So, you’ve heard the whispers of yoga’s magic. Minds quieted, bodies softened, and something deeper you can’t quite name. But you’re not sure where to start. Maybe the word vinyasa feels unfamiliar, or you're wondering if you need to touch your toes (you don’t). If that’s you, you’re in the right place.

At Wildlife & Yoga, we welcome total beginners and curious returners. Whether you're joining us on retreat or starting your practice from home, this guide will help you take your first steps - with confidence, clarity and ease.

Breathwork before morning Vinyasa on retreat in Kenya.

What Is the Best Yoga for Beginners?

There’s no one-size-fits-all in yoga. The best style for you depends on your energy, your body, and what you're looking to achieve through the practice. Here are three beginner-friendly yoga styles we teach on our retreats, each with their own rhythm and rewards.

🌀 Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa is a flowing, dynamic style that links movement with breath. It's energising, builds strength, and improves mobility. On retreat, we usually practice Vinyasa in the mornings to wake up the body and centre the mind or in the afternoons if we have had long game drives.

Best for: boosting energy, building strength and focus
Beginner-friendly YouTube classes:

Vinyasa Flow class in the heart of Enasoit’s Private Conservancy, surrounded by Zebra and Lions!

🌙 Yin Yoga

Yin is the quiet, grounding counterpart to Vinyasa. You hold postures for several minutes to target deep connective tissues and release tension. This practice involves stillness, patience, and deep listening. Our evening Yin sessions are a guest favourite on retreat.

Best for: releasing tension, calming the mind, improving flexibility
Try this online:

Intro to Yin Yoga

🛌 Yoga Nidra

Also known as yogic sleep, Yoga Nidra is a deeply restful guided meditation. No movement. Just lying down and listening.

How to prepare for Yoga Nidra:
Set yourself up in the most comfortable position—on your back, on your side, or however your body prefers to rest. Use cushions, blankets, or an eye mask. Close your eyes and let your breath soften. Your only job is to stay still and listen to the voice guiding you. There is no need to concentrate or move. Just follow along and allow your body and nervous system to completely relax. (This is my personal favourite practice)

Best for: stress release, nervous system regulation, deep sleep
Start here:

Ally Boothroyd – Yoga Nidra for Beginners

Beginner Yoga Tips: Where to Start

Start small
Ten to fifteen minutes a few times a week is enough to begin. Let go of any pressure to "do it right".
You don't need to be flexible
Flexibility is not a requirement. It's a result. Yoga is for everybody.
Create a cosy space
You need only a yoga mat, a blanket, and a quiet corner. Think of it as a little ritual. (You actually can practice yoga without a yoga mat too, using a cushion beneath the joints)
Tune in to your body
If a pose doesn’t feel good, skip it. No gold stars for pushing through discomfort.
Let your breath lead
Your breath is the bridge between your body and your mind. Let it guide you home.

Yoga on Retreat

When you join us for a Wildlife & Yoga Retreat, you’ll experience Vinyasa, Yin and Yoga Nidra across the week, all taught with care and adapted for your level. We start where you are and build from there. No pressure. No expectations.

If you’d like more personalised support, I also offer 1:1 sessions on retreat. Whether you're working with an injury, building confidence in your practice, or looking to deepen your connection, we’ll make time if we can.

Final Thoughts

Yoga doesn’t ask for perfection. It asks for presence. Whether you're on your mat at home or in the wild beauty of Kenya or Scotland with us, you're already doing the work just by showing up.

We’d love to meet you on the path.

New to Yoga? Here’s Where to Begin