International Yoga Day 2025: 7 Myths About Yoga You Should Stop Believing

Yoga has come a long way from being just a spiritual practice to becoming a global wellness movement. With International Yoga Day 2025 being celebrated on Saturday, (June 21) under the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, it’s the perfect time to clear the air around some common yoga myths that might be stopping you from giving it a try.

Whether you’re thinking of rolling out your first mat or coming back after a break, here are seven myths you should stop believing, because yoga in 2025 is truly for everyone.

International Yoga Day 2025: Seven Myths You Should Stop Believing

1. Yoga is just stretching

This one pops up all the time. Sure, yoga includes stretches, but it’s not just about that. Yoga also focuses on breathing, strength, balance, and mental calm. It’s a complete workout for both your body and your mind. Studies show that regular yoga can improve flexibility, build muscle strength, and even lower stress and anxiety.

2. You must be flexible to start yoga

Flexibility is not a requirement, but a result. Most people can’t touch their toes when they begin, and that’s completely okay. Yoga is about progress, not perfection. With consistent practice, your body becomes more open and flexible naturally over time.

3. Yoga is only for women

Let’s ditch this outdated idea. Yoga might look female-dominated in studios, but it’s not gender-specific. More men are turning to yoga for its benefits - like better mobility, reduced stress, and improved athletic performance. Yoga is for every body.

4. You need to be slim or fit to try yoga

Yoga doesn’t ask for a certain body type. You can start no matter your shape, size, or fitness level. It’s all about tuning into your body, not judging it. Many poses can be modified, and props help make the practice accessible to everyone.

5. Yoga is a religion

Yes, yoga has spiritual roots, but modern yoga is more about wellness than worship. You don’t need to follow any religion to practise yoga. It focuses on mindfulness, breathing, and overall health, making it open to all belief systems.

6. You can’t get a real workout from yoga

Don’t be fooled by the calm vibes. Styles like Power Yoga and Vinyasa Flow can seriously challenge your body. They build stamina, tone muscles, and even get your heart pumping. Even slow yoga styles offer deep physical and mental benefits.

7. You need fancy gear to do yoga

Nope, you don’t need a studio setup or expensive tools. All you really need is your body and a flat space. A mat is helpful but not essential. Props like blocks or straps are nice-to-haves, not must-haves. You can easily practise at home on a towel or carpet.

This International Yoga Day, forget the filters and false beliefs. Yoga isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present. So roll out your mat, take a deep breath, and discover what yoga can really do for you. Let 2025 be the year you let go of the myths and start your journey toward better balance, health, and self-care.