Before you Begin...
It is imperative that you are prepared to listen to your body and proceed at your own pace, whatever that may be. Rather than straining or wrenching your muscles to stretch as far as the person next to you, release your body and learn your limitations. Yoga is a progressive practice, it will teach you much about your body in its current state but more about where you can go if you practice gently and regularly.
To practice Yoga, you really don't need a lot of equipment. Yoga is designed for you to be able to practice with others in a studio setting or in the comfort of your own living room. With that said, suggestions are made below that will hopefully help you answer the "What do I need to practice yoga?" question. Items discussed can benefit you both as a beginner or can enhance your experience as a regular yogi.
Yoga Mat - a mat or "sticky mat" provides a soft non-slip surface. When in positions that require you to balance or put a majority of your weight on the feet or hands, a non-slip surface is ideal for both comfort and safety. A rug or carpet are also suitable surfaces because they offer you that layer of cushion between the body and the floor. Note: At studios or health clubs, mats will most likely be provided for you. However, for personal (sanitary) reasons, you might find it best to purchase your own yoga mat.
Small Blanket and Pillow - during Savasana (Corpse Pose), yogi's find it very comfortable to rest their heads on a pillow and cover up with a small blanket or towel. You can choose to begin your Yoga session wrapped up in a blanket or with a light sweatshirt on. In no time, you'll find the need to shed it to the side.
Bare Feet - removing not only your shoes but your socks too is ideal for Yoga. The sole of your bare foot with "stick" to the mat and provide you with a better foudation. Thus the term above given to a "sticky mat."
Unrestrictive Clothing - the reason for more form fitting clothing is so that pant legs or over sized t-shirts don't prohibit your body's ability to get into or hold a position. Long pant legs could potentially cause you to trip and thus capri style pants are great especially for balancing positions when the foot is pressing against the opposite leg. Likewise, in terms of the breath, a former fitting style shirt either short of long sleeve, will reveal the stomach rising and falling with each breath. This can help you focus better on the breath because you have a visual representation.
Dress in Layers - as the body warms up, you can shed layers to the side. But they'll be right there when you need them once class slows down and you mentally and physically prepare for final relaxation. Anything you can do to comfort the body is "a must" in Yoga. Enjoy!
