Materials and Supplies

All you really need to practice yoga is a floor and some type of comfortable material to lay on that is slip-proof.  Though it is not necessary to spend much, or any, money to get started, many items are available in today's "yoga market." 

Colorful mats, sturdy straps, support blocks, are all available to assist you in accomplishing and improving your poses.  You may implement homemade props or visit our shop for suggestions.

Your space should be in a quiet area away from the flow of traffic, private if possible.

Keeping a journal is helpful for insight along your yogic journey.  Record asanas (poses), goals, accomplishments, difficulties, visions, relaxations, meditations, mantras, diet, changes in health, philosophies.  You will be able to refer back to your own notes as well as to track your progress.

Candles and incense add to your practice by creating a soft, relaxing atmosphere.

Music can enhance your practice if chosen appropriately for the purpose.  For Hatha Yoga, stay away from anything with a beat.  Instead choose quiet, flowing music that will lift and carry the sprit on its onward journey.  I highly recommend former Tibetan Buddhist Monk, Nawang Khechog's Music as Medicine which is available in our shop.

For clothing you will want pieces that fit snugly to the body so as not to distract. For instance, baggy, loose or long shirts have a tendency to flop forward into your face when bending over or to fall "up" exposing too much.  It also makes it more visually beneficial when you can see your body movement.  Some loose clothing can hinder poses completely.  Stretchy workout pieces work best. A snug tank and sweat pants are easy and comfortable.  Bare feet please as socks can be slippery and may also cause obstruction to certain poses.

You may want to pick up some yoga books and DVDs to guide you and aid you further in your practice.  For simple, beginning Hatha Yoga, try Yolanda Pettinato.  See her DVD and book, Simply Yoga, in our shop