We know that it’s easy to get distracted while you’re practicing in an online class. So, the Citizen team sat down and rounded up our top 10 tips to help you stay present and get the most out of an online class.
1. Create your sacred space.
With kids running around, the TV on, and the lack of separation between home and work, create a space in your house or apartment that minimizes distractions and helps you feel relaxed. One of the best ways is to add a calming scent into the room through incense, a candle, or an oil diffuser.
2. Turn off device notifications + put away your phone and smartwatch.
There’s nothing worse than getting an email from work or a disruptive text in the middle of class. Try using Do Not Disturb mode on your devices, putting your phone on silent, or placing your other devices in another room to minimize distractions from technology.
3. Use wireless, noise cancelling headphones.
This can be a game changer for someone who doesn’t use these. Noise cancellation will minimize the sounds around you and help you feel more in the zone during your practice. It’s almost like you’re in a bubble and able to tune out the outside world.
4. Turn your camera on.
On the days when you’re okay with being seen, this is a great way to feel more engaged in your practice. Our teachers will also be able to give you better voice cues and help you if they see you’re confused.
5. Try dimming the lights + device brightness.
The light from our devices can suppress melatonin production in our body, so try using night mode on your device or turning the brightness down. Dimming the lights in the room can also help you feel more relaxed.
6. Allow for time before and after class.
When you’re driving to the studio after work for an in-studio class, your brain has time to relax before class. Rather than suddenly forcing your mind to focus on work and then be present in your practice a minute later, try giving yourself 5 minutes before class starts. If you’re practicing in the middle of the day, try not to book yourself immediately after class is over, so you can fully benefit from savasana and give your brain time to wake back up.
7. Remove any nearby clocks.
When we’re stressed, it’s easy to look at a clock and think about how little time we have. To remain present in class and avoid clock-watching, put all clocks away (even your phone and watch).
8. Don’t let your animals in.
While a dog on Zoom can brighten everyone’s workday, having a pet next to you while you practice can be disruptive. If you’re able to keep your pets in a different room, try it!
9. Enhance your experience with props.
Props will help you access poses where your body is tight and play around with new poses you’ve always wanted to try. Check out our website or visit us a studio to purchase a prop bundles.
10. Surrender to the fact that an online class won’t replicate the feeling of an in-studio class.
Accepting the difference between online and in-studio classes will give you the freedom to allow imperfections in your online practice.
We hope you’re excited to try these tips to enhance your online practice. We can’t wait to see you in class! Sign up here.
Have a tip that we didn’t think about? Comment them below and we’ll add them to our list!
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