How to Build a Sustainable Home Yoga Practice (Even When Motivation Feels Low)

Sometimes it’s difficult to maintain a regular yoga practice at home—or even to get one started if it’s not already part of your routine. I often feel like I should be practising, but then find myself procrastinating about getting on the mat.

The truth is, I always love it once I’m there.

Low-energy days happen to all of us—but showing up for your practice can make a real difference. There’s nothing quite like moving stagnant energy around with a yoga flow—even if it’s just a gentle, restorative one.

We often make excuses that we don’t have time, but time can usually be made when something is a priority. You don’t need to begin with an hour-long daily practice. If you're busy, start small—even five to ten minutes a day is enough to get going and give you something to build on. You’ll feel a real sense of achievement just by making it happen.

And don’t beat yourself up. If five minutes is all you can manage, then take those five minutes—and make them count.

Set a small, realistic goal and build from there.

When I’m short on time, a few rounds of sun salutations are my go-to. I always feel more energised afterwards, and often inspired to keep going. Even if that’s all you do, it offers a well-rounded session that invigorates the body. The repetition also helps quiet the mind and brings in a moving meditation element.

Make it something you enjoy.

 
Forcing yourself into something that doesn’t feel good will make it harder to stay consistent. Yoga isn’t meant to be a chore. It’s helpful to choose the kind of practice that brings you joy in the moment. If you’re feeling drained, a powerful Vinyasa or intense flow might not be what your body truly needs. Tuning into what feels good in your body at the time can help you stay consistent and actually look forward to your time on the mat.

Pick a pose that excites or inspires you.

Yoga isn’t just about making shapes—but working towards a pose you want to improve can be a great motivator. You'll start to see your own progress, which fuels momentum. It can also help shape your overall practice, as you focus on strengthening or opening the areas needed for that pose.

Be gentle with yourself.

Yoga comes in many forms. If you're not feeling energetic today, opt for a more restorative practice or explore some Yin poses. This helps you stay connected to your practice, without putting pressure on your energy. Yin postures that stimulate the Kidney meridians, for example, can be wonderfully energising if you’re feeling burnt out.

Above all—let go of the excuses and the feeling of “should.” Don’t force it. The times you least feel like practising are often when you're trying to push yourself into something your body isn’t aligned with. If it really doesn’t feel right, allow yourself to skip it—without guilt.

Honour what your body needs. Maybe today the best thing for you is a short meditation or a few moments of deep breathing. That still counts. It’s another way to connect with your practice.

Building a consistent home practice can do wonders for your overall experience of Yoga. It gives you space to move at your own pace, tune into your body, and—with consistency—develop strength, stamina, and flexibility over time.

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P.S. If you’re navigating a lot of energetic shifts lately, Reiki might be exactly what you need. I offer distance sessions to help you realign and recharge. Learn more here.