Yoga is a VERY important part of my life. I'd even go as far as to say that to me Yoga is like oxygen, I can't be without it, but it wasn't always like that. Rewind a good few years and the modalities of Pilates and Yoga were almost in opposition with each other, and you were either in one camp or another. At the time I was a Pilates purist, firmly entrenched in a certain school of teaching, convinced that Yoga wasn't for me mainly because 'it lacked the control of PIlates and wasn't the same at all..' (completely bypassing the fact that Joseph Pilates based his movements and theories on Yoga...hmmm). In addition I had a few preconceptions about Yoga (yes I freely admit it), and some less than positive experiences of Yoga classes so I completely get it when people say 'Yoga isn't for me'.
For some people Yoga also brings to mind social media perfect pictures of impossible poses in glamorous locations of retouched people and bodies, and for others it conjures up feelings of dread, boredom, frustration and a sense of inadequacy. If any of this resonates with you, please keep reading as I hope to debunk some common myths since yoga can offer something valuable for everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or flexibility.
Here are 4 common myths that still prevail and even sadly stop many people from ever trying Yoga:
1.'You have to be flexible to do Yoga' - There’s no body type that’s better or worse for yoga and you could even argue that yoga is even more valuable if you're not super bendy. Why? Well, Yoga is not about contorting your body into pretzel-like shapes; it’s about working with your unique body, abilities and frame of mind. This can create a different experience every single time you practice - and yes it is a practice, NOT a performance, creating a sense of acceptance and resilience both on and off the mat. If flexibility is something you'd like to work on, with time and practice this will naturally improve.
2. 'You have to look a certain way' - Yoga is not what social media and marketing wants you to think. You don¨t need to buy anything, you can just wear old pyjamas or whatever you feel comfortable in, use a bath towel as a mat, and a scarf as a Yoga strap. Just show up (often the hardest part) as you are, and move in a way that makes you feel good, alive and present.
3. 'Yoga is too slow' - Not all yoga classes are created equal, and finding the right style for you is key to enjoying the practice. I personally enjoy at least 3 different styles every week and they are all unique in their own way. Here are a few options to consider: - Vinyasa or Flow Yoga: A dynamic style of yoga that synchronizes movement with breath, flowing seamlessly from one pose to the next. It’s great for building strength, flexibility, and endurance. - Hatha Yoga: The 'original* Yoga practice that other styles are based on. A slower paced practice with longer held static poses and mindful breathing. Great for deepening awareness and inner stillness, while building strength. - Yin Yoga: A slow-paced practice focused on passive stretching and relaxation. It’s perfect for releasing tension, improving flexibility, and calming the mind. - Restorative Yoga: A deeply relaxing practice that uses props like blankets and bolsters to support the body in gentle, restful poses. Ideal for reducing stress, promoting relaxation, and restoring balance.
4. 'Yoga is too Spiritual': While Yoga does have roots in ancient spiritual traditions, you don’t have to subscribe to any specific belief system to benefit from the physical and mental aspects of the practice. Yoga can be as spiritual or secular as you want it to be. But it's generally agreed that practicing Yoga, can help you become more attuned to your body, thoughts, and emotions, leading to greater self-awareness and self-compassion.
Yoga is not just for the flexible, the spiritual, or the serene - it’s for everyone. Whether you’re looking to build strength, reduce stress, or simply explore something new, Yoga offers something valuable for everyone. You can even practice without ever having done a single Downward Dog or Sun Salutation, by simply deciding to give it a try with an open mind and an open heart, that's real Yoga. Just remember that your Yoga doesn’t have to look like anybody elses, and it certainly doesn’t need to look like what you see in classes or on social media.
You may just discover a practice that enriches your life in ways you never imagined.... and that stretches your hamstrings...
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