Ready, set, do yoga! What’s holding you back from integrating yoga into your training plan? Afraid to start? Here’s some tips to get you started:
How to Approach Your Yoga:
Let go of the Ego.
- You’re not in competition so don’t treat it like one.
- Don’t worry what your fellow yogi is doing. Keep your eyes on your on mat and be patient with yourself.
- Like in running, when we don’t listen to our body and let our ego run the show, that’s when we get hurt.
Do not harm.
- If you experience pain stop.
- Start off slowly and gradually pick up the pace of your practice just like you would do with your running.
- They call it a practice for a reason. It takes time, energy and patience. Be honest with yourself.
- Know how you’re showing up on your mat—energetically and physically
- Be aware of your experience level and how your body is feeling.
Breathe.
- If you’re not breathing, it means you’re going to far.
- Make sure to keep a smooth rhythmic breath throughout your practice. This will be challenging at first but will come naturally with time and will help you with your running.
Use Props.
- Props have a bad reputation for only being for those new to yoga but props are essential in allowing you to go deeper into poses.
- Let the props support your practice.
Have Fun!
- Allow yourself to be playful and enjoy the movement.
- The more fun you have, the more you will get out of the practice.
Class Options:
- Yoga for Runners Class, Sundays 12:45pm to 1:45pm at JP Centre Yoga, 670 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, $10 (drop-in or pre-register)
- Practice with me via my app!
- Sequences that can be done at home, http://www.caragilman.com/archives/category/yoga-for-runners-2
- Other class options, http://www.caragilman.com/teaching-schedule
- Questions? Tips? E-mail cara.gilman@gmail.com
