July 16th, 2010 
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Checklist before I start yoga.
Check with your doctor:
Yoga can be of enormous benefit to your health, but one should also be careful that its practice does not aggravate an existing problem. So one should consult a doctor before starting a yoga program. Your doctor, in addition to assessing whether a yoga program is appropriate for you, can also provide valuable insight as to how to approach your yoga safely. Once you have this information, you can work with both your instructor and doctor to determine ways of modifying your yoga practice around those guidelines.
Clarify the benefits:
Yoga carries many potential benefits, but these benefits will differ based on style of yoga and level of difficulty. Most forms of yoga help to promote our flexibility, but the more gentle and beginner-oriented styles won’t always bring an intense change of muscle tone. So one should set a goal and then only take up the level of yoga. You’re more likely to find a match to your needs and preferences if you’re clear on what it is you’re hoping to accomplish.
Set realistic expectations:
Do not expect to see drastic changes within days of practicing yoga. One should bear in mind that yoga is not a “10 days to complete fitness” kind of activity. You will benefit from yoga and see its effect over time and not instantaneously.
Screen your instructor and/or video carefully:
Do not just join any instructor or start yoga classes just because a friend recommended it. Check them out before you start. Your first consideration should be that whether this person can instruct you safely and effectively. Certification doesn’t guarantee quality, but it is a start. Yoga Experts recommend that you look for a teacher who continues to be an active student, continues to study yoga, and regularly practices yoga daily.
One person’s favorite instructor may be someone else’s worst nightmare….personality means a great deal when finding the right match.
Give it a Try:
One should not be discouraged if you can’t perform the poses perfectly in the beginning. Don’t give up after just one trial run. If you are not satisfied with one instructor or video, try another one, as one style is different from the other and may or may not suit you.
Research the basic tools:
The yoga market is booming. Everywhere there is yoga kit, yoga accessories, yoga related tool etc. A mat is the basic accessory which you must have and is indispensable. You can always add tools as you decide you need them, but start small, and focus more on committing to regular yoga practice.
Give yourself time:
Your first few attempts might feel more awkward and frustrating, due to the fact that yoga is such an unfamiliar activity. Now, if you’re feeling pain or discomfort, certainly that’s a sign to stop, as your body is telling you that something is wrong. If, however, you’re just not sure, or you feel clumsy, inflexible, or confused, stick with it. Give it a good 8-10 weeks before deciding how you feel about it. This will allow tension and stress, which are commonly higher when first learning yoga, to slowly, gradually be released.
Comfort should be your priority:
Your first and foremost approach to yoga should be that it must be comfortable and should be practiced at your own pace. Customize your poses at the level that feels best to you. Don’t ever let anyone physically push your body into a position beyond that which you are able to assume by yourself; don’t let anyone coax you to go further than you wish to go.
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