Should Christians practice yoga?

Should Christians practice yoga? Some feel it is a spiritual conflict for Christians to practice yoga. I have never felt personally conflicted in doing yoga, but I know some Christians are very concerned about this.

As a yoga instructor, I believe there is no inherent evil or spiritual conflict in the physicality of yoga. We are moving our bodies to increase our health, to honor our God-given abilities and to celebrate our bodies as a temple of the Holy Spirit. I have a deep gratitude for movement and being able to use my body the way God has allowed.

I also believe that posture of the body impacts posture of the heart. As we find a surrendered posture, our hearts are opened to release, repentance and reverence. As we find a strong posture, we are empowered to go forward in faith and confidence in Christ. As we lay still with eyes closed in a final resting pose, we practice inviting the presence of Christ. These are habits in our spiritual journey we can carry with us long after one hour of yoga.

The physical benefits of yoga postures and deep breathing are available to anyone, including Christians. My hope is that the faith-based, Christ-centered classes that I lead are a place to hear and grow in the knowledge of the love of Christ, regardless of your spiritual background.

To read more about the topic of Christian yoga, visit holyyoga.net.