Why people may be reluctant to try Yoga

 "Yoga is not for me!"

I hear this statement often. But when I inquire about the why, it is heartbreaking to hear the most common answers:

• I am not flexible enough
• I am too big, fat, old, etc. (so sad to hear these negative body image descriptions)
• I can't afford it, it's too expensive

I also hear:

• I am not a fitness model, and have been told by an instructor that my body is not made for Yoga
• I don't have the right yoga outfit
• I don't want to embarrass myself in front of strangers (or people I know)

Saddened by the answers and the thought of missed opportunities, I am motivated to share the benefits of Yoga. I hope this blog can clear up the most common misconceptions about Yoga.

You don't have to be flexible to practice Yoga, the practice will help you become flexible.
Older people can't do Yoga. Yoga is for people of all ages and body types. If you have physical limitations, the instructor will show you modifications for each Yoga pose.
People refrain from indulging in Yoga as they feel it is expensive. This is a complete myth. You don't need to spend any money on Yoga practice. The internet is full of free online resources that help you learn Yoga efficiently. *Yoga with Oma offers free Yoga!
Yoga should be done only by thin and fit people. This is far from the truth. No matter what body type, you can take advantage of Yoga. You can make your body fit by practicing Yoga. It can help you control your weight and keep your body in shape.
 What to wear to practice Yoga? Generally, it is important to wear clothing that is both comfortable and made from breathable fabric (like cotton, bamboo or jersey). Once you chose your outfit, try practicing a range of motion in it before you leave the house. This will ensure you can move freely and that you’re not exposing more of your body than you are comfortable with during practice. Click the link to read the full article How to Know What to Wear for Yoga (with Pictures) 
Everyone is going to be watching me, and probably laughing. In Yoga, often a gazing point is taught with each pose. Students are encouraged, for example, to look at their outstretched hand, or at a point on the floor or wall in front of them. As you will discover if you do start Yoga, when your eyes are wondering about the room, it is a lot harder to stay balanced. In short, your fellow classmates won't be paying attention to what you are doing because they'll be busy paying attention to what they're doing and trying not to fall! 
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I hope this helped to debunk the most common misconceptions about Yoga. Join me for free Yoga in the park, choose an online practice, or join a studio. Hoping you will experience how beneficial Yoga truly is. However, it is important to seek medical advice before performing any Yoga. 
For additional information, click below link to Yoga International article on the subject.
20 Reasons You Can't Do Yoga... And Why None of Them Are True (yogainternational.com)

See you on the mat,
Oma