Five Yoga Myths

 

Article written by: Jemma Black - Hatha Yoga Teacher

So often people tell me there is no way they can do Yoga!

“I’m too old / too inflexible / to big / not bendy”

“My back / knee / hip is too tight”

“I can’t touch my toes”

“I don’t have time”

“I can’t balance”

I try not to roll my eyes, but honestly, I’ve heard so many excuses, so many times by people who have never even rolled out a mat, let alone try a Yoga session.

Let’s clear a few things up. When I say Yoga is for everyone, I mean it.

You may need to make sure the class you choose is run by a teacher that understands what it means to be inclusive and adaptable, but I promise you, Yoga is such a varied practise that there is always something for everyone.

Let’s debunk some myths.

1. You have to be bendy to be able to do Yoga. No! We all have a certain amount of flexibility, otherwise we wouldn’t be able to move. Regu lar practise will gently stretch your muscles and boost flexibility. The more you practise, the more flexible you can become. At the very least, it will prevent stiffness and inflexibility from getting worse.

2. Only slim people can do Yoga. Nonsense!!! My classes are welcoming to everyone who walks through the door. There is no one single body type or shape.

We all look different. Yoga doesn’t care what you weigh, what you look like or what you ate for dinner. Every student in my classes works at their own level, depending on how it feels to them. Always listen to your body!

3. Yoga is bad for your joints. Absolutely not! If you have sore, painful or stiff joints, of course we have to make sure you’re safe. In my classes I am aware of any issues that my students have that may need adjustments, and so that’s what we do. If we can’t do a particular sequence or pose, we adjust and find alternatives, so that the student can still take part and keep their joints safe.

4. I don’t have time. Really?? Yoga doesn’t have to be a full class. There are so many aspects to Yoga. Sometimes a bit of Pranyama (Yogic breathing) is enough. Sometimes just a bit of meditation. Both practises can be as little as 5 to 10 minutes. I offer pre-recorded videos of mini practises that can be fitted into even the busiest days.

5. I can’t balance. Guess what, neither can a lot of people, but they can still join in the balance poses in a Yoga class. Again, adapting, using props and adjusting, can make these poses in clusive. Just as Yoga builds gentle strength and flexibility, it also encourages balance. Regular practice can help to improve all these things. And at the end of the day, some days we balance and some days we don’t, that’s just life!

For more information about my Yoga classes, visit: www.theyogahutfife.co.uk

 
Thana Mitchell