I Can’t Do Yoga Because I’m Not Flexible
As a yoga teacher, one of the most common concerns I hear is, “I can’t do yoga because I’m not flexible.” It’s a question that often comes up, and it’s important to address it with compassion and clarity. Here’s my response:
“Saying you’re not flexible enough to do yoga is like saying you’re too dirty to take a bath.”
What do I mean by that? If you’re not flexible, yoga is precisely what you need! Here’s why:
1. Yoga Improves Flexibility
Yoga involves various postures that gently stretch your muscles, fascia, and joints. It’s one of the most effective practices for increasing flexibility. The postures you learn in yoga help to lengthen and open up your body, which naturally improves your flexibility over time.
2. Quick and Noticeable Results
Flexibility develops with consistent practice. While you might not achieve advanced poses immediately, you will start to notice improvements relatively quickly. Many students find that they can touch their toes or perform stretches they couldn’t before within just a few weeks of regular practice. Yoga’s benefits in this area are often more immediate compared to other physical attributes like strength.
3. Embrace the Practice, Not Perfection
Remember, it’s called “yoga practice,” not “yoga perfect.” When you start, it’s normal for your poses to look different from those of experienced practitioners or Instagram influencers. Yoga is a journey, and with time, your postures will evolve and express themselves more fully. The focus should be on the practice itself, not on achieving perfection.
4. Focus on How It Feels
Yoga is about how you feel rather than how you look. As long as you are practicing with proper alignment and avoiding pain, you’re on the right track. The goal is to improve your flexibility and overall health in a way that is safe and beneficial for you.
5. Yoga Enhances Overall Well-Being
As my friend Yogiraj Alan Finger says, “Yoga adds years to your life and life to your years.” Yoga is not just about physical flexibility; it also enriches your life on emotional and spiritual levels. It will meet you where you are and support your growth in all areas of life, including flexibility.
Get Started with Yoga
Even if flexibility is a concern, starting a yoga practice will help you make progress in that area and offer numerous additional benefits. Yoga will support you in enhancing your health, managing stress, and improving your quality of life.
So, if flexibility is holding you back, consider it a reason to start practicing yoga rather than a barrier. Embrace the journey and watch as yoga transforms not only your flexibility but also your overall well-being.