Yogis, Beware: Is Yoga a Sin? — Men's Yoga Journal

Yogis, Beware: Is Yoga a Sin?
There are many articles online that discuss if yoga is a sin. Is it? Is it not? Is there even any need to ask this question in the first place? The answer lies in whether or not you believe in God, and what your definition of "sin" is.
Is yoga a sin? Yes or no?
For some people, anything that takes their mind off of God for too long can be considered a sin. This includes things like playing video games, watching TV shows, eating chocolate-covered doughnuts...and yes - yoga!
Others may see yoga as a way to connect with their higher power, and therefore not see it as a sin at all. There is no right or wrong answer here - only what you believe in your heart. If you feel that yoga goes against your existing belief system, then don't do it! But if you feel like it's something that makes you feel closer to God, then by all means - go for it!
Is yoga a religion?
The simple answer is no, yoga is not a religion. However, there are some aspects of yoga that could be considered religious. Yoga is often seen as a way to connect with the divine, and many people who practice yoga believe in reincarnation or other spiritual concepts.
Despite its religious undertones, yoga is not typically categorized as a religion. It is seen more as a way of life, with its own set of beliefs and practices. For many people, yoga is simply a way to stay healthy and connect with their spirituality.
So is yoga a religion? The answer is no, but it can be seen as having religious aspects. Yoga is a great way to stay fit and connect with your mind, body, and spirit.
Do yogis believe in God?
Most people who practise yoga do not believe in a traditional god, but they may believe in something larger than themselves. Yoga is all about union- connecting with yourself, others, and the universe. So for some people, believing in a god may be too limiting. Instead, they see the divine in everything around them.
Many people who practise yoga believe in a kind of universal energy or consciousness that connects all things. This is sometimes called Brahman, Atman, or the divine. For some people, this is as close to God as they get!
Can Christians do yoga?
If you're asking this question, you're not alone. The answer is yes and no.
The biggest argument against yoga comes from the Hindu philosophy that lies at the core of traditional yoga classes – specifically, many of its poses (asanas) and breathing exercises (pranayama). Yoga’s ultimate goal is to unite one's individual consciousness with the universal consciousness, which is the Hindu way of saying "merging with God."
But if you're looking for a physical workout that can help improve your flexibility and balance, there's no reason why you can't do yoga – as long as you avoid any poses or breathing exercises that have spiritual connotations. Many Christians choose to do this by attending a yoga class at their local gym or fitness centre, rather than participating in one through an ashram (Hindu temple).
If you're not comfortable with that idea and would like to practice yoga on your own time, there are some DVDs available that teach traditional poses while avoiding any references to Hinduism.
Can Catholics do yoga?
The answer to this question is, again, yes and no. It really depends on how you approach your yoga practice. If you are doing yoga simply as a form of exercise, then there is no harm in it. However, if you are using yoga as a way to achieve spiritual enlightenment or to become closer to God, then this may not be compatible with Catholic teachings.
Pope Francis has actually spoken out against yoga, saying that it can lead people away from Jesus. He has stated that "it is not necessary to seek God in the clouds when he can be found close by in your neighbor. And your neighbor is not an abstraction."
Pope Francis also warned people against looking for Jesus through New Age spirituality or what he called a personal relationship with Jesus without passing through his church. This means it's very important to check the type of yoga that you're practicing before asking if it's compatible with Catholicism.
It comes down to your personal belief system
There are many different beliefs in the world, and it is up to you what you believe. Yoga can make people feel closer to God or like they're sinning - but there's no right answer here. If yoga feels wrong for your belief system, then don't do it!
But if it makes sense with how you see yourself in relation to a higher power (or lack thereof), then go ahead and try out some new moves on that mat of yours when you get home after work!