Introduction
At 28, Maya had always assumed yoga wasn’t for her. She wasn’t particularly healthy, and with a packed schedule, she definitely didn’t have time to visit a yoga studio. One day, some of her friends joined online yoga classes in Hyderabad, and she joined them. Online Yoga Classes Hyderabad is one of the best platforms for people who have busy schedules and want to add a physical activity to their routine. Over time, she realized yoga wasn’t about perfect poses or fancy yoga studios. Wanting to make it work for her lifestyle, she started exploring different options. She realised that doing Yoga Online has the same benefit as offline yoga, but it could help her fit yoga into her busy schedule. And, that’s when she understood that most of what she had believed about yoga was completely wrong.
Yoga is an age old practice and we all know the benefits of yoga. Yet, we hesitate to begin because of all the myths and misconceptions surrounding it. Some think you need to be super flexible like a jalebi, while others assume it’s just about sitting cross legged and chanting “Om.”
In this blog, we’re breaking down the 10 biggest myths about yoga, so you can start (or continue) your yoga journey!
1. Myth: You Have to Be Flexible to Do Yoga
Reality: You don’t need to touch your toes to start yoga! In fact, yoga improves flexibility over time. Many beginners start slowly and gradually see progress. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, yoga meets you exactly where you are.
2. Myth: Yoga Is Only for Women
Reality: While yoga is widely popular among women today, historically, it was primarily practiced by men in ancient India. Even today, many male athletes, bodybuilders, and even military personnel add yoga into their training routines because it improves flexibility, strengthens muscles, and prevents injuries. Yoga is for everyone, regardless of gender.
3. Myth: Yoga Is Just Stretching
Reality: Yoga combines strength, flexibility, balance, breathwork, and mindfulness into a single practice. Some forms of yoga, such as Ashtanga and Power Yoga, can be just as challenging as a gym workout. While stretching is a part of yoga, it is only one aspect of a much larger practice that benefits both the body and mind.
4. Myth: Yoga Is a Religious Practice
Reality: While yoga has spiritual roots, it is not a religious practice. People of all faiths (and even those with no religious beliefs) practice yoga for its health benefits, including stress relief, increased focus, and improved posture.
5. Myth: Yoga Isn’t a ‘Real’ Workout
Reality: If you think yoga is too easy to count as exercise, try an hour of Vinyasa or Power Yoga and you will sweat! Poses like Plank, Warrior, and Crow Pose require serious core strength. Some yoga styles provide an intense workout that can leave you sweating just as much as a cardio session.
6. Myth: Yoga Is Only for Young, Fit People
Reality: Yoga is for all ages and body types. Modifications, and chair yoga make the practice accessible to seniors, people with injuries, and those with mobility issues. Everyone can benefit from yoga, regardless of their fitness level.
7. Myth: You Need to Practice for Hours to See Results
Reality: The idea that yoga requires long daily sessions is NOT TRUE. Even 10-15 minutes a day can improve flexibility, posture, and mental clarity. The key is consistency, not duration. Many people see positive changes just by incorporating short practices like, a quick morning stretch or a mindful breathing before bed.
8. Myth: You Must Go to a Studio to Practice Yoga
Reality: While yoga studios offer guidance, they are not necessary to practice yoga. With the rise of online yoga classes, you can start your journey from the comfort of your home, a nearby park, or even your office. Many people begin with online tutorials or structured programs, like a 14 day beginner yoga challenge, to build confidence before stepping into a studio.
9. Myth: The Goal of Yoga Is to Master Advanced Poses
Reality: Advanced postures may be fun to try, but the real benefits of yoga come from breathing deeply, moving mindfully, and reducing stress. Progress in yoga is measured by how you feel, not how you look in a pose.
10. Myth: Yoga Gives Instant Results
Reality: Some benefits, like stress relief and relaxation, can be felt immediately after a single session. However, long term benefits like increased flexibility, strength, and improved mental clarity develop over time with consistent practice. Small, daily efforts lead to significant results over time.
Final words
For years, yoga has been surrounded by many myths that keep people from experiencing its true benefits. But the beauty of yoga lies in its adaptability. Yoga is for everyone. No matter your age, body type, or fitness level, it can help you feel stronger, calmer, and healthier.
So, are you ready to start your journey with yoga today?