10 Things I Hate About Yoga

Well, if you grew up in the ’90s, the “pun intended” title of this article might get away with an angst-ridden teen movie. Make no mistake, this article is not an ode to Heath Ledger – it’s really an article addressing the things we hate about yoga. I know, I know – we all love yoga, it’s very good for us. I’m not here to disagree with this, but there are a few things I think we can all agree on, that this totally sucks for our beloved practice. do not trust me? Read on, you might be surprised how relevant (oh so true) some of these points are. Don’t worry, you’re going to love yoga after all!

Social Media “Yoga Star”

I’m not here to specifically insinuate anyone, but in general, the whole Instagram yoga scene has gotten a little out of hand. These social media sensations are growing in popularity because they showcase advanced yoga poses, not because they demonstrate masterful teaching techniques. Not only does this deviate from the true meaning of yoga theory, but it also puts off anyone who cannot do a one-armed handstand. I hear people all the time, “Oh, I can’t do yoga. I’m not flexible enough!” – and these people often feel that way because of the yoga photos they see online depicting perfect splits and gravity-defying inversions. We Need to see more kid poses and cliff edge handstands. Speaking of which, yoga is more than just the trendy, expensive outfits you see on social media. Contrary to what you see online, you don’t have to be in proper workout clothes Come work out. Say it.

people take it so seriously

I wholeheartedly support the sacred nature of the personal yoga practice and all it stands for, but sometimes people need to relax. I mean, it’s just yoga after all. Most of us don’t practice in Indian yoga ashrams, so what about a strict mindset? People get upset if the poses are not in the correct order, the music isn’t to their liking, or if the person next to them accidentally steps on their mat on the way to the bathroom (oh, the horror!). Classes don’t have to be calm and serious to be effective , so keep laughing, or at least smile! Anyone who practices regularly has likely fallen prey to a grumpy yogi at some point. Honestly, sometimes I feel guilty for taking myself and my practice too seriously. As long as you spot the behavior, lift yourself up, and get off your imaginary pedestal, all is well. After all, a big part of yoga is letting go of thoughts and emotions that aren’t serving you — and being overly picky about arranging your yoga mat probably isn’t doing you (or the world) any favors.

strange vocabulary

Do you want me to do something with my stuff? We all know this — the teacher guides you into an attitude with abstract metaphors and confusing language. In these cases, it’s hard not to look at how your neighbor has “bulky kidneys” or “big buttocks.” From the mat to real life, you may find that these words stick with you—you start referring to stretches as “juicy” and hands-on activities as “delicious.” While these cues are whimsical and fun, they ignore some basic rules of physiology that make playing together very intimidating. So the next time you’re instructed to “melt into the mat,” know not to turn into a real puddle.

strict music selection

It doesn’t matter whether your jams are flute tunes, hip-hop beats, smooth jazz, star-studded rock classics, or no jams at all. The point is – everything is fine! Whatever makes your practice more enjoyable and rewarding, listen to it. There are plenty of naysayers who say that rap music has no place in the yoga world, or that no music is appropriate for a yoga class. This is all subjective and varies from student to student. If there are teachers who play music that doesn’t suit you, don’t go to their class and don’t make others feel bad for liking it. It’s really easy.

slippery yoga mat

you made it! You’re finally in that fiery 6am energy flow, and you’re ready to prove who’s boss this day. Well, it’s pretty tough when you’re sliding around on a slippery mat. Trying to keep up with class and maintain posture when your mat isn’t cooperating is a buzz. You can say goodbye to almost any plans for a downward-facing dog. Finding this elusive creature called a “non-slip yoga mat” can be an uphill battle. Whether it’s a discounted plastic mat at Walmart or an overpriced eco mat made with unicorn tears and kombucha corks, when I start sweating, I start slipping.

Superiority in the Yoga World

If you’ve been practicing yoga, you’ve probably run into some yoga snobs. You know, the ones that exude a “more yogi than you” vibe the moment you walk in the door. This disturbing (and, frankly, somewhat confusing) behavior is often the result of studio comfort, reliance on branded clothing, or excessive self-acceptance. Wear the season’s freshest spandex leggings and you can stand on your hands for five minutes at a time, so you can’t be better off. It’s perfectly fair to assume that these yogis aren’t intentionally demeaning, or perhaps unaware of the aura they radiate. Either way, yoga is about accepting who we are and