What's This Yoga Thing Anyway?
You’ve probably heard of yoga. Especially in the last few years, it seems to be popping up everywhere. But maybe you’re not too sure what it really means. Every time you hear the word, you get visions of candles and cross-legged people in flowing pants. You can’t imagine it’s very interesting or that it could apply to you. But you keep hearing that you should try it. Your mother-in-law goes every week and swears it’s cured her insomnia. Your friend refuses to hear you complain about your back pain any more until you’ve tried a class. Maybe you’ll give it a shot…can’t knock it till you try it, right? But what is yoga anyway? And you have a few concerns; what about those? Well, you're not the only one wondering, so let's take a look at some common ideas about yoga that might not be quite accurate.
Common misconceptions of yoga
“I’m not flexible enough to do yoga.”
Actually: Flexibility is one of the side effects of yoga. You don’t need to be flexible to start yoga, but you’ll almost certainly become more flexible if you stick with it. In fact, one of the cool things about yoga is that it combines both strength and flexibility, and seeks to balance the two. Often, people who spend a lot of time in the gym or maybe on the football pitch find that yoga increases their flexibility. This in turn benefits their strength and endurance training by allowing greater range of motion and helping to prevent injury. Those who might already be more naturally flexible, but might not have much strength tend to discover that yoga helps them build that up. Either way, not being flexible to start off with is not a reason not to do yoga!
“I don’t have a yoga body."
Actually: There is no such thing as a “yoga body”. Yoga can be practiced by people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities. It is not so much about trying to make your body look like a fitness model’s or anyone else’s body for that matter. Yoga is about developing strength and flexibility in the body you have, in a way that is possible for you. If you have a body, you can do yoga.
“They’ll try to make me chant, and there’s no way I’m doing that!"
Actually: Some types of yoga include chanting, but not all. Some only incorporate a brief one-word chant, “Om”, at the beginning or end of the class. Many have no chanting at all. It depends on the type of yoga and on the particular teacher or studio. If chanting isn’t your thing, choose a style, such as Power yoga, that doesn’t emphasise the traditional chants. Either way, there’s no obligation and you’ll never be forced to join in, only invited.
"Yoga will be too easy. I want to feel like I’ve actually DONE something."
Actually: There are many types of yoga, ranging from very gentle to extremely challenging. Each style of yoga has its own history and its own focus, and there’s a type for just about everybody, with new styles being developed all the time. Again, the degree of challenge depends on the style and the individual teacher, as well as the level you choose. Many styles have both beginner and advanced classes or levels 1, 2 & 3. For a more vigorous class, try Ashtanga, Jivamukti, Vinyasa Flow, or Power yoga.
"Yoga is too hard for me."
Actually: Again, there are many types of yoga and different ability levels within each style. If you’ve never done yoga before or are unsure of your fitness level, start out with a beginners class in a gentler style such as Hatha or perhaps a deeply relaxing Restorative class. Yoga is also as hard or as easy as you make it, and there are modifications for every pose! If a pose is too much for you, try an easier version. The instructor will be able to help you find one that works for you, or use props such as blocks and straps to assist in the pose. There’s no need to do the full thing until you feel ready.
"Yoga is just stretching."
Actually: Yoga, if you choose to take it that far, can be an entire way of life. Besides physical training, yoga also acts as a form of mental training. With a regular yoga practice it’s possible to improve focus and mental endurance, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. Anyone who’s climbed a mountain or achieved any other great physical feat will probably tell you it was more mental work than physical. The mental endurance required to continue even through a difficult moment, and the wisdom to know when to back off and go slow, are qualities which need to be cultivated through constant practice. It is these qualities that we practice on the yoga mat, and carry into the rest our lives!
So what is yoga, actually?
Yoga is an ancient philosophy which originated in India and has developed over thousands of years. Yoga is a spiritual practice of self-development, not a religion, which means it can be practiced by people from all religions without stepping on any toes. In its full form, yoga is an entire way of living, a philosophy that emphasises the connectedness of our world. The sage Patanjali around the 2nd or 3rd century identified eight main sections or “limbs” of yoga in his book The Yoga Sutra, offering guidelines and practices for living a good life. Check out this article to learn a bit more about the other yoga limbs.
Today, when most people talk about yoga they’re referring to asana, the practice of physical postures. This “limb” of yoga was originally developed to strengthen and relax peoples’ bodies to allow them to sit in meditation for long periods of time. As we saw above, there are now many styles of asana, each with its own focus and flavour. Whether you’re attracted to the mystic elements of yoga philosophy or prefer a more secular exercise-based approach, whether you want quiet relaxation or a sweaty challenge, as long as you are interested in exploring your potential for personal growth, physically and mentally, there is almost certainly a yoga for you.
Ok, now what?
Now that you have a general idea of what yoga is…sounds like it could be worth a try, right? So, what’s the next step?
Decide on a style. I mentioned a few above, but also check out this article which gives a quick breakdown of some of the most common styles in the UK.
Find a class. Do a quick internet search to see if there are any classes near to you. If nothing comes up, try asking at your local gym or community centre to see if they offer classes or if they might be able to connect you with a teacher. If there are no classes in your area, consider private lessons.
Bring a friend. Many people like their yoga to be a solitary practice, going to class to get away from the usual business of life. But many people also like the social aspect of yoga and enjoy doing it with their friends. If you’re nervous about trying yoga for the first time, maybe you’ve got a buddy who’s curious about trying it too. It’s often easier to start something new together.
Read my post about what to expect at your first yoga class. Coming soon!
What do you think?
Did any of these common misconceptions sound familiar? I’m curious to hear what previous impressions or experience of yoga you might or might not have had.
Please leave any questions or comments! I read and respond to them all.
Yours truly,
Cedar
