Yoga vs Religion

As a yoga teacher I come across the subject of yoga vs religion fairly frequently. Here is a Q&A that may help in clearing up some confusion. 

Is Yoga a religion?

No, Yoga is not a religion. However, it is a spiritual practice. It is a tool to connect to the mind, body and spirit as one working entity connected to the universe and/or God. Therefore it can enhance whatever religious beliefs one may have. 

Are there Deities in Yoga?

No there only Gurus (teachers). Although some teachers may incorporate stories or chants or lessons from deities of the Hindu religion as both practices are from India. They just as easily could incorporate any story or lesson from any religion since there is wisdom in all scriptures. 

I don't understand what Sanskrit is, therefore it scares me. What is it?

Sanskrit is an ancient language like Latin. It is no longer used on a daily basis but is used in ancient scripts and teachings such as yoga. 

Is chanting some kind of witch craft?

No, chanting is a form of prayer or affirmation. The idea is that words and tones hold certain vibrations. Some can be healing and some are not. Just think about when you are telling someone you love them and much you adore them. The words and tones from your voice that you are sharing with that person are soothing and loving. Now think about if you are yelling unkindly at someone. Chanting is a way to connect to God and/or to affirm something in one’s life by repeating a mantra. It can be in Sanskrit or any language for that matter. 

There are spiritual rules in Yoga isn't that the same as being a religion?

No. Although there are some similarities as they are a moral code that enhance one’s life when practiced.

These are the 10 Ethical Principles of Living

The Yamas and the Niyamas...

Yamas - (things to avoid)

1. Ahimsa - non harm / compassion for all living things (including one’s self) 

2. Satya - Commitment to truth (telling the truth and living your truth)

3. Asteya - not stealing 

4. Brahmacharya- Celibacy/merging with the one (a practice to honor our sexual energy and use it wisely with no harm to another or oneself. Having it be an act of love or God)

5. Aparigraha – non-grasping or greed 

Niyamas (Things to practice)

1. Purity - Cleanliness of the body, mind and environment as to live to experience life and a higher vibration

2. Contentment - feeling satisfied and/or grateful for one’s immediate experience

3. Discipline - practicing passionately. This can be done with our day to day tasks as well as the things we view as fun. 

4. Swadhyaya – Self-study/self- reflective consciousness. To be self-aware is to be deeply connected to life or closer to God. 

5. Ishvarapranidhana - Celebration of the spiritual. This can be done with any action you take on through the day. Allowing one’s self to attune to the beauty, love and gifts of each moment through our being and action.  

Can I practice yoga and follow a religion? 

Absolutely! Practicing Yoga is a beautiful way to enhance any belief system as it connects you to your mind, body and spirit as well as to others and God. After viewing these ethical codes notice how similar they are to the scriptural teachings of your own religion. As you can see these are codes of morality located in any religious believe. If you are religious, translate these codes to the language of religion you connect with. 

Can I practice Yoga and never believe in God? What does Namaste mean?

Yes. By practicing Asana (physical practice of yoga), meditation and the moral ethic listed above you connect to a deeper sense of self and a deeper connection to all. Some translate this as God and some don't. No matter what your belief is in God, Yoga is a practice to enhance ones experience to life. 

What does Namaste mean? 
Many teachers say this at the end of class as to honor those that have shown up to practice.

Namaste - My soul honors your soul. I commend the place in you where the spirit resides. I admire the place in you which is love, truth, light & peace because it is also within me. In sharing these things we are united, we are one.