International Yoga Day is coming at a critical time when it has become absolutely essential for people to follow a yogic lifestyle that is healthy, humble & devout.
Approximately 200 million people across the globe practice yoga (in some or the other form). A major chunk of this population is from India and more than 20 million from the United States alone. This year, on June 21st – International Yoga Day, millions of health enthusiasts from 193 nations will perform various ‘Asanas’ (yogic postures) at different locations around the globe.
A healthy & fit body is just as important as a strong & stable mind. In clinical settings, Yoga has shown to benefit one’s overall well-being in a plethora of ways. In spite of this well-known fact, there are many who are still cynical of this ancient practice, mainly because of various false notions and misconceptions associated with it. It’s about time we debunk some of the most popular Yoga myths that have been circulating for years
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Myth 1 – Only people with flexible bodies can practice Yoga
Fact – Flexibility of the body is not a pre-requisite for practicing Yoga. Regular practice can in fact help you attain maximum flexibility in the body but that will happen gradually over time. What you can do, is make subtle adjustments to each posture as per your body’s ability in order to avoid straining. If practiced correctly, Yoga can actually make you feel active, energetic & positive
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Myth 2 – Yoga is not an Exercise
Fact – Yoga can very well be regarded as a form of Exercise, as it works on all body systems including the cardiovascular system and the nervous system
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Myth 3 – Yoga is only for Women
Fact – Here’s a fact that most aren’t even aware of – Yoga practice was actually started by a man and practiced by Men for thousands of years. Although majority of Yoga practitioners across the globe are women, the health benefits of yoga are not restricted to any particular gender.
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Myth 4 – Yoga is against my Religion
Fact – Being originated in India, Yoga often draws upon the teachings of Hinduism & Buddhism but it is in no way against any Religion. In simple terms, Yoga is an exercise of mind, body & spirit. Yogic postures are designed to deliver multiple health benefits and improve the mind-body connection
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Myth 5 – People who wish to practice yoga have to become vegetarians
Fact – There is no requirement of vegetarianism to practice Yoga. Eat anything that’s healthy after your Yoga class but always remember – the food that you consume can be the safest & most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison. Your body is your temple. Choose your food items wisely
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Myth 6 – I have to be thin to practice Yoga
Fact – Yogis come in all sizes. Some of the finest Yoga instructors are well-built but still possess remarkable flexibility & stamina to perform challenging poses with fluidity & grace. With regular sessions, Yoga has helped many to reduce weight gradually
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Myth 7 – As a form of exercise, Yoga is too gentle to give any kind of visible physical benefits
Fact – Yoga certainly does not include strenuous moves like the ones incorporated in other forms of exercises like Aerobics & Zumba but it doesn’t mean that it is any less effective in terms of promoting health & holistic wellness. Yoga is a lot more than just stretching. Most Yogic postures are dynamic and not only increase flexibility but also strength, balance, coordination and cardiovascular endurance.
