Instant Karma for Your Paddling

If you're a little unsure about the whole idea of getting started, try taking a class. A beginner's class can be a good way to learn poses and understand how to practice them properly. You'll also learn which muscles and joints you're working and why. Although they can be expensive at $12 to $15 per session, yoga classes are readily available now at studios or gyms in nearly every city.

It may take some homework to find one that's best suited for you. Because there are so many methods of yoga, all classes are not created equal. Ashtanga, Bikram, and Iyengar are just a few of the hatha-yoga styles offered. Each style has a different focus. Iyengar, for example, concentrates on gaining perfection of muscle placement and body alignment in a pose.

Too shy to take a class? Check into a video. Videos can't replace a live teacher, but can be helpful when practicing at home. Try yoga-for-beginners tapes. Any tapes with instructors Rodney Yee or Patricia Walden are bound to be good.

Yoga is so portable, you can practice in the office, basement, or just about anywhere. Practice outside on the grass next to the water for some inspiration. The fresh air will probably feel good, too. Make sure you're warm enough while practicing poses, though. Otherwise you may put yourself at risk of injury.

You should enjoy your yoga practice. What's the use otherwise? If your body isn't ready for a certain pose, don't force it. Work the poses at your own level and pace. Your body will thank you for it. Moving into advanced poses may take time, but regardless, your body will become stronger and more flexible.

As with any exercise, the benefits of yoga are greater if you practice the poses on a regular basis. Ten minutes of yoga poses five times a week will do you more good than 30 minutes once a week. Work your way up to 20- or 30-minute sessions.

On a side note, yoga can aid in digestion, increase circulation, and help you sleep. While practicing yoga poses in the morning can loosen stiff joints and tight muscles, yoga poses at night can relax the body and ease tension. And it's really natural for paddlers to practice yoga poses for common benefits such as strength, flexibility, and balance. If you accomplish those goals, you won't have to worry much about aches, pains, and pulled muscles.