When you've been practising yoga for a while, you may feel compelled to progress your practice. The question is – how do you advance your yoga practice in a way that's fruitful for you?
Ask Your Yoga Practitioner
Many of us are loyal to one or two yoga studios. We get to know our teachers, develop a bond, connect with our fellow yogis and find support there. So when you're thinking about advancing your practice, your local studio is the best place to start.
Chat with the facilitators or teachers about the next steps. Are there more advanced classes on offer? Are you ready for teacher training, so you can become a yoga instructor yourself? Can they suggest new asanas you can work on at home, between classes?
It's also important not to rush on to more advanced poses if you're not ready for them. If your teacher has been working with you for a while, they'll be able to advise if you're primed for new postures, or need to keep working at your current level.
Your yoga teacher has walked the path before you. So never be afraid to ask for guidance.
Know Your Limits
The beauty of yoga is that it isn't a race. Don't worry about rushing through the levels – just go at your own pace and listen to what your body needs.
It's important to modify a posture if you have an injury. And approach each asana slowly and with focus. Rushing into new asanas when your body isn't ready puts you at risk of injury.
Practice Stillness
Remember that yoga isn't about physically mastering postures – although that's part of it. Yoga is about setting your intention, quieting your mind, being mindful and relaxing when challenged. So rather than striving to do a headstand, shift your focus. Am I still? Am I breathing properly? Can I focus? This may advance your practice in more profound ways than simply trying to contort your body into a new position.
Originally published on Jun 16, 2014
