Religious Connections To Flexibility, 10 Yoga Myths Debunked – News18

Yoga is believed to be one of the healthiest forms of exercise. Yoga helps to increase body flexibility, and strength while strengthening our muscles. It also helps to maintain proper blood circulation and body weight.

There are many myths about Yoga. Let us learn about the myths from Yoga and Wellness trainer Dr Akash Tanwar.

• Only people with good flexibility can do yoga: This is a common misconception. Dr Akash mentioned that Yoga is for everyone regardless of their flexibility. Day-to-day practice matters and not the body type of a person, he explained.

• You must be slim to do yoga: The doctor stated that yoga is about staying healthy and thus body shape and size do not matter. People of all body shapes can practice yoga and everyone should incorporate it into their daily routine.

• Yoga is only for women: If we look at the history of yoga, it was mainly practised by women before. But it is suitable for all genders. In today’s era, many men practice yoga to stay fit healthy and away from stress.

• You have to be young to practice yoga: People of all ages can practice yoga, There are different exercises for people of different ages but there is no age specification.

• Yoga is just about stretching arms and legs: Yoga is not just that, yoga involves physical movement that strengthens our body and also maintains the balance of the body. It also helps to improve mental focus and can also help you to maintain your lungs healthy.

• You need proper equipment to practice yoga: Yoga does not require any specific equipment. All you need for yoga is your body and comfortable space to practice it. Many things might help to practice, but they are not necessary for basic practices.

• Yoga has religious connections: Although yoga has roots in religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, modern-day people practice yoga to maintain their physical and mental health. It can be practised by people of any religion.

• You must meditate every day to perform yoga: While some yoga positions include meditation there is no compulsion as such. People should mainly focus on physical movement and breathing.

• Yoga is only for relaxation: While yoga mainly helps to reduce stress and calm the mind, some forms of yoga do require physical strength.

• You can’t get injured while practising yoga: Though yoga is generally safe, injuries may take place especially if the the poses are not practised correctly. It is advised to all perform the exercises under the supervision of a qualified instructor.