There are a significant number of misconceptions about yoga. Unfortunately, too many of those misconceptions include misunderstandings and myths regarding injuries caused by yoga itself and those trying to practice it. Here are four common misconceptions about yoga industries. We’ll also share the truths and explain the half-truths behind these misconceptions.
The More Yoga I Do, the Better
Any strain on the joint can cause cumulative damage if done too much. In fact, joint instability may only arise after years of hyper-extending joints. Conditions like a herniated disc or bulging disk will progress over time if you continue to exacerbate the problem by doing certain yoga moves. If the pain or numbness you already suffer gets worse after a session on the mat, stop and talk to a medical professional.
Injuries from Yoga Are Only Felt During Yoga
Some of the most extreme movements in yoga may cause or worsen a spinal problem, but you won’t really feel it until you lean over to pick something up at home. Also take the time to listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, back off and take it easy. That ache right now could turn into severe pain if you push it. It is cases like this that explain why someone may be injured during yoga but not fully realize it until later, whether they’re playing sports or doing housework.
If you are feeling any concerning symptoms and need immediate care, you should look for specialized clinics. Search ‘urgent care Minnesota’ or whatever your location, and make sure they are used to dealing with common sports and yoga related injuries. Specialized clinics like these can handle issues like back trauma, head injuries, and acute injuries much faster than the average clinic and will be able to giver a much faster diagnosis as well.
Choose a Good Instructor to Avoid Injury
A good instructor cannot protect you from yourself; they can’t tell you not to do a move or how to do it differently if you have limitations. Tell the yoga instructor about issues like pregnancy or back problems so they can offer a less extreme pose that suits you.
Communication makes everyone safer too. If you aren’t clear on the instructions, ask questions. If you still don’t understand the move, ask the instructor to demonstrate with props. And always tell the instructor if their hands-on adjustment causes pain, tingling or problems – they can’t read your body like you can.
If I’m Mindful, I Won’t Get Hurt
Overly ambitious practitioners can get themselves hurt because they think they can do advanced poses. Long time practitioners may get hurt because they didn’t take age and conditions like osteoporosis into account. The loss of muscle mass and bone density means older yoga practitioners can suffer severe injuries from yoga though they’re both mindful and experienced.
A related myth is that if you’re just mindful and listen to your body, you’ll always avoid injury. While listening to your body is always good, some warning signs are not easy to interpret, such as when you try a new pose and take it too far. Did you release, or did you cause an injury? Tingling may mean your blood is flowing, or it is the start of something going wrong.
Yoga has a number of benefits, and that is why it is so popular. However, it brings risks of its own and may not be right for everyone.
