Can yoga be done at anytime & anywhere?
- YOGKUtīR by NJ
- Jul 1, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 21, 2024
Did you ever wonder if there is any specific time or place to practice yoga? Is every time right? Are there any special places to use, or to avoid?
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What is the right time for yoga?
The Chapter 1: Sutra 14 of Patanjali's Yoga Sutra says:
स तु दीर्घकालनैरन्तर्यसत्कारासेवितो दृढभूमिः ॥१.१४॥
Sa tu dirgha kala nairantarya satkara sevito drudha bhumihi
First, you have to practice for a long period of time; second, your practice must not be interrupted—you must do it regularly; and third, you must do your practice with love and respect.
What part of the day can then be conducive for yoga?
The Brahma Muhurta, i.e. a couple of hours before sunrise, thus is considered the best time for yogic practices. In India, this is approximately from 3:30 am to 5:00 am. However, trying to wake up at uncomfortable hours, or going against our modern lifestyle body clock, rarely creates a consistent yogic practice.
Hence, in today's busy lifestyle, one is encouraged to devote time for yoga practice at any suitable time of the day with empty stomach i.e. by maintaining sufficient gap with meals:
Empty stomach in the morning
After 2 hours of breakfast
After 3 hours of lunch
Idea is one should be empty stomach during the practice of yogic practices like asanas and pranayamas.
Time around the sunset is considered the second best time for the practice. One should generally avoid asana practice just before sleeping.
What is the right place for yoga?
Any place which is calm, peaceful, clean, lighted and ventilated would be good for the yogic practices. Choose a place close to the nature, if possible.
Clothing should be comfortable, preferably made of natural breathable material like cotton, and not very tight.
Maintaining the same place, regularity and the same timing for your yoga sadhana brings good results.
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