How Much is Too Much?

One of the first questions many people have about yoga is “how often should I practice?” That depends on whom you ask. Bikram says that you should begin by practicing his ninety minute sequence every day for two months! Many others say that you will truly begin to see the benefits at three classes per week. Of course, one class per week will also bring benefits, as will one class per month. Ultimately, you must honor your body. Go to your edge, always remembering that practice is NOT punishment for an inflexible or weak body. Practice is the reward for your strong will and intention.

In class, too, we often talk about “going to the edge.” As in the rest of life, sometimes we must push ourselves beyond our limits to find out just how far we can go. Sometimes we get hurt, and sometimes we find reserves of strength, energy, and determination that we never would have found otherwise. As long as we honor our body and spirit, we can not fail.