If you were unfamiliar with yoga and didn't believe it wasn't suitable for you due to lack of flexibility, its slow pace, high cost, or exclusivity, would you give it a try? I hope your answer is a very enthusiastic yes because the points mentioned are either only partially true or completely false. Let me clear up some common misconceptions about yoga.
Yoga demands a level of flexibility that I lack.
It might feel like you weren't naturally born flexible. However, the reality is that no two people are exactly alike. This applies to everything, from the color of your eyes to your bone structure. Even identical twins can have significant differences. So perhaps your bone structure will never allow you to perform certain hip-opening poses, which might have little to do with your flexibility. Don't let that discourage you. You can still reap many benefits from yoga, even if you don't match the image in your mind of how a particular pose should appear. Apart from bone structure, if flexibility is the real challenge, yoga could be exactly what you need. You might be surprised by how much progress you can make with regular and consistent practice.
Yoga too exclusive.
In reality, yoga is meant for ever-body, irrespective of age, size, shape, gender, color, or sexual orientation; yoga is inclusive. Yoga offerings come in all shapes and size as do the yogis that practice it. From Prenatal to Restorative, yoga can begin in the womb and continue until your final breath if you choose. We are witnessing an increase in yoga practices for children, teens, seniors, and all ages in between. Indeed, if you browse any social media platform and search for yoga, you might encounter images of a seemingly flawless, bikini-clad yogi performing an incredibly challenging pose. It's perfectly fine to admire this sight—I certainly do. The truth though is those images are not the total embodiment of yoga. In its truest form, yoga is a comprehensive way of living, not just an unattainable asana (pose). Remember that what the media presents, including social media, doesn't always reflect reality. How long have women battled with negative body image due to media portrayals? The same applies to yoga. Don't let what you see dictate the yoga narrative. Venture out and discover your own personal yoga journey.
Yoga is often perceived as being too slow or merely stretching
Yes, yoga can be slow, but it can also be vigorous. If you doubt this, try a Vinyasa flow class. It involves moving from one pose to the next, and after an hour to an hour and a half, you'll definitely feel the effects. However, don't underestimate a Yin class; it can reveal parts of your body that have been neglected due to inactivity. Yoga offers a variety of styles. If one feels too slow for your liking, research and try another. But before switching, spend some time with that Yin class to discover what it might teach you about your body and its needs. You might be surprised to find that slowing down could be very beneficial for you.
Yoga is expensive
Yes and no. At $20 a class, it can be expensive. Ironically, yoga instructors and studios are far from getting rich on those high session fees. That aside, there are many ways to get your yoga on, cheap or even free. Consider so
Both yes and no. At $20-$30 per class, it can be pricey. Interestingly, yoga instructors and studios aren't exactly becoming wealthy from these high session fees. However, there are numerous ways to practice yoga affordably or even for free. Explore some of these options.
Check out local community offerings. Many community centers offer yoga for low fees.
How about a local community college's extension courses? Those flyers that come in the form of junk mail offer many different 8 week courses on yoga that can be quite affordable.
Do you have a gym membership? Gyms offer yoga classes. They're not my first choice as they tend to be more athletic based but it will give a little taste of the yoga experience.
You Tube - There are so many great offerings online for yoga. Some of my favorite online yoga instructors are The Journey Junkie, Yoga with Adriene, and Yoga by Candice.
There so many of different resources for yoga so do not let the perceived cost stop you. Be determined and find the class that is right for you.
Now that I have put your initial concerns to rest, go out and try some yoga. Do it in your home or gym or at a park. Find a class that suits your need to be athletic or slow down and contemplate, then try a class that it just the opposite for balance. Close your eyes and feel into your body, not judging how you look. Most of all open your mind to the yoga experience, that is just right for you.
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