Yoga holds two very different misconceptions that deter individuals from participating:

  • It’s too hard – a serious practice with strong powerful flows and holding intense poses.
  • It’s too easy – a seated hour of OM-ing and chanting with little movement.

If you sift through the stereotypes and extreme generalizations, and dig a little deeper, you’ll discover that yoga IS for everyone. Whether you’re a regular yogi, just started your yoga journey, or are sitting on the fence, these facts will help you see that yoga is an excellent alternative or additive movement style to your regular workout routine.

  1. It’s called a “practice” for a reason. Yoga is a constant work in progress. Some days will be harder, and some days will be easier. It’s important that you try to maintain an open mind and positive attitude. If you don’t stick the pose today, don’t sweat it. Try again another day.
  2. You don’t have to be flexible. Increasing flexibility is certainly one of the benefits of yoga, but it isn’t a requirement. Don’t scare yourself into thinking you have to look like the cover of a magazine. Simply show up to your mat and do the best you can.
  3. Using props is completely okay. Never feel ashamed to use props, such as a block or a strap. It’s not considered cheating and it’s certainly not an indication of your experience level. Egos aside, props help you easily achieve proper alignment, stretching, and strengthening, rather than struggling to force your body into a position and potentially causing injuries.
  4. Take water breaks when you need. Don’t wait for the teacher to tell you to drink water. Take a sip when your body asks for it and join back in when you feel hydrated. Similar to other physical activity styles, hydrate before class to prepare and after class to rehydrate.
  5. Men do yoga too! Did you know that yoga was originally created by men in ancient India and practiced exclusively by men for thousands of years? Yoga’s female following only began with its arrival to Western culture in the mid-19th century. Regardless, yoga is not a gender-specific activity. Men and women alike can practice and benefit from a regular yoga practice.
  6. It’s a great all-encompassing workout. The mind-body coordination required during yoga is unlike many other forms of exercise. Yoga engages all aspects of your being, thus making it more challenging than it may appear on the surface. It is important to remember that there are always alternatives to any given pose. Yoga encourages you to listen to your body’s signals of what does and doesn’t feel right, to help you choose those poses that feels best for you.
  7. The benefits extend beyond the mat. Yoga accepts everyone and all their imperfections. The mantra of being kind to yourself and patient with others, can help you let go of stress and appreciate the world as it is. Don’t try to change things out of your control and never compare yourself or your practice to yesterday; for each day is different and presents different challenges. Instead, focus on today and what you can do to make it your best day.
  8. You just might fall in love with it. Yoga is an amazing workout that will help boost your performance, mood, energy levels, and health. It’s great as cross training and is amazing at clearing your mind.

The best motto to live by is that “Yoga is for every body”; no matter what body you bring to the practice. Tall or short, thick or thin, young or old, yoga is meant to adapt to you, not the other way around.

Now that you’re onboard with the idea that yoga isn’t so bad, we’ve got just the thing to kickstart your journey. How about checking out our annual Yoga Rave! Where the rhythm of the DJ meets the movement of the practice, the Yoga Rave invites all to join. Whether you are a regular yogi or are looking to try yoga for the first time, this non-judgmental, high-energy, incredibly-uplifting event is sure to make you smile.

Be sure to follow our Instagram stories (@macewanwellness) this week as we countdown the days until this epic event. Alternatively, you can follow our Facebook event page for event updates. We can’t wait to see you at the Yoga Rave on Tuesday, February 12! Purchase your ticket online or at the Building 8 Welcome Desk by Monday, February 11 (while they last).

by Jess Walker

Jess is certified a Group Fitness instructor, teaching Barre and Older Adult Cardio here at MacEwan University Sport and Wellness. She is also our Recreation Special Event Coordinator.