One is that you need expensive yoga clothes and an expensive yoga class, and that you need to be flexible or thin to begin a yoga practice. These are all untrue.

Part of the beauty of yoga is that you can practise it nearly anywhere, and all you need are a yoga mat (ideally), some comfortable, not-too-loose clothes, a willingness to begin and enough space to lay down your yoga mat and swing your arms from side to side.

Would-be yogis starting from scratch should first buy a mat and then try a few classes to explore different types of yoga and see which type appeals to them the most. The advantage of starting with a class is that beginners can avoid developing bad habits in their poses.
If your preference is to have a personal yoga practise space in your home, once you’ve established the type of yoga you would like to practise, it doesn’t take much to set up a space from there.

Finding the space is the first step. What is NOT a good yoga space? Anywhere where you’ll be reminded of your to-do list, for one. “You don’t want it in a busy area or in a spot where you’ll be reminded of things you need to do,” says Suzannah Hahrt, founder of Soulfull Spaces Consulting and creator of Integrative Life Design.

Yoga instructor Christy Fisher agrees, saying a yoga practise space should not be “in front of the TV, not in the same place your children will be playing, not in a home office. Your space should be a step away from the stressors of life. This can be easier said than done, but do the best you can.”

That said, a multi-purpose space is not out of the question. Just be sure to choose compatible activities, such as a reading space, family gathering area (without TV, or with a TV that can be hidden), meditation space or even spare bedroom. Inappropriate areas would be a home office (unless you can completely close it off when not in use, perhaps by using a curtain), high traffic area, or anywhere from which you can see dishes piled up or other chores that await completion.

The bare bones of the space should be functional and peaceful. Simplicity rules in a yoga space. Flooring should ideally be firm—hardwood or laminate, or even firm carpet—but a yoga mat on nearly any surface will create a suitable space. Colours will most likely be soothing shades of green or brown or colours that you find inspiring. If you are hoping for a more energetic practise, oranges and reds can be a good choice, though they are definitely not relaxing.

The type of lighting is crucial. Hahrt, Fisher and yoga instructor and creator of GoGo Yoga, Carrie Schiffler agree harsh lights have no place in a yoga space. Schiffler prefers natural light whenever possible, while Fisher loves candlelight and Hahrt recommends pot lights or infused lighting as options when natural light is not available.

There is no need to spend a lot on decorations. Find pieces that inspire you. That might mean statues of Buddha, photographs of yoga poses you aspire to, a mural of a natural setting, a gong to begin and end your practice with intention, or an altar with objects that are meaningful to you. Any props that you find helpful, such as straps, bolsters, blocks, a cushion (for seated meditation) and blankets should also be included.

You may also wish to include a stereo to play soothing music or a fountain to create authentic water sounds. And don’t overlook temperature—yoga calls for a warm space in order for the muscles to become pliable and allow you to be still in comfort.

After practising for some time, you may find you can lead yourself through your own private session, but at first, a book or DVD can be a perfect guide. A great selection of books, along with recommendations, can be found at most yoga studios. To find the right DVD, ask the teacher of your favourite class if they know of a DVD that might be similar. Fisher recommends Shiva Rea’s videos and Strength and Soul by Kim Wiebe.

What should newcomers to yoga expect from the practice? Certainly not immediate enlightenment—that takes time. According to Fisher, you can, however, expect yoga to make you stronger and more flexible, and improve your balance, stamina and posture. Practising yoga will make other physical activities easier and more enjoyable. With consistent practise, you can also expect yoga (in conjunction with meditation) to allow you to focus and see patterns in your life, and centre yourself.

Says Fisher, “I think one of the greatest benefits of yoga is learning how to breathe. You think you know, but you have no idea.”  NL