Top 10 Yoga Myths – Part One

Here’s a list of our favorite yoga myths. Do you ever hear these “reasons” not to do yoga from your friends? Let us know in the comments!

10. MYTH: You have to be flexible to practice yoga.

FACT: Over time, practicing yoga safely helps increase your flexibility. Maintaining a supple spine and full range of motion in the joints helps prevent injury and may even improve your game if you play a sport.

9. MYTH: My grandmother does yoga so you can’t get a really kick-ass workout from it.

FACT: Yoga is not just about stretching and relaxation! Building muscle strength and endurance through yoga is the key to safely exploring flexibility. There are many different types of yoga for all different body types and abilities and there’s definitely a style to fit your needs!

8. MYTH: My Crossfit-crazy boyfriend does yoga and it sounds too intense for me.

FACT: Some styles of yoga are intense (think: Ashtanga or Power Vinyasa) but other styles, like Restorative Yoga, focus on deep relaxation and breathing techniques to manage stress. If you’re a beginner, start with a beginner class and feel free to explore different styles until you find the ones you like best.

7. MYTH: Yoga is the same as physical therapy.

FACT: Some of the exercises might be the same and yoga does have a reputation for healing – but don’t confuse these two. While yoga is an excellent addition to a healthy lifestyle, if you’re recovering from an injury please listen to your doctor and physical therapist.

6. MYTH: If you practice yoga, then you’re not a real Christian, Muslim, Jew, [insert any other religion or spiritual tradition.]

FACT: For many people, yoga is spiritual, but it is not in and of itself a religion. Yogis of many different religious backgrounds enjoy allowing their beliefs to color and enhance their practice. And many yogis prefer to practice just for the physical and mental benefits.

Check back next week for Part Two!