Yoga Myths I Hear Daily 🧘‍♀️✨

As a yoga teacher, I’ve heard all sorts of funny misconceptions about yoga. Some of them make me laugh, and others… well, let’s just say they make me want to roll out my mat and take a deep breath. Here are a few of the most common myths I hear, and the truth behind them.

1. "Wow, you do yoga, you must be good at Pilates!" 🤔

This one comes up a lot. While yoga and Pilates might share some similarities (like moving your body and building strength), they’re fundamentally different practices. Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on core strength, posture, and controlled movement. Yoga, on the other hand, is so much more than just physical postures (asana). It’s a way of life—a holistic practice that weaves together mindfulness, breathwork, philosophy, and spirituality.

Also, I really don’t enjoy Pilates as a personal preference. I’ve never been a fan of intense exercise, and I find Pilates very much that! A yoga teacher who doesn’t like Pilates—wow, who knew? 😂

So, no, being a yoga teacher doesn’t automatically make me good at Pilates (or vice versa). They’re wonderful in their own ways but not interchangeable.

2. "You’re a yoga teacher, so you must be super flexible." ✨

Spoiler alert: I’m naturally about as flexible as a brick wall! When I first started yoga, I couldn’t touch my toes, and honestly, I still have days when certain poses feel completely out of reach. Flexibility is partly genetic, and not everyone is born bendy—and that’s absolutely okay.

Yoga isn’t about how far you can stretch; it’s about meeting yourself where you are. It’s about adapting poses to suit your body and discovering what feels right for you. That’s the magic of yoga: it’s accessible to everyone, no matter your flexibility level.

3. "You must be calm and zen all the time." 🕊️

Oh, how I wish! The truth is, I became a yoga teacher because finding calm doesn’t come naturally to me. I’ve struggled with anxiety, overthinking, and overwhelm most of my life. Yoga isn’t something I teach because I’ve mastered it; it’s something I practice because I need it.

Through yoga, I’ve learned tools to bring more peace into my life—whether it’s through mindful breathing, positive affirmations, or just showing up on the mat when I’m having a tough day. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about embracing the journey, wobbles and all.

4. "Shouldn’t you be vegan?" 🥗

This is a question that pops up from time to time. In traditional yoga philosophy, there’s a principle called ahimsa, which means non-violence. Some yogis interpret this as living a vegan lifestyle, and that’s a beautiful choice for them.

For me, yoga teaches self-awareness and kindness—to others and to myself. I listen to my body and make mindful choices about what I eat. Some days that might look like a big, veggie-packed salad; other days, it might be chocolate and a cup of tea. And if I fall off track, I remind myself to be gentle and non-judgemental. After all, yoga isn’t about perfection—it’s about balance.

5. "Are yoga teachers 'perfect yogis'?" 🌟

Not at all! No one practising yoga claims to be a “perfect yogi.” Yoga isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about finding the parts of the practice that resonate with you and integrating them into your life.

Did you know there are eight parts of yoga? These are called the Eight Limbs of Yoga, and they offer a guide to living a meaningful and purposeful life:

1. Yamas – Ethical principles (like kindness and honesty).

2. Niyamas – Personal practices (like self-discipline and contentment).

3. Asana – Physical postures (the bit we often associate with yoga).

4. Pranayama – Breathwork.

5. Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the senses (turning inward).

6. Dharana – Concentration.

7. Dhyana – Meditation.

8. Samadhi – A state of bliss and connection.

   
   

Chances are, you’re already practising some of these without even realising it—whether it’s through mindful breathing, self-reflection, or simply moving your body.

Yoga is a deeply personal practice, and everyone’s journey looks a little different.

Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been practising for years, there’s no “right” way to do yoga—only the way that feels right for you. So, here’s to breaking myths, embracing individuality, and finding joy on the mat (and off it). 💜

What yoga myths have you heard? Let me know—I’d love to hear your thoughts! ✨