Arabic version: خبراء يبرزون إمكانية الوصول إلى اليوغا وفوائدها للجميع

Yoga is often perceived as exclusive, but experts emphasize that it is accessible to everyone. According to The Guardian, many individuals feel yoga isn’t for them due to misconceptions about body types and abilities. However, practitioners like Rodrigo Souza, an adaptive and accessible yoga teacher with paraplegia, stress that yoga is a tool for self-connection and can be adapted for various needs.

The origins of yoga date back over 5,000 years in northern India, where it was intended to unify body and mind. In contrast, the modern wellness industry often reduces yoga to a mere physical exercise focused on aesthetics. This shift began during British colonization, which stripped yoga of its deeper spiritual and philosophical roots. Today, various styles such as vinyasa, hatha, and yin yoga cater to different preferences and abilities.

Experts encourage potential practitioners to explore different classes and styles to find what suits them best. Jessamyn Stanley, a yoga author and co-founder of The Underbelly app, advises beginners to start without spending money by trying free online videos. She emphasizes the importance of comfort and personal connection in yoga practice.

Understanding how yoga should feel is also vital. While discomfort can be part of the experience, pain should not be. Yoga should leave individuals feeling expansive and comfortable in their bodies. Additionally, the mental aspect of yoga can bring up emotions, and it’s essential to approach these feelings with compassion. Practitioners are reminded that yoga is a journey of self-discovery and transformation, open to all, regardless of their physical state.