Yoga Myths – 5 Myths That are Holding you Back

In case you haven’t noticed, yoga is booming. Looking in from the outside, yoga may seem to be some mystical practice that only the most worthy would even attempt, let alone master. But I found that nothing could be further from the truth. Everyone can find some benefit in practicing yoga. In fact, the variety of people that practice yoga ranges from toddlers to seniors, men and women and everything in between. However, if you listen to the rumors or believe the myths, you are sure to miss out on some of the incredible benefits of yoga. Let’s take a look at a few of the more populate misconceptions about the practice. Everyone has a place on the yoga mat.

Myth #1: You have to be fit and flexible

Almost every image you see is someone who’s super fit and super flexible and they are generally contorted into some pretzel shaped yoga pose. While these images are meant to sell the possibilities you can achieve, for some it has the opposite affect. It can actually frightens would be yogis from even trying. Let me tell you, these people in the ads and magazine covers are trained professionals, many of them are models and fitness buffs. In many cases it can take years to achieve that level of ability. In other words, you don’t do yoga because you are fit and flexible, but you get fit and flexible because you do yoga! 

Myth #2: Yoga is a religion

Yes, yoga is an ancient practice with ties to Hindu-”ism” but it is not a religion so you do not have to “convert”. The use of mantras, chants, images and deities is not for worship or reverence but rather they are tools for inner exploration. There are some spiritual aspects to the practice but a religion it is not. It allows you to connect your mind and body with a heightened sense of awareness through focused body movements, breathing techniques and personal observation. Yoga is non-denominational and all inclusive. 

Myth #3: Yoga is for girls

Yes, the majority of yoga practitioners happens to be female but that doesn’t mean it’s a female activity. It is said that in ancient times yoga was practiced almost entirely by men. Since it’s introduction to western society, many more females are enjoying the activity and all its benefits. If you are serious about your health and well-being, yoga is for you no matter what your gender. 

Myth #4:  Yoga is not a real workout

Who ever started this one has clearly never taken part in a yoga class. There is a gentle aspect to yoga because the physical benefits are a byproduct of the mental focus and determination of executing each pose. But when we talk about purely the physical aspects of yoga, we are really focused on stability. This requires core strength, balance and coordination of your mind and body. Yoga forces you to use muscles that you may not use during a traditional weight lifting, cycling or cross-fit session. In fact, many people use yoga to supplement their regular workout routine as it gives them an added dimension of physical engagement. But more than a workout, the mental component plays a big role because each movement and breath requires your attention. And this is the beauty of yoga, engaging the mind, body and spirit.

Myth #5 All Yoga is the same

There are many variations of yoga, some are traditional and others are more modern forms. Each has its benefits and appeal depending on your personal taste.  Vinyasa yoga posture sequence can vary and is sometimes performed with music and in a dimly lit room, while Ashtanga yoga is always the same set of postures performed in sequence and in silence. Hot yoga is a variation of Bikram where classes are held in a room heated to 105 degrees. There’s Kundalini yoga, Hatha yoga, Restorative Yoga, Prenatal yoga, even Dog and Goat yoga. There’s just too many to list in this post but needless to say there’s something for everyone. 

I’m sure you’ve heard at least one of these fallacies even if you didn’t actually believe them yourself. It’s human nature to be afraid of the unknown or skeptical of the unfamiliar. But the appeal of yoga is undeniable as seen through it’s rise in popularity.