Hello, Happy Army!
Since you're clicking on this post, congratulations on getting started with your yoga journey!
Now, keeping it up isn’t always easy. Life gets busy, then the to-do list piles up, it's rough out here!
That's exactly what happened to me. I got super busy running around after other people or other responsibilities, that I completely forgot to take care of myself!
But don’t worry! With a little strategy and the right mindset, you can stick with your practice and enjoy all the amazing benefits yoga has to offer, just like I did. Let’s get into some tips that will help you make yoga a consistent part of your life.
In this blog post, we're gonna learn more about:
Setting clear intentions
Starting gradually
Creating a Sacred Space
How consistency is key
How to mix up your practice
Setting realistic goals
How your community can be your drive
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I’ll be honest: without this app, there’s no way my own willpower would have gotten me out of bed—let alone into an exercise routine! The Fabulous app gave me that extra nudge I needed to finally get moving and onto my yoga mat. The app begins with prepping you up for your exercise routine with science-backed behavioral economics, and they give you daily audio guides that motivate me everyday! It builds up habits gradually rather than expecting perfection from the get-go. This app truly sets you up for success, so please! Do yourself a favor—click the link and check it out!
Set Clear Intentions
First things first: Why do you want to practice yoga? Is it to manage stress, get more flexible, reconnect with your body, or just carve out some peace in your day?
Knowing your “why” helps you stay motivated, especially on those days when you’re tempted to skip. It's just a good reminder when you don't want to get out of bed.
For me, yoga isn’t just about the exercise (though that’s definitely a bonus!), but more about how I feel afterward.
I feel more grounded, my mind is clearer, I have a steady flow of energy, and I feel great in my body—which helps me be more productive throughout the day.
On the days I practice yoga, I actually get more done compared to the days I don’t!
So, when I’m lying in bed, thinking about how much effort it takes just to get up and start, I remind myself of how amazing I feel afterward—it's the perfect motivation to keep up with my practice!
I know a lot of people who keep a picture of their dream pose on the wall so that's the first thing they see in the morning. Or putting out your favorite workout outfit right by your bed so that you would want to wear it and workout.
Whatever works as your motivation, keep it with you and keep it close!
Start Small and Gradual
When I start something new, I get super excited and ready to a full hour of yoga every day, only to burn out by the end of the week.
Sound familiar?
While that enthusiasm is natural, it’s not sustainable.
I remember starting my yoga journey that way, only to wake up so sore the next day that I couldn’t even move!
So, let’s learn from my mistakes and start small. Even 10 minutes counts! Gradually build up your practice over time. Taking baby steps makes it easier to maintain the habit and prevents feeling overwhelmed.
Create a Sacred Space
I can’t stress enough how important this is, especially if you share your home with others like I do.
Find a little nook in your home and make it your yoga haven. Lay out your mat, add a candle or a plant, and create a space that feels inviting.
My spot is in the basement, where I’ve set up a small area with my mat, bands, and weights, all organized neatly and pleasantly.
I even got a beautiful blue mat because the color motivates me to use it more!
However you want to make it yours, dedicate space just for yoga. This makes it easier to get in the zone and minimize distractions.
Remember, this is your space, a place where you can find peace away from the noise of the world. It’s self-care, and you deserve it!
For more on creating a sacred space, check out my posts on 10 Things to buy to Start Your Yoga Practice, where I talk about my favorite items that I like to keep in my Sacred Space!
Establish a Consistent Schedule
Habits thrive on consistency. Choose a specific time each day for your practice—whether it’s a morning session or an evening session.
When you practice at the same time daily, your body and mind will start to anticipate and look forward to it.
I always practice in the morning, and I highly recommend it for everyone.
Reason #1
It sets a positive tone for the day, with yoga’s benefits lasting throughout (the mental clarity is like no other!).
The benefits would increase as well since you'd be practicing on an empty stomach!
Reason #2
It helps reduce the stiffness and inflexibility in our joints and muscles from sleep (no more constantly feeling stuck while you're working!)
Reason #3
It aligns us with nature’s natural rhythms (as the saying goes: when the sun rises, we rise; when the sun sets, we set).
Reason #4
It's quiet in the morning! With everyone else asleep, you won’t be disturbed!
Please try practicing yoga first thing in the morning. Just take my word for it, and you will see the difference.
Mix Up Your Practice
As I'm sure you can tell, I love routines (hence why I use the Fabulous app). I love doing the same thing over and over again. Routines, for me, are so comforting, and I get to practice till perfection!
But routines can also get boring fast.
Keep things fresh by trying different styles of yoga or adding new poses to your practice.
Follow various guided videos or check out a local studio’s schedule. Variety keeps things exciting and helps you discover what you love most.
Soon, I will post my very own yoga course: The Foundations of Flow, where I will walk you through 8 beginner classes to begin your yoga practice! So keep an eye out for that coming out in 2025!
Set Realistic Goals
It’s great to challenge yourself, but setting goals that feel impossible is the recipe for disaster!
No one is expecting a full front split, a headstand, and a back bend in one day! Progress in yoga is often slow and steady.
Set realistic goals. Maybe doing 108 sun salutations would be difficult, but what about 6? Or instead of the Full King Cobra pose, maybe the Half Pigeon Pose to work up to it.
Celebrate those small victories to stay encouraged!
Accountability and Community
Practicing with a friend or joining a yoga group can make it easier to stay committed since someone else is counting on you.
Plus, being part of a community adds fun and inspiration to your practice.
That’s exactly what I do!
Even though I’m a yoga teacher myself, I signed up for my friend’s yoga classes and attend every morning, without fail.
It’s a great way to catch up with her while also growing in our practice together!
If you don't really have access to people with similar mindsets, the Fabulous app does have a giant community filled with people who are looking to become elevated versions of themselves, which is super beneficial when you're just starting or just need an extra boost.
Mindfulness and Reflection
After each practice, take a moment to reflect.
How do you feel?
Acknowledging the benefits, even small ones, helps reinforce why you keep showing up on the mat.
It takes just a couple of minutes, but it can strengthen your commitment and make yoga feel more rewarding.
Be Kind to Yourself
It’s easier said than done, but not every day will feel like a yoga win—and that’s okay!
Sometimes, just rolling out your mat, curling into a ball, and gently rolling from side to side on your back is enough.
When motivation is low, keep the pressure low. A gentle session or even some mindful breathing can help keep your routine going without feeling overwhelmed.
Before I go...
Building a sustainable yoga routine is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
With clear intentions, patience, and the tips above, you’ll be on your way to making yoga a natural and cherished part of your life.
It’s not just about mastering poses—it’s about enjoying the journey of self-discovery and growth that comes with every practice. So roll out your mat, and enjoy your yoga adventure!
If you're like me and have a lot of trouble sticking to a routine, please download the Fabulous app right away! Success is just a series of habits working together, and this app really helps build consistency and makes it easy to create healthy habits—even the ones that take the most effort! Try it out, and I guarantee you’ll be on your way to living your best life in no time! If it worked for me, it can work for you!
That's it for now! Sending positive vibes your way, and happy exploring!
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