Getting to the studio and building a yoga practice with community is special thing. However, it is not always possible to fit a studio practice into our regular schedule. There can also be cost barriers and sometimes the type of practice we really need are not being offered either in our area, or at a time that works for your life.

Creating a home practice really is the truest gift. It also shows where our wisdom lies, giving ourself time to practice what it is we need most.

Here are some important considerations that I apply when preparing my home practice space:

Choose a Yoga Space

If possible, practice in the same space every time. Setting up and or clearing your space of clutter to create room for your practice becomes a ritual in itself. Also, ensure your mat, props, and other practice accessories have a home close at hand. 

 

Minimize distractions

Leave your devices on silent. Dedicate a set amount of time. Let family, roommates, and friends know you are taking this time and would appreciate not being disturbed.

Gather support

Store bought props are great, they are purpose driven and well designed. But, we can gather all kinds of things from around the house to support or practice. Some things I like are throw pillows, a thin throw blanket, a thicker blanket I can roll up, book, a belt and even Tupperware!

Props were made simply to help find the greatest amount of space and support in our postures. They are not crutches and do not convey weakness. In fact, takes time and wisdom to temper the ego and be honest about where we can love and support ourselves the most so we can reap the fullness of each pose, each moment, each breath of practice.

Commit to a sustainable routine

I don’t mean commit to the same practice per day, but commit the time to show up for yourself for practice with consistency and regularity, even if you don’t feel like it. We tend to be very steadfast when it comes to our commitments to other people, see if you can become equally as dedicated to yourself. Be realistic, if you can only commit to 30 minutes or less a few times a week is what you can make work then let that be enough. Write it in your planner and commit the time to yourself.

Use all the resources available to you

What many of us like about going a studio to practice yoga is that we don’t have to really think about it, we show up on our mats and let the instructor guide our experience. The good news is there are plenty of online and video resources that you can have much the same experience (inner-Roar.tv for example!) at home. In addition, there are books, flash cards, apps, magazines that give photo references to whole routines, and ALSO an entire world of intuition built right inside of you.

You can also create a small (or long) sequence for yourself. Based around the poses you know give you the most benefit challenge you to new places, relive aches and pains, and most importantly bring deep awareness and communication with yourself – body and mind.

Sometimes I find the best thing is set up your space, gather what you need, let the world know you are temporarily unavailable. Then I put my body down on your mat, breath deeply for a couple minutes and see where it goes.

Share your space

I would love to hear how you set up your practice space! Leave a comment below with any special tricks, tips or must haves for your home yoga space.