Global events have a way of bringing people together.
In the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic, we see beautiful moments of community and positivity.
However, we’re also brought together by the general anxiety and apprehension we’re feeling. (And quite a bit of boredom mixed in there as well).
Cue: the exponential rise of “beginners yoga” searches on YouTube
Some of us are grieving and stressed and need to get out of our heads for a minute.
Some us are looking for a way to stay fit and healthy while #shelteringinplace.
Some of us are just looking for something to do between sessions of Nintendo Switch and “Quarantinis.”
You’ve heard about it for years and seen influencers post their “daily yoga flows” on Instagram, but always observed with a detached interest.
But now…now just might be the time to try something new.
Whatever your reason for wanting to try yoga, first things first:
Where do you start?
It can be a bit annoying to sort through the whole slew of yoga videos online that are either a voyage into eastern mysticism or gymnastics on crack.
Even more annoying can be the overwhelming amount of “beginners yoga” videos that are too advanced, low quality, or just kind of boring.
So, I’ve gone ahead and filtered out the BS and found some engaging and helpful people for you to check out.
I’ve rounded up five quality beginners yoga videos for y’all to dip your toe into the waters of the world of online yoga.
They’re free.
They’re short.
They’re easy to follow.
What more could you ask for?
Here are my favourites:
Working from home has a lot of us hunched over our computers figuring out new virtual technologies or keeping up with the 86 new WhatsApp groups we’re now a part of.
Technology tends to put us into less-than-optimal positions for long periods of time (think: laptop on chest, phone in air, or head in hands).
Whether you’re in that position for work or because you’re binging on Netflix, you could use some release in your neck and shoulders!
Adriene has a great, down-to-earth vibe in her videos. You’ll enjoy following along with her in this seated yoga practice (available on the mat, in your chair or on your couch).
Bonus: If you’re a dog person, you’re going to enjoy a cute guest appearance.
Extra bonus: If you’re a Gossip Girl fanatic, you’ll notice a resemblance with one very bougie but lovable Upper East-sider.
I’ve got to include my girl, Juliana, from Boho Beautiful. I follow a lot of her free stuff on YouTube and recently purchased her Transform fitness program to add some variety into my normal workout routine.
This class is set on a beautiful beach in Costa Rica, so while you #stayathome, you’ll still be to scratch that travel itch a bit.
It starts with a bit of promo stuff, but it only lasts about 30 seconds and then it gets right into a nice stretching routine with the waves lapping peacefully in the background.
Bonus: She does Pilates workouts as well if you’re looking to get a sweat going. This 10-minute Pilates workout had me sore for about two days after (but in the best way possible). #notabeginnerclass
Extra bonus: Another great fur baby video bomb.
This one’s for my athletes out there. Ramping up your exercise routine because there’s literally.nothing.else.to.do? If you’re usually obsessed with working out, this situation may be magnifying that tendency even more.
But we all need a break every once in a while! This gentle yoga class is great for beginners, but also for my active friends who need a restorative practice after a tough workout.
For my guy friends who would prefer to have a male yogi to follow, Flo’s your guy. Ripped, tatted up and with an adorable accent, he’ll lead you through everything you need to relax and unwind.
Bonus: If you want more from him, here’s another beginners yoga class of his.
Disclaimer: This video isn’t for absolute beginners, but I feel like some of you might be a little more advanced than you give yourself credit for.
You do need to be familiar with basic yoga poses in order to follow along with Candace, but it’s perfect to get a nice flow going. The class gets a bit quick at some points, but she sticks to simple postures so you should be able to follow along no problem.
It’s a nice middle ground between super slow stretches and more advanced postures. You’re going to be feeling energized and strong after this practice!
I don’t know about you, but I always need to be reminded to breathe while I’m doing yoga or other exercises. Lesley Fightmaster does just that.
She has an extremely soothing voice (totally opposite of what her last name might suggest) and gives helpful cues and tips throughout the whole practice. Plenty of modifications offered for all of the poses she goes through.
This video looks like it takes place on a hiking path, so you’re blessed with a beautiful valley backdrop, which just adds to the already serene feel of the class.
And that’s all folks!
Hopefully you vibed with one or more of these videos and/or instructors. Sometimes you just need to find someone who speaks your language.
All that’s left is to explore their YouTube channel; all the people I’ve listed have plenty of resources available.
Just be sure to type in “beginner” when you’re searching (you can find the search field at the top right corner of their channel’s page).
Good luck exploring the world of beginners yoga!
PS. One last treat!
If you’re interested into getting into a bit of meditation (yoga and meditation kind of go hand-in-hand, don’t they?), I would highly recommend the app Headspace.
There’s a free version, so there’s no commitment needed.
I personally like the male voice on the app (former Tibetan Buddhist monk, Andy Puddicombe). If you like British accents and a casual, down-to-earth demeanour, this is the perfect person to follow along with.
Plus, there are plenty of categories (“meditation themes,” if you will) to pick from:
– “Weathering the Storm” (designed specifically for the current pandemic)
– Stress & Anxiety
– Falling asleep & Waking up
– Performance Mindset
– Personal Growth
– Kids & Parenting
…and many more!
Namaste, my friends!
