5 Ways to Bring Mindfulness Into Your Yoga Studio

We’re still in the first few weeks of the New Year–which is a time that has become synonymous with starting or resetting healthy habits to prepare us for the year ahead. With the blink of an eye, another year has swiftly sprinted by. This year, dedicate yourself to actively noticing the change and being present. This is where mindfulness can play a key role in the health of your business and personal life.

Mindfulness can be defined a number of different ways, but essentially embodies the self-regulation of attention with an attitude of curiosity, openness, and acceptance. If you’re looking to bring mindfulness into your studio, here are 5 tips to get you started:

Pause and breathe

You’ve likely heard this before, but intentionally taking a moment to consciously breathe is foundational to mindfulness. Allow yourself a couple of minutes just to reflect on this past year and recognize the growth that has occurred – both in your studio and outside. Take 3 deep breaths and visualize the air flow throughout your body. Giving yourself just a few moments can cleanse your mind give you the space to be present.

Savor your senses

Whether it’s your favorite tea, music station or pair of leggings–recognize the color, taste, smell, sound, texture, or feeling you get and be aware of those senses. Over time you’ll begin to notice more of your surroundings and the things that make your soul sing. If it brings you joy, bring it in! Start incorporating those things into your daily life and savor the happiness they bring you.

Express gratitude

From your front desk staff to the mats you use – say thank you to the things that help keep your business running. Notice the purpose they serve and the difference their presence makes. This intentionality can build a cornucopia of gratitude in your heart changing the way you view the world. It may seem silly to give thanks to something like a notepad but training your mind to recognize those items can help bring mindfulness into your day-to-day hustle.

Maximize your in-between times

Driving to work or gaps between classes are great opportunities to be intentional. Use these times to set your focus, quiet your mind and be aware of your surroundings. Listen to a short podcast, watch what’s going on around you, take some deep breaths or simply meditate for 2 minutes. Allow these transition times to be your moment of mindfulness and soon enough you’ll make it a habit.

Straighten up

Check your posture and notice the areas of tension in your body. Relax your jaw and shoulders to bring awareness to the part of your body that are tense. It may be helpful to do a body scan for 10 minutes each day. Practice sending your breath into each individual part of your body starting with the crown of your head and working your way down to the tips of your toes. If you sit in front of your computer for long periods of time, remember to roll out your wrists or shift your gaze to something far away. Conduct small check-ins with yourself throughout the day and actively modify your body to help it in the long term.

Do you offer mindfulness classes at your fitness studio? Even incorporating a few Yoga Nidra classes throughout the week or adding guided meditations at the end of some of your classes is a simple, effective way to get your studio and your clients started!