Practicing for the Long Haul

The worst part about experiencing pain or injury in yoga is not knowing. Not knowing where the pain comes from, what is aggravating it, what to do or not to do, whether you should stop practicing or keep pushing through it.

If you keep practicing with the hope that your hamstring miraculously will heal overnight, or that the pain in your shoulder or chest will dissipate by skipping a push up or two, your ego may be driving your yoga practice. That’s not a good thing in the long run.

Often this just makes it worse and bites you in the rear.

Been there. Done that. Stubborn Capricorn I am. It’s not worth it. Don’t do it.


We teachers are not always erudite in anatomy or physiology, but for the most part we can always offer a few suggestions. Ask! Subtleties in alignment can make huge differences in your practice. Ask!

I am not shy about sending students to see their doctor or a physical therapist when I have no answers.

Taking care of your body when you are in pain is important.

Your body is your temple and should be treated as such. Care for it so you can keep practicing in the years to come.

Adrian Molina is a yoga teacher, writer and meditation practitioner living in New York City. He developed the Warrior Flow style of yoga and teaches at Equinox fitness centers, in private sessions, and at retreats. He shares inspiration and teachings frequently on his web site Warrior Flow, his Facebook page, and his Twitter feed.