HEALTH

Last week, the New York Times sent the yogis across the world into a tizzy with a single article. What was it called? “How yoga can wreck your body.” Hold the presses! Yoga is bad for you? When did that happen?!

Not so fast, sweeties. Yoga is a great way to work out your mind and your body…so long as you don’t push yourself to far. Which brings us to the number-one rule of being a healthy, happy, accident-free yogini: If it hurts, don’t do it!

I know you’ve heard the phrase “no pain, no gain,” but when it comes to yoga, this mantra isn’t the one ya wanna focus on. Because yoga focuses on stretching and limbering your limbs, pushing beyond your comfort zone can cause you to seriously hurt yourself. So stick to what feels good, sistahs, and you’ll be A-OK.

No teacher worth her salt will encourage you to move through a pose you’re body isn’t ready for, and it’s totally all right to sit out when you’ve reached your limit or need a break, or to ask for ways to adjust the pose so you can attempt it safely. If you’re working out using a DVD, YouTube video or book, trust what your bod is telling you. Sure, we’d all like to be pros like that, but yoga is about the journey, spiritual and physical. Don’t push yourself, and you’ll see results.

by Brittany Taylor | 2/1/2016