People often make yoga seem like has a lot more rules than it actually does. The truth is yoga is about internal growth and connection, not rules.
1. You need to be flexible to do yoga
A lot of poses actually do not require flexibility. You can do any pose without overextending yourself and your limits. You do not need to achieve the deepest bend in order to achieve the benefits of the pose.
2. You have to do hard poses to "do yoga"
Yoga has many types of poses ranging from headstands to even just laying on the ground doing simple breathing exercises.
3. Your practice has to be long
A yoga session does not need to be hours long. In fact, a ten minute practice can be just as beneficial as an hour session.
4. You have to be spiritual to do yoga
Yes, yoga can be spiritual but you do not need to be spiritual or religious to experience yoga. Yoga is simple about the connection of mind, body, and soul.
5. You have to do yoga in a studio
You can do yoga in a studio, your room, or even in your office.
6. You need to have the yoga "props" in order to do yoga
You do not need a fancy yoga mat and block in order to engage in yoga practice. You can simply do it on your floor or even in your office chair.
7. Yoga is all about meditation
Yoga is not about having a clear mind. It is okay to do yoga without a restful mind. Just because your mind wanders does not mean you are not doing your practice. Yoga is about having fun. Feel to try new things, engage with others, and to be silly.
8. There is only one "right" way to do yoga
Yoga is about growth. It is okay to not nail a pose the first time. Yoga is difficult some days and easy other days. It is okay to fall out of a balance or to not have the correct alignment. It is simply a learning experience.
