To the average person, the idea of yoga may seem a little mystical and the exercises themselves rather difficult; but to the yogi or spiritualist, yoga tends to come natural. Yoga does have spiritual roots, but it is also largely a means of obtaining peace through reflection and meditation. Its exercises also promote strength, physical and mental health, flexibility and good posture.
Meditation may also seem a little ethereal, but meditation can be as simple as spending some quiet time alone for a few minutes a day. Meditation can be quite relaxing and something to look forward to. It is often incorporated into executive coaching programs as well as used in sports traiing. These are benefits that most people could appreciate, so it's a good idea to emphasize them when discussing yoga.
No one wants to feel forced into anything, so an indirect approach to turn them on to yoga and meditation is best. Here are a few subtle ways to get the attention of your friends and family:
Be a living example - When you practice what you preach before your family and friends and they see actual results in you, it may start to rub off on them or at least peak their curiosity. So reserve a space in the home where you can do yoga or meditation and invite them to watch or join you sometimes, or invite them to an outside yoga class.
Share testimonials and stories - Any type of positive feedback, stories and anecdotes, whether personal or those of a yoga buddy, can be encouraging to those in your social circle. There are also news items on the internet about how meditation has helped kids with concentration issues and been an aid before work presetations.
Use yoga relaxation media - Yoga CDs and DVDs walk you through breathing and physical exercises and offer serene music. Playing these calming songs, chants and voices around the house or in the car can help to relax your loved ones or help them to fall asleep.
Use repetition - Anything you can use to create more awareness about yoga is helpful. In advertising, it is said that people need to see or hear a thing at least seven times before they will take action, so repetition when it comes to getting your message in front of your loved ones should work in the same way. Of course you don't want to be pushy. Dee Cohen's, "How to Stay Balanced During Stressful Situations" has tips to use in daily life. Reading stories about yoga to your children during bedtime is a great idea, for example. Baron Baptiste has a book call, "My daddy is a pretzel" that kids enjoy. Remember to not give a lecture or preach. Just talk about things in a natural way.
Stop by and see the Stress Reduction Booklet that has tips from yoga and meditation for kids and adults.