Many stretches in yoga are intense, and it could cause you harm if you attempt them with cold muscles. This is why the yoga warm-up (usually ‘sun salutations’) is so important. The warm-up puts your body through a range of stretches to warm the whole system. The dynamic movements of the warm up spread heat throughout the body to prepare it for the deeper stretching practice.
Every body is different – we all have our idiosyncrasies. You should not attempt a textbook pose if it feels uncomfortable. The true benefit of yoga is in feeling ‘at one’ with your body while in the pose. So ‘the perfect pose’ is only a guide, and not meant to be replicated exactly if the body isn’t suited to it. Everybody, even the best instructors, have some categories of poses they can’t do – their bodies simply aren’t made for them!
Always inform your instructor if you have a difficulty in a particular area, as well as any other physical problems. Yoga is a practice that treats the whole system – both your physical and your mental wellbeing. It is a holistic approach, and your information can help the instructor to tailor your practice to your needs.
Yoga is an individual practice, aimed at creating wellbeing and relaxation. It should never be treated as a competitive sport. High energy sport is great for your wellness but it serves a different purpose. In order to get the most out of yoga, always stay within your comfort zone and keep that sense of relaxed enjoyment at all times!