How will this fit into my christian lifesyle?

by Robbie
(Sidney, BC)

Following up from our brief encounter last Sunday evening, I agreed with what the pastor said about the practice of yoga within christianity.

I studied Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's 'Art of Living Foudation' for over 2 years back in the day and I was well aware of my relationship with the lord throughout the whole journey and I feel it even brought me closer.

Unfortunately lifestyle has allowed me to stray from the physical practice and it is something I would like to do again.

I do not think our meeting was a coincidence, and I just wondered what your thoughts are on yoga within Christianity?

I stopped the Art of Living when we performed the Sun Salutation as it was in fact honouring the sun oppose to God for creating it!

Id love to hear your responses..

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Hey Robby,

Thanks so much for your email.

It is important for us to keep in mind that Yoga is a Philosophy and not a Religion.

As a philosophy it does not subscribe to the worship of any God in particular, although it does state that if a practitioner has a personal relationship to God, the practices within Yoga will work to strengthen that relationship.

I believe the practical philosophy of Yoga is completely complimentary to Christianity. In fact, I have found that practicing a Yogic Lifestyle has deepened my personal relationship with God in every way.

Practicing true Yoga is a commitment to a lifestyle that includes the principles of non-violence, honesty, integrity, and a deep and sincere desire to connect to God.

As far as the Sūryānamaskara, interpretations vary amongst practitioners and teachers. Sūrya simply means "the sun" and namaskāra is a "salutation or a greeting". Namaskāra is a common greeting in India used in everyday life.

The language in India is very metaphorical and this always leaves room for interpretation. For me this is simply a practice to greet the day, the sun, and to give thanks to God for creation.

Here is an explanation from our website about the 8 limbs of Ashtanga Yoga. This gives a brief outline of the practices within this philosophy.

The Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga

The great thing about Yoga is that it is not a rigid dogma, but rather is a philosophy that encourages us to develop a sincere and personal practice.

It is encouraged in India, and especially in Yoga, to create clarity in any practices we are involved in. Resolving doubts creates conviction and moves us closer to true understanding.

Let us know if we can help in anyway.

Blessings,
Jeff