When I took my first yoga class 7 years ago, my ego took a huge slap in the face. I went to fold forward, and I couldn't touch my toes - everyone could do it (really, even the old guys). Of course comparing yourself to others isn't the point when it comes to yoga (and can cause injury when you try to copy others), but I hadn't leaned that yet so I pushed myself really hard.

The teacher came up to me and whispered very sweetly, "These folks have been practicing for years. Everyone's body is different, so don't compare yourself to others. When they started, they couldn't touch their toes either. It takes time to open our muscles, so don't be so hard on yourself." I'll never forget that little pep talk and how much she inspired me. I started going 3 times a week, and I have to say that my flexibility improved very quickly. She was right, it just took time.

Some people tend to be naturally flexible (like contortionists), and others have to work hard to increase their flexibility. Just because you aren't flexible at the present moment, doesn't mean you'll never be. Your muscles, tendons and ligaments are screaming to be stretched regularly, and all you need to do is devote time every week to make it happen.

Want to hear some tips for increasing your flexibility, safely? Then read more

  • Only stretch when your muscles are warm. This will ensure that you don't pull a muscle. I love to stretch after a run because I'm all warmed up already. Plus stretching prevents soreness later.
  • Don't push yourself too hard. Know your own limit and listen to your body. If you try to stretch deeper, and you begin to feel pain or strain, back off.
  • Muscles are like chewing gum. When they are warm and stretched slowly, they'll respond much better. So move with complete awareness, and gently move deeper into poses.
  • Be consistent. In order to experience any progress in your flexibility, you must stretch regularly. This means you should stick to doing your stretching routine at least 3 times a week. You'll be surprised how soon you see your body changing.
  • Stay in yoga poses for a while. I'm not talking torturing yourself, but sometimes holding a pose for just 5 breaths might not be enough. Give your body a chance to settle into poses, especially ones that may be hard for you. I love to hold Pigeon pose, Butterfly, and Seated Straddle for at least 3 minutes. I feel so open and light afterwards.
  • Don't compare yourself to yourself. Just because you could touch your forehead to your knee in Head to Knee pose yesterday, doesn't mean your hamstrings will be psyched to do it today. Since your body changes everyday, just concentrate on the present moment and what your body is capable of doing right now.

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