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Why practice Yoga?

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When I tell people I am a yoga instructor, they often reply with, “I know yoga is good for you, but I just can’t do it because I am too old, fat, tight, uncoordinated, etc. When people really open up, they tell me they might like to try Yoga, but are afraid they can’t and will be embarrassed. I understand why many people have this belief. They see lean, fit people who practice yoga.

Imagine being in a class where the instructor recommends that you close your eyes and let go of everything for now and just be here and enjoy listening to the sound of your own breath. It is so relaxing to be in the present moment. What if you were in a class where the instructor said to hang your arms down toward the earth and if you can’t touch the floor it was perfect. In fact, yoga is about accepting the now and feeling grateful for what you can do and not even thinking about what you can’t do.

Now to answer the question “Why Yoga?”


  • If your neck, shoulders, or back hurt, practice yoga.
  • If you feel depressed, anxious, insecure, stressed, or have low energy, practice Yoga.
  • If you get sick frequently, practice yoga.
  • If you are prone to injury, practice Yoga.
  • If you have trouble with digestion, practice Yoga.
  • If you have trouble concentrating, practice Yoga.
  • If you have been told you need to work out with weights to keep your bones strong. Practice yoga.
  • Yes, that’s right. Most people don’t realize that they can build strong bones practicing yoga!
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The challenge as we grow older is to exercise in a way that does not contribute to bone fractures. The usual forms of weight-bearing high-impact exercise, such as jogging and other sports often contribute to joint destruction that can result in hip and and knee replacements. Non-impact, non weight-bearing exercise, such as swimming won't wear out your joints, but it won't strengthen your bones. The good news is that a balanced yoga practice can give you all the positive benefits of weight-bearing exercise without negative wear and tear on the joints!

I notice books and dvds on sale with the title of Yoga for your back or for any number of specific needs. The truth is that any overall yoga program is beneficial for the whole body, mind and spirit. You get the picture? Yes, Yoga is great for just about everything. Am I enticing you to start or continue practicing Yoga? Well, good! Incentive and being inspired is what gets you going.