Are you still able to benefit from your training, or do you have a strong attachment to a particular type? Trust that you will find the right opportunity for you.
