Yoga is one of the best ways to relax your body and mind while finding a balance that is healthy mentally and physically. However, many people tend to take yoga to a level that is financially uncomfortable for them. This problem can lead to a lack of motivation, termination of the exercise or a severe budget crisis. One way to avoid losing your passion for yoga is to stop making it about the money and go back to the early stages of your practices. You should be able to bend and move without stress, rather than trying to figure out how you’re going to pay for your next class. This is where a little know how comes in handy. Yoga doesn’t have to cost you a penny if you don’t want it to and with these tips you’ll learn how to work around the price tag so you can find peace again.
1. Classes
There’s a lot of yoga classes out there to choose from which can really leave you in a financial bind if you don’t know how to look for the right class. Many classes are really expensive and can leave your budget hurting after just one class. The best thing you can do is try to find a class that is free or donation based. It may be hard to find a class that is free, but many instructors will offer a few sessions on a donation base. The best way to find these classes is to call around or ask other yoga enthusiast. These classes might also be a bit busier, but for a lower price it will be well worth it. If you already have a gym membership then you may be able to sign up for a yoga course through the gym which will help keep you flexing without an added price. Another cheaper option is to ask at the YMCA or local fitness club as they often hold free or low cost sessions for members. Of course, if you have no luck with these methods you may want to just buy your classes in bulk in order to receive a slight discount.
2. Skip the Equipment
When it comes to yoga a lt of people believe they have to have the extra equipment to do it. This, of course, is not true at all. If you don’t have money for a new mat or any of the other add ons then simply don’t use them. Most of the basic moves in yoga can be done on a bare floor, especially the positions that involve sitting and laying down. If you plan on doing stances that aim more towards standing then you may want to work on a hardwood or tiled floor that will allow you to gain more balance on the feet. As you progress in yoga you will know more about what your body needs in order to do the stretches you desire. In many cases, people find that they can easily get though a full workout session without ever having to use a mat or equipment that yoga stores try to sell.
3. Utilize Gym Clothes
A lot of people will go out and buy an all new wardrobe when they decide to start up a yoga course. This can be a big issue if you’re just starting out and don’t know how the activity is going to feel on your body. There’s a whole lot of brands out there that cater to flexibility during yoga, but they range from pricey to even pricier. The best thing abut yoga is there is no dress code. You can show up in your worst pair of sweats and you’ll be comfortable for the entire session. If you already own gym clothes then try going to class in these, you may find they work just as well as a yoga uniform might. If you don’t have gym clothes already the try working out in a pair of old shorts and a t-shirt. You probably don’t want a shirt that fits too loosely, but most old t-shirts or tank tops work fine for the duration of the workout. If you’re looking to sweat more during your workout then choose items that promote sweat like a hoodie or sweatpants. You can spend years doing yoga and never once have to buy a yoga outfit.
4. Yoga at Home
Our home’s are one of the most relaxing places for most people. If you can find some quiet time during your day then go ahead and do a session of yoga at home. This may become your favorite place to workout and could really help you save a lot of money on classes. It might be wise to schedule a few beginner classes of yoga as this will help you develop a routine and ensure you’re doing the moves correctly. Once you have your motions ready then you should easily be able to work out what you need to do to keep in shape in your own home. As you progress with yoga you might schedule a class or two to master more advanced moves, but this shouldn’t be more than a few times a year.
5. Free Classes
With technology such a major part of our lives there is really no need to step foot in a yoga class. In fact, there’s a vast collection of yoga courses on the internet that will have you in shape in no time at all. If you’re a visual person then try searching on websites like youtube as there are many professional and amateur yoga instructors that have uploaded countless workout sessions and position guides that are simple to follow. Even popular TV hosts like Dr. Oz have a session that is entirely dedicated to free yoga lessons. You can also check out your local fitness or public access stations to see if there is any yoga courses available. These can easily be recorded and played at a time that is convenient for you. If you’d prefer to work on your own then there’s plenty of websites that will show you to do the poses. If you don’t have access to the internet often then you can always purchase of check out a book from the local library or used book store.
6. Utilize Discounts
When it comes to discounts you should always be aware of what you qualify for. One of the biggest groups of people to receive discounts on yoga is students. These discounts usually require flashing a current student ID card, but this easy task could lead you to a free or reduced price yoga course. A lot of places will actually hold classes specifically for students that are easy to crash when you’re in the mood for yoga. Of course, many other people qualify for a number of discounts. For instance, if you have a military ID or are part of certain clubs then a discount might be possible. You don’t just have to use the discount on classes though. There are many stores that will offer this discount on clothes and equipment as well, so always have your ID cards handy and ask about possible discounts. You may also be able to find some awesome groupon deals that help you and your yoga friends get into a class for a whole lot less than you’d expect.
7. Make Your Own Props
Yoga equipment can run you a small fortune, but if you know a few home remedies then you’re good to go without having to pay the price. There’s many things around the home that can be used to create the same effect of the yoga equipment. For instance, if you tend to need blocks during many of your poses you might try to utilize some family sized soup cans. If you need something a bit wider then move on to refried beans. These items are cheap and usually in the home which is pretty convenient when you’re ready to work out. A lot of people need to utilize yoga straps with their workout. These straps can easily be mimicked with neckties or the waist tie from a bathrobe. If you love using a workout ball to help with your core then try the kids bouncy ball or a thinner chair. Finally, if you want some resistant weight then fill up two water bottles to help out. These easy to create props won’t leave you longing for more out of your workouts and will ensure you’re ready to push your body to the next level in yoga.
8. Music
Everyone enjoys relaxing to a little music, especially when it comes to yoga. However, finding music based especially for yoga can really be a pricey purchase. Even if you do find a yoga collection at a decent price there is a pretty good chance you’re going to end up getting very tired of the music after several workouts with it. Instead of purchasing music try logging onto your favorite internet radio. Many other users have play list dedicated solely to yoga which could help you find what you’re looking for. This could also help mix things up and provide you with music that can help you find the relaxation you need. You could also get on a website like YouTube and find channels dedicated to yoga. This will provide you with music and instruction to help make your experience even better.
9. Create a Group
One simple way to help keep an interest in yoga and save money on it is to create a group that will help you stay motivated. Your group can work out together and learn new things from one another, which will really help prevent you from spending too much money on classes. If you can create a group with people who range in ability then you will be well on your way to a successful group. As the more advanced members help teach new poses and direct the body the intermidiate students can also improve on their stances by helping the beginners. Everyone working together will create a healthy balance of fun that will encourage everyone to meet their goals. As time progresses your group could even double in size. You can also take turns providing snacks and drinks for everyone in the group which will also save money in the long run.
10. Volunteer
If you’re still having a bit of trouble finding a way to get yourself into yoga then you might want to consider a little volunteer work. Volunteering at a studio, gym or school is one of the easiest ways to get into a class for no expense at all. Simply talk to the owner of the organization or the instructor before a class and let them know your situation. You might end up spraying mats or sweeping and mopping when class is over, but your mind and body will be more balanced during the extra work. Sometimes your volunteer work can even pay off on your resume as your experience in the studio might land you a job working in a yoga institution. Of course, make sure you balance your time well as you won’t want to be rushed with your everyday activities, yoga class and volunteer work.
Yoga is such a great way to encourage strength and tranquility while burning calories, but a lot of the time it is turned into a money pit. These tips should have you working to find a more healthy balance that will allow you to enjoy yoga the way it was meant to be. So find a place where you can relax your mind and let your body flex and move the way it was intended to.
