Hindu leaders slam yoga for Christians

[Xenia]

http://www.thetimes.co.za/images/quoteline.gif
http://www.thetimes.co.za/images/quotestart.gif‘I don’t understand how anyone can teach yoga from a Christian background. It is an indisputable fact that yoga has its origins in the East and in Hinduism’http://www.thetimes.co.za/images/quoteend.gif
http://www.thetimes.co.za/PrintEdition/Article.aspx?id=736015

For some reason this is something debated quite a bit. I've read vehement arguments for and against. What do you think? Should Christians practice Yoga?

[lynnmosher]

I have a book on yoga...the exercises ONLY. I did the exercises for years. I never ever got into any of the mind exercises. I knew better.

[righter1]

I've considered taking a yoga class or getting a video for pregnancy yoga because I need something to relax and get rid of some of the stress I'm going through.

I don't know exactly what goes into the 'mind' part of yoga, but if you're spending the time talking to God, what's the harm?

[Joshua Brown]

The yoga exercises themselves are connected to Hinduism. Each pose represents a certain god or goddess. I've heard arguments for and against. You should be prayerful in all matters. Just ask God for discernment in a matter like that. Maybe play worship music when you do the exercises and prevent your mind from becoming emptied. If your mind's empty, that gives the enemy an open door.

[ProfessorAlan]

I have heard of some places that offer Joga --- Jesus-centered, worship music enhanced yoga.

I don't see a problem trying to redeem it.

[srussell]

It sounds a lot like the meat offered to idols debate that the early church dealt with. I think if you are confident that all you are doing are simple exercises that are divorced in your mind from their pagan origin, I would say that Yoga is probably permissible.

If you are not comfortable with it, and feel that it is too close to it's pagan origins, then by all means do not do it. I am in the later camp. I couldn't do Yoga with a clean conscience.

If someone asked me for counsel on Yoga, that is what I would tell them. However, I would add that just because something is permissible, doesn't give us license to do it. For example, if practicing Yoga will cause someone in your realm of influence to stumble, then you should not do it. So in the end, it's between you an God.

Clear as mud?

Sam

[lynnmosher]

Nope! Perfectly clear! And well said.

And righter, that's exactly what I did. I really would like to get into it again. If the Lord says no, then I won't.

[Xenia]

Yes, I agree too!!!

[Amica]

"PraiseMoves" (http://www.praisemoves.com/) might be a good alternative for people whose consciences will not allow them to do Yoga.