Selfies are everywhere these days. Whenever you go out, you will find people walking around with selfie sticks, their phone on the end, grinning goofily into the camera as they take a picture of whatever they happen to be doing. Whether they are on holiday, having fun with friends, or eating at an excellent restaurant, people love to take a picture of the event and post it on their social media pages. This trend has recently moved into yoga classes.
At first glance, taking selfies while in a yoga pose would seem to be the opposite of what yoga is about. Traditionally, yoga is about introspection, it’s about going inward and leaving behind concerns about appearance and the perception of others. With this in mind, it seems unusual that a trend that is based on physical appearance and social perception has become a part of some people’s yoga practices.
This addition to people’s yoga practice just proves how adaptable yoga is. As the practice evolves to fit with the society and with the lives of individuals, yoga selfies have become a way that some yoga devotees reach out to people and connect. It has even become a way to inspire others, with online challenges to encourage daily yoga practices and post images of it.
Images of yoga selfies appear on basically any social media platform that supports pictures. They range from experts in complicated poses to beginners proving to themselves and the world that they are continuing and improving their practice. There are no restrictions to the practice and, although there are some who question it, there are enough fans to ensure that the practice continues, at least for the foreseeable future.
When taking yoga selfies, there are a few issues that should be addressed in order to produce a good image. Firstly, the pose itself must look impressive, but also be within your capabilities. No one wants to see someone who is obviously in pain and unhappy. Secondly, the location of the shot is vital. Some of the most amazing yoga selfies are taken in exotic or striking locations, adding additional visual elements to the impressive physical feat.
Clothing choices are also important. Tight clothes show off the pose better and emphasize the hard work and dedication that made the yoga pose possible. There are also the logistical issues to consider. It’s very hard to hold a camera while doing yoga and a lot of people get someone else to take the shot. If that isn’t possible, there’s always the option of a tripod or some other type of assistance.
As a final tip, have fun with it! Nothing looks better on film than someone who is strong, but also looks like they are enjoying what they are doing. No frowning allowed.
Yoga is an infinitely adaptable form of exercise. It adapts to injuries and physical restrictions and so it’s not surprising that it’s adapting to society needs and trends. As our world changes and as technology permeates every part of it, the trend for yoga selfies shows how the practice of yoga changes with the society around it and stays relevant because of this adaptability.
