We all know life can get a little crazy. Whilst doing Yoga each day might sound like a marvellous idea, when your head feels full, your nervous system is fried and your house looks like a ‘before’ shot on a Marie Kondo show, finding your inner calm can feel pretty far away.

So as someone who teaches Yoga, is a Mum of 3 and also lives a very real, very full life, I’ve put together some practical tips to help you get on your mat and feel things shift from ‘face-palm’ to ‘I’m calm’.

1. Little bits often are better than long bits seldom.
Do some breathing in the car. Stand on one leg while brushing your teeth. Do a few Warrior poses in the kitchen. Twist lying in bed. It all counts and it all adds up.

2. Make it a treat.
Don’t see Yoga as another chore on the 'to do' list because it won’t feel fun and it probably won’t happen. Put on your favourite chilled out tunes, diffuse some essential oils and think of your practice like an indulgent massage or hot bath.

3. Know that it won’t be like a studio class.
Let go of unfair expectations that it has to look like a perfectly curated one hour class led by a teacher. That’s why studios exist. At home you’ll get distracted, you might make it up as you go and someone or something will interrupt you. That’s all part of practising Yoga and often the unexpected parts can be the most magical! (Like when your dog lies on in you in meditation) 

4. Get off the phone/couch.
So much of our available downtime disappears into phones and couches. Then we say “I don’t have time for Yoga.” Leave your mat unrolled in an easy spot and instead of plopping down, just sit on it and see what happens. Simply being on the floor does wonders for your back and hips.

5. Trick yourself into starting.
Tell yourself “I’ll just do five minutes.”
Twenty minutes later… look at you, doing Yoga.

6. Make it part of your routine.
When something happens at the same time each day, it’s easier to form a habit. Maybe it’s ten minutes first thing, a lunchtime stretch or a gentle flow before bed. If it’s planned, it’s easier to commit to. I personally love it in the morning before I make a nice cuppa, it inspires me to get out of bed and onto the mat. 

7. Remove distractions.
If messages, emails and calls are coming through, it’s almost impossible to settle. Flight mode on your phone equals zen mode for you.

8. Wear exercise gear.
Put on Yoga pants or comfy clothes early in the day. It’s like a quiet promise to yourself that movement is possible. Sometimes the only thing stopping us is tight jeans or impractical shoes. Remove the excuse and dress for the day you want to have. Bonus points if people assume you’re super fit when they see you out and about.

9. Know that every day is different.
Don’t compare or judge. Just show up and let whatever needs attention today come through. Some days it’s a strong flow. Some days it’s child’s pose on the floor. Honour both.

10. Invite others in if needed.
If solo time feels impossible, include the people around you, whether its your kids/ house mates/ partner/ parents/ pets. Move together. Play. Breathe. Connect. Some days shared presence is just as nourishing as a silent meditation.

I hope this helps you carve out some nourishing, mindful time on your mat so you can fill your own cup.

With love,
Georgia xo