Yoga originated in India in the early dawn of civilization. The word “Yoga” is derived from Sanskrit and it means “to join”, “to unite”, or “to yoke”. Yoga is an important discipline that is based on the science of healthy living. Yoga is a fusion of physical exercise of the body and mind. A person who practices Yoga has sound mental and physical health.

Practicing yoga helps to connect an individual’s consciousness with the universal consciousness to create a perfect harmony between the mind, body, and nature of human beings. Yoga is an amazing discipline but people practicing it have certain misconceptions about it.

1. Is yoga a treatment?

Yoga is a discipline to be practiced by human beings in everyday life; mental health and fitness (strength, flexibility, and stability in the body) are the consequences of yoga. The benefits of yoga are not limited to attaining good health it is all about harmonizing oneself with the universe and enhancing spirituality.

2. It requires some qualifications to practice yoga

No not at all! Yoga is a practice and does not require any special qualifications such as being flexible, being strong, being skinny, or being young. Anyone can start practicing yoga and for beginners, it is good to perform yoga under the guidance of a yoga guru.

3.  It is practiced in special centers

The answer is no again. Although there are many yoga centers, yoga studios, yoga schools, and yoga universities for your comfort, yoga practice does not need any special arrangements. Yoga can also be practiced on grass, on the floor, or beach, with or without a yoga mat.

Yoga can also be learned by watching online videos or reading books. If you are a beginner you can initially start by going to a yoga center but practice it at home every day.

4.  It is difficult to practice

Yoga practice comprises of Pranayama​ (breathing exercises), ​Yoga Asanas ​(physical exercises​)​, and Dhyana ​(mind stability)​. Most of the postures are not very difficult; they can be modified if you find any difficulty.

5. Yoga hurts?

Yoga doesn’t hurt but it may give you pain if not practiced in the​​ correct form. Moreover, practicing yoga gives relief from any pain in the body. However, practicing strenuous exercises can be hurtful.

It is important to know your body and treat it in a gentle way. Yoga is always a safe option when done correctly.

6. It is a religious practice

Yoga is neither a part of any religious belief nor does it follow any cultural rules.  Some of the teachings and the ideas involved in yoga are followed in various religions. It’s an art form based on science and technology to be practiced in good faith to attain inner well-being.

7. It is not designed for women

Men started practicing Yoga thousands of years ago. Currently, both men and women perform yoga and have gained many benefits equally.

8. Yoga is only for the aged

Yoga can be practiced by people of all age groups. People with physical limitations can happily practice yogasans with modified poses. At the same time, there is no right time for practicing yoga. It can be practiced anywhere, anytime.