Yoga and flexibility

I often hear people saying, “I’m not good at yoga” or, “Yoga is not for me. I’m not flexible enough.”

First of all, yoga is way more than the physical movement called asana.

Look through the article about the Ashtanga yoga, and you will have the overview of what yoga is.

Second, I believe that social media is not helping to gain confidence in your yoga practice because obviously when you see someone throwing a crazy full lotus position into a handstand, yes, I guess it looks insane and unachievable.

Pic from Jennifer Allen

But I assure you that you will gain as much as those people in your asana practice. Asana is not only for flexible people, it is for everyone. Asana is made for you to create a harmony between your body, your mind, and your spirit.

So through the movements, you will focus on your body, people with less flexibility will probably have more pain, but this is fine, it will still give you awareness. You may have more sensations to focus on, which will help you be fully present.

Keep in mind that asana should be confortable, never overstretch to gain a faster flexibility, it will only guide you to injuries.

It is not because you master all asanas with the help of your crazy flexibility that you will attain enlightenment. It goes deeper than that.

People have attained enlightenment with only the practice of pranayama.

Don't limit yourself to your capacity of achieving a downward-facing dog. Instead, see your evolution and have faith in your body. Give it the time and the practice it needs.

NEVER compare yourself to anyone.

Asanas are here to give you the opportunity to master your body so you can hold a posture comfortably.

The body becomes strong and free from restlessness, allowing the mind to turn inward.

This is why many classical texts emphasise seated postures (like Padmasana or Siddhasana), which are ideal for meditation.

Asanas are also here to remove disease and prepare the body for energy flow (prana).

Once again, unlike modern yoga, which emphasises flexibility, the yogi text highlights asana’s role in balancing the body and mind for deeper practices like pranayama and meditation.

Through that journey, you will be able to raise your awareness and get closer to the aim of what yoga is.

Keep practicing, love yourself, connect with your body, and be grateful for what you have and everything you achieve.

Everything is here inside you. Don't lose yourself in the material world. Instead, connect with yourself, with your inner self.

Practicing yoga will guide you towards freedom and peace .

Namaste