Yoga: Not Just for Flexible People

As a Yoga teacher, I’ve met many people who say things like, “I’d like to try Yoga but I’m not very flexible.” Maybe they think Yoga is only for people who are very limber and can twist themselves into pretzel-like positions. Or they think you must be able to do the poses perfectly – whatever perfect is – to even try Yoga.

But nothing could be further from the truth. Actually, being too flexible is not always a good thing. Going right into a pose without focusing on the strength of the muscles often leads to injuries.

The wonderful thing about practicing Yoga is you can start where you are. If you are inflexible and stiff, if you have arthritis or weaknesses in the joints, or back problems, you can still do the same pose as the more flexible person. You just make simple adjustments and perhaps use Yoga props.

In my classes I use blocks, blankets, chairs and other props to assist students in the poses. The idea of using props to assist with poses was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar. This makes the poses accessible to everyone.

Using props is especially beneficial if you have limitations such as stiffness, sore back or are recovering from an injury. There is always a way to enjoy the posture and receive its benefits. You may use a prop such as putting your hand on a block in Trikonasana (Triangle pose) or using a blanket for child pose. Often people who have arthritis use props such as chairs for standing poses or cushions for sitting poses.

Eventually, with regular practice the props may no longer be needed. When you practice Yoga by starting where you are and going from there, your body will feel strong, fit and wonderful no matter what your fitness or flexibility level.

This is true Yoga when the body, mind and spirit come together. When the posture is comfortable and steady and your breath is smooth and effortless, you are practicing Yoga. Bring your attention to your breath and enjoy your body and the way it feels. It does not matter whether you are flexible or not.

When the Yoga practice is over, you will feel energized, refreshed, strong and relaxed. Yoga is for everyone regardless of fitness level or flexibility. The benefits of yoga are received in doing the right variation of each posture for you and not in achieving advanced stages.