Practice Notes: A Gentle Beginning

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Beginning doesn’t need to be big. It just needs to be gentle—and repeatable.

Practice Notes are small, precise invitations—designed to help you begin again without drama, and without needing the “perfect” conditions. Not more effort. Just a clearer way in.

Here is today’s starting point:

If you’re new to yoga or returning after time away, let this be your permission slip: you don’t have to push, perform, or “catch up.” You’re building a relationship with your body, and relationships soften into trust—slowly.

Before you begin (your essentials)

Create a small ritual. Keep it simple.

  • A yoga mat (or a non-slip rug)
  • Two blocks (or sturdy books)
  • A strap (or a scarf)
  • A blanket (for warmth and comfort)
  • A cushion (for sitting, knees, or support)
  • Water
  • Optional: an eye pillow or a folded scarf for rest

Choose comfort over aesthetics. The most luxurious practice is the one you actually return to.

Set an intention (one sentence only)

Intention isn’t pressure—it’s direction. Keep it small and kind.

Try:

  • “Today, I practice gently.”
  • “Today, I listen.”
  • “Today, I move with patience.”
  • “Today, I begin again.”

Choose one anchor (then let it evolve)

When we begin, the mind wants to roam. An anchor gives it somewhere elegant to return.

Start with breath:

  • Feel the inhale arrive.
  • Feel the exhale soften.
    Stay for three slow breaths.

Then, as you start moving, let the anchor shift—but only one at a time:

  • Feet: notice where you meet the ground
  • Palms: feel contact, pressure, temperature
  • Breath: return again, and again

You’re training attention with tenderness.

Make it smaller than you think

If your body feels stiff, tired, or unsure—shrink the practice.

  • one posture
  • one stretch
  • one minute
  • one calm pause

Small practice is still practice. Often, it’s the most honest kind.

Don’t chase sensation

Early on, it’s easy to think deeper is better. It isn’t.

Let your guiding rule be: steady, smooth, and pain-free.
No sharpness. No forcing. No strain in the face, jaw, or breath.

Give the body time to open in its own language.

A gentle close

When you finish, place one hand on your chest and one on your belly.
Take one slow breath and quietly acknowledge:

“I showed up.”

That’s the beginning. And it’s enough.