Have we gotten stuck in our comfort zones when it comes to online practices, or has it become the only way possible? Which are the pro’s and con’s of practicing at home, whether on your own, or online together with others, and on site? Does it even matter which type of practice it is, such as qigong, yoga or various dance styles?

When I scrutinize myself, I’ve come to the conclusion that these are the factors to consider:

Practicing at home/online:

• Access to other forms and teachers than who might be available in your area (such as Hawaiian Hula for me in Sweden)
• Access to recorded material makes it easier to break down and repeat specific steps
• Access to recorded material and replays, makes it possible to practice at any time and day that suits you the best
• No, or less, interactions with others
• Not enough space to fully inhabit and express yourself
• Easier to postpone and practice less
• Perfect and keep it up meanwhile

Practicing on site:

• Paid in advance makes you more prone to attend regularly
• Social interactions and meeting new likeminded peers
• More focus with less distractions
• Bigger space to move around in
• Getting outside to take yourself to class
• More and easier to receive feedback from the teacher
• Mirrors to see yourself better

What do you think? Do you rather practice at home and online, or on site? Is it even a question about what’s more important – freedom and autonomy, or belonging?