Yoga & Faith: Complimentary, not Contradictory

When began taking yoga classes, the original intent was physical health: strength, flexibility, and weight loss.  Over time, I became aware of the more subtle, and unintended health benefits: reduced anxiety and increased focus and thoughtfulness.  Throughout, the idea of yoga as a religion, or it being in conflict with any faith system, never crossed my mind. In talking with those in the yoga and education communities, I realized this a very real issue for many. So, I began researching.

The meaning of "yoga" can be translated as "yoke" or "union".  Through breath, meditation, and even the physical postures utilized in yoga practice, you can connect (union) with your physical self, your community, and your spirituality (wherever your spirituality leads). The eight limbs of yoga contain different practices to help you achieve those unions and better yourself; there is no prescription to yoke yourself to a particular belief system, god, higher being, or any entity at all.  While some religions may use the eight limbs to show devotion or achieve enlightenment, how YOU yoga depends on what YOUR intentions are. 

This is not an "all or nothing" practice; take what makes sense to you, your values and beliefs, and leave the rest.  If the focus of your yoga practice is purely for physical benefit, I'm all about it.  If, instead, you turn to yoga purely to help relieve stress and want to avoid more strenuous physical poses, I love that. If you are turning to yoga as a way to take some time and check-in with yourself, I think that's fantastic. If you want to try yoga as a way to find a community of supportive people from every background, regardless of race, religion, size, age, or ability, you've come to the right place.