5 Reasons Your Yoga Class May Be Stressing You Out
And how to ensure that your “om” delivers the peace you crave
More stress is probably the last thing most of us need in our lives, but one anxiety-busting strategy used by millions may actually be increasing your tension: yoga. While not every yogi is looking to relieve stress—some practice to build strength, improve flexibility, or correct a slouching posture, among other things—yoga is one of the first things many people turn to when they need relaxation.
But don’t let this news stress you out: Once you know why time on the mat can rack your nerves, you can take the steps to make sure you’re getting all the mind-easing benefits you want from your practice.
Skip a boot camp for your sister’s party and you won’t feel (too) bad, but yoga is viewed by some as a life-affirming, spiritual practice and “there is a sense of guilt that can be very much like that ‘Catholic guilt’ over not going to church on Sunday,” Santas says.
Look for a fitness center that offers plenty of options for classes, giving you a flexible plan where you can take a class whenever it is convenient for you. The best thing about yoga is you can practice it almost anywhere, so even if you miss the studio, you can do some mini sessions on your own time: “Try deep-breathing techniques while stuck at red lights, balance in a tree pose waiting in line at a supermarket, or do a downward dog to plank combo while looking down at and cooing a baby,” Rajendran suggests.
