Five Things Yoga CAN’T Do For You

We’ve all been there – turning to a new exercise or activity in the hopes that it will simultaneously address all of our ailments, worries, or hang ups. Often this happens because we hope the newness of something is strong enough to shake things up so much that everything fixes itself. Or we were unsuccessful with another habit and now we’re starting over from scratch, thinking *this will be the thing*. But in reality (and this is something we’re not afraid to repeat), life is all about balance! The same goes for yoga – a wonderful, holistic practice that can benefit you in many ways, but not in all. Here are five things that yoga can’t do for you:

1. It can’t make you a flexible acrobat overnight

Don’t expect to jump on your mat for the first time and be able to execute a perfect standing bow pose right away. That wouldn’t be fair to your muscles! Yoga is instrumental in muscle flexibility, yes, but it also does so through a slow, intentional approach that allows you to build up a strong foundation. Take your time sinking into each pose and, after some time, you’ll notice how your muscles have stretched.

2. It can’t make you lose weight overnight either

As with flexibility, yoga won’t tone you up just after one session. But it certainly could do that if kept as a continuous habit that’s practiced correctly and intentionally. Yoga uses body weight to strengthen muscle and, given its holistic nature, also tones up muscle through proper diaphragmatic breathing, alignment, and long holds.

3. It can’t turn you into an advanced-level yogi quickly

This expectation is actually quite dangerous because you’re more focused on the end result rather than the journey there or how your body feels on that journey. Skipping past the sensations in your body as you work towards a pose could result in a serious injury because you’re pushing your body unrealistically.

4. It can’t rid you of restlessness

Entering a yoga class doesn’t automatically put you in ultimate zen mode and cut off any and all thoughts. This is something you gradually work on as you develop your yoga practice. It’s also not great for just killing time, otherwise you don’t reap the benefits. Finding a balance between accepting restless thoughts and letting them go during your practice is a rewarding skill that comes with time.

5. It won’t cure all ails

The yoga we see and practice in a studio or on our own at home is only a small part of the truly holistic practice of yoga. In Yogic scripture, yoga really refers to the act of joining your individual consciousness with that of the universe. Wow… that’s one heck of a feat and certainly not something you can expect just from one hour of yoga. The point is that yoga is meant to be combined with other mindful, intentional practices in your daily life (like a holistic diet, fresh air, meditation, etc.) and ultimately all of these practices, in combination, are what will lead you to a life with less ails. Yoga is by no means a cure-all, but it’s a very effective part of a greater whole.

Come start a consistent yoga practice with us at Amador Yoga and notice how your body slowly relaxes and thanks you for the thought and care you bring to it. Our studio is boasting many new interesting classes (check out our newest QiGong class!) and our latest promotional offer allows you begin your yoga journey with a special introductory offer AND discounted rate thereafter! All you have to do is sign up for our 3 Weeks for $39 new client special, and then at the end of your three weeks, you can select any of our membership packages for an EXTRA 10% OFF!

See you on the mat!