How to Set Up a Home Yoga Studio

Have you ever thought about setting up a yoga studio from the comfort of your own home? Maybe you are crunched for time but still want to maintain your yoga routine or you want the freedom from restrictions and want to save money, headaches, and the hassle of traffic jams. Whatever your reason, it is possible to cut out formal yoga classes and have your own at home.

Many yoga directors are encouraging home yoga practices. Home practice allows more concentration on the internal and meditative aspects of yoga.

If you don't know a lot about yoga or aren't confident about what you do know, you may want to take a beginner yoga course. This will help you learn correct body alignment and techniques. If you want to save some cash, check out instructional books or videos from your local library. An at home practice allows you to be more mindful of yoga and the philosophies that go along with it.

To begin, you should have a designated space to do your yoga practice at home. This will help you "stay the course" and not get distracted and give up. Rearrange your furniture, if you have limited space, to have your private yoga studio at home. Keep windows and lighting at the correct setting. Open blinds or drapes to allow natural, soothing light in. You may want to burn some lavender essential oils for relaxation and focus. Also keep the room temperature at a semi-warm 75-85 degrees. This helps heat muscles and allows you to be more flexible. In winter and fall seasons, do your routine in front of the fireplace or space heater. Hardwood or ceramic tile floors are the best types of flooring for yoga because they are stable. Try to stay away from carpet floors, which can throw you off balance. You may want to use a non-stick mat.

Choose a time to begin your routine. It is advised that you wait 2-3 hours after a big meal and 1-hour after a light meal. A full stomach makes movement difficult and your body is more relaxed which may make your practice less intense. Pick yoga poses from several categories (standing, sitting, twisting, etc.…) and hold for 3-5 breaths. Check instructional books or videos for details and specifics. You may want to check with a certified yoga instructor twice a year for some polish to your routine. End your routine with five minutes in Savasana to quiet your mind and let the experience and benefits of yoga sink in.

Your home yoga routine and studio do not have to be magazine-worthy. However you design your studio and conduct your routines is personal preference and all that matters. Yoga is not about keeping up with anyone else. It is about being at peace and at one with the universe.