Should I Try Yoga?
Debunking misconceptions about yoga and answering questions frequently asked by new yoga students
By special guest writer, Emma Merchant
Yoga may seem to be the newest fad in your town, as studios multiply across the country. But, in reality, yoga practices extend back to India at least 5,000 years ago. It is an ancient practice that involves so much more than physical poses. Aside from classes, yoga also encompasses meditation, breathing techniques, and moral rights and wrongs, just to name a few. For more information on yoga and other ways of self-mastery, check out Patanjali (the “Father of Yoga”)’s yoga sutras here.
The topic of yoga is vast, and certainly intimidating. These questions should get you thinking about whether you are ready to start yoga, which practices will work best for you, and whether you want to practice in a fancy studio, your backyard, or even your bed.
What am I getting myself into?
You don’t have to be a yoga expert in order to incorporate yoga’s benefits into your own life!
Yoga is whatever you make of it. If you have bad posture and tight hips, perhaps yoga is your relief from tension. If you struggle with anxiety, yoga can provide calming techniques that will lower your heart rate, blood pressure, and overall sense of security and peace. If you want to build muscles and gain flexibility, there are classes for you, too! And further, if you are seeking a higher purpose in life, a connection to your inner self, or a new way to practice gratitude and appreciation to yourself and others, there is yoga for that. No matter what brings you to yoga, you might just find exactly what you need.
Is yoga a religion? Will it conflict with my beliefs?
Yoga is not a religion– it is a philosophy that began in approximately 5,000 years ago in India. Yes, it encompasses meditation, mantras, chanting, and a universal “God,” those do not conflict with any religion. Instead of suggesting a specific type of lifestyle, the yoga sutras encourage moral rights and explain and warn against moral wrongs (ie., the yama Ahimsa teaches us not to do harm unto others through action, word, or intention). In all, yoga tends to focus on love and peace, and can actually enhance other spiritual practices and religions. The scriptures outlined by Patanjali, the “Father of yoga,” provide a framework for spiritual growth and mastery over the physical and mental body. It is not necessary to study any religion, nor surrender your own in order to practice yoga.
I am not flexible. Can I still practice yoga?
There are hundreds, maybe thousands of different yoga classes, all with different purposes! If you are a beginner, perhaps you should seek an introductory course at a studio near you. Many provide workshops over the course of several weeks that will gradually build your knowledge and comfort in a class setting.
Even if you are the only one in the room who is “not flexible,” try to avoid comparing yourself to others, and focus instead on how each pose feels within your own body. Think about the movements as ways to open yourself up in order to live a more full life. Plus, GOOD NEWS: there is more to yoga than physical practice. If you prefer to do yoga by meditating, learning a new breathing technique, or practicing hand poses (mudras), more power to you! Read more about non-physical practices here and here.
Do I have to go to an expensive studio?
NO! This is a common misconception. Anyone can start yoga anywhere, anytime. Youtube has an endless supply of yoga videos, tutorials, and guided meditations, and Amazon has plenty of book recommendations! You could start right now in your living room, or do some stretches in bed before sleep. If you decide to take a class, you might check out free yoga classes at a hip brewery near you, or find a reputable studio to give your first try. Always do your research beforehand, and don’t be afraid to call ahead and ask any questions.
What type of clothing should I wear? What should I bring?
Expensive athletic brands will try to convince you that you need their tight outfits for yoga, but in reality you should wear what you feel most comfortable in. Anything from a sports bra and shorts to sweatpants and a baggy T shirt is typically welcome and acceptable. No shoes are worn in class, and you will probably want to be barefoot on your mat. However, since it is entirely about your comfort, feel free to wear socks or “yoga socks,” which have rubber grippies on the bottom to prevent slipping.
During the winter, it becomes more common for people to wear layers and fuzzy socks, slowly removing items as their bodies warm up in class. This is a great option!
If you are bound to get sweaty, perhaps a towel would be good to bring. Water bottles are usually encouraged inside studios, but even if they aren’t, bring one with you for after class. Yoga works by wringing the muscles of toxins, and it is vital to rehydrate afterwards (even after the most gentle classes)!
Emma practicing some yoga!
Do I need to buy a mat?
Many studios offer rental mats that you can use while you practice and return at the end of your class. They should be cleaned after every use; if you are skeptical, do not hesitate to ask the nearest teacher or representative. Studios should pride themselves on cleanliness, especially if they expect you to feel comfortable and calm, barefoot or otherwise.
If you plan to practice from your home exclusively, you might want to invest in a mat. Target, Walmart, and athletic stores sell cheap mats ($15-$20) and make the perfect beginner prop. You can always graduate to a more high-quality expensive mat later down the road.
How often should I practice?
Like every other aspect of yoga, this is up to you and your wants and needs. Just one session will make a difference, but the more you practice, the more results you will see (consistently lower blood pressure, less anxiety, less joint pain, less tension, more inner peace, etc.). Of course, if you have any questions or doubts about what is right for you and your needs, consult a doctor first.
Why should I do yoga? What can yoga do for me in the long run?
Yoga has many benefits. Deep breathing is a common theme in any yoga class, and this practice alone can calm your nerves, relieve tension, and reduce overall stress and anxiety. Practicing deep breathing and mindful thinking can dramatically improve your sense of well-being and happiness over time. The physical postures were designed to wring the body of tension and toxins, to prepare for blissful meditation. In other words, when you tire your body out, your mind will relax too. For this reason, yoga is also known to improve sleep, moderate energy levels, and decrease stress.
When we carry yoga with us off the mat and into our daily lives, it teaches us to slow down and enjoy every moment, and to be grateful for the little things. Whether you do 5 minutes of mindful stretching a week, or 3 hours of intense practice a day, your mind and body will reap the benefits of balance between the mind, body, and spirit.
Can I use cannabis and practice yoga?
YES! Since cannabis is available in so many different forms, find one to match your preferred method of practicing yoga. That could mean vaping while you meditate, smoking before or after a physical practice, or incorporating self-massages with CBD lotion. Oral CBD oil will encourage your muscles to relax during a physical practice, and might be especially beneficial for stretching. Every individual’s practice looks different, and this goes for cannabis use, too!
Writer Emma Merchant was born in Tacoma, Washington, and has spent her life living and travelling through the United States and beyond. She is a passionate writer, yogini, artist, adventurer, and foodie. She currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina and writes for Charlotte’s own QC Exclusive Magazine.
