Yoga dates back to the Indus Saraswati Valley civilization in 2700 B.C. Since then, it has spread around the world and evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Yoga is a very popular form of mediation and the countless variations of yoga have allowed more people to incorporate mindfulness and mediation into their lives.
However, as yoga has grown, so have the myths and misconceptions. Although each type of yoga has its own unique story and process, there are some common myths we can debunk right now.
1. You have to be flexible to do yoga.
So false! The main goal of yoga is to incorporate mindfulness into your life and center yourself. Some types of yoga might emphasize flexibility or focus on increasing flexibility, but this should not preclude you from trying it out if you are not flexible.
Not everyone can do the splits, and that’s okay. The good thing is that yoga will help you become more flexible! Consistent practice will get you moving in the right direction.
2. Yoga is boring and slow.
Some types of yoga focus on breathing and slow movements, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea. But there are many different types of yoga and you’re bound to find one that excites you.
If you’re interested in a good workout, try HIIT yoga, which incorporates HIIT movements to get your heart rate up. Or you could try hot yoga, or even do yoga with goats or dogs!
The best way to find a type of yoga that you don’t find boring is to test out some different styles and classes to find one you enjoy, and we promise, there’s a type of yoga out there for you.
3. Yoga is only for women and is not masculine.
According to Forbes, about 25-35 percent of people who practice yoga in the U.S. are men, and that number grows every year. Although a majority of people who practice yoga are women, that does not mean it’s an overtly feminine form of exercise or meditation
Everyone can benefit from yoga. It’s a great way to slow down from our overstimulated lives and take a few moments to decompress. Yoga also has great health benefits for everyone – it can increase strength, flexibility, and balance, improve heart health, and it can help you sleep better.
4. All yoga is the same.
This is one of the biggest myths about yoga, and this misconception stems from stereotypes and a lack of knowledge. There are four main types of yoga: karma, bhakti, jnana, and raja.
Karma yoga, also known as the “yoga of action,” is practiced through selfless acts.
Bhakti yoga focuses on expressions of love to a divine being through rituals (prayers, chanting, singing, ceremonies, etc.)
Jnana yoga is the path of knowledge. This is practiced through the study of texts, introspection, and intellectual conversations and debates
Raja is known as the path toward personal enlightenment. This type of yoga encompasses karma, bhakti, and jnana to reach a form of enlightenment.
Yoga classes today draw on aspects of each of these types of yoga to create a unique experience. Not all types of yoga are perfect for everyone, so try some different classes out to see what style you like best.
If you’re a beginner to yoga, don’t fret about the myths you’ve heard – they’re likely not true. If you’re nervous about flexibility – or your lack thereof – or don’t know if a type of yoga class will be the best fit, do some research and talk to the yoga instructor. This way you can understand the class structure ahead of time to see if it’s something you’d enjoy.