Congratulations on your desire to learn more about yoga! As mentioned before, yoga will benefit you in many ways, including increasing flexibility, strength and endurance. Yoga is not a competitive sport, and anyone can do it, although as you start, you will want to begin with beginner yoga positions and poses. While specific yoga equipment is nice, it's not necessary. All you really need is a flat, comfortable surface, and lots of space.

While it is possible to learn yoga from online resources, its tough to learn exactly how to do the poses without seeing examples. I recommend looking for local classes, buying a book or video or downloading software that shows you animated poses that help you learn the proper way of practicing yoga.

Sun Salutation

The sun salutation is made up of 12 poses done in a continual flow. You can perform the salutation several times in a row.

1. Prayer position
2. Arch back
3. Forward bend
4. Lunge
5. Push up
6. Lower chest and chin
7. Cobra
8. Downward-facing dog
9. Lunge
10. Forward bend
11. Arch back
12. Return to Prayer position

If you buy a beginner yoga video, make sure to watch it all the way through once, so you know what to expect. You may find that having music playing in the background is relaxing and helps you focus and concentrate, no matter what type of yoga you are doing.

Some people find it easiest to work off a video, while others would rather find the information online. Here is a great site that offers online yoga videos. While it is a pay service, they do offer a free trial, so you don't have anything to lose if it doesn't work out. Yoga Learning Center

Find what works best for you, and have fun!

Suggested Beginner Yoga Videos and Equipment

Easy Series Videos Beginners Workout- Beginners Workout is designed for beginners and for those who haven't exercised for a while. It's also good for those who want to take a break from their more strenuous workouts but still want to exercise. Toning Workout- Toning Workout starts with an energizing breathing exercise that gets you ready for the exercises to follow. You'll practice over 15 different postures and exercises that will tone various parts of your body. Relaxation Workout- The Relaxation Workout leads you through exercises that will loosen up your muscles, leaving you relaxed and refreshed. It will also help you relieve tension with gentle bending and twisting accompanied by coordinated breathing.

Get Started Yoga Kit Wai Lana makes it easy for you to begin practicing yoga with her new Get Started Yoga Kit! Kit includes: Wai Lana's Relaxation Workout video; 6' yoga strap; 4" yoga block; Yogi Mat; and a Beautifully illustrated instructional poster.