Every so often, someone will say to me in one form or another, “I don’t do yoga because I am not flexible”. Every time I hear this, I want to explain to that person the multiple reasons why one does not have to be flexible in order to do yoga. If you fall into the group of people who avoid yoga due to flexibility issues, then this article is for you. Below are 4 reasons why you do not have to be flexible to do yoga.
1. The real meaning and value behind yoga is not about being flexible!
Yoga is not about beautiful poses and agility. Yes, the poses have become a big part of western style yoga. However, yoga encompasses so much more than that. For example, yoga is a great way to harness lowered stress levels and increased euphoria. With regular practice, you will undoubtedly feel the benefits of the yoga practice as a whole. This includes positive effects on the body, mind and soul.
2. Not being flexible is a perfect reason why you SHOULD do yoga
While yoga does not require the practitioner to be flexible by any means, it absolutely helps one to achieve greater flexibility. Practicing yoga challenges your body to reach points that it never has. Flexibility will more than likely not happen overnight. With regular yoga practice, you will gain more physical and mental control which can benefit your daily activities as well as any strenuous physical activities that you partake in.
3. The instructor is there for YOU
There is no need to feel intimidated when you enter a yoga class for the first time. The instructor will guide you along the way and assist you when you need to be assisted. Everyone’s body is different. Not one person bends and flexes exactly the same as another. Some people are naturally flexible and some are not. That is life. The instructor is trained to see the differences. You can trust him or her in guiding you to greater flexibility.
4. You don’t have to be flexible to have fun
Yoga is fun. No matter what you look like, what shirt you are wearing or amount of flexibility you have. It is fun to challenge your mind, body and breathing. Especially when done with a group of light-hearted and motivated people. It’s always fun to make new friends.
With all that said, yoga is for everyone. Not only for the fit and flexible, but for anyone seeking some peace of mind, better health and an overall tune-up.
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