Want to Try Yoga but Feel too Inflexible

To Sara of Fit by Sara: I’ve read your posts and feel inspired to try yoga for weight loss and overall wellness but fear that my poor flexibility will keep me from taking in the full benefits. What stretches do you suggest I do to improve my flexibility before taking a yoga class?

Nearly everyone I know who has taken yoga the first time expressed the exact same concern as you about being inflexible. Your question, “What stetches do you suggest I do to improve my flexibility before taking a yoga class?” reminds me of the analogy of cleaning the house before the house clearner comes. The best way to become flexible is to take yoga. Most yoga instructors provide blocks and modifications to ease into postures. The more you practice yoga the quicker you’ll feel your muscles lenghtening and muscle tension decreasing.  I recommend taking these few simple steps to get started. First find a yoga studio near your home. Second find a teacher who’s personality you like. Third try a few classes. Fourth practice yoga regularly and soon you will  go from an inflexible yogini to a flexible one in no time! 🙂 -Sara Holliday MFT, CPT

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