5 Signs you need to modify your yoga practice and why that's perfectly normal

Picture this: You're in a yoga class, struggling through a pose that everyone else seems to be doing effortlessly. Your inner voice starts the familiar chatter: "I'm not flexible enough," "I'm not strong enough," or "Maybe yoga just isn't for me."

Sound familiar?

Here's the truth that might surprise you: The problem isn't with you or your body. The problem is that you haven't learned how to modify your practice to work with your unique anatomy, needs, and limitations.

Modifications aren't a sign of weakness or failure. When you modify a pose, you're honoring your body's current needs, preventing injury, and building a sustainable practice.

So how do you know when it's time to embrace modifications? Here are five clear signs:

1. You're holding your breath during poses

2. You experience pain 

3. You're constantly comparing yourself to others

4. You dread certain poses or sequences

5. You leave class feeling depleted instead of energized

Here's what you can do right now:

1. Start small: Pick one pose that's been challenging you and research a modification
2. Invest in props like yoga blocks, straps, and bolsters.
3. Communicate with your instructor: Let them know what's not working for you and ask for a modification.
4. Practice self-compassion: Be as kind to yourself as you would be to a good friend

If you're in the Columbia, SC area and want to dive deeper into making yoga work for your unique body, join me for the Yoga for Your Body workshop on Saturday, August 23 at 12 pm. We'll explore practical modifications for common poses and help you build confidence in adapting your practice.

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