One of the things I find most fascinating about yogis is learning about what brought them to yoga and why they stuck with it. Some people come to yoga because a doctor suggested it, or as part of a physical therapy plan. Others come out of personal curiosity, or perhaps with a relentless friend. But despite the varying reasons people come to yoga, the reason they stick with it is always the same: it positively impacted their lives so much that they decided to make it a regular part of their routine in some way.
A common trait shared by all yogis is that we all start as beginners. Nobody comes into their first yoga class with a mastery of all the poses, knowledge of the history and philosophy of yoga, or an understanding of the deeper aspects of the practice. It’s a journey that is unique to each individual, and we all have to start somewhere. Even the most experienced yoga teacher or advanced practitioner was once a complete and total newbie, taking their first steps on the path of yoga.
Being a beginner yogi can be tough, however. It can be difficult to take a yoga class and feel like everyone else in the room knows what they’re doing except you, and to have to keep your eyes glued to the instructor for the whole class because you aren’t familiar with any of the poses.
You may also believe a common myth about yoga, like that you have to be flexible, or that yoga isn’t really exercise. These myths can be discouraging, especially if you’re already feeling unsure about starting a new practice. Misconceptions can keep people from trying yoga in the first place, and self-consciousness in class can keep people from coming back.
That’s where our Inspiring Actions Yoga 101 program comes in. In Yoga 101, we break down the basics of yoga and help you build a strong foundation for your practice. With Yoga 101, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge you need to step onto your mat with ease and enjoy all the benefits that yoga has to offer.
This series provides a safe and supportive environment that will help you feel comfortable and empowered in your practice. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a yogi with some experience looking to deepen your practice, Yoga 101 is the perfect way to start your yoga journey. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Yoga 101?
1 – A 4-week series designed for the complete beginner.
Yoga 101 is a 4-week series designed for the total beginner yogi: for the person who has never stepped foot on a mat, for the person who can’t touch their toes, and for the person who feels intimidated or hesitant to take a class. Yoga 101 breaks the common yoga myths that often keep people from trying it in the first place, and demonstrates how yoga and its benefits can be accessible to all. This series provides knowledge and practice that fully prepares participants for their first yoga class, and for their personal yoga practice.
2 – A welcoming environment to learn the basics alongside other beginners.
One of the best things about Yoga 101 is being surrounded by other beginner yogis. In Yoga 101, all the other students are right where you are, at the beginning of what will hopefully grow to be a meaningful, fulfilling, and life-changing practice. This common ground provides a safe and inclusive place to learn and grow your practice. In this series, participants learn together in a nonintimidating, inclusive environment where everyone is in the early stages of their yoga practice, so you never have to feel like you’re the only one!
3 – Designed to guide you into your own yoga practice.
One of the most important things I’ve learned through my practice is that there is no right way to do yoga. While it’s certainly important to prioritize alignment and safety, what works best for one person may not be ideal for another. Yoga 101 provides a deeper understanding of the principles that underlie yoga and how to apply them in a way that works for you. By developing your own personal yoga practice, you can tap into the transformative power of this ancient tradition and experience the many benefits it has to offer. Yoga 101 can help you deepen your connection to yourself and to your journey with your practice.
What You’ll Learn in Yoga 101
- History of yoga
- Styles of yoga
- Breathwork
- Yoga benefits
- Intro to chakras
- 24 poses
- Sun salutation flow
Yoga 101 is designed to provide you with a toolbox of knowledge that you can take with you into your personal practice. This series covers basic postures, breathing techniques, and meditation practices, as well as 24 common yoga poses and a Sun Salutation flow that you can use as a foundation for any beginner-level class.
Yoga 101 delves into the history of yoga, and an introduction to the subtle body and the seven chakras, which are key concepts in yoga philosophy. By the end of this series, you will have gained a deeper understanding of yoga and the tools to build a strong and sustainable yoga practice. With this solid foundation, you can move forward into your own practice, whether that be at a studio, home practice, or both.
Yoga 101 is taught by Inspiring Actions owner and founder Tracey Mortensen. In 2015, she opened the first Inspiring Actions Yoga studio with a vision of bringing yoga to our community and attracting people who might be hesitant to visit a studio. Inspiring Actions was built on the premise that everyone can practice yoga and experience its benefits, regardless of age, fitness level, or experience. Over the years, Inspiring Actions has become a community that is supportive, encouraging, and empowering, and that celebrates each person’s unique journey.
It’s important to remember that yoga is not about being perfect or achieving a certain level of mastery; it’s about the journey towards self-discovery, growth, and healing. As we continue to practice, we slowly begin to understand our bodies, our breath, and our minds. We learn to move with intention and develop a deeper connection with ourselves. Through consistent practice, we start to see improvements in our strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. The journey towards becoming an advanced practitioner or teacher is not a linear one, but rather a continuous evolution of growth and self-discovery.
If Yoga 101 sounds like something that would benefit you, you are officially invited to join us for the next series! This program is offered at both our Hudson and River Falls locations; check our schedule here for upcoming dates and times! Already a practicing yogi? Our recurring classes and special events offer something for everyone, from fast-paced heated vinyasa classes to calming restorative yoga, Inspiring Actions has something for you! We would love to welcome you as part of our ever-expanding community!
