03/06/2026
🤔 I’ve been thinking a lot about the word “yoga” and how easily people can get hung up on the label itself, so let’s clear a few things up:
❌ NO, yoga is not a religion. It is not tied to Hinduism or Buddhism. It is a practice that can coexist with any religious background, spiritual belief, or with none at all. If hesitation comes from religious preference or bias, I invite you to reframe the word “yoga” as organized stretching with breath and intention.
✅ YES, yoga is more than just stretching. Traditionally, yoga includes eight limbs or aspects that combine state of being, breath, meditation, and movement. Physical movement is just one piece of that. And just as importantly, you are not required to practice the other seven if they don’t resonate with you.
❌ NO, you do not need to be flexible or have a background in sports to participate. While things like gymnastics can help with flexibility, I can personally attest that I grew up with zero sports background and have gained flexibility slowly through consistent practice over the past 6 years and I am still learning, wobbling, and falling out of poses.
❌ NO, yoga is not just for women, people with thinner bodies, or those who are younger. People of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities can begin yoga at any stage of life. Modifications and support such as blocks, bolsters, or even using a chair instead of a mat are not only welcome, they’re encouraged. Every body is different, and the practice is meant to meet you where you are and teach you how to listen to what your body needs.
🌱 There will always be things we aren’t good at right away. Stability comes through practice, consistency, and grace for both the process and the setbacks along the way. When we meet new experiences with curiosity instead of immediate judgment, we create space to grow, soften, and surprise ourselves.
