Hello, im am very interested in learning yoga however i have a question. The beliefs that usually come with the practice are not my own. I have been studying various religions and understand the beliefs that go with Jainism, Hinduism, Buddhism and the like. However i am a very dedicated christian, and do not wish to convert. i was just wondering how i could incorporate the practices of yoga within the tenents of my religion. I am not trying to offend with this question as i prize many eastern beliefs, i just wish to practice the different forms of yoga without a conversion.

Sincerely,
A hopeful ignorant

Hi Christian,

Unfortunately, many people incorrectly associate yoga with the eastern religions of Hinduism and Buddhism. There are indeed associations as yoga was invented and developed in countries with these religions. But one does not have to be a Hindu or Buddhist to practice yoga. Just like one does not have to be a Christian to pray to God. Yoga is a spiritual practice, just like prayer is a spiritual practice, and like all spiritual practices, yoga can be applied to one's chosen religion or form of God, or can be practiced without any reference to religion or God.

And while there some new styles of hatha yoga that are being taught with a very Christ centered approach, I personally feel this creates more separation between us humans, and thus goes a bit against the primary intent of yoga: unity. But you may find these styles helpful and reassuring that one can practice yoga and Christianity at the same time.