Yoga is an ancient practice that has become increasingly popular in recent years for its physical and mental benefits. But at the same time, many myths about yoga appear. Despite yoga's widespread popularity, there are still many misconceptions that prevent people from trying it or realizing its full potential. Some believe that yoga is only for the flexible or that it has a religious affiliation, while others see it as just a trendy exercise.
In this article, we want to dispel the most common ones myths about yoga and shed light on its true nature. Through research and expert insights, we will examine some myths and beliefs, which prevent people from experiencing the many benefits of yoga.
Whether you are a seasoned yogi or have never stepped on a mat before, this article is for you. We hope to give you a better understanding of yoga and inspire you to try it or deepen your practice. Let's start by dispelling prejudices - these are the most common myths about yoga!
1. Yoga is a religion
Practicing yoga is not worshiping any religion. Practicing yoga is not in contrary to any religion. Yoga is not a religion. Yoga is a science that is, discipline, which studies human physical and mental health and spiritual development.
It's yoga combination of exercise, psychology, physiotherapy and spirituality in one. Practicing yoga for a longer period of time makes us stronger. Stronger physically, but also mentally.
A healthy mind in a healthy body! – this old but golden golden phrase perhaps most accurately and succinctly describes yoga.
Different types of yoga have different approaches, but in general we can say that a yoga class consists of physical exercises related to the breath, breathing exercises, exercises to increase concentration and relaxation exercises.
2. Yoga is just gentle stretching
Of all the prejudices about yoga, the most common I encounter this: Yes, I've heard of yoga, but I need something more intense "
It's not uncommon for people to be surprised after a trial lesson exercise intensity, because they actually expected to sit down, catch their breath, stretch a bit, and for the class to be over.
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There are passive styles of yoga, where the emphasis is on gentle, soft movements. But there are also physically incredibly demanding species, where you'll get your fair share of sweat and work on bulking up of your strength and endurance!
3. Yoga is only for women
Practicing yoga is equally beneficial for women and men. While other forms of exercise tend to only use certain parts of the body, exercise yoga uses the whole body – every muscle, joint and part of the body, meaning it works with the muscular, cardiovascular, endocrine and skeletal systems. Fortunately, this prejudice is slowly changing thanks to top athletes whose training includes yoga, so that all men come to yoga.
4. I can't practice yoga
Yoga is too easy. Yoga is too hard. I can't do yoga because I have a stiff body. I'm not strong enough for yoga. Lower back pain really doesn't bother me. I don't have a problem with my body being so stiff that I can't even squat fully anymore, and when I turn my head when overtaking while driving, I have to turn my entire torso because my neck is too stiff. I'm too old for yoga. I'm too overweight for yoga. I have too big muscles for yoga. In fact, the only thing you need to know how to do in your first yoga class is to breathe. And exhale. Everything else comes with time.
Photo: Fairytale/Pexels
You don't have to be young, healthy, slim, flexible or strong to practice yoga. You just need a little willpower and curiosity.
If you can't touch your toes, it just means that your back muscles and spine have shortened from sitting for too long, but that doesn't have to be the case. Regardless of age you can increase the flexibility of your body.
Why not give yoga a try - you might just find that this way of exercising suits you and create a healthy habit for life.
