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How to practice yoga when you just don't feel like it...

Writer's picture: LauraLaura


There's many reasons why your yoga practice may take a bit of a backseat from time to time. Illness, fatigue, boredom, being busy etc... Whatever your reason know that if you want to keep your yoga practice up but without the same level of asana practice it is totally doable.


There can be a big impression that yoga equals big strength building movements, dynamic flows that build muscle and flexibility which are typically dependent on having a lot of energy. This doesn't have to be yoga. Bodies have natural ebs and flows in terms of energy, notwithstanding the influence of day to day stresses; succumbing to illness; having a down day etc... If you find yourself starting a yoga practice and loving strength building vinyasa classes or power yoga and having a tough time sustaining that style of practice don't worry. The same goes for if you practice another style of yoga and love the physical basis of the practice but are struggling to keep up a consistent physical practice. There are plenty of elements within yoga to choose from that will have major benefits to your practice as well.


Restorative Yoga:

One of the best styles for when you feel tired can be restorative yoga, especially practicing just before bed. This style of asana focuses on relaxing the body, lengthening muscles, and tapping into the breath. Perfect for letting yourself relax. Often these classes will involve moving slowly with intention and nothing too taxing on the body - it's about healing and relaxation. Ideal for a tired or healing body.


Join my weekly restorative Sunday class here


Yin Yoga:

Similarly Yin yoga can be a wonderful way to ensure a deep yoga practice which actively challenges you but requires very little energy spent. Yin yoga in some ways can prove much more challenging for those that love a fast paced heart raising flow. Sitting with a pose for so long, feeling all the challenging sensations that come with that is no easy feat. After a yin class you will feel very stretched and mentally fatigued if only from the deep meditative concentration the style can inspire.


Fantastic free youtube yin classes from Lauren Aimee - a teacher I trust and adore.


Pranayama:

Breath work is one of the most important aspects of yoga and is often paired hand in hand with asana but not given the same attention and respect it deserves when we think of our yoga practice. Breath work can be done at any time of day, in any place, in almost any situation. Perfect for if asana is just not feasible right now.


Meditation:

Meditation is a wonderful way to deepen your yoga practice as well as challenge yourself. You may be used to some meditation in Savasana or suhkasana within your asana practice, but dedicating time and effort to a sustainable meditation practice can be invaluable when dealing with bodily fatigue. This gives your body and mind time to rest and recuperate before tackling a stressful or busy day. It can also reveal what exactly is stressing you, pay attention to the thoughts that pop up time and time again while meditating and you may find a couple of answers along the way.


Fancy a private guided online meditation? They're available here!


Philosophy:

Don't worry when I say philosophy I'm not necessarily suggesting you take yourself to the library and contemplate plato (though if that's your jam go for it I'll join you there!). Rather I mean there is a whole world of yoga not necessarily talked about within western practice and a lot of that pertains to the philosophical and ethical guides within yoga scriptures. It can be an overwhelming aspect of yoga to contemplate which is why I wrote a guide on how to start which you can read here. Personally I found exploring the five yamas and niyamas and meditating on how they related to my personality and life very helpful in deepening my yoga practice. I found myself drawn to the ideas of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Santosha (contentment) as a place to start. Ideas I had already been thinking about within my daily life that now had a yogic frame on which to contemplate them. Reading books, articles, journals and discussing with your loved ones can be an excellent way to connect to your yoga practice if asana isn't available to you right now or you just need a break.



If you would like more information about classes or have any questions feel free to email me (yogawithlaurahc@gmail.com) or use the contact form to get in touch - I'd love to hear from you.


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