As a yoga teacher, I hear the same hesitations all the time. “I’m not flexible enough.” “Isn’t that all about stretching?” “Yoga isn’t for someone like me.” And I know these are the misconceptions that are keeping people away from something that could genuinely improve their lives.
So here are 5 myths about yoga and what I think about them.
Myth 1: You Need to Be Flexible to Do Yoga
This is probably the most widespread myth of all. And ironically, it’s the one that stops the people who’d benefit most from ever stepping on a mat.
Flexibility is not a requirement for yoga. It’s a result of it. Showing up stiff, tight, and unable to touch your toes is not a barrier — it’s literally the point of starting. Nobody expects you to arrive already fit before going to the gym, right? So you don’t have to be flexible to practice yoga. Every pose can be modified. Every body is a yoga body and we do use props to make the more difficult poses accessible. You just need to begin.
Myth 2: Yoga Is All About Stretching
Everyone in my classes will tell you that’s not true at all. There are certain traditions in yoga that tend to be more on the restorative side and will hold static poses that can feel like stretching for a long time. But not all yoga is like that, far from it.
In my classes we focus a lot on improving strength, developing our balance, agility and coordination. There are also styles that can be a serious cardiovascular workout. Ashtanga, Power yoga, and Hot yoga will challenge even the most seasoned athletes.
But above all, beyond the physical, yoga is a practice in being present. It teaches you how to breathe through discomfort, how to focus your mind, and how to listen to your body. That’s a long way from just a stretch.
Myth 3: Yoga Is Only for Women
It’s true that by and large yoga is dominated by women these days. But it wasn’t always like that. Yoga was practiced exclusively by men for centuries. It was taught by men and brought to the West largely by men. So it’s not a women’s practice.
I have had many men inquire about my classes and they always start with the question Are there any other men in the class? And if my answer is Unfortunately, no, they won’t come. I totally get it, it can be intimidating to be in a room full of women only, but is only takes one person to brave the room. And yoga is hugely beneficial for all.
Myth 4: Yoga Is a Religion
Yoga has roots in Hindu and Buddhist philosophy, and there are certainly spiritual traditions within it. But practicing yoga does not require you to adopt any belief system, follow any faith, or abandon your own.
My classes are entirely secular, focused on movement, breathwork, and mindfulness. My only goal is for you to feel better when you leave. The mat is a judgment-free zone.
Myth 5: You Need Expensive Gear or a Studio Membership
The wellness industry would love for you to believe this one. But for my classes all you need to bring is your mat and a blanket or a scarf. That’s it. You don’t need any expensive stuff have a meaningful practice. And we are all creating our supportive community too add real value for everyone.
What all of these 5 myths have in common is that they make yoga feel like something that’s not for you. Too inflexible, too spiritual, too feminine, too expensive. Too simple — or too intimidating.
The truth is that yoga is one of the most adaptable, accessible, and genuinely inclusive practices in existence. And if any of these myths have been holding you back, I hope this gives you the nudge you need. Come as you are. The mat will meet you there.
If you would like to try yoga, come and join us in Streatham. You can find more info here.
Photo by Jaspinder Singh on Unsplash
