#yoga needs

There are plenty of myths and misconceptions about yoga floating around, and some of the toughest ones to shake are those that tell you, in no uncertain terms, what you need to practice yoga properly. These lists of must-haves may be intimidating, especially if you’re just getting started in your practice, but don’t worry: contrary to what you may have seen on Instagram and Snapchat, yoga has remarkably few requirements. Read on to learn about 10 things you don’t need if you want to practice yoga.

1.  The perfect body

The beauty of yoga is that it’s for anybody and everybody; that is, any body and every body. It’s easy to think otherwise if you’ve seen too many pictures of thin, stylish, and amazingly flexible yogis and yoginis, but the truth is that there’s no such thing as the perfect yoga body. Whatever your age, shape, or level of ability, you can practice yoga. It’s as simple as that.

2.  Flexibility

Thinking that you have to be flexible to practice yoga is putting the cart before the horse. If you’re not so flexible, one of the major benefits of a regular yoga practice is that it can help you become more so. Just work within your limitations to begin with and your flexibility will improve over time.

3.  A non-drinking/vegetarian/health-conscious lifestyle

There’s no question that yoga in North America is strongly associated with certain health and lifestyle choices, but you don’t have to ascribe to them to practice yoga. There are just as many yoga practitioners out there who love burgers and beer as those who love kale and tofu, so don’t feel like your particular food or health preferences automatically exclude you from yoga.

4.  Fancy clothes

It’s easy to assume that if you want to practice yoga, you have to look the part, with the latest and most expensive yoga outfits and accessories. But you actually don’t need to shell out a lot of money for your yoga clothes. All you need are breathable clothes that are loose enough not to restrict movement but fitted enough not to get in the way.

5.  Beautiful surroundings

Think yoga is only practiced on a beach at dawn? Think again. Even the mood lighting, delicate scents, and spa-style amenities found at many yoga studios are nice rather than necessary. All you need for your yoga practice is enough room to move through the poses; if all you’ve got that fits the bill is your kitchen or your balcony, go for it.

6.  A guru

If you have a yoga teacher that you like and trust, great. But a huge part of yoga is learning to be your own teacher by listening to your body. Don’t feel that a self-taught yoga practice isn’t as beneficial or important as a practice based on more formal classes; in fact, it could be a better way to find connection with your inner self.

7.  A soundtrack

Calming Zen music might be the soundtrack that leaps to mind when you imagine a yoga class, but you can listen to anything that helps lull you into a relaxed mental state. Or better yet, why not try practicing in silence? You may be surprised at how connected you feel with your own body when all you can hear is the sound of your breath.

8.  A yoga mat

This is a slightly controversial choice, but you actually don’t need a yoga mat to practice yoga. A mat will certainly make things easier, but it’s not essential; remember, the practice of yoga dates back thousands of years, long before the latest in extra-cushy, no-slip mats came along. Many experts prefer to forgo the mat, instead practicing on a smooth wooden floor.

9.  Props

Let’s be clear: you don’t need special yoga props to do yoga, but this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t use them if they help you in your practice. What it does mean is that you don’t have to buy fancy specialty gear when you can easily improvise the props you need. Instead of yoga blocks, try a coffee can or lunchbox, which are about the same height as a block. Instead of a meditation cushion, just use a regular sofa cushion, and instead of a yoga belt, try a scarf or a tie.

10. A lot of time