A Guide to “Zoom Yoga” Classes
We love yoga, and we believe there’s never been a time when it’s been more needed than now. The COVID-19 outbreak, along with a handful over other stressful current events in 2020, has made for an incredibly stressful year. Social distancing and resulting isolation itself is stressful, but factor in financial stress and the fear of illness and, well, yikes.
With many in-person businesses and services either shut down or moved online due to COVID-19 social distancing practices, you might be missing out on your beloved yoga classes. That’s the last thing you need right now! Luckily, many yoga instructors have quickly adapted their classes for the web.
Maybe you have gotten an invite to participate in an online yoga class. You might be a little daunted by this at first, picturing yourself squinting at a screen trying to replicate your instructor’s moves. Or, worse, being recorded while trying to hold a minute-long downward-facing dog...
But fear not! This is your guide to the 2020 phenomenon we call “Zoom yoga.” You’ll learn what to expect from your first Zoom yoga class and why it’s worth getting out of your comfort zone during these stressful times.
What to expect from your first Zoom yoga class
Your online yoga class may be through any number of video call services, but Zoom is especially popular for allowing users to control their screens. You’ll be able to minimize your picture and maximize your teacher’s. Some instructors will prefer students to be on-screen in order to watch their performance, but others don’t require you to be on camera at all.
You’ll find plenty of ways to recreate the atmosphere of an in-person yoga class at home. Many yoga instructors send their students music playlists to play at home. As for accessories, ordinary household objects like towels, books, and stretchy pants can replace the professional props used in a yoga studio.
If your yoga instructor hasn’t shifted their services online, and you haven’t received an invite to participate elsewhere, you can always find free instructor-guided yoga classes on YouTube.
Why it’s worth getting out of your comfort zone
The months-long quarantine thanks to COVID-19 has been jarring for just about everyone, but many have tried to make the best of it by viewing it as a break from their routine. They’ve holed themselves up at home, allowing themselves to forget their obligations and relax. If you’re a regular yogi, you might be tempted to do the same with your yoga routine.
But that might not be such a good idea. First of all, with all the change that’s going on in the world, it’s wise to stick with some elements of your routine, especially when it’s something as therapeutic as yoga. Plus, your yoga studio or instructor feels these same changes, financially and emotionally, and your continued support can make all the difference.
Self-care is vital during trying times like these. You’re likely undergoing a lot of anxiety, sadness, and change. Yoga can be critical for managing and releasing those feelings.