Yoga is Expensive

One thing that people misconceive about yoga is thinking it has to be an expensive hobby. While pricey yoga studios have become popular, yoga is one of those things that can be done at home. Tons of videos exist online to guide you through the poses. All you really need is space, and maybe a cheap yoga mat.

It is for Skinny People Only

One of the greatest (and craziest) misconceptions about yoga is that it’s only for skinny people. This stereotype is perpetuated because every stock photo or promo video of a person during yoga is an ultra-fit, bendy person with next to no body fat. But anyone can do yoga, even someone with a bigger body size! You don’t have to be super limber or weigh a small amount to get in on the benefits. Yoga is more about commitment and mindset than it is about flexibility or size.

Are there “Best” Yoga Poses

People think yoga is only a fitness practice when it can be so much more. One of the worst misconceptions I see is when yoga practitioners or teachers claim there are “better” and “worse” poses. Yoga doesn’t include hierarchies; it is an open practice that focuses on individual ability and empowerment, not matching oneself to how something is “supposed to look.” One of the core tenets of yoga is to respect and honor one’s own body for what it can do without forcing it to do what it cannot. There are no “good” or “bad” ways to practice yoga, only what is right for you when you practice. 

Is it Not a Good Workout

I think many people see yoga as a light practice, but it’s actually a great way to burn calories, build muscle, and improve strength and endurance. Many people also assume that yoga is easy, but the advanced poses can be a challenge to remain in. There are also many levels of yoga practices, from beginner to advanced. One of the biggest misconceptions people make about practicing yoga is that it is easy and doesn’t really classify as a workout. For starters, there are several yoga types, with some of them classified as high-intensity workouts, whereas others are low-impact workouts that force you to work on muscles you rarely target and can be intense and extremely beneficial workouts.

Is Yoga Not for Beginners

Although several yoga exercises are recommended for practitioners who have spent time mastering this artful exercise, ‌there are plenty of routines in yoga that even beginners can indulge in. People often make the mistake of dismissing yoga as exercise that is meant for those who are physically fit and flexible. The truth is quite the opposite—there are yoga poses and routines that even people suffering from ailments or with limited physical strength can practice. 

From people who have never resorted to physical exercise to patients suffering from conditions such as severe arthritis, there’s a yoga routine for everyone!

Is Every Yoga Practice Spiritual

As somebody who regularly attends yoga, and has been guilty of it myself initially, people can often think that yoga will always go hand-in-hand with chanting and a more spiritual sort of guidance that some may feel uncomfortable with. 

The truth is, this can be a big part of a class, but the instructor may also not feature it at all. There are many variations, and it is about finding one that suits you best. Try a few different ones and see which works best for you. 

You can even message instructors and ask what the focus is on their classes. This won’t be a new question for them, as they understand some focus more on the spiritual side, while others focus more on the practical, stretching aspect.

Is it Always a Strenuous Workout

One common misconception about practicing yoga is that it has to be a strenuous workout. In reality, there are many gentle forms of yoga that can be practiced with little effort or even while seated in a chair! 

It’s important to remember that the best kind of yoga practice is tailored to your individual needs. Yoga should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical abilities. Whether it’s a more rigorous practice or a gentle one, the goal should always be to find balance and calm in your body and mind.

Is it important to Be Flexible and Fit to Practice Yoga

I’d say the most common misconception about practicing yoga is that it is only for people who are already flexible or fit. 

Yoga is a great way to improve flexibility and fitness, no matter your starting point. Starting something new can be intimidating, but embracing a beginner’s mindset and accepting discomfort can lead to a deeper experience in activities like yoga.

It is important to remember that yoga is a journey, and progress is made over time with regular practice. It is also not just about achieving a certain level of flexibility or physical ability, but rather about finding a sense of peace and balance in the body and mind.

Is Yoga Only for Young People

Some start Yoga practice in their late 30’s or late 40’s and gains benefit from yoga. Some people are seen in their 70s and 80s twist themselves into complicated postures—not only do they look graceful, but I’ve also been told by many of them that regular yoga practice keeps them strong and pain-free. 

One can accomplish every pose with practice and persistence, sometimes even better than those who are a lot younger! I often remind myself that yoga isn’t about how flexible or strong I am; it’s about finding balance within, and the journey is just as important as the destination.

Is Yoga always Slow

Many people view yoga as a slow-moving practice, but in actuality, there are different yoga practices. While most beginner classes are slow, as to introduce people to the basic movements, for more advanced students there are classes that move at a quick pace.

Will it automatically Make You Calmer and Happier

One misconception about practicing yoga is that it will immediately make you calmer and happier. First things first: yoga can reduce stress, enhance your mood, and boost your overall well-being, but it doesn’t happen straight away. 

Like with most things of value, work for it. It’s true that practicing yoga helps most people deal with mental and emotional issues, but change can be a time-consuming process with difficulties. 

Thanks to yoga practice, you also gain greater self-awareness, feel a better connection with the world, and take more mindful actions. It can lead to a calmer and happier life.

Is Yoga Only for Women

Many of my male clients believe that yoga is only for women. Though most yoga practitioners are women, yoga is for people of all genders. Men, women, and non-binary individuals can all benefit from regular yoga practice.