Yoga!? Isn’t That Just Stretching With Your A** in the Air?
Ready to give yoga a try? Your practice today is reading this entire post breathing consciously.
If you've ever thought yoga isn't for you, maybe you can't touch your toes, have mobility issues, or just feel intimidated by all those Sanskrit names, I’m going to blow that out of the water and tell you that yoga, and all the benefits, extending beyond movement and stretching, is absolutely, completely, 100% accessible to you, and you, and you!
Inhale: exactly as you are Exhale: wherever you are Inhale: whoever you are Exhale: you are doing great Inhale: keep it up Exhale: find the steady rhythm
When most people think of yoga, they picture impossibly bendy Instagram yogis twisted into pretzel-like poses that would make a contortionist weep, but Yoga is not just about the poses, the asana, and that’s what makes it such an accessible tool for your wellbeing and movement toolbox.
Inhale: doing great | Exhale: perfect | Inhale: steady breath | Exhale: let go of today | Inhale: deep breath in | Exhale: out
What Makes Yoga Truly Accessible?
Real yoga isn't about perfect poses or expensive equipment. It's about connecting your breath with movement, finding moments of calm in your day, and gently working with your body. However you do this, is just perfect.
All You Need:
Your body
Your breath
A few minutes of time
An open mind
Real Benefits
Inhale: just you | Exhale: your body | Inhale: your breath| Exhale: a few moments | Inhale: to breath | Exhale: easy
Physical Benefits:
Improved circulation and joint mobility
Better balance and coordination
Reduced muscle tension and stiffness
Enhanced sleep quality
Pain management support
Mental & Emotional Benefits:
Stress reduction through focused breathing
Improved mood and mental clarity
Greater body awareness and acceptance
Tools for managing anxiety
A sense of accomplishment and self-care
Inhale: just focus on your breath | Exhale: ease todays strain | Inhale: breath in | Exhale: clear your mind | Inhale: perfect
Keeping It Simple: Targeted Poses That Actually Work
I just want everyone to feel the joy of moving their body and the benefits that yohga can bring, simple effective can be so simple:
For Neck and Shoulder Tension:
Gentle neck rolls with conscious breathing
Shoulder blade squeezes
Simple side neck stretches
For Lower Back Relief:
Knee-to-chest hugs (lying down or seated)
Gentle spinal twists
Cat-cow movements
For Better Sleep:
Legs up the wall (or on your bed)
Deep belly breathing
Progressive muscle relaxation
Inhale: easy | Exhale: just like magic | Inhale: set the intention | Exhale: release any tightness | Inhale: find the joy
Your Breath is the Missing Magic Ingredient
The secret sauce that transforms simple stretches into yoga: intentional breathing. When you coordinate your breath with movement, something shifts. Your nervous system calms down, your mind focuses, and suddenly you're not just moving your body – you're practising yoga.
Try this: Next time you're feeling stressed, take five deep breaths where your exhale is longer than your inhale. That's yoga. That's it. No mat required.
Inhale Exhale 2 3 4 5 6 Inhale Exhale 2 3 4 5 6 Inhale Exhale 2 3 4 5 6 Inhale Exhale 2 3 4 5 6 Inhale Exhale 1 2 3 4
Your Yoga Journey Starts Now
Yoga isn't about achieving perfect poses – it's about showing up for yourself.
Inhale: exactly as you are | Exhale: right now | Inhale: perfect!
Two minutes or twenty - Sitting in a chair or lying on your sofa - Wearing pyjamas or workout clothes
YOUR PRACTICE IS VALID
> Start SMALL
> Start SIMPLE
> Start TODAY
Your body (and your stress levels) will thank you.
Did you manage to practise your conscious breathing? Congratulations – you just did yoga.
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If you are reading this in September 2025
HOW EXCITING! THE WAIT IS NEARLY OVER!
Ruth Grigg HQ yoga and wellbeing resource library is so nearly ready and I can’t wait to share it with you all!
MOVE | NOURISH | THRIVE
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Interested in a nutrition coach that cares about the whole of you, with access to yoga and wellbeing resources? Send me a message let’s start your movement and nutrition nourishment NOW.
I'd love to support you in creating a movement, nutrition and wellbeing practice that fits your life, your brain, and your goals.