What is a common misconception about yoga?

A common misconception about yoga is that it only focuses on physical exercise. While physical postures (asanas) are a significant component of yoga practice, they are only one aspect of a broader system that includes mental, spiritual, and emotional elements. Yoga encompasses various practices such as breath control (pranayama), meditation, and ethical living (yamas and niyamas), all contributing to holistic well-being.

This misconception overlooks the fact that yoga is designed to foster balance across multiple dimensions of the self, incorporating mindfulness and self-awareness alongside physical fitness. As many styles of yoga emphasize relaxation, mental clarity, and emotional resilience, it's clear that the practice goes far beyond mere physical activity. Understanding yoga in this holistic way allows practitioners to appreciate its full benefits, which include improvements in both mental and physical health.