Modern yoga strays too far from Hindu origins

Yoga as a health practice is quickly gaining popularity and momentum in the United States, and has been doing so for decades. Today, around 20 million Americans participate in some form of yoga.

However, groups in the Hindu community are displeased with western yoga and the ominous indication of a separation from Hindu roots.

For the average fan, yoga is an exercise in physiological strength, flexibility, and relaxation. Western practice places emphasis on proper body alignment, breathing exercises and a mild degree of meditation.

According to ancient tradition, however, there is far more to yoga than physical health and mindfulness. Genuine yoga is seen as a lifestyle, not a method of physical activity.

American yoga culture is also adding fuel to the fire with its habit of refraining from referencing the Hindu when using yoga terminology. Words such as “vedic,” “eastern” and “tantric” are commonly used as a replacement for “Hindu” when describing the practice. These omissions are disquieting to the Hindu, who feel that the core spirituality of yoga is being ignored.

The Hindu American Foundation has launched the “Take Back Yoga” campaign in attempt to raise western awareness of the historical and religious essence of modern yoga, which is firmly rooted in Hindu belief.

In an article for National Public Radio, senior director of the foundation Sheetal Shah said, “What we’re trying to say is that the holistic practice of yoga goes beyond just a couple of asanas [postures] on a mat. It is a lifestyle, and it’s a philosophy.”

Further efforts to bring light to the cause include the short animated film compiled by the Hindu Student Association (HSA) titled “What is Yoga?”
The film explains the different types of yoga in Hindu religion and the importance of yoga’s spiritual foundation.

Fortunately, blossoming awareness of the Hindu aspect of yoga tradition does not exclude those of a different belief from getting their yoga on. Equality, truthfulness, non-violence and peace remain essential values.

As the yogi’s say, “Yoga welcomes everyone.”

Read the full NPR article here.