Life has a way of getting busy, and sometimes our yoga practice falls by the wayside. Whether it’s work, family commitments, or unexpected events, it’s easy to lose touch with our practice. But don’t worry—returning to yoga when life gets busy is not only possible, it can be deeply rewarding. Here are some tips to help you restart your yoga journey amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
1. Start Small
When life is busy, finding large blocks of time for yoga can be challenging. Start with shorter practices of 10-15 minutes.
Even as a seasoned yogi and instructor, sometimes I forget to practice myself.
Life is busy with kids, personal health struggles, and mental health challenges. Remember that every little bit counts, and short, consistent practices can still provide tremendous benefits.
Here are a few examples:
Morning Stretch: Begin your day with gentle stretches in bed or on your mat. Cat-Cow stretches, seated forward folds, and gentle twists can wake up your body and mind.
Desk Yoga: Incorporate easy stretches at your desk during your workday. Seated side bends, wrist stretches, and neck rolls can help relieve tension and improve focus.
Bedtime Relaxation: Wind down in the evening with a short, calming routine. Legs-up-the-wall pose, child’s pose, and deep breathing can prepare you for a restful sleep.
2. Create a Schedule to restart your yoga practice
I enjoy writing my tasks down daily to stay organized and focused. Try waking up 15 minutes earlier each day for some movement before starting your day. This small change can help you integrate yoga into your routine more seamlessly.
Here are two examples that have worked for me:
Morning Routine:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Wake up 15 minutes earlier for a short yoga session. Focus on gentle stretches and a few sun salutations.
Tuesday, Thursday: Use a 10-minute guided meditation app before breakfast.
Saturday: Dedicate 30 minutes to a more intensive yoga practice.
Sunday: Enjoy a relaxing, restorative yoga session in the evening.
Evening Wind-Down:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: Set aside 20 minutes before bed for a calming yoga routine. Focus on relaxation poses.
Tuesday, Thursday: Incorporate a brief, 5-minute meditation session after dinner.
Saturday: Spend 30-45 minutes in the afternoon on a more dynamic yoga practice.
Sunday: Finish the week with a gentle, 15-minute evening yoga session.
3. Find a Quiet Space
Having a designated space for your practice can help you stay focused and motivated. It doesn’t have to be large—just a quiet corner with soft lighting, a candle, or your favorite yoga props. Your bed or the outdoors can also be great places to start, especially for grounding and connecting with nature. When my life gets overwhelming, I love taking my mat outside and practicing with the sound of birds and the feeling of grass under my feet.
4. Use Online Resources
When getting to a studio isn’t feasible, online resources can be a lifesaver. There are countless online yoga classes and apps that offer a wide range of practices, from quick sessions to full-length classes. Find a few that resonate with you and keep them bookmarked for easy access. I personally love using [insert favorite app/website] because it offers a variety of classes that fit any schedule.
5. Incorporate Yoga into Daily Activities
If carving out separate time for yoga is difficult, try incorporating yoga into your daily routine. Practice mindful breathing, such as pranayama, while you’re commuting, do a few stretches at your desk, or incorporate a short meditation during a break. These small moments can help you stay connected to your practice.
6. Be Kind to Yourself
Approach your return to yoga with compassion. Life can be unpredictable, and it’s okay if you miss a session or if your practice isn’t as long or intense as you’d like. Celebrate your efforts and progress, no matter how small. It's never too late to start again; there were times I didn't practice for over six months and restarted. Be patient and release any expectations!
7. Set Realistic Goals
Set realistic goals to keep yourself motivated. Instead of aiming to practice every day, start with a goal of practicing three times a week. Gradually increase the frequency and duration of your sessions as you become more comfortable. This approach helps prevent burnout and allows your body to adapt to the routine without overwhelming you. Daily journaling can help keep you accountable and track your progress, making it easier to stay committed to your practice.
8. Connect with a Community
Being part of a wellness community can provide support and encouragement. Join a local class or an online group where you can share your experiences and stay motivated. Connecting with others who are also balancing busy lives can be incredibly inspiring.
9. Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how you feel during and after each session, and adjust your practice accordingly. If something doesn’t feel right, modify the pose or take a break. Your body’s feedback is an essential guide.
10. Remember Your Why
Remind yourself why you started practicing yoga in the first place. Whether it’s for physical health, mental clarity, stress relief, or a combination of reasons, reconnecting with your motivation can help you stay committed to your practice.
Restarting your yoga journey when life gets busy can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to integrate mindfulness and self-care into your daily routine. By starting small, creating a schedule, and being kind to yourself, you can find balance and reconnect with your practice amidst the chaos of everyday life.
Join Our New Facebook Community!
Are you ready to restart your wellness journey? Whether it's through yoga, meditation, or other self-care practices, we're excited to invite you to join our brand new Parati Wellness Community. This is a space for like-minded individuals to connect, share their experiences, and support each other on their wellness journeys. In our community, you'll find:
Exclusive Content: Get access to tips, articles, and resources that you won't find anywhere else.
Live Sessions: Join live yoga and meditation sessions to keep your practice fresh and engaging.
Support and Motivation: Share your progress, ask questions, and find encouragement from fellow members.
Event Updates: Stay informed about upcoming events, workshops, and special promotions.
Monthly Challenges: Participate in fun and inspiring challenges to keep your wellness journey fresh. Each month, we’ll focus on different aspects of wellness, offering tips and exercises to help you grow.
Inspiration and Tips: Receive regular inspiration and practical tips to keep you motivated and engaged in your wellness journey.
Joining our community is a great way to stay connected, motivated, and inspired as you restart your wellness journey. We can't wait to see you there!
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