Beginner Yoga sequences are made up of a few basic movements. Read on to get an introduction to this holistic practice.
Beginner yoga classes can be pretty intimidating for those who are brand new to Yoga. Everything will feel very alien, and even the beginner yoga sequences can feel quite uncomfortable. Muscle groups, ligaments, and tendons are all tensed and released in several ways, activating the parasympathetic nervous system, improving the blood flow, and increasing flexibility. The benefits of Yoga are numerous and having a familiarity with a novice Yoga routine will be of considerable aid when attending one’s first class.
The Most Famous Beginner Yoga Sequence
As a beginner Ashtanga Yoga student, the “Sun Salutation” will be pervasive in all classes attended. This essential collection of Yoga postures allows the student to warm the body, clear the mind and prepare for more vigorous positions later in the level.
The “Sun Salutation” is comprised of twelve steps. First, the yogi will stand straight, then raise his or her hands toward the sky before bending over at the waist. One leg step back; a breath is taken, then the second, leaving a push-up position. The upper body is then pushed through the space between the hands and curled up before going back into the “Downward Dog” post. From there, the alternate foot is left-back while the front foot leads into a lunge. After another forward bend, the body lifts and curls backwards before returning to a regular standing posture. Excellent animation of a “Sun Salutation” can be found at ABC-Of-Yoga.
Important Information for the Beginner Bikram Yoga Student
Bikram Yoga can also be referred to as “Hot Yoga” and involves moving through positions in a heated room (95-105 degrees). Although Bikram’s Yoga is a specific class, many Yoga studios choose to run heated classes involving beginner Ashtanga Yoga (more vigorous) and beginner Hatha Yoga (more peaceful).
Whether one is looking for beginner’s Yoga classes or trying a new way to practice, hot yoga can be quite demanding on the body. Because of the heat, the body will sweat profusely, which is said to have a detoxifying effect. All of that water must originate someplace, so if moving through new student Yoga sequences in a heated studio, please be sure to drink lots of water before, during and after the class.
Mastering the Novice Yoga Routine
After only a few classes, the beginner will be familiar with both the way a Yoga class is run and the positions they will be moving through. The “Sun Salutation” collects a few of these positions and understanding them will help the beginner no end. Remember that if you are looking to enjoy Hot Yoga, be sure to hydrate!