How does yoga contribute to physical flexibility?

Yoga contributes to physical flexibility primarily by stretching muscles and increasing the range of motion in the joints. The practice of yoga involves various postures, or asanas, that encourage lengthening and extending muscles, which leads to improved elasticity. As practitioners engage in poses that require both static and dynamic stretching, the muscles adapt by becoming more flexible over time.

Additionally, many yoga poses specifically target different muscle groups and joints, allowing for comprehensive flexibility training. As the body becomes accustomed to these movements through regular practice, the soft tissues—such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments—gradually release tension and become less restricted. This increased flexibility not only enhances performance in yoga but can also translate to improved overall physical movement and the ability to engage in various physical activities with greater ease.

The other options point towards practices or concepts that would not facilitate increased flexibility. A rigid practice approach would limit the body's ability to move freely and adapt. Promoting inactivity and rest would counter the active and dynamic movements essential for stretching and lengthening muscles. Avoiding strain in movements could lead to a lack of engagement with the physical challenges necessary for building flexibility, as some level of strain or discomfort is often part of the process of pushing boundaries to achieve greater flexibility.