A recent article highlights expert insights busting common myths about yoga, emphasizing that the ancient practice extends far beyond physical postures or asanas, serving as a holistic way of life rather than merely exercise.
According to wellness leader and spiritual practitioner Sailendra S Raane, founder of Mahati Wellness, many misconceptions arise because people equate yoga solely with asanas—one of the eight limbs outlined in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. Raane explains that yoga encompasses ethical principles (yama and niyama), breath control (pranayama), withdrawal of senses (pratyahara), concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana), and ultimate union or absorption (samadhi). Asanas prepare the body for deeper inner work, but they represent just a fraction of the complete system designed for physical, mental, and spiritual harmony.
One prevalent myth addressed is that yoga is only stretching or a gentle form of exercise. Raane counters this by noting that while asanas involve movement and flexibility, true yoga integrates mindful living, ethical awareness, and inner transformation. It is not limited to the mat but becomes a lived philosophy that influences daily actions, relationships, and self-awareness. Another myth is that yoga is slow and requires years to show benefits; in reality, practices like pranayama can quickly reduce stress and foster calmness within weeks through consistent application.
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Raane also debunks the idea that yoga is meant only for those who are naturally supple or fit. Accessibility is key—yoga adapts to individual capabilities, focusing on personal progress rather than perfection in poses. He stresses that the goal is not acrobatic achievement but cultivating balance, resilience, and inner peace. This perspective aligns with traditional teachings, where physical practice supports mental clarity and emotional stability amid modern life's demands.
The expert concludes that yoga is ultimately about how one lives, not just what one practices on the mat. By moving beyond surface-level myths, practitioners can access its profound benefits for overall well-being. Such clarifications come amid growing global interest in yoga, particularly in India where it originated over millennia ago as a comprehensive science of self-realization. Raane's views encourage approaching yoga with an open mind to experience its full depth.