While nothing can beat an in studio yoga class where all distractions are out of reach, I do love to practice yoga at home. Especially restorative yoga. I don’t have to worry about making it to a class on time, and can practice whenever I want - which can mean more often!
Now, in these times of Covid-19, we are being forced to rearrange our habits and find ways to do what we love most- at home. I’ve been slowly creating content for an at home practice on this site for quite a while. I initially saw it as a resource for my students that want more than what was offered in class. Or as a library of extras so that you could squeeze in a 10 minute pose / meditation here and there. Now, that I’ve moved out of New York where I started teaching and have gained a mailing list or subscribers from all over the world, I started seeing sharing an at home practice as my avenue. I started adding more content while coming up with a huge list of creative ideas that I want to do.
However, as the reach of the Covid virus started to spread rapidly here in the States, a time when we need this practice the most, I found myself finishing a school quarter at my day job (at an art school) and learning how to transition to online learning (valuable!), while relocating my Dad here to Georgia. As ideas of offerings to send you filled my head, I had to be careful not to overload myself. It would be hypocritical of me to let my own well run dry. If you’ve been following me for a while you know I always say “refill your well” and have been preaching a slower life for years now. It’s all about the pacing.
So onward! As I start to adapt to all that is new, I will be adding more to my Practice At Home page and will send more offerings. In the meantime below are some tips on setting up your own space to practice. Once set up visit my current restorative pose gallery here. After the past few weeks we’ve had it is time to develop the habit of pressing pause as best we can and start to reset our nervous systems. We will need this practice more than ever now!
Image credit: Karen LaPorte
CREATE YOUR SPACE
The actual space. It doesn’t need to be its own room. I do yoga at home in my sewing room/office. I have a chest of drawers that houses my props and I keep my bolster and yoga chair in the closet. I did choose this room as I can close the door when I want privacy (almost always) and I love the light as I like to practice in the morning. Ask yourself where in your house or yard do you feel the best. Practice there.
Props. These are important in my line of work. But you don’t need to go out and buy a ton of them. I’ll give you links to do so but be creative. Especially in a time like this!
Yoga Mat- my recommendation is the Manduka PRO: it is sticky and thick enough to help support my achy joints. However, now that I have carpet- I find I don’t always need it for a restorative pose and I don’t use it for breathwork. You can also use a blanket.
Blanket- yoga blankets are nice so you can fold them the same way I demo but really use whatever you have. I find and use bath/ beach towels a lot too. See my photo above. Towels make great rolls!
Blocks- I use Manduka Recycled Foam Yoga Blocks. I have two sets. You can also use books -especially for propping up a bolster.
Bolster- a key component. If you’re going to buy I recommend a Flat rectangle or round rectangle from Manduka. You can also use your bed pillows, a chair cushion, or fold up a blanket or towel.
Strap- yoga straps are available almost everywhere. D-rings are best! Or use a towel, a robe belt, etc.
Mat cleaner- I make my own. You will need a spray bottle from the hardware store - drugstore versions clog. Use water and add a bit of apple cider vinegar and a few drops of tea tree oil. Spray on to mat and wipe with towel.
Eye Pillow- a must for me, especially for breathwork and I love a scented one. I started making them a few years ago and offer them for sale here. Not everyone uses them and that is fine as well. You can also use a facecloth. Keep it light to not add ocular pressure.
Music- I use Spotify and have several playlists. Follow along!
That’s it! Hope to share more soon. In the meantime, please take time to care for yourself and connect.
Stay safe!
xx
Karen