Questions to ask before starting a yoga class

Can yoga get me fit?
You are truly healthy when you are not just physically fit but also mentally and emotionally balanced. As Sri Sri Ravi Shankar puts it, “Health is not a mere absence of disease.  It is a dynamic expression of life – in terms of how joyful, loving and enthusiastic you are.” Yoga is a holistic fitness program.
Can yoga help me lose weight?
Sun Salutations are great at helping you lose weight.  With regular practice of yoga, we tend to become more sensitive to the kind of food our body asks for and when. This can also help keep a check on weight.
Can yoga reduce my stress levels?
A few minutes of yoga during the day can be a great way to get rid of stress that accumulates daily – in both the body and mind.
Can yoga give me Inner peace?
We all love to visit peaceful, serene spots, rich in natural beauty. Little do we realize that peace can be found right within us and we can take a mini-vacation to feel this any time of the day by practicing yoga.
Can yoga improve immunity?
Yoga poses massage organs and strengthen muscles; breathing techniques and meditation improve immunity.
Can yoga improve my relationships?
Yoga can even help improve your relationship with your spouse, parents, friends or loved ones.  A mind that is relaxed, happy and contented is better able to deal with sensitive relationship matters.
Can yoga increase my energy levels?
A few minutes of yoga every day provides the secret to feeling fresh and energetic even after a long day.
Can yoga improve my flexibility?
You only need to include yoga in your daily routine to benefit from a body that is strong, supple and flexible.

 

Myths about yoga

 

You have to be flexible to practice yoga

This is perhaps the most widespread excuse people use not to do yoga. Yoga develops flexibility without demanding a certain level of it. Moreover you have to exercise to overcome your muscle stiffness, and yoga is a great way to do it.

Yoga is a religion

Yoga is not a religion. If yoga has a belief system it is simply to be more connected with your body and yourself. Scientists are now getting close to proving what yogis have held to be true for centuries – yoga and meditation can ward off stress and disease. John Denninger, a psychiatrist at Harvard Medical School is conducting a five year study on how ancient practices affect genes and brain activity. If you practice yoga the chances are that you will feel the benefits on many different levels, if you have a particular belief system or faith then yoga can help strengthen and deepen your own path.

Yoga is slow

Contrary to popular belief, yoga can be both slow and intense depending on the style. Some styles are dynamic, quick moving and can be quite physically challenging, whereas others are great to de-stress and relax.

You need to look a certain way

Sometimes it can be difficult to let go of fear and judgment but yoga can help to move past these as a sense of trust and support is built within a community of practitioners. Yoga is for any body type, shape and size. It is a practice that does not discriminate.

You need to change your lifestyle

There is no requirement to change anything about your lifestyle. However over time you may find yourself naturally leaning towards a healthier lifestyle.