Creating Space for Yoga

I’ve practiced yoga for nearly 20 years off and on. Unfortunately lately creating space for yoga has been challenging. It’s partly due to my schedule, which has had me participating in lots of morning teleclasses as well as conference calls with the International Feng Shui Guild Board of Directors. It’s also partly connection. I find that yoga is best when you really connect with the instructor and right now, that isn’t happening.

So I’ve been giving some thought to finding a dedicated spot in my home that would work for a home based yoga practice. I found this nice inspiration room online.

To me, the ideal yoga space needs a few things:

• A dedicated space would be really nice. A spare room like the one above is a luxury that most of us don’t have but that would be ideal. If you were disciplined enough to set yourself up daily, a quiet corner could work in a pinch.

• Hard surface flooring. Hardwood, cork or laminate would be ideal. I have a spot in my current office that would be nice but it has carpet, which just doesn’t make me think yoga. Besides, my computer would probably distract me.

• Some way to connect a television monitor so I can use a DVD. Surely after 20 years you wouldn’t think I’d need a DVD but it is simply easier to follow along – that’s why I do classes!

• Calm colors. Warm or cool will work, it depends on your preferences. Some people enjoy a more cocooned feel, while others might like more austere and zen like. Right now, I’m waffling.

• A certain amount of quiet. In order for yoga to be introspective, a quiet and meditative space is best. A corner of a bedroom or study would be great. Somewhere just out of the major traffic of the home.

• A spot for my meditation chair would be nice.

I actually have a windowless room in my basement that used to be an office (windowless is the reason it is no longer my office). With heated floors it is too warm for a workout room, and without a window can’t legally be a bedroom, but it might be perfect for yoga; a sudden inspiration!

Do you have a home based yoga practice? What is working, or not working for you?