5 Truths About Yoga

When you mention yoga, people often picture a contorted figure, with their ankles behind their head, sitting peacefully and looking like a pretzel. Yoga may seem otherworldly and not practical, but everyone can practice some form of yoga and benefit physically and mentally from yoga practice.

Even 10 minutes a day of yoga stretching and breathing can set your day off on the right foot, re-invigorate you after lunch, or help you settle in for a relaxed evening. So why aren't you practicing yoga?

Perhaps you believe one of the myths and misconceptions about yoga. If have never tried yoga for one of these reasons, it may be time to brush away the misconceptions and start being good to your body.

The Truth About Yoga

1. Anyone Can do Yoga

There are numerous types of yoga and combinations of yoga that are practiced throughout the world. Yoga requires no ability except the desire to do yoga. Yoga can be done by anyone. You do not have to be in shape to do yoga. Yoga will get you into shape with regular practice. Yoga can be practiced at your own pace, and at your own skill level.

2. Yoga is a Practice

The most important aspect about yoga that is important to understand is that it is called yoga practice for a reason. Even the most seasoned, learned and flexible yoga practitioners refer to their "yoga practice." Yoga is a journey, not the destination. Getting your ankle to rest behind the back of your head is not the point of yoga. The point is the journey your mind and body take in an attempt to get your ankle behind your head, or wherever it is able to go.

3. Yoga is Non-Competitive

Taking a yoga class can be intimidating and daunting, especially if you are a competitive person. Yoga is not a competitive practice. When taking yoga, the focus should be inward and not outward. It does not matter what the person next to you is doing. They may be more flexible, or they may be less flexible. It does not matter. Each person in a yoga class is there for themselves, for one whole hour. Yoga is not for impressing people, and it is not for seeing whocan stretch the furthest. Yoga is for seeing how far you can comfortably stretch your breath, quiet your mind, and stretch your muscles, without pain.

4. Yoga is not just for Women

This one is worth repeating. Yoga is not just for women. Women who work out tend to spend more time on both stretching before their work outs and after. How many men just lift their weights, do their sit ups and call it a day? Men who work out with weights can benefit from yoga because it will help them stretch their muscles, andlengthen their muscles with regular practice. Athletes, both men and women, will benefit from yoga as they see their stamina increase and their range of motion also increase.

5. Yoga is Not Expensive

You can do yoga in your living room, if you choose. The minimum it would take, if you have never tried yoga before, is to find a TV station that has yoga classes. If you have digital cable, there may also be some free on-demand yoga classes. You could also borrow a yoga tape or DVD from the library. I am emphasizing visual examples of yoga because for beginners, it is best to see yoga in motion. Also, some discount stores that still sell VHS may have yoga tapes for under $5.

Once you become familiar with the names and positions of yoga poses, you could also borrow or buy a yoga book, or even download a free yoga podcast.

The only other "equipment" you need for most types of yoga is simply a towel or a "sticky mat."

Yoga is worth trying if you are looking for a regular type of exercise that will help tone muscles, increase stamina, and provide relaxation.