Although yoga has been practiced for over 5,000 years there are many different perceptions of the exercise. With the hundreds of different variations of practice, it is no wonder people have certain stereotypes of what yoga is really about.
Misconception #1: Yoga is not a real workout
Yoga is what you make of it. The difficulty depends on the variation you practice, so if you are looking for a gentle stretch or for an intense strengthener, you can modify your workout to get what your body needs.
Misconception #2: Yoga is for girls
Do the names Tim Thomas, Tom Brady, Shaquille O’Neal, LeBron James, or Lance Armstrong ring a bell? These are among the many male athletes that practice yoga. Practicing yoga helps build balance, strength and coordination, which are skills beneficial in all sports.
Misconception #3: Yogis are cult members
Namasté? Hands in pray positions? What kind of kooks are these people? Although yoga is derived from religion, the common variations that most people practice are solely for exercise. With that being said, the greeting “Namasté” literally translates to “I bow to you” meaning “I respect you.” It is a sign of deep respect.
Misconception #4: You have to be flexible to do yoga.
WRONG! You do not have to be flexible to do yoga; you do yoga to become flexible. Again, yoga is based upon the individual, so you can start at whatever level of flexibility you’re at and work toward your goal.
Why Should I Try Yoga?
Yoga offers not only physical but also mental benefits. Practicing yoga can improve breathing, increase range of motion, strengthen muscles and joints, and improve balance to name a few of the physical positives. Mental benefits of practicing yoga include improved awareness, controlling stress, and increased concentration.
It is practiced at the individual’s pace, so no matter where you are health-wise you can jump right in and gradually increase your strength and flexibility.
So the real question is: Why not try it out? There are many yoga studios in the Austin area including our own Gregory Gym that offers classes through Texercise. Some studios, such as Black Swan Yoga operate based upon donations. There are no excuses not to try it out, so grab a mat, find your balance, and strengthen your body. Namasté!
Sources:
General Yoga Information – American Yoga Association
Benefits for the Athlete
The Meaning of Namaste
Black Swan Yoga