How should a Christian view yoga?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Yoga is an ancient Hindu practice in which the participant seeks to unite him or herself with the "infinite Brahman" which is the Hindu God-concept. Unlike Christianity, the Hindu god is like a spiritual life force that is said to exist in all things—in the universe and in nature. The Hindu belief is that everything is god, including the person practicing yoga. By focusing inward, yoga encourages a person to meditate on that connection between god and the self, seeing that there is truly no distinction between the two. The ultimate goal of yoga is pantheistic—becoming one with nature. Yoga's origins are in a spirituality that is antithetical to Christianity, teaching people to search for healing and well-being and peace within themselves. This is ultimately futile—the only source of lasting peace and joy is a connection to the true God, the Creator (Galatians 5:22–23).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• We are not to become one with nature or even one with the spirit realm around us. We are to recognize God as the Creator and submit to Him. In Isaiah 42:8, God declares that He does not share His glory with anyone or anything, reinforcing that we should not seek oneness with creation over our relationship with Him.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• First Corinthians 10:31 reminds us to do all things to the glory of God, ensuring that our practices honor Him. This includes our exercise routine.
• Philippians 4:8 encourages us to think about whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable, guiding our meditation and focus during practices. We are not to set our minds on things that draw us away from Christ.
• Colossians 3:2 instructs us to set our minds on things that are above, emphasizing the importance of spiritual focus over worldly practices.
• Romans 12:2 promotes discernment by urging us to be transformed by the renewal of our minds, helping us evaluate our practices, such as if we should engage in yoga, thoughtfully.
• First Timothy 4:8 highlights that while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, prioritizing our spiritual growth.
• Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces, calling us to be mindful of the spiritual realities at play. Yoga comes from a worldview antithetical to biblical faith. This must be factored in when determining how a Christian should view yoga.
• Colossians 1:16–17 affirms that all things were created through Christ and for Him, showing that nature is part of God's creation, not something to which we should seek to merge our identities.
• First John 2:15–17 cautions against loving the world and its things, encouraging believers to prioritize their relationship with God above worldly pursuits.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Some Christians find that they can separate the physical breathing exercises, stretching, and postures from the spiritual worldview that accompanies them. As such, a person can stretch and focus on God and on whatever is peaceful—as we are encouraged to do (Philippians 4:8). Yet if a believer finds him or herself drawn to the philosophy behind yoga, or is uncertain about it, it would be wise to avoid the practice. Satan often tempts us away from God through seemingly innocent means (2 Corinthians 11:14). Everything we do should be to God's glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). Many who seek the physical benefits touted by yoga have found Pilates to be a useful alternative exercise program.

UNDERSTAND

• Yoga's Hindu roots and pantheistic goals conflict with Christian beliefs, requiring careful evaluation of its practice.
• While yoga poses can offer physical benefits, it is important to recognize that they were first connected with a spiritual philosophy that contradicts biblical teachings. Any performing of yoga poses and movements for physical health should be disconnected from these unbiblical foundations.
• Christians must ensure their exercise routines, including yoga, glorify God and align with biblical truths and values.

REFLECT

• How do your personal beliefs about yoga align or conflict with your understanding of Christian teachings?
• How can you incorporate physical exercise into your routine in ways that reflect your faith, values, and desire to honor God with your body?
• What boundaries and convictions do the Bible encourage you to have regarding unbiblical or ungodly practices?

ENGAGE

• What most people practice is called "Hatha yoga" and is the aspect of yoga that focuses on the physical body. Through postures, breathing and meditation, one seeks relaxation and "centeredness" along with a general strengthening and flexibility of the muscles. Many people in the West treat yoga as nothing more than a workout routine. Still, its roots are Hindu. In what ways can we engage with those who practice yoga to learn about their view of it and their understanding of its spiritual roots and impact? How can we engage with others about yoga’s Hindu roots and its popular use while maintaining our biblical values?
• How can we discern whether our fitness practices are honoring God or inadvertently leading us away from Him?
• What biblical references can we use to guide our choices in fitness routines and practices, including yoga?