Yoga- Yes and No

     I recently read an article entitled, "Southern Baptist leader on yoga: Not Christianity." The article gives a brief summary of a discussion (or debate) that has been occurring among many Christians over the past several years: Is yoga okay if you're a Christian? Albert Mohler, as well as John MacArthur, have argued against the practice of yoga. Still, others have encouraged the practice in order to grow in one's Christian faith. The article basically only addresses these two sides of the issue. I would like to propose a third side.

     First, I understand why individuals such as MacArthur are opposed to any resemblance of the practice of yoga in the church. The ancient practice is an integral element of Hinduism, a system of belief that simply does not mesh with Christian teachings. I suppose individuals who oppose yoga are attempting to shield Christian believers from threats of syncretism and/or heresy. Nonetheless, I am not sure that the physical practice of yoga should be totally denied to the Christian believer.

     Second, I do not understand how Christians can justify the full practice of yoga in light of the spiritual components of the practice. I recall watching a video in which a female minister explained her practice of yoga as a form of worship in her weekly services. The minister did not deny the spiritual aspect of yoga, but chose to embrace it. Rather than eliminate the spiritual elements of the practice, the minister replaced the names of Hindu gods with "Jesus" or "the Holy Spirit." Perhaps it is the very existence of these Christian yoga congregations that justifies the response of the MacArthurs of the world. As previously stated, the Hindu spirituality within yoga is not biblical.

     Finally, I believe there is a third option concerning the issue of yoga and Christianity. The article in question notes that many individuals within the Christian community have written to Mohler explaining that they practice the physical elements of yoga while ignoring the spiritual elements. Mohler's response to such letters is that the individuals aren't actually practicing yoga. I would tend to disagree with this analysis. It is clear that yoga has a historical and cultural grounding in the regional birthplace of Hinduism. I'm not sure that simply referring to yoga as "intense stretching" in order to justify its practice is a proper technique for addressing the overall issue. The physical elements of yoga are culturally grounded and this must not be dismissed.

     Christians should not ignore the issue of yoga. The issue provides an opportunity to become more familiar with Hinduism and explore the foundational tenets of Christianity. Personally, I do not see anything inherently wrong with practicing the physical elements of yoga while avoiding the spirituality of the practice. I think it is wrong for the Christian to simply substitute Christian labels of deity for the names of Hindu gods. In addition, I think it is wrong to dismiss the issue by referring to yoga as something else if the spiritual elements are avoided. There must be a balance between Christian beliefs/practices and recognizing the cultural/religious moorings of yoga. Nonetheless, if the issue should remain two-sided, I must side with those who uphold Scripture (MacArthur and Mohler) rather than those who compromise it for the purpose of a good stretch and a good feeling (the minister of the Christian yoga congregation).

Embrace the Awkward

     I recently travelled to Chicago. One would think that this would be a common occurrence owing to my close proximity, but this was only my second time in the city. Nonetheless, I had a great time exploring different parts of the city with a friend of mine. We ate cevapi at a Bosnian restaurant followed by some coffee at a Bosnian cafe across the street. In addition, my friend and I visited the Pakistani/Indian area of Devon Avenue. Finally, we visited the Lake Shore area and returned to the predominantly Puerto Rican Humboldt Park. The afternoon was quite enjoyable.

     During my explorations I was reminded of a phrase (or should I say a life motto?) I came up with a while back- "Embrace the awkward." I will explain this concept in a moment. As we all know, each of us tends to be drawn to communities of people with similar ethnic backgrounds, economic statuses, or levels of education. This hard truth can be observed in the various ethnic communities scattered throughout the city of Chicago. This can even be observed in the cafeteria of a public high school. We feel comfortable among those who are similar to us.

     Nonetheless, there is great benefit with exploring other peoples and cultures. Much can be learned by spending time among people who are "different" from us. Whether the differences are economic, ethnic, or educational, one can easily gain better perspectives through diversity. My friend and I visited a Bosnian cafe and sat down for some amazingly strong coffee. It was evident that we did not "belong" there- two white Americans speaking English in an establishment where Bosnian is the common language. Nonetheless, this somewhat awkward occasion was quite enjoyable.

     The concept of "Embrace the awkward" tends to be a matter of attitude. Any one of us can find a community of people that is "different." However, the experience will only be fruitful with the correct mindset of the "outsider." One could enter a culture with a mindset of superiority, for example. This would not lead to a genuinely good experience. However, if one enters a situation with the mindset that "different" can mean good and awkwardness can lead to learning, then he or she will more than likely have a pleasant experience. The key is to not limit ourselves to one group of people or one culture. We need to get out and explore the world outside of our cultural box. Of course, in doing so we must have a positive attitude that is seeking to learn rather than dominate. My experiences (including my recent trip to the city) have taught me to not avoid awkward situations. Embrace them.

Embrace the awkward.