Welcome to Yoga
Yoga? No thanks. Not for me.
That was basically my response when someone asked me about yoga before I became a certified trainer.
If you could hop in a time machine and go find that former Sam, I’d tell you yoga was not a priority for my workout regimen.
I knew it was something I should probably look into, but I didn’t. My head was filled with misconceptions about taking time to get on the mat.
Sometimes when we don’t understand something, we can’t possibly see the value in it.
And for myself, when I feel like I’m not great at something, I steer clear. At least, that’s what I used to do…
Yoga always found its way to the back burner for old me. I would tell myself I wasn’t good at it - and who wants to do something they stink at?
Now I know, the things I am not "good" at are probably the things I need to work on the MOST and will grow from the most.
Thankfully, the Sam of today has a much better understanding of what yoga does for us. I now value it and make it a priority.
What about you? Over the last week, how many minutes have your put towards some sort of stretching?
I want to share with you some of my biggest YOGA misconceptions and then bust through those myths.
1. I won't be good at yoga because I don't have a 'yogi' body.
Anyone can do yoga! Athletic or not, tall, short, thin, overweight etc. In fact, there is no measure of “good” in yoga. Yoga is a self-practice. Come as you are.
2. I want to gain muscle. Yoga won't help me.
In order to gain muscle, you probably need to lift some weights. And in order to lift weights properly, you need to have correct form. If your range of motion does not let you get into correct form - like your hamstrings are so tight you can’t go all the way down in a squat - guess what?! You are not reaping the full benefits from your squat. You are not working that muscle to its full potential! You know what can help you get that range of motion fixed? YOGA!!
3. Yoga is not challenging enough. It’s not going to get my heartrate up or work my muscles enough!
HA! I regretted saying this the first time I found myself on the mat, sweat dripping, body shaking. Yoga really works those tiny isolated muscles that don't always get a lot of attention. Just like with any workout, there are ways to challenge yourself in Yoga.
4. I am not flexible so it will be too hard!
There are also always ways to modify the yoga poses, especially by using props. Any good yoga teacher will show you how to do each pose in the best way for your body and level of flexibility.
5. Yoga is a bit “hippie dippie” for me and I am not sure I can get into the breathing.
One of the best things about yoga? It’s YOUR practice... some deep breathing will help you get into some deep stretches, but you can always leave the belly breathing at the door.
6. But I love cardio...
Incorporating some yoga into your routine will help you sustain that cardio you love, or any other activity for that matter. Sports scientist Luke Worthington says, "This is because it can help reduce wear and tear on muscle tissue and connective tissue around the joints which cuts your risk for injury."
So, add in some yoga to your workout regimen and you’re less likely to face injuries that keep you sidelined.
Do any of those myths I just listed resonate with you?
Have you found yourself thinking any of those things as you justify leaving yoga out of your workout plan?
I hope I’ve debunked those myths for you, so you’ll see how anyone can benefit from adding yoga to their lives.
In short, yoga helps:
Range of motion
Flexibility
Muscle imbalances
Builds lean muscle
Creates breath and body connection
Promotes mindfulness
Improves posture