 Importance of Building a Solid Foundation in Yoga

With anything that will last, you need to have a strong foundation. This is true of homes, education, and your yoga practice. You need a solid foundation in yoga for certain poses and to make sure you do not injure yourself. Here are some important reasons you need to build a solid foundation in yoga and some tips on how to do this. 

Start at the Feet

The first thing you need to do is start with your feet. Your feet placement and stance are the most important part of building your solid foundation in yoga. The idea is to feel your foundation in your feet and for you to be able to feel when your foundation is failing. The importance of starting with your feet is found in the feel of yoga and your body connection to the yoga you are practicing. Your feet will tell you if you are about to fall, if your body is having issues with the asana, and if you need to change or modify the position. This is the first step in avoiding injury and building foundation to your core.

Leg Foundation

Once you have built up your foundation from your feet, you will move into the leg foundation. The importance of building a leg foundation is to prevent yourself from passing out and for knowing your own endurance level. You need to build strength in your legs without locking your knees. Locking your knees can cause you to pass out. Instead find your stability in your legs and feel when your body may be feeling fatigue. The importance of foundation in this step is to feel that your body may be having fatigue and then stop the practice for a bit. The fatigue can lead to passing out which can lead to more issues.

Whole Body Awareness

Whole body awareness is the ultimate goal of building a foundation with your yoga practice. Your feet show you balance, your legs show you fatigue, and your core foundation can show if your mind and body are connected. You can feel the disconnect and you can re-center when you feel that disconnect. This is the largest benefit for many people in yoga and trying to build a foundation. 

These are just a few of the important reasons you should build a solid foundation in yoga. As you move through your yoga journey and practice, you will discover other reasons to build the solid foundation you need for your asanas and daily routine. If you are having issues creating and building your solid foundation, then consider a consultation with your yoga instructor. They can help you build the foundation and work to make it stronger. 
