Self-Taught Yoga vs. having a good Teacher

I was not a self –thought yogi, although I tried.
There were plenty of videos on Internet and to me – all seemed good and I couldn’t make my mind which one I should follow; is there a right one, or wrong; classes were from 3 minutes to 2 hours long and they would just flow from one pose to another without deeper explanation about breath and movement… not to mention yoga philosophy, our anatomy.. Injuries were mentioned quit often but all I could hear is to go to my Dr and ask if I could Practice yoga.

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Well, this might work for people that are already deep in yoga practice but for the beginner that was not easy to follow.

​Teaching yourself most of the time lead to flawed practice and possibly to injuries.   The worst part is when disappointed new yogi decide never to try yoga again! 

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​Since I am quite methodical type of person I decided to sign up for 10 Yoga classes. I was very lucky to get into a very good and stimulating Hatha class with very experienced Yoga teacher. She guided us well and I enjoyed every class to the point that I decided to become Yoga teacher. 

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Studying Yoga requires discipline, determination and dedication. Moreover – it is ongoing process. I am always learning something new and although I am a Teacher I will remain a Student forever.
Today I am often back to self-practice however, I cherish every moment I spend with my Mentors and other great teachers that I got to know over the years.
I go deeper in practice with them and they help me to break my limitations and open my potential. Otherwise, I do not always know what I can do and how far I can do or what is even right for me to explore.

​My advice to everyone who wants to explore beginner steps of Yoga foundation – is to reach for a good Teacher. There are plenty of them, some are lucky to work in well-established Studios, some are working in Schools, or have their own home practice and almost every Yoga Teacher is happy to share knowledge.
You need to learn the basics as a foundation on which you can built further practice.
For that you need to ask for directions… it’s like a journey – you need a good map to get to chosen destination. So, don’t hesitate to ask, to explore and to be guided by a good Teacher.
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Written by Maya T.
​Photos: Bigstock and private gallery

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