With technology advancing by the day, everything is starting to move online. While some things are losing their analog charm, others are becoming bigger and better with the power of the internet. Yoga is one of these things. While studio classes are still the most popular way to practice, online yoga is a great alternative. There are many reasons why a yogi may prefer an online yoga class; for instance, maybe they can’t find a studio class that fits with their schedule or maybe they live too far away from a physical studio. Whatever the reason, many students now choose to put on a yoga bra and practice from the comfort of their living room. In this article, we explore the 7 benefits of online yoga.
1. Practice Whenever, Wherever
Unlike a physical yoga class, online yoga allows you to practice at a time that suits you best. Whether you prefer morning or evening practice, the ability to hop on the mat at any given time offers a new level of freedom. Instead of rushing to the studio after work, relax with a glass of wine and roll out the mat later that evening. As long as you have access to the internet, you can practice online yoga anywhere. Perhaps you’re traveling and have a spare 10 minutes to meditate in your hotel room. Maybe you’ve just put your toddler down for a nap and you have time for a quick sequence. Perhaps you like to practice for half an hour in the evening to wind down before bed. Online yoga offers the freedom to practice whenever and wherever you are. All you need is a stable internet connection.
2. Enjoy a Wide Range of Choice
We all love choice. With online yoga, you can browse and choose a class that best suits your wants or needs. Many platforms allow you to choose from different styles, teachers, guest lecturers, and workshops. You can practice alongside acclaimed teachers who you’d never get the chance to move with in person. If you wake up feeling tired and fatigued, search for a class that will boost your energy levels. If you’re struggling to wind down before bed, enjoy a restorative session to relax the body and mind. Whatever your body needs, you can find an online yoga class to keep it satisfied.
3. Practice in a Comfortable Environment
Many new yogis feel self-conscious in the studio. When you’re surrounded by experienced yogis, it’s easy to feel intimidated or find it hard to focus. Online yoga allows you to progress in a comfortable environment while still having the support of a teacher. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi looking to take your skills to the next level, or a total newbie to the practice, having the space to connect with yoga makes it a highly personal experience.
4. Build an Online Community
Whether you’re attending a yoga class, retreat, festival or training program, yoga brings people together. Today, many people engage and interact with others online, essentially building an online community. Online yoga connects you with teachers and yogis from all over the world. There are no barriers or boundaries with an online yoga community, just the union that makes the practice so special. Some people assume you need a live class to connect with other practitioners. Thankfully, this isn’t true! If you want to connect with like-minded individuals, make a yoga date with someone in your area or start an online chat with your instructor.
5. Form a Deeper Connection
As well as connecting us with others, yoga connects us with ourselves. This is true for both studio and online yoga classes. The latter maintains the special connection that comes through yoga practice. Online classes still can keep you in the present moment and help you to connect with your inner self. In fact, practicing away from the studio environment can sometimes deepen this connection. With an online yoga class, you have the space to focus on yourself. You can stay connected, inspired and committed to your personal growth, health and wellbeing.
6. Utilize the Pause Button
Online yoga gives you the power to pause. In a live class, you need to move with the pace of the group. With online classes, you can pause the tutorial and hold the twist, balance or inversion for a little longer. Online yoga comes with several benefits that a studio class cannot offer and the ability to pause is one of them. Spending a little more time in poses that you are trying to master is easy with online yoga.
7. Practice Live
If you don’t feel comfortable practicing independently, don’t panic. Many online classes now allow you to live-stream classes from the comfort of your living room. This allows you to combine the benefits of online yoga with the interaction of a studio class. With a live online class, the teacher will be practicing alongside you and you can enjoy the energy and dynamic nature of a studio session.
In Summary
So, there you have it – 7 benefits of online yoga. As you can see, online yoga offers flexibility and freedom, with the added benefit of not having to leave the house, find a parking space, or worry about what your outfit looks like. Instead, you can throw on your coziest yoga hoodie and practice from the comfort of your living room. Another benefit of online yoga is the wide range of choices when it comes to teachers, styles, and classes. If you fancy trying a new style, simply search for it online. Providing that you follow the step-by-step tutorials, you can reap the benefits of any yoga style, breathing technique or meditation practice.