Beyond the Mat: A Male Teacher's Honest Take on Yoga for Men

This Men's Health Week (June 9th - 15th, 2025), we are highlighting the impact yoga can have on men's well-being. If you've ever thought yoga "isn't for me," or if you're curious about how it could enhance your life, you're in the right place! We sat down with one of our own teachers, Miguel Torres, to get some insight on his personal yoga journey and what makes the practice so transformative for men.

The Spark That Started It All

Q1: What initially drew you to yoga, and how has your practice evolved since you started?

Miguel: “I initially started practicing yoga because I was unable to exercise in my normal routine after an injury. As I was learning asanas from home from Internet-based teachers like Adriene Mishler, I stumbled across a documentary that changed the way I looked at yoga. 'On Yoga' was a lightning rod to my chest at a time when I really needed soul therapy. After that, I was sold on the practice and the mindfulness aspect of yoga.”

This common story highlights how yoga opens the door to a deeper journey. For Miguel, it quickly evolved from physical recovery to discovering mental and emotional benefits, solidifying his commitment to yoga as 'soul therapy.'

The Physical Payoffs for Men

Q2: From your own experience, what are some of the most significant physical benefits of yoga for men that you've noticed or heard from male students?

Miguel: “The most significant physical benefits of yoga are flexibility and protective muscles. Flexibility allows for men to remain limber enough to stretch muscles towards the growth that some men want. When I say protective, I mean the activation of micro-muscles that swell to protect the body from injury as I have experienced myself.”

This points to two crucial aspects: the well-known benefit of increased flexibility, but also the strengthening of smaller, stabilising muscles. These 'protective micro-muscles' are key for injury prevention.

Beyond the Body: Mental & Emotional Growth

Q3: Beyond the physical, how has yoga positively impacted your mental well-being, stress levels, or overall approach to life?

Miguel: “Yoga has positively impacted my well-being by being the time and space where I am completely focused and self-aware. I am aware of my distracting thoughts and the judgments I make in my head. I use this time to clear my head and be mindful of the simplicity that is the asana. It teaches me mindfulness and discipline. It teaches me patience and grace. It teaches me to be expressive and honest.”

We love the way Miguel describes how yoga goes beyond physical exercise, offering a sanctuary for the mind. It’s a tool for cultivating presence, reducing stress, and gaining emotional intelligence – skills invaluable in life.

Addressing Common Concerns

Q4: What would you say to a man who is hesitant to try yoga, perhaps feeling "not flexible enough" or thinking it's "not for him"?

Miguel: “Yoga is for all. Drop your judgments and expectations. From there, accept that you do not know how you will do until you are in the moment. Much like life, you'll never know for certain whether something is "not for you" or "your thing" until you have tried it.”

This directly tackles the biggest barrier for many: the myth of needing to be flexible already. Yoga is a journey of self-discovery, meeting you exactly where you are.

Finding Your Fit at CAMYOGA

Q5: Is there a particular style of yoga or aspect of the practice at CAMYOGA that you feel is especially beneficial or welcoming for men?

Miguel: “Stronger practices like Power Yoga and Baptiste Yoga can be seen as welcoming for men. Softer practices like Yin are beneficial for men who need to add more gentle practices into a presumably hard lifestyle or mindset. Yoga classes also create a safe space for men to meet other men who are looking for more in life.”

Thank you so much for your insights, Miguel.

Miguel teaches Power Yoga on Saturday mornings at the studio - 8:30-9:30am

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Ready to try it for yourself?

At CAMYOGA, our mission is to inspire and empower individuals to live a healthier, more balanced, and meaningful life through the practice of yoga. We invite you to join our supportive community and discover your path to wellbeing.

This Men's Health Week, take a step towards a more vibrant you.

Special Men's Health Week Starter Pack: Two class pass for £20! (Saving you £20!)

This fantastic offer is available for purchase between June 9th and June 15th, 2025. It's the perfect opportunity to experience the diverse styles of yoga we offer and find what truly resonates with your body and mind.

We look forward to welcoming you to the studio!

Check out our schedule:

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