Let’s Clear This Up: 7 Yoga Myths That Need to Go

Okay, real talk — there are so many weird myths floating around about yoga, and honestly, it’s time to shut them down. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been practicing for years, you’ve probably heard a few of these. So let’s break them down one by one — and make sure no one’s missing out on yoga because of some outdated idea.

1. “You have to be flexible to do yoga.”

Nope. Not at all.

This one drives me crazy. Flexibility is something that comes with time. You do not need to show up able to fold yourself in half to start practicing. You come as you are — stiff hips, tight hamstrings and all. That’s literally why we do yoga.

2. “Yoga is just for women.”

Wrong again.

Yoga is for humans. Period. Anyone with a body and a breath can practice. Some of the strongest people I’ve practiced with are men, and the mental clarity yoga brings? That benefits everyone.

3. “If you don’t do a full hour, it doesn’t count.”

Who made that rule?!

Ten minutes of movement or breathwork can shift your whole energy. Seriously. If you only have time for one sun salutation or five deep breaths — do that. That’s yoga.

4. “Yoga is just stretching.”

Ohhh no no.

Sure, there’s stretching involved. But yoga is also strength, balance, breathwork, focus, and mindset. It’s learning how to breathe through discomfort, how to calm your nervous system, and how to show up for yourself. It’s so much more than just a fancy warm-up.

5. “You have to be young and thin to practice.”

That’s some Instagram BS.

Yoga is for every size, every age, every season of life. I've had classes with people in their 70s and others recovering from surgery. You don’t need to look a certain way to be welcome on the mat. If you have a body, you’re invited.

6. “If you can’t do the hard poses, you’re not good at yoga.”

Absolutely not.

Yoga isn’t a competition. It's not about nailing a handstand or twisting into a pretzel. It's about how you show up for yourself, how you breathe, how you treat your body and your mind. Child’s pose can be the most advanced posture in the room when it’s done with intention.

7. “Yoga is a religion.”

Nope — but it can be spiritual.

Yoga has roots in ancient philosophy, but it's not tied to any one religion. You don’t have to believe in anything specific to practice. It’s about connecting to yourself, finding stillness, and creating space in your life.

So yeah — let’s stop letting myths and misconceptions keep people off the mat. Yoga is for you just as you are today. No need to be bendy, spiritual, or have a matching set (though let’s be real, a cute yoga outfit never hurts). Show up, breathe, and move. That’s what it’s all about.

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