I first experienced yoga (and by yoga I mean asana-based practices) when traveling the world as a professional figure skater, when I was young, healthy, and fit.
I thought that the only way to practice yoga was in person, at a trendy studio in downtown New York City, or in a little boutique studio in the middle of Barcelona.
There, I was instructed on how to perform dance-like movements to the beat of some trendy tunes, and I enjoyed it because I felt like I was good at it.
In the same way that I could go to the theatre on a Friday night, or go for coffee with a couple of friends every once in a while, sometimes I went to yoga.
Although I benefited from these sporadic yoga practices, I truly discovered yoga’s life-changing effects when I was diagnosed with a chronic illness.
I had never considered the importance of having a home yoga studio until going to a yoga studio wasn’t appealing to me anymore; I no longer felt young, healthy, or fit.
In this article, I want to share with you some of the insights I gained as I rediscovered the yoga practice from a new, more accessible perspective, and how creating a home yoga studio helped me develop a sustainable and adaptable daily yoga routine.
We’ll talk about:
Read on!
Beyond the Studio: Embracing Home Yoga
In my early yoga days, I believed that the only authentic way to experience yoga was within the confines of a studio, and although I occasionally took some classes that were quite fun, I often found that I didn’t fit in.
After being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and being urged to meditate in order to alleviate stress and anxiety, I finally discovered online yoga.Starting to practice yoga at home allowed me to practice in a way that adapted to what I needed at any given time; whether I was feeling healthy and strong, or in pain and in need of a gentle session.
This flexibility became a lifeline in managing my health condition. Yet, as I delved deeper into my home practice, I realized that the benefits extended far beyond.
The concept of home yoga is a powerful shift from the conventional studio-centric approach, offering a plethora of advantages that make it an inclusive and accessible choice for practitioners of all backgrounds and abilities:
- At home, there’s no pressure to conform to a specific class pace or style. You can tailor your practice to your unique needs, whether you are just beginning, dealing with health challenges, or a seasoned practitioner to expand your practice beyond the studio space.. This inclusivity allows yoga to become a practice for everybody, promoting a sense of empowerment and self-acceptance.
- Life’s demands often make it challenging to adhere to rigid studio schedules. Home yoga provides the freedom to practice at any time, making it feasible for folks with busy lives, varied work hours, or familial responsibilities. The ability to carve out moments for yoga without external constraints fosters consistency, supporting a sustainable and long-term practice.
- Studio memberships, commute expenses, and class fees can be prohibitive for many. Home yoga eliminates these financial barriers, making the practice accessible to a broader demographic.
- The home environment offers a safe and familiar space for cultivating mental well-being through yoga. Away from the potential judgments or distractions of a public setting, when you create a home yoga studio, you can delve deeper into meditation, mindfulness, and breathwork. This intimate connection with your mental landscape contributes to stress reduction and emotional balance.
- Home yoga places the responsibility back in your hands. The autonomy to practice with your favorite teachers, choose the styles that fit your needs at any given time, and be able to choose the duration of each session, empowers you to craft a practice that resonates with your specific goals and aspirations. This sense of ownership fosters a more profound connection to the practice, encouraging self-discovery and personal growth.
Building Your Sanctuary: 8 Tips For Creating a Home Yoga Studio
When you start to practice at home, it can be a bit daunting.
Especially if you don’t have a dedicated space where you won’t be disturbed, practicing at home may seem almost impossible.
Creating an at home yoga studio or space can greatly increase your ability to show up on your mat day after day.
Here are some things to keep in mind when creating your at-home yoga studio:
1# Choose a Sacred Space
Selecting a dedicated area within your home is the first step in creating a yoga sanctuary. Although having a dedicated room would be ideal, keep in mind it need not be expansive; a corner in your bedroom also suffices.
What matters is the intention behind the space – a haven reserved for your physical and mental care.
2# Set the Ambiance
When setting up your home yoga studio, try and embrace simplicity. A clutter-free environment fosters a sense of calm conducive to yoga and meditative practices.
Opt for neutral tones, incorporate natural elements, and minimize distractions. The aim is to cultivate an atmosphere that promotes focus and inner peace.
Consider utilizing soft lighting as well as scents like essential oils or incense to enhance the space even more.
3# Invest in Props
Your mat is the foundation of your practice. Invest in a comfortable, durable mat that supports your body and provides a comfortable space for your physical practice.
Additionally, gather props like blocks, straps, and blankets to enhance your practice and adapt it to your unique needs.
Read more about props here.
4# Amplify Natural Light and Ventilation
When creating your home yoga studio, if possible, position your practice space in a place that receives ample natural light.
Sunlight not only boosts mood but also energizes the space. Ensure good ventilation, allowing fresh air to circulate, creating an invigorating environment for your practice.
5# Personalize the space
Infuse your home yoga studio with personal touches.
Whether it’s a meaningful quote, artwork, or a symbolic item, these elements add a layer of connection to your practice, turning the space into a reflection of your journey and who you are.
6# Yoga Style and Guidance
You can of course practice on your own and create your own sequences and themes, but you can also utilize technology to bring the guidance of expert instructors and guides into your home.
Virtual classes or online resources can connect you with a global community, providing diverse perspectives and expertise tailored to your preferences and vibe.
7# Storage Solutions
When creating your at home yoga studio, consider how you’ll keep it tidy and clean.
Organize your space efficiently with storage solutions for props and accessories. As mentioned before, a clutter-free space not only ensures safety during practice but also contributes to the overall serenity of your sanctuary.
8# Create a Ritual
Establish a pre-practice ritual to signal the transition into your yoga space.
This could be as simple as lighting a candle, practicing a few minutes of mindfulness, or playing soothing music.
The ritual serves as a mental cue, preparing your mind and body for the practice ahead.
Daily Dedication: Establishing a Sustainable Yoga Routine
Once you have your own home yoga studio it is a great time to start establishing a daily habit.
Consistency is the cornerstone of a transformative yoga practice, and crafting a sustainable routine within the comfort of your home allows for unparalleled flexibility.
Begin by setting realistic goals – whether it’s dedicating a specific time each day or committing to a certain number of sessions per week.
Also:
- Choose a time that aligns with your natural energy levels. Whether it’s a sunrise session to invigorate your morning or an evening practice to unwind, find a schedule that suits your lifestyle.
- Don’t underestimate the impact of shorter sessions. Even a brief ten-minute practice can offer profound benefits, maintaining the continuity of your routine.
- Prevent monotony by diversifying your routine. Integrate various styles, explore new poses, or incorporate meditation and breathwork to keep your practice dynamic and engaging.
- Pay attention to your body’s cues. Some days may call for a gentle flow, while others allow for more vigorous sequences. Adapt your practice to your physical and mental state, fostering a mindful connection with yourself.
- Consistency is an ongoing journey, and recognizing your progress contributes to a positive mindset, reinforcing the habit.
To Close
From personal healing to fostering a global community, creating a home yoga studio proves to be an inclusive and adaptable way to bring yoga, meditation, and other wellness practices into your life.
Creating a home yoga studio goes beyond physical space; it’s about cultivating an environment that nurtures your well-being and serves as a safe space to explore the practices of yoga on your own terms.
Check out some virtual yoga classes to practice with in your new home yoga studio here:
