Male misconceptions about Yoga

Male misconceptions about Yoga

Male misconceptions about Yoga

1. Yoga – gymnastics for women

Despite the fact that currently most people who visit yoga studios are women, yoga was initially only practiced by men in India. It was typically “all complicated” with women because it was (and still is) their responsibility to take care of the home and children. Being an ascetic and adhering to severe rules, which included developing willpower and intention, was much simpler for men. By the way, one of the definitions of the term “yoga” is “intention, bridle, restraint.”

For this reason, the most well-known yoga instructors and schools’ founders are men: Pattabhi Jois (Ashtanga Yoga), Bellur Krishnamachar Sundararaja Iyengar (try saying his name aloud! Likewise Swami Sivananda.

The thought of living in a purely feminine society and being the focus of attention for women is a barrier for many guys. On the other hand, there is no better place than here to meet new people and have a good time. Practice demonstrates that these friendships frequently turn into satisfying, lasting relationships.

In terms of asanas (yoga postures), nature is on the side of men since, after a year of consistent practice, they can surpass a girl who puts in five times as much effort.

2. Yoga does not develop muscles

This misconception is easily dispelled by itself if you look at the photos of those who have been practicing for a long time. Yoga exercises all the muscles in the body. What’s more, some yoga styles emphasize strength training to help build muscle and endurance.

But most importantly, yoga develops mindfulness. By concentrating on sensations in the body, a person is able to do asanas, using the right muscle groups. Yoga helps to rewire our neural connections, developing the skill to effectively control the body. In static asanas, the deep layers of muscles are trained, which form a solid foundation for the development of the whole body.

Asanas provide a good basis for building muscle mass, and mindfulness during practice significantly reduces the risk of injury.

3. Yoga is boring and easy

If your partner or friend disparages yoga as an exercise, chances are he has never tried it in practice. Yoga asanas, especially complex balances, require dexterity and perseverance, they cannot be mastered on the fly. Most asanas have modifications, various complications – it’s easy, and even more so, never boring.

Yoga is based on the principle “from simple to very difficult.” This is an exciting game, a kind of challenge that helps to realize men’s ambitions and increase self-esteem.

4. Yoga – for flexible

It’s hard to believe when you look at the videos of gutta-percha people curling up into unthinkable knots, but flexibility and good stretching are a matter of time. People often come to the first classes, complaining about absolute ossification – but you should have seen them after a few months of practice!

An experienced instructor always matches the level of the student. When you pay due attention to stretching and relaxation, a pleasant “bonus” quickly arises, which other types of physical activity rarely have – the release of tension and blocks, and most importantly, the absence of pain after training.

5. Yoga is a religion

No no, and one more time no! Yoga is not a religion, but a set of time-tested first-class techniques that help keep the body and nervous system healthy. And in a healthy body, as we all know, there is a healthy mind.

And contrary to the common misconception among men, you won’t have to become a vegetarian. Yoga does not require giving up your usual diet. Of course, practicing yoga, we begin to be more attentive to ourselves, our body, and the environment, and sometimes there are changes in our diet. But this is a voluntary choice that makes our life better.

Male misconceptions about Yoga

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