The term yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj. “ It means “yoke” or “to unite,” as in uniting the body, mind and spirit. It was first used in Hindu texts in the fifth century BC. Yoga was first introduced to the U.S. in the 1890s by a Hindu monk. Today, there are more than 100 types of yoga.
Most yoga currently practiced in America slightly resembles the original practice. What we call yoga in the West is not truly yoga at all. It is asana (the physical postures) and pranayama (the breathing exercises).
Yoga is a physical discipline and a total mind-body workout that combines strengthening and stretching poses with deep breathing and relaxation. Yoga lowers blood pressure, increases musculoskeletal health, flexibility, circulation, and decreases stress. It can be used for insomnia, depression, arthritis, asthma, hypertension, and calmness.
Though some individuals believe yoga poses are offerings
to the 330 million Hindu gods, and that they align with a religious philosophy
that contradicts the Christian faith, anything that seems non-Christian can be
reinterpreted to glorify the Heavenly Father. A perfect example of this would
be the holiday known as Christmas.
The traditions of gift-giving, evergreen trees, mistletoe, and holly started in ancient Babylon during the feast of the Son of Isis. It was held on December 25th. Most biblical historians believe Jesus was born in September, Pope Julius I declared in. 350 AD that Christ’s birth would be celebrated on December 25th.
Should Christians avoid yoga because of its pagan roots?
It is possible to invite Christ into one’s yoga class just as you would into
any other part of your life? When God is
invited into a yoga practice, the time (often in a secular setting) becomes
worshipful, prayerful, and healing. Here are three
suggestions to use in your next yoga class to accomplish this spiritual
objective.
Reinterpret anything that makes you
feel uncomfortable with this practice. In many yoga classes, sessions will end
with hands in a prayer position saying “Namaste” an ancient Sanskrit greeting
meaning, “My true self bows to your true self.” You can opt to say, “Thank
you,” to the instructor instead.
If you are called in a yoga session
to focus on “the universe” or “nothingness” focus on Jesus instead. Yoga can be
turned into a time of prayerful meditation and closeness with God. Jesus can be
a part of your workout routine.
If you’re interested in exploring worship through yoga, there is one thing you can do to make sure your practice honors God. Look for a class labeled “Hatha,” “Basic” or “Power” yoga. These classes are often focused solely on the physical practice.
“Yoga is not about touching
your toes. It's about unlocking your ideas about what you want, where you think
you can go, and how you will achieve it when you get there.” (Cyndi Lee) [i]
[i] Sources used:
·
“Contravene” by Cambridge
Dictionary
·
“Is it Okay for
Christians to Do Yoga?” by Relevant Magazine
·
“Should Christians Do Yoga?” by Laurette
Willis, Brooke Boon, and Jeannie Iseman
·
“Should Christians Practice Yoga?” by Lesli
White
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