Yoga!

If you know me, you know I love yoga!  I'm here to clear up some misconceptions so that you can also enjoy yoga.

Myth #1: Yoga is only for flexible people.
Wrong!  Yoga is not all about twisting yourself into a pretzel... although you can do that if you want to.  Yoga is "meditation in motion" and focuses on building strength and flexibility.  Touching your toes is not a prerequisite!  Yoga is for everybody, no matter how inflexible they may be.

Myth #2: I will look stupid at yoga class.
Well, you might.  However, if you look stupid then chances are everybody else looks stupid too.  Anyways, this is not the point of yoga.  The point of yoga is to focus on your own body and breathing.  Yoga-doers (yogis) are non-judgmental. 

Myth #3: Yoga is boring.
You can definitely find a slow-paced, gentle yoga class if that meets your needs.  However, there are many types of yoga that are extremely challenging.  Yoga can be a fantastic workout.  See below for more details.


Myth #4: Yoga is for women.
False!  I know plenty of men who do yoga.  Hockey players, engineers, doctors, construction workers, businessmen, etc.  Yoga is for everybody.


Myth #5: Yoga is for hippies.
Again, yoga is for everybody.  You don't have to be a vegetarian or burn incense on a regular basis to love yoga (although you can if you want to)!

So now you know that you CAN do yoga.  No excuses.  But there are so many types and it is so confusing to choose one!  No worries.  Here is a little guide to help you select a yoga class that meets your needs.

Vinyasa literally means "linking movement with breath" and is basically a yoga class with various postures selected by the instructor that flow together.  Also known as Flow yoga.



Hatha is a general term used to describe a gentle, slower-paced yoga class.  Great for beginners!


Ashtanga yoga is a more intense style of yoga in which the same postures are practiced in the same order every time with almost constant movement.  This is a fabulous workout- my personal favorite!


Power yoga is intense like Ashtanga, but less rigid.  Postures can be performed in any order at  discretion of the instructor.


Iyengar focuses on body alignment by holding postures for longer periods of time and using props.  Great for rehabilitation from injuries!


Kundalini really, really focuses on breath while going through various yoga postures.


Kripalu yoga focuses on various gentle/moderate postures, some meditation, compassion for oneself, and joy.  Another personal favorite of mine.


Bikram is that hot yoga everybody is talking about.  This is practiced in a 95-100 degree room, which allows the muscles to become very flexible while also promoting sweat and detoxification of the body.  Remember to hydrate!


So now you know that yoga is for everybody, and you have a guide to help you select an appropriate class.  But why should you practice yoga?  There are tons of mental and physical benefits.  It is a great workout and stress-reliever that can also help prevent/rehabilitate injuries, promote digestion, decrease blood pressure, increase restful sleep, stimulate the immune system, create a sense of calm and wellness, and boost self-esteem.  Basically, it is a WONDERFUL thing.  Try it and let me know what you think. 

Namaste!

PS check out my two favorite studios...
Vermont: Laughing River Yoga Studio in Burlington hosts Jane Jarecki of JaneYoga.  Her classes are light-hearted, compassionate, fun, and relaxing.


New Hampshire: Green Lotus Yoga Studio in Dover is an incredible place to learn and practice the strength-building art of Ashtanga yoga.  I highly recommend it!  Awesome teachers, beautiful studio, and addicting yoga.