Are you amongst those folks, and there are many of you, who believe that for one reason or another you just can’t do yoga? The 3 reasons why you avoid yoga is because you think you weigh too much, just not flexible enough, or have a chronic disease that you think is preventing you. Well guess what…anyone, including you, can do yoga.
I’ve been in your shoes before and have been in and out of yoga classes many times. There’s so many types of yoga for everyone, but for me, it’s really important to start with the basics. Let’s take a look at the 3 reasons why you avoid yoga, and learn how to overcome them. 
3 Reasons Why You Avoid Yoga
1. Not Flexible Enough
To be honest, most people aren’t flexible. Most people spend their lives sitting down. This shortens muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The result is that there’s no chance in heck that you’re going to be able to touch your toes. The good news is that with time and a bit of patience you can improve your flexibility and yoga can help.
In fact, you can go from someone who can’t touch their toes to the ability to bend yourself into a human pretzel with dedication to your yoga practice. It all begins with bolsters and a bit of assistance. So you can’t touch your toes; so what? Can you place two blocks on the ground and touch those? Can you touch your knees? Yoga is infinitely modifiable to anyone’s current flexibility level and it will help you improve your flexibility quite quickly.
2.Too Overweight
As the population increases in size (we’re talking girth here, not number of people), more and more yoga studios are offering classes designed specifically for this population. You may have to modify the poses to suit your current fitness level and size but that’s just fine. Almost every new yoga student has to do some sort of modifications to the poses. Don’t let your weight hold you back. Yoga can help you lose weight, improve your endurance and strength, and make you more comfortable in your body.
3.You’re Sick
Chronic conditions like chronic fatigue, arthritis, and even respiratory conditions prevent many people from trying yoga. This is unfortunate because yoga can actually improve your condition and reduce or even alleviate symptoms.
For example, arthritis is painful; however, regular movement often reduces the pain. Chronic fatigue can be debilitating, yet when you get the blood circulating through your muscles and tissues it can help balance your energy and release positive, healthy, hormones that make you feel better and have more vitality.
Even people undergoing chemotherapy can benefit from yoga. The key is to choose a yoga that fits your present health and fitness level. Start with a gentle beginners class; try Hatha for a basic approach to yoga physical exercises and breathing techniques that’s easy to learn. Find an instructor that is compassionate and begin enjoying the myriad benefits of yoga.
Live your life loud and clear, and be happy!
Hi Jennifer! I started doing yoga again after about a 10 year (layover) and I’m so glad I did. You are correct that it doesn’t matter if you are not flexible, are overweight or sick–and actually like you say those things are actually reasons we SHOULD do yoga. I’m so glad I’m back at it and while I’m only doing “gentle yoga” it is helping in so many ways. The challenge to me was finding the right instructor but I’m happy to say I did! ~Kathy
Just started yoga at 61 and believe me, I’m not skinny, but I love it for both mind and body! Hope to continue forever.