The art and science of yoga has been around for thousands of years in India, the country of its origin. The ancients who perfected it believed in simplicity and purity of body, mind and spirit. The word itself means “union” where the practitioner’s focus is on integrating the entire system through a variety of physical and mental practices.
Today the reality is that yoga has come a long way from its roots. Several schools of yoga have emerged over the centuries, with each one focusing on a unique aspect, need and preference.
As a result, there has been an explosion of experimentation, innovation and discovery in the field of yoga all over the world. Many practitioners value it for its physical aspects where fitness, weight loss and general health are the priority. In other cases, yoga practitioners aim to reduce stress and anxiety, calm the mind, promote relaxation and prioritize mental and emotional health. Along with yoga, many other aspects of daily life can be blended such as Ayurveda, diet, spirituality, behavior modification and more.
The question here is whether yoga today is different from what was conceived by the ancients. The answer is obviously a yes, with certain caveats. Many of the practices such as asanas, kriyas, niyam and lifestyle recommendations remain intact, but comfort and safety have become important as well. The level at which you practice dictates the kind of aids that you use to make yourself more comfortable and avoid injuring yourself.
Essential Equipment To Start Yoga
The environment in which yoga is practiced today is different. You no longer practice in forests, open fields or mountain-tops. Today’s yoga practitioner is usually found in a studio, yoga class or in the comfort of their homes.
This determines what equipment and aids you need to get the best out of your practice. As a beginner, your yoga teacher or instructor will give you the heads-up on the items you need to start your yoga session as a newcomer.
Yoga mats are the absolute essential when you practice yoga at all levels and in any environment. Even if you go to a class or studio, you need to carry your own personal mat to avoid contamination by sweat and bacteria. You can buy them at a specialty store, or an exercise equipment outlet. Yoga teachers will recommend the type, size, thickness, material and texture based on your level of expertise. It’s wiser to select mats made of natural materials that are durable and don’t cause allergies.
Practising yoga requires you to be comfortable and safe, so the clothes you wear should be chosen with this in mind. Loose-fitting apparel made from breathable materials is perfect. Make sure that it doesn’t have uncomfortable fastenings, zips or buttons, but it should fit well and allow maximum movement. Women can wear comfortable and supportive innerwear that are suitable for low impact activity. Make sure that these items are made from natural breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that can be washed and dried easily. Your yoga clothes should be kept exclusively for yoga sessions, and they should be washed and dried after every practice.
Yoga Blocks & Straps
Yoga straps, blocks, pillows, cushions and bolsters help you to achieve better stretches and bends without injuring yourself or slipping. As you progress in the practice, you can choose the items that best enable complex poses. These items are also suitable when you are an older person getting into yoga for the first time, or you have health conditions that cause strain and pain. More information here.
Yoga pillows and cushions are a good choice for extended periods of meditation when you’re seated in a single position for a long time.
Keep a set of towels exclusively for your yoga class. Lightweight, washable towels made of natural cotton are the best choice. You may have to take a shower in the yoga studio after practice, so invest in a good-sized washable bag that’s easy to transport and store.
If you need to travel to your yoga class, it’s important to get a good quality bag to carry your yoga mat. You can also invest in a strong, washable bag to hold your towels and change of clothes.
If you tend to perspire heavily, it’s a good idea to purchase yoga headbands made from natural materials. These help to absorb the sweat and prevent it from pouring into your eyes. They also keep your hair in place as it can be distracting and annoying to keep brushing your hair back as you practice.