How to Take Your Yoga Practice to the Next Level

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just starting to deepen your practice, there comes a point when you crave more than just movement—you want greater alignment, deeper breathwork, and a stronger mind-body connection. Advancing in yoga isn’t about mastering the hardest poses; it’s about refining your awareness, technique, and understanding of the practice as a whole.

At Ritual, we believe yoga is a lifelong journey of exploration. If you’re looking to elevate your practice, here are some key ways I always share with my students to help them deepen their understanding and experience.

Refine Your Alignment: The Key to Longevity

Alignment isn’t just about looking good in a pose—it’s about optimising movement, preventing injury, and creating a more sustainable practice. Small tweaks in the way you position your body can make a huge difference in strength, stability, and ease.

How to Improve Alignment:

• Take your time in postures, focusing on small adjustments.

• Work with a teacher to refine your form.

• Use props (blocks, straps, bolsters) to support optimal positioning.

• Record yourself in a few poses and observe your structure.

My tip: Next time you’re in Downward Dog, press through your fingertips to activate your arms and take pressure off your wrists. Small changes can be game-changers!

Elevate Your Pranayama (Breath work) for Clarity & Control

Breath is the bridge between your body and mind. If you want to deepen your awareness and control in yoga, working with pranayama is essential.

Breath-work Techniques to Try:

Ujjayi Breath (Ocean Breath) – Helps with endurance and focus during asanas.

Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) – Balances energy and calms the mind.

Bhastrika (Bellows Breath) - forceful inhalations and exhalations through the nose, creating a rhythmic and energising effect.

Try This: Before starting your practice, take five deep, intentional breaths and set a focus for your session. Notice how breath shifts your presence and awareness.

Integrate Mindfulness & Philosophy into Your Practice

Yoga is much more than just asanas—it’s a philosophy, a mindset, and a way of life. To take your practice deeper, explore the mental and spiritual aspects of yoga beyond the physical postures.

Ways to Integrate Yoga Philosophy:

• Join our free monthly Yoga Philosophy club with Rose Lamont (see below)

• Read about the Yoga Sutras or Bhagavad Gita for insight into yoga’s deeper teachings.

• Bring meditation and self-reflection into your routine.

• Practice non-attachment (Aparigraha) by releasing expectations in your practice.

Ask Yourself: How does yoga influence the way you show up off the mat?

Challenge Yourself with a Masterclass or Teacher Training

Sometimes, the best way to break through a plateau is to step outside of your comfort zone. Whether you want to refine your asanas, explore breathwork, or understand the “why” behind your practice, a focused masterclass or teacher training can be transformational.

If you’re ready to dive deeper, join Alex’s immersive yoga masterclass at Ritual, where you’ll explore:

• Alignment Refinement – Fine-tune postures for a stronger, more balanced practice.

• Breath Mastery – Learn breath control techniques to enhance vitality and focus.

• Advancing Your Practice – Gain tools to integrate mindfulness and technique into daily movement.

Saturday 22 February 2025

11:30 am 12:30 pm

Ritual Palm Beach

This masterclass is also a great opportunity to ask questions about our upcoming Yoga Teacher Training and explore the next step in your yoga journey.

Curious about our Yoga Teacher Training?

Download the course guide here.

Elevating your yoga practice doesn’t mean achieving the “perfect” pose—it’s about cultivating a deeper connection to your body, breath, and mind. Whether you refine your alignment, explore pranayama, or immerse yourself in focused learning, every step you take enriches your journey.