Dare I ask… Do you find yourself bored in yoga class? Your favorite poses are not so interesting any more? You’d rather go get fro-yo then take your friend up on a yoga class date invite? You feel like you hit a yoga wall (and not like when you’re practicing handstands).
If you answered yes to any of these– you might be in a yOgA rUt. It happens to the best of us; really, it does.
Here are some quick tips for when you find yourself in a yoga bind (yoga bind, get it?!):
- Try a new class/teacher– this is the first thing I do when I’m in a rut. We are creatures of habit, and although it’s not necessarily a bad thing to have a yoga/exercise routine; taking the same class(es) for week’s on end can be not so exciting. If you’ve been taking Hot Power yoga every Monday night for the last year– maybe mix it up and try a totally different style, class length or class level. Be open to new experiences– you might just find something you’ve been missing!
- Change up where you post up– do you always snag your special spot in the back, next to the wall or by the fan? I’m usually sneaking in (tisk, tisk), after class starts at my studio and head straight to ”my spot” by the door. But every time I get in the front row or in the middle of class– it’s a whole new experience for me! Try a new place to roll out your mat. It could change your whole perspective on class.
- Treat yourself to some new gear– no need to spend beaucoup bucks on top of the line yoga apparel/accessories, but you’d be surprised at what a difference a new mat makes. Have you been eyeing a new pair of yoga pants in a funky color or pattern? It’s definitely not about what you look like in class, but if some new duds excite you and make you feel good while practicing, try this yoga rut tip on for size!
- Talk to your fav teacher– chances are, if you’ve been frequenting the same classes/studio, your yoga teachers know you and your practice pretty well. Maybe they have some tips for you to spice things up. Ever thought of asking them to stay after with you for a few minutes to work on that pose you’ve been trying to land for months? Or maybe even scheduling a private session with them might be a nice change of pace.
- Make yourself UNcomfortable– the first thing I tell students when they show discomfort or apprehension towards something new, is tell them to DO IT! If there is an opportunity try a something new; whether it be a crazy pose that you never thought was possible, a new class, a new teacher, even taking a break for a few days… DO IT! We learn so much about ourselves and our practice when we are faced with challenges, uncomfortable situations and spontaneity. It can be so refreshing and exhilarating. Ask yourself– what do you really have to lose?
What are you waiting for?! Make your way out of that rut and back onto your mat!
