by Carlie Lawson

Created on: November 09, 2009   Last Updated: December 24, 2009

Practicing yoga provides three main benefits: exercise, relaxation, and improved breathing. The asanas (poses) and pranayamas (breathing exercises) of yoga can help develop balance, flexibility, and strength, as well as self-awareness. It's important to approach yoga with the appropriate mindset, equipment, and preparation to achieve optimal success. Whether participating in a class or practicing at home with a DVD, follow a few simple dos and don'ts to get the most out of yoga.

Dos

* Do check the trainer's credentials before attending a class or purchasing a book or DVD.

* Do learn the class procedures before attending. It will help you feel relaxed and comfortable in your new environment.

* Do explore the various styles of yoga by participating in one or two sessions of each before committing to a style or class.

* Do obtain the proper yoga products before participating. With regard to clothing, you'll need loose-fitting yoga pants and a loose top. Yoga is practiced barefoot, so no shoes or socks are needed.

* Do use a yoga mat. It's a vital yoga product to obtain since asanas should never be performed on bare ground.

* Do learn a few basic poses from a book or DVD before your first class.

* Do create an intention on which to focus your yoga work. You might dedicate your yoga practice to becoming more aware or loving, or to provide strength or energy to a friend.

* Do take a shower or bath before performing asanas, if possible.

* Do arrive about 10 minutes early, if taking a class. It gives you time to enter the proper mindset and stretch before class.

* Do arrive quietly and respect those around you, if taking a class. Yoga class is not the place for loud conversation or noisiness.

* Do speak with the trainer before your first class to discuss any health issues or prior injuries you may have. This lets the trainer know if you should avoid or modify any asanas.

* Do ask for help from the trainer if you need it. Asanas benefit you when performed properly.

* Do practice yoga in the proper surroundings. The room should be clean, well lit, and well ventilated. There should be no smoking allowed in the room.

* Do meditate for a few minutes at the end of the asanas.

Don'ts

* Don't come to class late or leave early. This creates a disturbance in the peace of the yoga atmosphere and is disruptive to others in the class.

* Don't eat just before or right after yoga. Eat at least two hours before or one hour after practicing yoga.

* Don't drink water while practicing yoga. Drink it 15 minutes before and after.

* Don't push yourself. If you feel tired or strained from an asana, stop and perform shavasana. Lie on your back with your arms at your sides, palms facing up. Clear your mind, taking long, deep breaths to relax yourself. Resume the asanas when you feel able.

* Don't bring your pager or cell phone if attending a class. Yoga sessions should be peaceful and quiet with a meditative quality.

 By following these basic dos and don'ts, you can increase the benefits you receive from practicing yoga beginning with your very first session. By properly preparing yourself with the appropriate information, equipment, and attitude, you'll see success from your first yoga session.

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