Why Do People Let Their Yoga Practice Slip (or Give Up Altogether)?

Let’s face it—most of us have dropped off our yoga practice at some point. Life gets in the way, motivation dips, or something just feels… off. But before you decide to skip the mat again, let’s look at the common reasons people stop practising, and why yoga might actually be exactly what you need.

1. “I’m too tired”

I hear this one a lot—and I get it. Even I don’t always leap onto the mat with joy. But let’s be honest—when we’re too tired to practise yoga, what do we usually do instead? Slump in front of the telly? Scroll our phones?

The truth is, you’ll feel much better after even a short practice.

And on those rare days when it just doesn’t feel right, that’s okay too. Go straight to savasana (relaxation lying down), or do a few gentle stretches and head to bed early. It still counts. Your body and mind will thank you.

2. “I’m too busy”

This one’s sneaky. Being busy is exactly why you need yoga. Skipping practice won’t make your to-do list any shorter.

If time is tight, try just 20 minutes. You’ll feel more grounded, more productive, and far less frazzled. Yoga doesn’t need to be an hour-long epic to make a difference.

3. “It’s too dark and cold to go to a class”

I feel this one deeply—especially in the winter months. When it’s dark and chilly, getting to an in-person class can feel like a mission. (I struggle too—I have SAD.)

That’s why I always recommend signing up for a term or a block of classes. If you’ve paid, you’re more likely to show up. And you’ll almost always feel glad you did.

If you genuinely can’t get out, consider an online class. You’ll still get all the benefits, minus the commute.

4. “There’s too much going on in my life”

Life can be overwhelming. Sometimes yoga naturally falls down the priority list, especially when we’re dealing with stress, grief, or major changes.There are things more important than yoga, or you cannot put your own needs as priority. 

And that’s okay.

But it’s also true that, for many of us, yoga becomes our rock in those difficult times. A little sanctuary in the middle of chaos. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a few minutes of breathing or moving with intention.

Remember the first definition of yoga in the Yoga Sutras: “Yoga is the stilling of the mind.”

That alone can make all the difference.

5. “I’ve got a dodgy knee/back/shoulder”

Injuries and aches are real, but they don’t necessarily mean you should stop practising altogether.

Come to class and do what you can. Skip what doesn’t feel good. Adapt, adjust, or just observe if needed.

I’ve got a long-term niggle in my knee. When it flares up, I don’t stop—I actually increase my standing poses and focus more on building strength in the legs.

Yoga can support most musculoskeletal issues—just listen to your body and work with a teacher you trust.

Remember: Movement is medicine.

There’ll always be reasons not to practise—but yoga meets you exactly where you are. Whether you’ve got five minutes or fifty, feeling strong or shattered, there’s always something you can do. And it’s always worth it.