I cannot even count the number of times I have been asked this question, but I am happy to answer it repeatedly. Answer is NO! Yoga makes you flexible. You need yoga to become flexible so go for it!

The answer is no. You can practice yoga at any weight, size, and fitness level. It is unfortunate that the media and many yoga brands use slim or skinny people for yoga marketing, but we want to change the status quo. There are so many amazing plus-size yogis and yoga teachers out there. Do not let your weight discourage you from giving your body the best it needs. Yoga has amazing benefits (check my other blogposts for more details) which are suitable for everyone. If there is one thing I like about yoga, it is that YOGA IS ACCEPTING! Find a yoga teacher who understands your body type and can take you through asanas/poses suitable for you.

Yoga has  about eight limbs which includes asanas or yoga poses to improve your physical health. There are diverse types of yoga movements, including power yoga, HIIT yoga, Buti yoga, afro beats yoga, suitable for people who prefer high intensity workouts, more cardio, geared towards core strength training and weight loss.

There is no specific answer to this question as this will vary from person to person and would depend on different parameters such as the type of yoga you are practising. I will recommend a minimum of five full deep breaths for beginners. This will help improve and build your strength, concentration, and balance.

How often you practice yoga would be based on your schedule, and ability. However, consistency yields results. Yoga should be a lifestyle more than a fitness routine. This makes it easier to practice frequently and not see it as just a routine. I suggest at least three times a week for beginners who are determined to embark on this journey. A yoga session can be between 15mins to 60 mins. To be honest with you, I sometimes practice for even just 10 minutes because, that is the only available time on my calendar. Do what works for you, and while at it, study your body and create your own flow. Results will vary from person to person because we are all different. But typically, if you follow the above, you can see results in about 3 months.

This is another interesting question because I have seen a few people do yoga and are nothing close to zen. This is not to bash anyone but this is just to also let you know that there is no automatic switch to change your personality after your first yoga class. What yoga however does, is introduces you to mindfulness. Mindfulness is where it is at, guys. Doing just the asanas and not working on your mental health or practicing mindfulness will not change your personality and your mindset. Which is why I recommend practicing yoga holistically and not just focusing on the flexibility part of it. Of course, it is important to be flexible and be physically fit. However, if your mind is in a state of anarchy, all the physical practice will be in vain. Yoga is also self-care. It is also identifying behavioural patterns that no longer serve you. It is also being kind to yourself and to others, showing love to all, without discrimination, protecting and preserving the environment and being conscious of your actions. I recommend finding a yoga class, community, or teacher to guide you on your mindfulness journey and you would be amazed how different you would be and feel as a person.

It is sad to see that again most yoga teachers are white, and we find that most yoga classes are filled with white people. This does not make it a “white people” culture. Yoga helps you maintain a balanced life and improves overall wellbeing. Black people in the past were apprehensive to prioritising their mental health, but we want to change the narrative. There are many Black yoga teachers now (including myself). It also really does not matter if your yoga teacher is white, black, or yellow. What matters is improving your lifestyle and taking care of yourself. However, I can understand that people resonate more or better with their kind so find a teacher or class you can resonate with and enjoy your journey.

Yoga is a mind and body practice and not a religion. Instead, yoga may improve your spirituality because the best time to deepen your spirituality is when you are calm, relaxed, and centred, and yoga puts you in this state.

I will write another blog on the correlation between being plant based and practicing yoga. There is also a blog on why I went vegan, and yoga was not the main reason. So, the answer is NO! Please eat whatever you want but remember to be kind to the environment.

Please do! But it should be at least an hour before the class. You can also have a glass of juice or shake before your class. You just need to be hydrated.