If you're just starting out with yoga and feeling a bit lost—don't worry, we've all been there. Yoga might look peaceful and slow from the outside, but there's actually a lot to keep in mind when you're new.

Today, we're sharing 14 practical tips you really need to know before you roll out your mat. These simple reminders will help us enjoy our yoga journey, avoid common mistakes, and feel confident in every pose.

Don't do yoga on a full stomach

We shouldn't eat right before yoga. It's best to give our body at least an hour to digest food. A full belly can make bending and stretching uncomfortable. But if we're starving and still want to do yoga, a small snack like a banana about 20 minutes beforehand is okay. It satisfies our hunger without causing stomach discomfort.

Arrive a little early

Getting to class 10 minutes early gives us a chance to settle in, ask the teacher any questions, and relax. It's also a great way to get comfortable with the space and the vibe of the room. Trust us, those extra minutes make a difference.

Find the yoga style that suits us

Not every yoga class is the same. Some are slow and gentle, others are more intense. Most studios offer free trial classes, so we should try a few before committing. Once we find a style that fits, we'll enjoy it so much more.

No need to be shy about our body

Let's not worry about what we look like in yoga clothes or how flexible we are. Yoga is for all body types. In fact, regular practice can help with weight management and make our body feel stronger and lighter over time.

We don't need to be perfect

We've all seen those super flexible yogis twisting like pretzels—but that's not the goal. It's okay if our body is stiff at first. Over time, we'll gain flexibility. More importantly, yoga is about calm breathing and a peaceful mind, not just hitting difficult poses.

Yoga studios vs. gyms

Practicing yoga at a dedicated yoga studio often feels calmer and more focused than doing it at a gym. Studios usually have fewer distractions and smaller class sizes. Teachers can give personal feedback, while gyms might have large groups where we're left following from a distance with no one to guide us closely.

Bring the right gear

If we don't own a yoga mat yet, check if the class offers rentals. Also, a blanket or yoga blocks can help support us in certain poses, making them easier and safer—especially when we're just starting out.

It might feel repetitive at first

In the beginning, we might repeat a few poses over and over. That's totally normal! The basics are key to building a strong foundation. If we get a little bored, we can ask the teacher to introduce a new pose or try practicing at home with a short online class to mix things up.

Mindset matters most

It doesn't matter how expensive our yoga mat is—what really matters is having an open and relaxed mindset. When we let go of stress and just focus on our breath, yoga becomes way more rewarding.

We don't need gloves or socks

Even though anti-slip yoga socks and gloves are sold everywhere, we actually don't need them. They can make our balance feel off and prevent us from fully connecting with the floor. Bare hands and feet are usually best.

Let's release the tension

Before each session, we can gently relax our fingers, toes, and jaw. When our body is loose and the mind is clear, we'll be amazed at how much easier the poses feel—and how enjoyable yoga becomes.

Focus on our breath

Breathing deeply is the heart of yoga. Most classes begin and end with slow breathing exercises. If we ever feel lost during a session, we just return to our breath—it keeps us calm and steady.

Child's pose is our best friend

If we ever feel overwhelmed or can't follow a pose, we can switch to child's pose (also called "balasana"). It's a safe resting position that helps us catch our breath and reset during class.

Choose a good teacher

It's really important to learn from someone qualified and experienced. A good teacher won't just show poses—they'll guide us gently, help us adjust safely, and prevent injuries. Let's not follow random advice online or copy someone without knowing if it's right for us.

Let's grow with yoga

Yoga isn't about showing off. It's about building strength, flexibility, and peace of mind—step by step. Let's enjoy every stretch, every breath, and every moment on the mat. If we stay consistent, we'll start seeing positive changes not just in our body, but in our mindset too.

See you on the mat, Lykkers!

Ready to start your yoga journey? Let's keep it real, stay relaxed, and enjoy the ride together. If you've just begun or are planning to, which tip above do you find the most helpful? Tell us—we'd love to hear from you! 🧘‍♀️💬

Let me know if you'd like a version tailored for social media, or maybe one with photo suggestions or a printable checklist!