Top 5 Yoga Myths — Debunked with a Dose of Reality
1. You Need to Be Flexible to Practice Yoga
Ah, the classic excuse: “I can’t do yoga because I’m not flexible.” That’s like saying you’re too dirty to take a shower. Flexibility isn’t a prerequisite; it’s a byproduct.
Modern yoga does enhance flexibility, strength, and balance, but its roots are deeply spiritual. Now, before you envision incense-filled rooms and chanting under a full moon - which is great and works for many - but let’s clarify - spirituality means cultivating a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you. It’s about presence, awareness, and intentional living — not esoteric rituals.
So, if you can breathe, you can do yoga. The rest will follow.
2. Hatha Yoga Is “Easy” Yoga
In many studios, “Hatha” is code for a gentle class. But let’s set the record straight. “Hatha” comes from Sanskrit: meaning “effort” or “force.” and is a practice of action and endeavour. In some circles its seen as the option when the more contemplative and/or intellectual paths of yoga have not worked for a person - Hatha Yoga should really be seen as a global term for all yoga that focuses on physical techniques such as yoga postures and breathing exercises - basically everything we see on a yoga studio or gym timetable is a form of Hatha Yoga. is the foundation of all physical yoga practices — from Vinyasa to Ashtanga. It’s not about ease; it’s about effort and discipline.
So, while a Hatha class might be slower-paced, it demands focus, strength, and commitment. It’s the bedrock upon which modern yoga stands.
3. Yoga Is 5,000 Years Old and Unchanged
The romantic notion that yoga has been passed down unchanged for 5,000 years is, well, a stretch. Yes, ancient texts like the Rig Veda mention the word “yuj”, meaning to yoke or unite. But in context, it referred to hitching horses to chariots, not downward dogs. The physical postures we associate with yoga today? They gained prominence in the 20th century, notably through Krishnamacharya in the 1930s, who blended traditional practices with modern movements. Some scholars will date yoga as a 8th-15th century practice that is heavily influenced by the philosophy of tantra.
So, while yoga’s philosophical roots are ancient, the practice we know today is a modern evolution — and that’s something to celebrate.
4. We Practice Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras in Class
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras are labelled as the “go-to” texts for modern yoga trainings. It’s said to be a foundational texts, emphasising meditation and the cessation of mental fluctuations. But let’s be real: most modern classes focus on physical postures, breathwork, and mindfulness — aspects barely touched upon in the Sutras.
Patanjali’s path was ascetic, aiming for transcendence beyond the physical. Today’s yoga embraces embodiment, encouraging us to be fully present in our bodies and lives.
So, while the Sutras offer profound wisdom, our contemporary practice is more about integration than renunciation. There is still alot to learn from this texts and I have just started another study of them myself - however we must be open to reimagine the practical applications of the universal truths inside becasue what Patanjali is likely to have wanted is a far cry from what we need today.
5. Yoga Practitioners and Gurus Are Always Peaceful and Enlightened
If only.
Yoga attracts all kinds — the serene, the stressed, the seekers, and yes, the flawed. Practicing yoga doesn’t grant immunity from human emotions or behaviours. Moreover, the guru-disciple tradition has its shadows. While many teachers offer genuine guidance, others have misused their positions. It’s essential to approach teachings with discernment, honoring the wisdom while acknowledging the humanity behind it.
Remember, yoga is a personal journey. It’s less about idolising others and more about connecting authentically with yourself. As the humble Krishna Murti said “There is no teacher to teach you, no saviour to save you. There is only learning. You have to do everything yourself, and that demands tremendous energy. This energy is dissipated, lost, degraded when there is the teacher and the taught.”
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Let’s continue this journey together — grounded, curious, and ever-evolving.
Stuart