Misconceptions in Yoga
Hey there!
I’m sure while traveling you’ve found a Yoga class advertised in your co-working space, at your accommodation, or heard about it from other travelers. Maybe you took a class in your neighborhood or did a session or two during the COVID lockdown (yes, remember that?) mandated by your workplace or joined an initiative at your gym (virtually or online).
Let’s educate ourselves and spread the word to avoid misconceptions in Yoga
Whichever way it came to you, the essence is the same- a yoga mat, an asana or body posture, breathing exercises. You listen to your facilitator or instructor and dedicate an hour or so to your well-being. Then you go about your business.
Great! But as we should do with things in our daily life... why did we do that? What is yoga? Why do we stand in a tree pose or chant “om”? Is it restricted to yogis wearing orange robes, really flexible people; is it a form of exercise?
Like a Lotus flower, Yoga allows us to keep our mind calm, beautiful in the middle of chaos. 😇
If you’re asking or have asked yourself those questions, you’ve come to the right place. Yoga is so much more than asanas and breathing exercises. It’s a way of life and no, it’s not only for extremely flexible people. Let’s explore that and some other misconceptions:
💭It is only for flexible people
All poses are achievable through patience and practice by anyone. It’s important to listen to your body and move within your own limitations.
💭It is only for women
Any gender can practice Yoga, as we can all use the stillness of the mind in our lives.
💭It is only physical exercise
The physical part of Yoga is only the tip of the iceberg! It’s a discipline that integrates body, mind and soul. Also not really exercise. In Yoga, there’s no competition 😇
💭Not to be practiced during pregnancy
Some of the asanas can actually improve the well-being of expectant mothers. It’s always important to practice under the supervision of a certified pregnancy teacher.
💭It is a Hindu tradition
While some things can crossover between Hinduism and Yoga practices, Yoga is actually older than Hinduism and Yoga is agnostic.
💭Sanskrit knowledge is a must
Though some of the major books of Yoga are in Sanskrit, there are friendly translations into many languages.
There you have it! Having an open mind and sometimes unlearning some of the things we’ve been conditioned to believe can lead us to a path of consciousness, happiness, and greater things in our lives. ✨
References: The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
Certification of Yoga Professionals Guidebook for level 1
Visit https://www.swastiyogacenter.com for more resources.
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