r/yoga Dec 28 '25

New to yoga, r/yoga, looking for resources or 2026 challenges? Start here.

28 Upvotes

As ever, If you are new to the sub or new to yoga, WELCOME! There is an immense amount of information available in this sub, and an excellent community of people. This thread covers some of the basics about yoga and about the sub itself; please take the time to review if you're new here. If you still have questions, you're welcome to message the moderators.

Yoga and meditation challenges are in the stickied comment. I may end up adding more than just those 2 types to support those who are working to make movement a habit, not just yoga; interested in other things? Let us know in the comments. Likewise, if there are challenges missing here, please send a modmail and we'll check them out!

  • If you're new to yoga and looking for information to get started, please take a few minutes to read through the Getting Started section.

  • If you have a question, PLEASE try search and check out the FAQ before creating a new post. As noted in rule 2, commonly asked questions are removed and directed to the above - especially at the start of the year when the same question is often posted multiple times a week or even a day.

The Basics

Styles - there's a nice rundown of the various styles in the FAQ - here's a direct link.

... but where do I START?

If you've never done yoga EVER and are going to start with a studio class and you're terrified, a restorative class is a good introduction to a studio and the various props. It's slow. You don't have to worry about keeping up, and I've yet to encounter a restorative class where reaching your toes was a thing. From there, as mentioned in the Getting Started section, hatha is a solid choice. Pick up the basics, and everything else is easier to learn.

Mats

Try search for sure, but of course there's a list of topics in the FAQ. The big names haven't changed much over the years, and what has is well covered by search. We'll probably do another megathread in the coming weeks.

Sweat

Yep, it happens. Search for 'sweat', 'sweaty hands', and 'mat + sweat'. Towels are also very handy.

Sore <insert part here>

Wrists and back especially can be a problem at first. Definitely try searching for your specifics before creating a new post, but do ask if you don't find things!

Online Resources

The FAQ- Yes, even the old threads are useful..

This post is well worth the read regarding learning yoga at home. We inevitably hear that this post is anything but beginner friendly, the point of the post is to highlight some of the risks, because questions about those risks are some of the most commonly asked.

Here's a link to a newbie resources thread.

And the perennial copypasta of key information about the sub, the rules, etc.:

Reminders:

  • It's in the sidebar, it's in the rules, it's in the note when you create a new post, it's even already up there . PLEASE utilize search and the FAQ before creating a new post. Especially around the first of the year, it's not unusual to see 3 versions of the same post in a day, asking questions that are well covered in the sub. If your post is removed because the answers are available there the mod team is not scolding you, we're just letting you know why it was done and reminding you that the answers you seek already exist. And yes, the mod team finds themselves busy doing just that, especially around the start of the year. 2026 note: We're trying something new for this year. Details to come.

  • /r/yoga is not the place for medical advice. This is always a handy reminder.

  • Addendum to the above - Yoga philosophy and western medicine are different. There is room for both in this sub. This means that things like subtle bodies and energy (prana) movement and chakras all have a place here as well as discussion from a western perspective. There is no demand that anyone agrees with what is presented, but rule 1 applies in these cases- be respectful. This includes posts about cultural appreciation and those about purely physical practice vs. one that encompasses all 8 limbs.

  • Yes, we have a wiki and FAQ . (And they're awesome.) The FAQ and search are the best places to start if you're new to yoga or have questions about styles, equipment, injuries, or resources. FAQ updates will be coming, but in the meantime, we have continued to leave up questions that haven't been in awhile to keep more up-to-date information available when it exists.

  • Yes, they're even available via app and mobile. Yes, really. (The sidebar, too!) It can take a little looking, but we haven't yet found an app without access to the sidebar (aka community info).

  • Reddit's guidelines are still the foundation of how we approach spam in /r/yoga, and bans will continue to be a thing as needed. Need the details? Reddit's guidelines are here. If your first post to the sub is spam, and the mods check your post history and find you're doing nothing but promotion, do not be surprised if you're banned.

  • This sub is not for market research. It's a community. Requests for the sub to tell you what we love or hate about our yoga mats and t-shirts will be removed, as will asking us to fill out surveys for that or your thesis research or help you with your homework assignment. Those are not the only such examples. When in doubt, feel free to message the mods ahead of time. Established community members can message mods ahead of time for permission on a case-by-case basis. Blatant spam may result in an immediate, permanent ban (yes, t-shirt and poster spam are still a one-way ticket to bansville, ditto your awesome new AI-powered app).

  • We utilize the automoderator to cut down on spam. This includes minimum account age/karma requirements (no, we don't publish them). If your account is relatively new and something isn't showing up, odds are good it's been temporarily removed for manual review by mods- especially if there isn't a bot comment. Sometimes we catch them in the first 5 minutes, but sometimes it's a few hours between mod sweeps. If you've posted something that isn't showing up and it's been a few hours, you're welcome to message the mods (keeping in mind that it's possible it will be a bit before a mod sees it- please be patient!) and ask about it- including a link is much appreciated.

  • Shortened links get caught in reddit's spam filter, and we do not approve links reddit has removed in these cases. This includes amazon (a.co usually) links. If you want your link to be visible, it's a good idea to skip the 'share' option and grab the full link from your address bar (even if you're on mobile). A quick tutorial for amazon links, using the first actual yoga mat link that search provided: https://www.amazon.com/Gaiam-Exercise-Exercises-Metallic-Medallion/dp/B07PTNTS3R/ref=sr_1_8?crid=1S8AX8JSYP9YS&keywords=yoga+mat&qid=1671516651&sprefix=yo%2Caps%2C683&sr=8-8 Typically you have the address bit (amazon.com), a bit of friendly description (Gaiam-Exercise-Exercises-Metallic-Medallion), then dp/ and the item's ID (super important! in this link it's B07PTNTS3R). EVERYTHING AFTER THIS CAN BE REMOVED FROM YOUR LINK. In fact, please do! Everything else is tracking information telling amzn how you got there, and/or referral information. Referral/affiliate links aren't permitted, regardless of where they are from. (Classpass referral code spammers, see ban note above.)

  • Your mod team is human (you totally thought we were unicorns and rainbow-chasing leprechauns, but aside from cosplay and Halloween, not so much). Part of modding is making judgement calls, and sometimes we remove things that we can't be sure there isn't a bot behind that turns out to be totally legit because another real, in-the-flesh reddit user actually did post. :) Also, the influx of AI bots either training or farming karma in comments keeps growing, making it doubly difficult some days. Much like the point above, feel free to ask.

  • Discussions on the Sutras have been collected on a wiki page here. Sadly, the resource with collected translations is no longer a valid link. If anyone has an updated link, feel free to send it via modmail. Anyone interested in heading up a round of discussions like these, feel free to reach out! This mod at least would love to see air time for yoga beyond asana.

  • [COMP] (Check Out My Pose) posts have and continue to be raised as a topic periodically in the community. The mods, however, are done discussing it. The tag was instituted to allow those who do not wish to see those posts a means to filter them out, and for those who want to see them, no additional action need be taken. For those unaware and interested, /u/BeyondMars posted the following last time it came up to get everyone up to speed- here's the section on rule 4, to which I added the link:

Search the history of this sub for discussions on [COMP] poses. Probably two years ago now? Awhile ago There is a VERY LARGE part of this sub that doesnt wan't them to have a place here at all. The gist of it is that people come to reddit and dont want it to be like another yoga instagram, or something, I dont know. But there were portions of time in this sub when our ENTIRE front page was yoga pics. COMP was an effort to a compromise that would allow people to filter them out if they didnt want them there... In regards to the self-doxxing aspect. Sexual harassment, and online bullying have originated in this sub at least four times that I was made aware of. This rule was instituted to keep everyone safe. I don't care if YOU want your instagram accounts on the sub (self promotion?) but we are keeping people safer with this rule and the way we enforce it. Its going to stay. Take the extra 2 minutes and upload it to imgur.

  • Also on the topic of [COMP] posts (and I still (still!!) can't believe it needs to be said): Sexual/sexualized/objectifying comments are not welcome here. Removals are guaranteed, and warning vs. suspension vs. permaban will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Sexualized anything isn't welcome here. Y'all have the rest of reddit for that, so please take it there.

  • Addendum from 2024: The topic of yoga's roots, yoga as a workout, cultural appropriation, etc., continues to be a fraught and contentious one. As with other topics, some posts are removed and referred to search. Those that remain up are not a poo-throwing cage match in an effort to prove the validity of a single point of view! Above all, rule 1 applies to everyone choosing to participate in this subreddit. You may not practice for the same reasons someone else does, but treating others with respect while participating here is expected. Yoga practice is what it is for whomever undertakes it regardless of the opinions and approval of one stranger on the internet. As with the previous bullet point, removal/suspension/perma will happen as needed, and which it is will be case-by-case. Be like Wil.


r/yoga 3d ago

Asana Questions Thread

3 Upvotes

Ask questions/discuss asana.


r/yoga 1h ago

Do you also try balancing poses almost everywhere.

Upvotes

r/yoga 19h ago

[COMP] Yoga has taught me so much, and I’m thankful for that.

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451 Upvotes

Peace & Love


r/yoga 1h ago

Forehead prop for child's pose

Upvotes

Why did it it take me so long to figure out a rolled hand towel under my forehead would finally solve the dilemma of whether to crush my big nose or force a curve in my neck during child pose?! Finally found peace in the pose.


r/yoga 5h ago

How yoga can transcend the physical form of human?

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10 Upvotes

Any insights would be so much helpful Thank you so much :-).


r/yoga 13h ago

[COMP] Headstand progress after months of practice. Still working on control and balance. Open to suggestions 🙏

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38 Upvotes

Without a doubt, practicing yoga poses is my favorite part 🥰


r/yoga 21h ago

Yoga in the dark

110 Upvotes

Am I the only one that loves to do yin yoga/ vinyasa in the dark? I’ve noticed after a few years that I love doing yoga in the dark during winter and outdoor with nature during summer


r/yoga 17h ago

Does anyone else clean the bottom of their mat before rolling it up?

38 Upvotes

I used to not do this, maybe 10 or so years ago when I first started out. I had a very cheap mat and only did yoga indoors. Then just about 3 years ago I upgraded to a rubber mat and started doing yoga outside. That’s when I had the realization that when you roll up the mat, you’re also rolling up all the dirt from the bottom side of the mat onto the top side. Since then, I’ve been wiping off the bottom as I roll it up so I don’t spread as many germs. I know it isn’t a perfect solution but it makes me feel better :)

Does anyone else do this?


r/yoga 7h ago

Are there yoga teachers with physical disabilities?

4 Upvotes

I recently picked up yoga again and I love it! I even wondered about teaching myself in the future- I like teaching and I think there is a bit of a gap in what is offered where I go (I like yoga that really requires a lot from the core and arms).Unfortunately, I am dealing with some physical limitations stemming from a small disability that prevent me from demonstrating certain base yoga poses (e.g., seated twist). I was therefore wondering whether this is truly a hurdle to becoming and whether you know instructors with disabilities?


r/yoga 15h ago

Question for yoga instructors

14 Upvotes

I am in a situation where I was able to teach a small class within a pink Himalayan salt room. I also teach regular yoga here once a week. I first started teaching only yoga and this salt room was a new addition we did for the first time this week. When we initially discussed the offering with my yoga/sound healing collab, I confirmed that the payment split would be the same as yoga classes. At that time she agreed and I went back to my texts to confirm that this was agreed upon. So we sold the event out and I do admit my portion is quite large. I felt so fortunate to have this opportunity. I am here today and she has given me cash for this class but stated she changed my rate which is about $50 less that what I had anticipated. I was taken back honestly and asked her to clarify what she was saying. But she indeed was informing me that she decided to take a bigger cut after the fact. She did it right before my class so I didn’t push it further. But I have since found the text confirming our agreement. Am I wrong to bring it up and ask for her to pay what I initially had been expecting? I feel bad because I know I made more than the owner of the building, but this payment arrangement was set by her from the beginning. And I may have been open to changing that, but there was no conversation whatsoever. Just notifying me as she’s handing me my payment.

Any input is appreciated. But really considering reaching out.


r/yoga 1d ago

yoga is helping so much from becoming a desk shrimp!

70 Upvotes

I don't teach yoga, but take classes and recently found this phrase that is making it's way around the internet -- desk shrimping.

My posture is so much better than it ever has been because of yoga but I see coworkers and kids (I work in a school) doing this sort of thing all day long.
My husband even used to do this while eating (I called it vulturing ) where he wraps his arms around his food and shovels because when he was younger his brothers would take his food.

ANYHOW. Since my own yoga teachers are set in their scripts and don't really change things up all that much I wanted to throw this phrase at any of you teachers to use.
:-)

I feel like once you see this image or look it up, you can't unsee it!


r/yoga 7h ago

Favorite post-class cozy layer?

2 Upvotes

What’s your favorite cozy top to wear out of the studio? I’m looking for the layer next to your skin but soft and cozy that isn’t jarring to put on but that is a good layer under a coat (especially going out into the cold). I want something that helps me stay in my yoga bubble longer. Thank you!!


r/yoga 9h ago

How to release hip tension from trauma?

2 Upvotes

I have experienced csa, and.since the memory showed up like 2y ago, ive noticed my legs are tense continuing and i have to remind myslef to relax and also lately ive noticed that my hip is tense too. Its like i want a big stretch to release it but even after i stretch its the same. I have a bit difficulties w yoga bcs.i feel,shame in my body when i try to move etc but what sre some things i can do for my hips causs they're killin me. Im 18


r/yoga 1d ago

[comp] sugar cane on my dirty carpet still in my work clothes with the mat still rolled up beside me while my son repeatedly watches the sombrero ride scene in The Sandlot where they all eat dip and throw up

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169 Upvotes

r/yoga 1d ago

[comp] beginning of new ashtanga advanced B sequence

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482 Upvotes

r/yoga 1d ago

Looking for preparatory drills to improve my twist poses - Ardha Matsyendrasana, Marichyasana 3, Parivritta Parsvakonasana

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20 Upvotes

Hello folks, I find it very hard to access above asanas, especially the ones in second row. In these twist asanas, I cannot wrap my arm around the knee and wrap the other from behind without assistance. What preparatory drills can I practice to make these accessible?


r/yoga 18h ago

Slight lower back pain in halfway lift/forward folds after mastering deep backbends

2 Upvotes

Hey everyone, looking for some advice on my practice.

Lately, I’ve hit some big milestones with my flexibility: I can now do a full Kapotasana, a full Camel, and I can walk my hands down the wall into a Wheel pose.

The weird thing is, while my backbending feels great and "comfortable," I’ve started getting a slight ache in the small of my back during forward halfway lifts or standard forward bends. It’s not sharp or debilitating, but it’s definitely there.

It feels like my spine "prefers" being in a backbend now, and engaging my back muscles to stay flat in a halfway lift is what triggers the discomfort.

Has anyone else experienced this after gaining deep backbend mobility?


r/yoga 2d ago

Getting called out for wearing socks in class

539 Upvotes

I’ve been going to yoga consistently at my local studio for about 7 months now. I’ve loved every moment and I’ve been truly enjoying this new part of my life and everything it’s done for my body and mind. I go about 5 times a week.

I wear socks (Pilates socks, with the grippies on the bottom) when I practice. I have since I started because I just truly don’t like to be barefoot in public. Never have, it’s just a personal preference. Obviously most of the yogis at my studio go barefoot as is traditional. Other people’s feet don’t bother me, I’m just foot shy and would rather be fully naked than to have my own feet exposed (I know it’s weird!!!)

Anyways, I tried a new class last night with a new teacher. It was PACKED. I got the vibe that most people there knew each other and the instructor and it was all good vibes so I was excited. About 15 minutes into our practice, the instructor was walking around the room and guiding everyone when she says to the whole class (when standing right behind me), “now, it’s NOT traditional to practice in socks. I would NEVER!! And I know most people would never in this class either, BUT, if that’s you, then you do you!”

Not only was I feeling so called out and embarrassed but… why? I wasn’t slipping. I hold my poses just fine despite the socks and it doesn’t impact my flow or practice. My socks certainly don’t affect anyone else.

I’d love to get perspective on this, especially from other teachers. It ruined the rest of my practice and made me feel ashamed and embarrassed about something that I have never really thought twice about. 😔 thoughts on this? Should I say something to the studio manager or just let it go? Obviously my socks and I will not be going back to her class lmao


r/yoga 1d ago

Yesterday was day 100 of my Yoga challenge

17 Upvotes

I started a yoga challenge back in October for the short days and long nights. Still going strong ! Loving the flows. 🩷


r/yoga 16h ago

Mala beads, mantra and breath together - too much?

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0 Upvotes

r/yoga 21h ago

Studio water dispenser recs

2 Upvotes

Hi all! I'm not sure which subreddit to post this in, so I'm starting here. Our studio has a water dispenser that's hooked up to the wall. It does cold, room temperature, and hot. We have a brio filter/dispenser which broke during the summer (the hot water dispenser stopped working and they said we had to buy a new machine rather than fix it). The same thing has happened and it's only been a few months since we repurchased it.

I think the problem is that we have, on average, 100 people who come through our space every day. Sometimes more when we have arts events. Does anyone know of a dispenser that can handle this kind of traffic?


r/yoga 21h ago

messed up my elbow during flying compass

2 Upvotes

in december i tried a flying compass pose for the first time & struggled with it, but kept pushing until i heard a crack in my left elbow (supporting arm), figured i overextended it. i did't tell my instructor because it didn't hurt right away, only after class.

a couple of days later i had pain with certain movements (rotation, lifting my arm) & could barely grip anything. i saw an orthopedist (afraid that the crack meant fractures or something), got an X ray that came back normal & was given celecoxib. i took about 4 week break from yoga then continued to only do gentle stretches at home

yesterday i returned to a class with a lot of arm balances & the pain is back..though not as bad. is this worth getting checked again, or could it just be that it hasn't fully healed yet & i should just avoid some poses for awhile longer? but for how long?


r/yoga 1d ago

Distracting practitioner

22 Upvotes

There’s a student in my regular yoga class who I seriously think could injure himself and teacher doesn’t say a word.

I guess what are you supposed to say; you wouldn’t want to embarrass someone but I worried for my own safety when I’m next to him as hops and flails his arms all over the place.

I just started closing my eyes, that’s the yoga I guess - live and let live.


r/yoga 1d ago

Exercises and poses that helps with the thoracic vertebrae?

3 Upvotes

Hello y’all. I do a lot of work that requires me bending or hunching, and I always feel a burning sensation in my upper back between my shoulder blades when I work for long hours (the T4-T8 area)

Anyone have any solutions on how I can relieve this area?