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7 Myths about Yoga

Yoga is a widely misunderstood discipline, simply because there are as many interpretations as there are practitioners. While there is no single "correct" path that fits all, here are some common myths about yoga.

01

The goal of yoga is physical fitness

While it is true that yoga incorporates physical postures, this is only to allow us to live healthier and longer so that we can pursue the higher goal of yoga, which is moksha, or liberation from worldly suffering. The physical body is seen as the temple of the soul and a tool that allows us to attain moksha

02

Yoga is ineffective for weight loss

Yoga is effective for weight loss, but the key is not just to do postures but to adopt a yogic lifestyle. This means to take a look at your diet, eating and sleeping habits, stress levels, and anything else that affects your total well-being. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial to any weight loss program. 

03

Yoga is in conflict with Christian (or other religious) values

Yoga is a set of practices that will allow you to unite your soul with Absolute Truth, whatever that may mean to you. If anything, yoga will enhance your spiritual experience and make you a better person, no matter what religion or tradition you may or may not follow. Yoga itself is not a religion. 

04

The title "RYT" or "RYS" means an instructor or school is qualified

​"RYT" (Registered Yoga Teacher) and "RYS" (Registered Yoga School) are trademarks of an organization called Yoga Alliance. They are NOT accreditations, certifications or licenses. These designations simply indicate that a teacher or school paid to join the organization. 

05

You need a guru to receive the higher teachings of yoga

A guru can be very helpful, but choosing the wrong one can become an obstacle on your path. If you feel you need one, then do your research before committing. A simple web search can spare you a lot of grief. Better yet, focus on self-study. Divine Law states that when you are ready, your guru will appear.

06

"OM" is a mystical Sanskrit word

​"OM" is not a word but a sound. Also written as "AUM," the "A" represents the primal sound of creation, "M" represents the final sound, and "U" represents all that exists between. It is used as a mantra and is considered a sacred sound in many Eastern religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. 

07

Yoga and meditation are separate practices

A common misconception, even among many yoga teachers, is that yoga and meditation are separate practices. Meditation is an integral part of yoga, much like throwing a ball is an integral part of the game of baseball. To say "I teach yoga and meditation" is like saying "I teach baseball and how to throw a ball."

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