5 myths about ashtanga yoga
Its more flexible than you think!
Is Ashtanga Yoga strict, rigid, and only for the super-fit? Not quite. While it’s often seen as a demanding and dogmatic style, the truth is that Ashtanga was always meant to be a personal, evolving practice. Over the years, myths about how it “should” be done have built up, sadly discouraging people who might benefit from its structure, breath, and rhythm. In this post, we’re busting five common misconceptions and exploring how Ashtanga can be an adaptable, lifelong practice that meets you where you are.
💪 Myth 1: Ashtanga is only for strong, flexible people.
This stops so many from trying! Ashtanga develops strength and flexibility; you’re not supposed to have it all before you begin.
📸 Social media has skewed the image of the practice. In reality, Ashtanga meets you where you are and evolves with you. Bodies of all shapes, sizes, and abilities are welcome.
🌀 Myth 2: You must practice 6 days a week.
The 6-day-a-week model was shaped by the original Mysore context, where students lived locally and had direct access to a teacher. Life looks different for most of us now. Parenting, work, chronic conditions, and mental health all affect what’s sustainable.
👉 You don’t need to practice six days to benefit. A regular rhythm that works for your life is enough. Consistency beats intensity
🔧 Myth 3: No modifications allowed. Ever.
Not true and never was! Ashtanga has always been adapted for individual needs. Even Pattabhi Jois modified poses based on students’ injuries, age, or experience.
🧩 The sequence is a framework, not a rulebook. Props, alternate postures, and rest days are part of a sustainable practice. Listening to your body is the real discipline.
📜 Myth 4: The series has never changed.
Actually, the Ashtanga sequence has always evolved. Early Western students in the 1970s learned different versions than those taught today. Pattabhi Jois adjusted postures, removed others, and added new ones depending on the student.
🌀 What we call a "fixed" sequence is more like a snapshot of an ever-changing river.
🧠 Myth 5: Ashtanga is rigid and dogmatic.
Yes, Ashtanga is structured, but not rigid. Its true power lies in its adaptability. Many modern teachers are moving away from rigidity and toward self-inquiry, healing, and embodiment.
💡 The goal isn’t to follow rules. The goal is to become more connected to yourself, through breath, movement, and honest effort.
🌱 The Truth?
Ashtanga Yoga isn’t about perfection, performance, or rigid rules, it’s about developing a steady relationship with your body, breath, and mind. Like any meaningful practice, it evolves with you. Structure helps, but the individual shapes the journey. Let the myths fall away and let your practice become your own.
✨ Ready to experience Ashtanga for yourself?
Join us for regular Ashtanga classes at Croydon Yoga Hub available in-studio, online and on demand.
And if you’re curious to go deeper, look out for our Monthly Full Primary Series, held on the last Saturday of every month.