Yoga studios don’t often hand out fliers and leaflets that explain what yoga really is, along with the benefits one can get from regular practice. More often than not, people form a conclusion about it based on the pictures they see in magazines and online sites. As such, it is easy to paint a one-dimensional picture of what being a yogi really means.

Although yoga continues to become more popular, a number of myths have grown up around it. This week, we’ll debunk some common yoga myths. Hopefully, after reading this, you’ll change the way you think about this ancient form of relaxation and practice.

MYTH 1:  Yoga is only for lean, young women

When we talk about yoga, most people envision a room filled with spandex-clad, toned women. What they fail to realize is that yoga is for every BODY. You can practice yoga regardless of your size, shape, age, and gender.

Don’t believe me?  Check out the IG page:  YBICoalition.

Yoga is for ALL.

MYTH 2:  Yoga isn’t a good form of exercise

Most people tend to associate yoga with relaxation. While it really does a good job of relieving stress and clearing your mind, it is all you need to keep a fit mind and body.

Different yoga styles will challenge you in various ways. Hot yoga, Ashtanga yoga and Baptiste yoga will get your heart pumping and you may burn as many calories as running, jump roping or doing sports.  Plus, all forms of yoga will improve your posture, balance, flexibility and strength. When practicing yoga, we use our bodies to support us in different poses. No amount of weight lifting will make your arms as strong as holding up the weight of your entire body. With regular yoga practice, you’ll get stronger, lose weight and feel good about yourself.

MYTH 3:  Being flexible is a requirement to practice yoga

For many, the word yoga conjures up images of women twisting their bodies into pretzel shapes. Over the years, a lot of people have told me that they can’t do yoga because they’re not flexible enough. But guess what, you’ll never get more flexible unless you start doing yoga!  But being flexible isn’t a requirement to practice or enjoy practicing yoga.

No one is ever expecting you to do bend yourself into a pretzel. It doesn’t matter if you can’t touch your toes. Your yoga practice will meet you where you are. And a good teacher will provide modifications if you need them. Get started today and you’ll immediately start noticing improvements.