Are You Part Of The 46%?

The COVID-19 pandemic has rocked the entire world to its core. Things we all took for granted, like
visiting loved ones or going to Happy Hour after work, now seem more valuable than ever.
Gym closures have affected millions who value their personal health and wellness. With no access to
weight racks, treadmills, or spinning classes, people are looking for different ways to scratch their fitness
itch and defy the global pandemic.

A recent survey at found that 46% of fitness enthusiasts are dedicating more time to
flexibility-based workouts like yoga and stretching.

As a loyal reader here on Yoga Digest, you probably already recognize the amazing benefits yoga has for
both your mind and body.

But if COVID-19 finally gave you a reason to explore what your yogi friends have been preaching, well,
there’s no better time than the present.
And want me to let you in on three other great benefits of yoga?

1. You can do it anywhere.
2. You need very little space.
3. The required gear is inexpensive.

If you’re just beginning your yoga journey, a good place to start is by finding a quiet, comfortable spot to
practice. I like well-lit rooms with a lot of natural light and soft, neutral colors, but anywhere that feels
right to you will be fine.

As a beginner, it’s also a good idea to follow someone who knows what they’re doing. Yoga classes are
great, but most studios are closed right now and it’s important we all maintain proper social distancing.

Thankfully, there are a host of soothing instructional videos on YouTube targeted at whatever yoga
routines interest you most. Me, personally? I have tight hips and enjoy following Yoga With Adriene’s
hips and lower back routine.

You’ve got a place and a routine. Now it’s time to get some gear. All you need to get started is a yoga
mat and towel. (Yes, a towel. You’ll be surprised how much you’ll sweat.) You can find a good yoga mat
for $20 and you probably have a towel lying around your house. By workout equipment standards,
that’s nothing. (And it’s easy to see why people are turning to yoga instead of buying expensive
that still take up a ton of space.)

Before we all know it, this pandemic will end and things will go back to normal. When that day comes
and you’re sitting by the pool with friends talking about what you all did with your quarantine time,
you’ll be able to proudly say you picked up a new healthy habit.