Committed and Consistent: A Perspective For Regular Yoga Practice

By Carrie Brewer Bergener

Founded in both opinion and research, yogis and medical professionals tout the benefits of a committed and consistent yoga practice. The entire body moves during a yoga practice, enhancing muscle strength and flexibility, and overall physical health improves through the movements from pose to pose. Adding intentional thinking into the movement improves mental health due to improved clarity and decreases stress, depression, and anxiety. Incorporating movement and breath into a daily routine is opportune for overall physical and psychological health. Accepting that Yoga is good for physical health and mental well-being, the challenge is to grasp the concepts of “committed” and “consistent”, set goals and plan, and finally, make Yoga a habit.

Starting small, building on an existing habit, preparing your environment, proclaiming the habit aloud to friends and family, or writing it down, are hints to establishing a routine. Some experts support the idea that it takes 3 days to create a habit, 3 weeks to make it routine, and 3 months to solidify it as a permanent lifestyle change. Yet another recommendation is to break autopilot activities. Think of driving home from work the same way every day and change that pattern. Becoming aware of auto routines often makes changing and setting a new goal with a plan much easier. 

Goal setting and planning are yet other methods for establishing changes in daily habits. Goal setting is a statement of what you want. “I am physically and mentally healthy”. Planning is the process of defining the steps to achieve a goal. “I am practicing yoga every day”. Another way to understand how to establish a plan is to embrace Sadhana, a Sanskrit term for a committed daily practice that leads to a way of life. In other words, committing to a daily yoga practice to become a healthier person.

Sadhana, or commitment, is understood also as a dedication to an activity. Consistency is acting in the same way over time. Combining the two qualities of commitment and consistency are significant tools for success in developing a regular yoga practice. Over the thousands of years that Yoga has existed, it has evolved. Many different types are recognized today, yet all disciplines promote consistency, commitment, and the integration of movement and thinking into daily yoga practice. Health experts agree that establishing a habit requires intentional action, and having community support is a great benefit. Like-minded people provide a sense of belonging and motivation. It is nice to be greeted by fellow yogis at class and see a friend on the mat next to you. If at-home practice falters and your motivation wanes, get that boost of encouragement from others, cultivate a regular yoga practice, and experience its lasting benefits.

Meet me at Taspen’s! See you on your mat!