Yoga Practice Q&A

yoga Practice Q&A

Whether you are a beginner or have been practicing yoga for some time, it is essential to understand some basic points about yoga exercises to help you grasp the techniques more quickly and avoid discomfort during practice.

Q1．I have never tried yoga before, and I am not very flexible. Is yoga suitable for me?

A Yoga practice has no age, gender, or physical condition restrictions. Many believe that only flexible people can practice yoga, but the goal of yoga is not to force the body into challenging poses. Instead, choose postures that suit your body condition, coordinate them with your breath, and gently stretch within your own limits. Elderly people and children can also practice yoga under professional guidance. Yoga is progressive, and while it might be challenging initially, with the right approach and effort, you will be amazed by the transformation it brings.

Q2．Why are yoga movements gentle and graceful?

A Yoga combines natural breathing with gentle, flowing movements. It aims to avoid excessive force and instead fully mobilize the muscles and joints. Gentle movements during yoga warm up the entire body, help the mind focus better, induce relaxation, and bring a sense of calm and serenity.

Q3．Is there no effect if I don't practice yoga every day?

A The most crucial principle of yoga is to follow your own pace. Setting overly challenging goals from the beginning can lead to giving up quickly. Even if you can dedicate just a few minutes to a single pose each day, adhere to the practice. Regular and systematic weekly practice forms a habit and yields satisfying results. If you miss some sessions due to unforeseen circumstances, don't give up. Muscles have good memory; once you resume practicing, they quickly adapt to their optimal state.

Q4．What is the best yoga sitting position for meditation?

A Many prefer the Lotus Pose for meditation, which requires flexibility in the backside of the thighs and pelvis with flexible hip joints for external rotation. However, the seated position for meditation should be relaxed and comfortable. If you cannot maintain the Lotus Pose comfortably, you can try other positions, such as the Thunderbolt Pose (sitting on the heels) or Hero Pose (sitting between the feet). Meditation can also be done sitting on a sturdy chair with a straight back and feet on the floor or supported by a cushion.

Q5．How long does it take to see results from yoga practice?

A The time to see results from yoga practice varies from person to person. Some experience improvement after just a few days, while others may take longer. Generally, the initial turning point occurs within 1-2 months, with reduced discomfort and improved body toning. Most beginners can feel a decrease in stress and improved sleep quality during the initial stages of practice.

Q6．Is it necessary to avoid eating two to three hours before yoga practice?

A During yoga practice, the body twists, bends, arches, and raises and lowers. If there is undigested food in the stomach, discomfort may arise after practice. If you worry about feeling weak due to hunger during practice, you can have a light meal, such as yogurt or fruit juice, about an hour before practice.

Q7．Can yoga be practiced during menstruation or pregnancy?

A Yoga practice can be done during menstruation, but some poses, such as inversions, should be avoided. If you have never done yoga before, avoid starting during pregnancy. Even if you practiced yoga before pregnancy, you must be cautious during pregnancy. Between 4 to 7 months of pregnancy, yoga can help alleviate back pain, swelling, and stress caused by pregnancy, but it is best to consult a physician or practice under the guidance of an experienced yoga instructor. Avoid any poses that put pressure on your abdomen.

Q8．Can yoga help with weight loss and body sculpting?

A Yoga has a significant and lasting effect on weight loss and body sculpting. Yoga's unique combination of chest and abdominal breathing effectively regulates the brain's satiety center, preventing overeating. The rhythmic breathing coordinated with various postures along the spine massages the visceral organs, regulates the endocrine system, strengthens gastrointestinal peristalsis, and promotes fat consumption. As an aerobic exercise, practicing yoga 2-3 times a week helps burn excess calories, not only aiding in weight loss but also increasing muscle strength and elongating muscles, sculpting a lean, firm, and toned physique.

What are some misconceptions about learning yoga?

A Misconception One: Performing poses too quickly and with excessive force, leading to strains or injuries. Misconception Two: When practicing at home with instructional videos, solely focusing on completing the poses without coordinating with breath, often holding the breath, resulting in reduced oxygen supply to the body or not fully grasping the essence of the poses, blindly practicing, and increasing the risk of injuries. Misconception Three: After a yoga class, you should feel a sense of unity between body and mind. Feeling good in only one aspect of the body, sweating profusely, experiencing headaches or soreness, or excessive excitement does not align with the ideal result.