I can't do yoga; I'm not flexible
10/17/2022 by Kay Kushwaha
Many people state they can't do yoga because they're not flexible. But they're missing the point. One of the reasons to practice yoga is to gain flexibility.
The roots of yoga data back thousands of years. However, the practice has evolved over the years to become what it is today. Although a lot has changed, the essence of the practice is still preserved.
Anyone can practice yoga. There is a spectrum of practice ranging from seated meditation to breathing, to Pranayama, to being able to advance your practice to more difficult postures.
Yoga is the ancient practice of connecting the mind and body. It is a discipline based on a moral code. Practicing the physical side of yoga is one aspect and is what you see taught in gyms and studios.
Treat your body as a vessel for your soul and respect it for improved physical and mental health. Serving yourself to be able to serve others. If you are out of shape, it can be challenging to take care of yourself and others.
If practiced regularly, yoga can offer these benefits:
- Increased flexibility and range of motion.
- Strength and length of muscles.
- Joint stability.
- Reduced anxiety.
- Increased lung capacity.
- Improved balance.
- All of the benefits of weight loss.
When you wake up is always a good time to practice. The evening is also good, as you're more flexible at the end of the day and you may have more of a sense of achievement.
You can practice yoga in the comfort of your own home with just a yoga mat, or you can sign up for a yoga class. The great thing about yoga is that you do not need equipment, so you can practice anywhere, even at your computer desk.
As always, consult with your health care clinician before starting any physical activity.
Try it. You just might like it.
Kay Kushwaha is a group fitness instructor at the Dan Abraham Healthy Living Center in Rochester, Minnesota. She teaches yoga basics and yoga combining Hatha and Vinyasa styles.