Yoga and Christianity

Hello:

I've been training to teach Yoga and recently spoke with the pastor from my church about it, and he was concerned. I'd like to know what you think about this, as I LOVE yoga and do not wish to give it up unless I'm completely sure that there is a conflict with my Christian faith.

I've read in your article "Where does spirit live", that Yoga is not either physical or spiritual, and that "it is not within the action itself that spirituality resides", etc. but my pastor believes that because Yoga is originally a Hindu spiritual practice, just by doing certain poses I would be opening myself up to "contamination" of "evil spirits". It conflicts with the Christian faith, in his opinion. I can see his concerns, because Christians only believe in 1 God, not any Hindu gods.

Have you had any questions of this nature before? I'm not completely sold on the pastor's idea but that is why I'm sending you this email. I hope that perhaps you'll have an opportunity to help make some sense out of all this, or at least send me to someone else who may have some answers.

I would greatly appreciate a reply.

Thank you.

J.

Dear J.,

Thank you for your honest and heartfelt question. There is no conflict. Yoga is a philosophy and not a Religion. Many Christians practice yoga. Yoga is non-judgmental and one may be a Christian, Hindu, Muslim, Jew or Atheist and practice yoga. Spirituality and Religion are many times two different things. Wars are fought over differences of opinion over religious beliefs. Spirituality is determined by ones life choices and interactions with others. We each must choose the path that is right for us and maintain respect and an open mind and heart toward those with a difference of opinion. You may be a good Christian and still practice yoga. The teachings of Christ and all religions are ultimately speaking of loving kindness toward others and not judgments or fear clouding our view toward those with different beliefs. Yoga is a tool that may be used to enhance whatever activities, pathway or faith we choose in life. I grew up in Texas. In the early 1970's my brother and I used to do our yoga practice outdoors in a park. On one occasion there was a neighbor that called the police on us. The officer drove his car directly into the park and asked what we were doing. We told him that we were practicing yoga-breathing and stretching exercises. We were rather bewildered wondering if these activities were suddenly illegal. He informed us that a neighbor called him because they saw two young mean in the park "Practicing some kind of Devil Worship". We were merely stretching and breathing as a benefit to our health. The neighbors' way of thinking seemed to be based upon fear or judgment of another without really knowing anything about them. This is not really a Christian trait. I think Christ would not be disturbed by someone exercising in nature. Your pastor means well in his or her concern but the concern is unfounded. I am sure that your pastor is a wonderful person and means no harm. It may be a case of a judgment being made without first acquiring sufficient knowledge. The choice is ultimately yours. Use your mind, intelligence, and faith as your guide. Look deep within your heart and then make the decision that is best for you. Think what Christ Himself might do in the same situation and let that be your guiding light.

Thank you again for your heart-felt question. You sound like a truly sincere soul and I wish you all of the best!

With Respect,

David Swenson