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- December 20, 2025
- By Brian Lettieri
Starting a Holy Yoga Practice: A Beginner’s Guide
Starting something new can be intimidating. We often look at photos of yogis in complicated inversions or deep stretches and think, “I could never do that.” But the beauty of yoga, especially when centered on Christ, is that it isn’t about performance. It’s about presence.
If you are looking for Christian yoga for beginners, you might be wondering if you need expensive gear, a background in gymnastics, or a specific level of Bible knowledge. The answer is no. The only real requirement is a willing heart and a desire to connect with God in a new way.
Step 1: Creating Your Sacred Space
You don’t need a professional studio to experience God’s presence. You can create a sanctuary right in your living room or bedroom. Find a quiet corner where you won’t be disturbed for 15 or 20 minutes. Consider the atmosphere.
In Christian yoga, the environment matters because it helps signal to your brain that this is a time of worship, not just a workout. You might dim the lights, light a candle, or play soft instrumental worship music. These small touches help shift your focus away from the laundry pile and toward the Holy Spirit.
Step 2: Preparing Your Heart (The Intention)
From a Christian perspective on yoga, the most important stretch happens in your heart before you even move a muscle. Before you press play on a video or start your flow, take a moment to pray. Invite God into the space.
You might choose a “dedication” for your practice – perhaps you are moving for someone who is sick, or maybe you are seeking peace in a stressful season. You could also select a short breath prayer or a single Bible verse to meditate on while you move. This simple act of intention sets the stage for a transformative experience.
Step 3: Essential Gear (Keep it Simple)
The barrier to entry is low. You truly only need a few things:
- A Yoga Mat: This provides grip and cushioning.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear something that allows you to move freely. It doesn’t need to be expensive yoga wear – a t-shirt and leggings work perfectly.
- Props (Optional): A yoga block (or a thick book) and a blanket can be very helpful for modifying poses to make them more comfortable.
Step 4: Simple Poses to Start
You don’t need to know Sanskrit names or complex flows. Start with the basics that help ground you:
- Child’s Pose: Kneel on the mat, touch your big toes together, and sit back on your heels while reaching your arms forward. This is a posture of surrender and rest.
- Mountain Pose: Stand tall with feet rooted, shoulders relaxed, and palms facing forward. This is a posture of readiness and strength.
- Easy Seat: Sit cross-legged with a tall spine, hands resting on your knees. This is a posture of listening and prayer.
Even these simple poses unlock the benefits of Christian yoga, helping to calm your nervous system and center your thoughts on Jesus.
Step 5: Get Expert Guidance and Community
While practicing alone is wonderful, there is immense power in learning from experienced teachers who can guide you safely and deepen your understanding. If you find yourself wanting to go deeper than a YouTube video, or perhaps you feel a stirring to understand the why and how behind the movement, we have a path for you.
Our 200-Hour Live Online Training is the perfect next step for both beginners and experienced yogis. This isn’t just for people who want to teach (though it certifies you to do so!); it is a transformational program for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the Holy Yoga community.
This Christ-centered program allows you to:
- Receive expert yoga training and spiritual development.
- Join a community of believers through weekly life groups.
- Learn from the comfort of your home with live classes and flexible study.
Whether you want to lead others or simply lead yourself into a deeper walk with God, this training provides the foundation you need.
Just Start
The most important step is the first one. Roll out your mat. Whisper a prayer. Move your body. You will find that God is already there, waiting to meet you in the messy, beautiful middle of your practice. Then, if you find more guidance would do you good, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
At Holy Yoga, our mission is to create a community of Christ-centered yoga practitioners. We will gladly be with you each step of the journey.
