Creating a Small Ritual Before Your Practice

How you begin your practice can shape the whole experience. A simple ritual signals to the body and mind that it is time to slow down. It creates a moment of transition from everyday life into a quieter space.

This does not need to be elaborate. It might mean rolling out your mat with care. Dimming the lights. Lighting a candle. Sitting for a moment with one hand on the chest and one on the belly. Anything that helps you arrive.

You could choose a phrase to hold in mind. Something like: “I am here”. Or you can simply notice the ground beneath you. If you are practising in the evening, a blanket nearby might bring a sense of comfort. If it is morning, opening a window to invite in fresh air can feel refreshing.

These small choices remind us that practice is not just movement. It is attention. It is presence.

Try exploring different little rituals and see what feels right for you. Over time, your body will recognise the cues and start to relax before you even begin. A gentle doorway into a deeper connection.