Myth: Yoga is only for women.
Fact: Both men and women searching for inner peace and physical health participate in yoga. It is not a practice reserved only for women; yoga is an ongoing physical, mental and spiritual state that develops over time.
Myth: Agility is a requirement to practice yoga.
Fact: Instructors work with students on a one-on-one basis to ensure that the yoga program is in fact one that benefits the student. The more a student practices yoga, the more agile he/she becomes; however, quite often just practicing the pose to the best of one's ability is enough to be beneficial.
Myth: The physical exercises are the most important aspect of practicing yoga.
Fact: While practicing the physical exercises involved in yoga are an important aspect to the foundation of yoga, often times most people find that the breathing exercises help harmonize the body. Yoga is a spiritual state of mind that focuses on not harming others, treating people in the manner one wants to be treated and learning to live in harmony with one's surroundings.
Myth: Yoga is a sport.
Fact: While it is true that yoga does have physical health benefits associated with strengthening muscles, joints and ligaments, yoga also focuses on mental and spiritual wellbeing. When practicing yoga the benefits of meditation help cleanse and relax the mind, allowing the body, mind and spirit to work in harmony.
Myth: Yoga requires the practice of strict, regimented poses.
Fact: Depending upon why a person begins practicing yoga, his/her needs may vary. If someone practices yoga to help a physical ailment, certain poses may be more beneficial. If a person is looking for mental wellbeing, he/she will benefit from the breathing exercises that yoga offers.
