Yoga is getting pretty huge. As the masses begin to eat consciously, they have also begun to claim responsibility for their overall mental and physical health as well. Yoga helps with this because it provides so many benefits including:

●     Choice - Bikram, Hatha, Hot Yoga, Yogalates - there's bound to be a version to suit you

●     Increased flexibility, muscle strength, cardio health

●     Help maintaining or reducing weight

●     Help reducing stress and practising mindfulness

The only problem you may find with yoga, is practising it in a group. Sometimes going to an exercise class can be just as difficult as forcing yourself to go to the gym. You might also find you want to practise it more often than once a week, and that the classes are quite expensive. Then of course, there's sharing a small space with garlic  Sarah who's breath of fire always seems to waft your way, or friendly Jim who's cobra pose always seems to snake its way into your personal space.

Wouldn't you love to enjoy your yoga practise alone? Wouldn't you love to save money on classes, and practise yoga whenever you want, without even leaving the house? Well, now you can.

You can create your very own yoga space at home. No need to worry about anybody's breath, or feet in your face. Just your own tidy space, to enable you to create a tidy shape, and a tidy mind.

Here's how:

Choose Your Space

The first thing you will need is a yoga space. You don't actually need much space at all to do yoga, and your mat will provide the softness underneath so the flooring doesn't really matter. If you have a room to turn into a studio (a great idea if you're a yoga fanatic) then we recommend using neutral, relaxed colours across the entire room. Non-slip floor tiles are better than wood or carpet, and if you want to invest in a new floor, take your time choosing it as a long-term investment because it will last a long time, and could even add value to your home. If you don't have a full space, consider making an area 'yoga accessible' like an office or spare room, where you won't be disturbed and where you can move furniture easily. Your garden could also be a choice if you have a covered area - there's nothing like being in nature when doing yoga.

Clutter Free

Make sure the space you use is absolutely free of clutter. This is a great excuse to have a big house tidy! Clutter will not help you get a tidy mind.

Extra's

The fun part is in the decorating. Consider the following as options:

●     Candles and incense sticks - these provide a calm, relaxed environment

●     Cushions - these ensure the space is comfortable as a yoga space or just a relaxation space

●     An iPod or iPhone Dock - although you'll want to keep tech out of the space, having something to play music on is a good idea. This is especially true if you like to have some relaxing sounds on in the background or if you follow guided meditation apps.

●     Nature - whether you are inside or outside, make sure you are surrounded by as much nature as possible. Water features are a great idea, even a small one to make that beautiful trickling sound is useful. Some leafy plants, and plants that make a scented blossom are a nice addition.

Now you're ready to go! All you need to do is enjoy your cat cows and seated pigeons!

Namaste.