Nine major barriers in practicing Yoga - How to conquer them Articles

Nine major barriers in practicing Yoga - How to conquer them

By: Darren Williger

Though it may sound simple but practicing yoga may not be a very simple task for many. There are several barriers and distractions which may stop you from reaping the benefits of this wonderful therapy option. Here are nine of the most common barriers and tips on how to overcome them:

Vyadhi – In Sanskrit (ancient Indian script) the word means ‘sickness’. It could mean either physical or mental ailment which can pose a problem for you to practice yoga. You might not find it easy to practice yoga if you are not in good health. Thus leading a healthy life style with balanced and nutritious food and physical exercises can help you overcome this barrier.

Styana – This is a very typical mental state which makes us postpone nearly every job that we have in hand. Having such a mental attitude will also make you reluctant to start the yoga exercises and you can come up with some very creative excuses for not taking up this regimen.

Sanshaya – Again a Sanskrit word which means ‘doubt’. This is an eternal dilemma which many of us suffer from when we doubt any and everything that comes our way. Originating from a low level of self-esteem and lack of faith in our own capabilities, this attitude often makes us go astray from our set goals and we become victims of over-interference from external sources.

Pramada – This is a sign of lack of objectivity and will power in life. As the 4th obstacle between you and yoga, you can never gain from this system as it is a combination of both arts and science. If you approach it with a negative mental state, you will receive negative output from it too.

Alasya – A lazy and inactive mental state will never allow you to reap the benefits of yoga. A strong will power and a sense of being pro-active are needed to overcome this common barrier. Something as good as yoga will always remain illusive, if you let it be so. Passiveness and mental inertia are to be overcome if you wish to go beyond this barrier, which interestingly, is self created.

Avirati – One of the things which keep most of us motivated is the glory attached to material objects. Yoga requires you to forego many of such alluring desires for material gain and train your mind to look deep within yourself. This type of mental state can be a very difficult barrier between you and yoga or the path to inner happiness.

Bhrantidarshan – Over-expectation, false impressions and misleading notions about the path you are choosing in life, like yoga, may result in complete disappointment and frustration. Keeping a balanced view and being non-judgmental are the keys to overcome this barrier.

Alabdha-bhumikatva – Most of the time we are victims of the vicious cycle of having low self-esteem which results from any failure. Often repeating it several times, we tend to fall prey to such notions of having very poor opinions about ourselves and our capabilities. If you also suffer from such feelings, it can be a serious impediment on your path to success with yoga.

Anawasthitatwa – Yoga practices done with poor structures and unscientific methods may result in your not achieving the desired levels of consciousness. This in turn may result in increased frustration with the entire concept of yoga.

One of the ways to overcome these mental barriers is to take one day at a time. Identify which problems affect you most and solve it one by one. Never let any of these problems take over your mind, as then, the others will soon follow and make you feel extremely inadequate. A deep sense of commitment, will power and focus are needed to tackle these nine common obstacles which often come between an aspirant and yoga.

About the Author:

Darren Williger is an over-caffeinated, low carbohydrate eating, winemaking enthusiast who writes for MicroKarma.com, CoffeeZen.com, and PrimeYoga.com.

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