5 Tips for Beginner Yogis Like Me (Budget Edition)

First Time Yogi...

When I first started yoga, I spent MONTHS doing absolutely nothing! 

I needed the expensive equipment, the fancy yoga suits, and the pricey classes. The atmosphere had to be juuuuust right, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.

My advice? Get the fuck over it!

 If there is anything you should take away from my experience, let it be this...

Don't spoil the start of your journey by being bitter about the lack of luxury obtained through months and even years of practice. The first thing you must learn in yoga is to NEVER compare yourself. If your journey is independent, so is your practice.

       Granted, as I've incorporated the world of aesthetics in my day-to-day practice, I am here to be the first one to say YOU.ABSOLUTELY.DON'T.NEED.IT! Yoga on a budget is more obtainable than you may think. So without further ado, let's get into it!

 5 (Budget Friendly) Things you Need to Start your Yoga Practice

1- Yoga Blocks 

Ultimately, the only item you genuinely need for yoga is a yoga block. You can definitely find home replacements; however, in my humble opinion, the only thing you need to buy is a yoga block. 

REMINDER!: Yoga is really, Really, REALLY HARD!

When you first start out, you will not have the same strength you will see six months down the line. Meaning sometimes, you're going to have to modify things in order to achieve proper alignment and form during your practice. 

Hell, I'm only three months in, and while the progress is immaculate I STILL have to modify poses. This is not something that goes away over night... if ever really. 

The point is, the modification is for the health and safety of your body. You are going to need something safe and reliable to stabilize you and support you through these more difficult poses. 

2. Your Yoga Mat

The emotional connection you eventually create with your mat is unreal. It holds your tears and your sweat. It comforts you as you wind down from each practice, especially the ones that test your spirit and make you question your capabilities. It supports you when you realize your strength and push through. It is an important item in any yogi's journey. 

So....do you need a yoga mat? 

Yes, and no. 

At the beginning of your practice, it isn't the most important thing in the world. However, continuing your practice without the proper mat can become harsh on your knees and joints. 

But as far as your first few weeks of practice..... roll out a towel clear out a space and call it a day. 

3. A Clean Relaxing Area

I can not stress this enough! Providing yourself with a space that limits distraction allows you to focus on yourself. 

The hardest part about yoga isn't the aching muscles or the moment your breath feels like it's about to be stolen from your lungs. It is when you surrender, look inward, and begin your work without distraction. 

This space may be a yoga corner in your bedroom or a walk-in closet. You could create a yoga bag and allow nature to house you in your practice. Perhaps it's your local studio.

Either way, this space is yours. Designate this time for yourself and only yourself. There is no judgment. Take what is needed and leave the rest.

4. A Pillow (Bolster)

It is certainly a luxury and not a need, but like our yoga blocks, it provides the support needed to alter and modify some positions. Ultimately, this allows you to progress faster as your muscles correctly experience the stretch or pose. 

Bolsters can be so freaking EXPENSIVE! When I first started, I couldn't and still can not bring myself to spend money on it when I have perfectly good couch pillows at home. Most studios provide them anyway, and there is no reason why you can lug your pillow off your bed to the park and set up shop.

A Bolster can cost anywhere from 30 to 100 dollars. Those numbers make my tiny little pockets hurt! 

5. Lots and Lots of Water

Stopping to take a drink of your water can be so very, very damaging and disruptive to your practice. 

Don't believe me? 

Well, let's put it this way. When you lift weights, it isn't the first rep or even the third rep that you begin to feel progress. In fact, those are pretty much useless. It's the rep where your muscles get tired, and you push through regardless. 

The same is true for yoga. When you stop mid-flow to take a drink, it disrupts the work you have done, and your body gets unneeded rest. Don't get me wrong; taking a sip of water in between flows (every 15 minutes) can be very beneficial. However, there is nothing more annoying than being in a down dog and having to come out of it for a sip of water.

This is why it is so important to drink enough water throughout the day. Water helps the blood flow and helps you stay cool in those hot yoga rooms, as well as strengthening your heart and ultimately preparing you to walk into practice ready to push yourself past your breaking point without puking. 

(Bonus tip)

6. When looking for classes on a budget, look for receptionist jobs, student discounts, and even studios offering free classes in exchange for cleaning services. ;)

Feel free to follow my social media with my linktree and leave a comment about your struggles and experience as a beginner yogi. 

NAMASTE<3