Yoga At Home

Most of my practice is yoga at home. I envy people who have the type of schedule and lifestyle where they can consistently visit studios and retreats, but right now, my usual reality is different. You may be in the same situation, so here are some tips and strategies for developing an effective and satisfying home practice:

Your first decision is WHEN to practice yoga at home. If you listen to the advice given by most experts, they will tell you to practice on an empty stomach when you first wake up. Because of the length of my morning work week commute, I can't do this consistently unless I get up at 4:30 am, which I am not willing to do. I also dislike practicing late in the evening, but that's usually the only free time that I have since the work day, the commute, and family time all combine to take up most of the hours in my week. My solution is to give up the fantasy of an hour to practice during the work week, but instead I do a few poses at a time when my schedule is busiest during the work week, and I enjoy the luxury of longer routines on the weekends when my practice isn't competing with my job. The bottom line is that you have to try different times of day and evening to determine what works best for your life circumstances. The best time to practice yoga is the time that you are actually able to do it.

The second decision when you are practicing at home is WHERE to practice. In an ideal world, you would have a physical space completely dedicated to your practice. But most of us, including me, do not have this type of room. Sometimes I practice alone in my home's master bedroom, and often I practice in the living room while my family goes about their activities all around me. It isn't the quietest or most peaceful solution, but it is better than not doing yoga because I am waiting for the optimally serene location and circumstances!

The third decision is WHAT EQUIPMENT to purchase. To complete most routines, you only need a mat, a couple of yoga bricks, and a yoga strap. Some routines also use a yoga wedge, but not all do. One of the best Web sites from which to purchase yoga gear is Gaiam.com.