When it comes to yoga, the benefits one can obtained from it is pretty endless. It has the ability to relief stress and anxiety. It can help soothe headaches. Some even believe that it can even make you smarter. Despite all these benefits, first-timers can sometimes find yoga to be absolutely intimidating, especially when they notice those yoga gurus balancing on their heads effortlessly. However, before one totally writes yoga off, take some time to reconsider.
In all seriousness, you do not need to perform a headstand just to reap the benefits of yoga. As there are quite a lot of myths surrounding the ancient practice, yoga instructors Vyda Bielkus, co-founder of Boston’s Health Yoga Life, and Eva Norlyk Smith, managing editor forYogaU Online, assisted in debunking some of them.
The first and most common myth is that one has to be flexible in order to practice yoga. “Yoga can help you gain some flexibility quite quickly,” stated Vyda. Even if you are not flexible to begin with, you can still take it up because poses can be modified, so that one benefits from the movement without suffering in pain. Vyda mentioned that private yoga classes provides more individual attention and allows more personalisation in the poses.
The second myth is that yoga is expensive. This is relatively true if one is paying on a per class basis. However, there are many studios competing and promoting monthly packages and discounts. Once you come across a suitable studio, find out more from them and take advantage of any special offers they may have. At the end of the day, you must remember that you are paying for a lifelong skill.
Another myth about yoga is that it isn’t counted as an exercise. This is extremely inaccurate as there are certain styles of yoga that will leave you covered in sweat by the end of it. “There are some types that are as aerobic and challenging as any workout you can find,” said Eva.
The fourth myth about yoga is that it is boring. As different individuals have different objectives, the key is to find a class and an instructor that suit you. Hence, you have to try a variety of styles from different school to figure out what actually works for you.
The final myth about yoga is that you are required to have a spiritual side. Although yoga was developed from spiritual roots, there are so many classes out there that have nothing to do with religion. “I think that most people coming to yoga classes in America today are not coming for any spiritual intention. I think that yoga can lead to being a little more inquisitive about your own journey through life — maybe purpose and meaning will become more of a focus for you [since the practice often has you turning inward], but it really doesn’t have to,” explained Vyda. For the rest of the story, do read it here.
OMG Yoga Singapore provides certified instructors to aid you in your practice. If you do decide to opt for our private classes, lessons can be tailored towards your needs.