How to Find Courage in Yoga and Overcome the Expectation of Perfect Poses.

How Yoga’s True Power Lies in Feeling, Not Form

Picture yourself a downward-facing dog. You might visualize the perfect pose you’ve seen on Instagram, on a poster or done by your teacher in a yoga class. Maybe you strive to mimic that shape, pushing your body to match an ideal. If it doesn’t quite look the same, you might feel discouraged. Or perhaps you’re someone who slips into poses effortlessly and feels a burst of pride, thinking, “I’m great at yoga!” But here’s the gentle truth: both mindsets can pull you away from the heart of yoga. It’s not about chasing an external image or seeking validation through a perfect pose. Yoga is about the inner work—how it feels, not how it looks.

Yoga Isn’t About the Shape

In today’s world, yoga is often reduced to picture-perfect poses. Social media floods us with images of flawless dancer poses, shoulder stands, or bridges, and it’s easy to believe that’s what yoga is about. But let me share a freeing perspective: yoga is so much more than shapes. It’s about cultivating a sense of stability, freedom, and comfort in your body. It’s not about collapsing into a pose, feeling passive or lazy, nor is it about forcing yourself into a position that doesn’t feel right. It’s about tuning into your body’s signals and finding balance.

Tuning Into Your Body

Here’s the thing: many of us aren’t great at listening to our bodies. Think about it—do you notice when your ears get cold in winter and need a hat? Or when you’re thirsty or need a bathroom break? We’re often experts at ignoring these signals. On the yoga mat, this disconnect can make it hard to know what your body needs. The good news? Yoga practice helps you rebuild that connection. Over time, you’ll become more aware of your body’s subtle cues—not just on the mat, but in everyday life. This awareness can help you respond to your needs sooner, preventing discomfort or even harm to your body and mind.

The Balance of Awareness

Now, this isn’t about becoming hyper-focused on every sensation, which can lead to anxiety. It’s about finding a healthy balance where you notice and honor your body’s signals. As you practice yoga, you’ll start to feel where your body stretches, where there’s tightness, or even numbness. You’ll learn to distinguish between discomfort that signals growth—like a gentle stretch in your hamstrings that gradually creates more space—and discomfort that warns you’ve gone too far, like lingering soreness after class. With time, you’ll naturally adjust your poses to feel alive, patient, and supportive, rather than forced or painful.

The Power of Inner Work

Imagine resting in a warrior pose, feeling your legs energized and your mind sharpening with focus. Or sinking into a child's pose, breathing deeply as your spine softens and your body feels supported by the mat. In these moments, you might even feel a sense of safety and protection. This is where yoga truly begins. The poses are just preparation for this deeper connection—a practice that helps you grow stronger, more flexible, and, most importantly, more aware of your body and mind.

Your Journey Starts Here

As you step onto your mat, let go of the pressure to “look” a certain way. Embrace yoga as a journey to understand your body and its needs. Each pose is an opportunity to listen, to grow, and to move with intention. Over time, you’ll find that yoga doesn’t just transform your practice—it transforms how you live, helping you move through life with greater harmony and awareness. So, take a deep breath, feel your body, and let your yoga practice guide you toward a more connected, vibrant you.