Yoga and Christianity - just my thoughts
Tonight, while searching on YouTube for videos about yoga, i stumbled upon some very disturbing footage concerning practicing yoga and Christianity. As a yoga instructor in a small city in the south, i certainly am aware that some people are tentative about yoga and unsure about the practice. Fortunately, i have had the opportunity to speak to many groups on the topic of yoga, including being interviewed on the radio. This gave me the chance to explain that Yoga is a philosophy NOT a religion.
In the time we had our studio, we did not experience any hostility or direct criticism from the people of our small community. To the contrary, time and time again, i have had students comment to me that they feel stronger in their beliefs as a result of practicing yoga. Not once have i ever had a student express fear or trepidation that practicing yoga would somehow inhibit their relationship with Christ or belief in any religion. In fact, our students very openly discussed their beliefs with each other before and after classes. Several students attended the same churches together or participated in the same community outreach organizations.
If i had to say, i would guess that the overwhelming majority of our students were very actively involved in their churches and would consider themselves devout Christians. Some students were Buddhists, some were Jewish, and some were Muslim. We also had people who were agnostic and atheist, and others who did not claim any organized religion at all. These differences in beliefs did not stop the students from all getting along. Actually, there were times when wonderful and engaging conversations came up as a result of these differences.
Sadly, just as misconceptions about religions can tear communities, villages, and countries apart, so too, can misconceptions about yoga. If one truly takes time to study yoga,however, it will soon become apparent that yoga is about acceptance - of your self and others. It is about removing judgment. It is not about denying your beliefs, but rather practicing those beliefs more fully.
For example, a very important part of our studio was charity focus. Each month, we had a different Focus Charity. The works and needs of that group were highlighted at the studio and on our website, and the proceeds of at least one class that month were donated to that charity. The practice of yoga is not limited to the physical practice on the mat. It is a philosophy of living in harmony with others, making a difference in the world, and treating others as you would wish to be treated - the same philosophy held by all major religions.
It is my privilege to currently be teaching my classes in a Methodist church. The pastor and congregation have not only been accepting and encouraging, they have opened the doors of their church to anyone in the community who wishes to come and practice yoga. There is no judgment there. No expectations. By extending this open hand, they have truly shown the compatibility of yoga and Christianity. It is a beautiful and loving gesture.
Until we can ALL come to a common ground of acceptance, love, and non-judgment there will continue to be arguments, violence, and war. Let us begin to build a stronger world, not bigger walls to divide us.
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