As part of Yoga Day USA, which took place on January 23, the USA-based Yoga Alliance conducted a survey to establish some of the misconceptions preventing people taking up the practice in the first place.
The findings will come as no surprise to those who have been doing yoga for a while. The 2010 Yoga Insight Survey found that:
- Over half (57%) those who do not currently practice yoga believe it involves mantras or chanting, akin to an act of worship.
- Almost 60% of respondents thought flexibility was a prerequisite to start practising. In reality, those who are the least flexible have the most to gain.
- Half the men questioned believed yoga 'isn't a workout.' This compares to 73% of people who do practise believing it is as effective as running, weight lifting or swimming.
This last point is especially interesting. The fact is, dynamic forms of yoga (ashtanga, jimavukti, vinasaya flow classes) are not only aerobic, but also toning and weight-bearing - strengthening the muscles without causing bulk.
It's important that the misconceptions and barriers surrounding what yoga is, and - equally importantly - what it isn't, are broken down.
I commonly hear people and the press refer to 'yoga stretches', as if yoga was akin to stretching, rather than recognising it as being a powerful standalone practice.
The first finding is also worrying: over half those questioned thought yoga has religious undertones.
Regardless of its Eastern origins, yoga is an inclusive practise, suitable for all, no matter what age, sex or religious belief. And herein lies its enduring strength and appeal.
Meanwhile, thousands of yogis celebrated Yoga Day USA on January 23. Isn't it time that Europe had its own celebration of yoga?
Do join our debate on the subject by clicking here.
Lucia Cockcroft, editor
.jpg "Baddha Konasana - Bound Angle Pose")
