Shake That Thought, Give Yoga A Shot

We’ve heard it from every angle and we’ve read it on the cover of every magazine, the benefits of yoga and the myths of yoga. If you are a beginner or maybe a little bit skeptical of yoga, we can clear some common misconceptions up for you!

There seems to be a popular misconception that you have to be flexible to do yoga. Sure, yoga has a lot to do with flexibility but that doesn’t mean you should shy away from trying it even if you don’t consider yourself flexible. If you are a beginner, you should start in a beginner’s class, that way you can ease your body into the idea of performing the new yoga moves. Yoga is an individual practice, not a team sport, so your level may be different than that of your friends, remember this is okay! Flexibility from yoga comes with time. You have to begin somewhere so just be patient and consistent and you might surprise yourself at how quickly you will see and feel the results. Some gravitate towards yoga because it is assumed as the new found religion, while others steer clear from it because of any perceived religious affiliations. Either way, yoga should be looked at as a practice to calm the mind, body and soul. Yoga itself is not a religion. It should be looked at as a self meditating practice, to self reflect, to feel the silence of the body and most importantly, to breathe which many of us sometimes forget to do.

Another myth is that yoga is an expensive hobby. It can actually be one of the most inexpensive forms of exercise, if you want it to be! Whether you are in a yoga studio, a park or even in your own home, yoga is yoga. It shouldn’t matter where you are doing it, as long as you are doing it. Think about it, you may be spending 20-60 a month on a gym membership when you can practice yoga for free in your backyard! Not to mention all the energy you are saving by not using heavy powered machines as a part of your daily workout.Many assume that yoga will not give you a workout because it is not considered cardiovascular activity. However, it is a different type of work out, which still gets your heart rate dancing. It is also very good for your heart and lungs as you learn how to inhale and exhale properly.

So bottoms up to a healthy you in 2010. Now that the misconceptions have been cleared up you can be on your way to one of the most invigorating and relaxing workouts your body deserves!

The most important piece s of equipment you need for doing yoga are your body and your mind

- Rodney Yee

If you need any yoga equipment, we have a variety of great eco friendly yoga products! Check them out!