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Is Wai Lana Yoga a Religion?

Yoga is not a religion. It has no creed or fixed set of beliefs, nor is there a prescribed godlike figure to be worshipped in a particular manner. Religions for the most part seem to be based upon the belief in and worship of things (God or godlike figures) that exist outside oneself. The core of Yoga’s philosophy is that everything is supplied from within the individual. Thus, there is no dependence on an external figure, either in the sense of a person or god figure, or a religious organization.

The common belief that Yoga derives from Hinduism is a misconception. Yoga actually predates Hinduism by many centuries. Ancient seals unearthed in the Indus Valley provide clear evidence of widespread Yoga practice earlier than 3,000 B.C.E. The techniques of Yoga have been adopted by Hinduism as well as by other world religions. Yoga is a system of techniques that can be used for a number of goals, from simply managing stress better, learning to relax, and increasing limberness all the way to becoming more self-aware and acquiring the deepest knowledge of one’s own self.

The practice of Yoga will not interfere with any religion. Many American Yoga Association students who have practiced Yoga intensively for many years continue to follow the religious traditions they have grown up in or adopted without conflict.

Who Can Practice Yoga?

Yoga is suitable for most adults of any age or physical condition. Always consult your physician before engaging in any exercise or physical activity. 

Yoga is not recommended for women during menstruation, pregnancy  or for nursing mothers. Regular practice of breathing and meditation appears safe. 

Yoga During Pregnancy: A Special Note

On March 31, 2002, The New York Times Magazine printed a photograph showing a 9-months-pregnant woman in a shoulder stand. It is extremely dangerous for pregnant women to do any inverted poses because of the possibility of air embolism. Pregnant women are discourage  from performing most Yoga poses during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult with their physician regarding the simple daily breathing and meditation techniques.  These may help with an easier delivery and a healthy baby and mother.

Yoga and Children

Yoga exercises are not recommended for children under 16 because their bodies’ nervous and glandular systems are still growing, and the effect of Yoga exercises on these systems may interfere with natural growth.  Children may safely practice meditation and simple breathing exercises as long as the breath is never held. These techniques can greatly help children learn to relax, concentrate, and reduce impulsiveness. Children trained in these techniques are better able to manage emotional upsets and cope with stressful events.

There is no doubt that Yoga postures (asans) and breathing techniques affect the physical body. Today alternative therapist such as acupressure, neuromuscular massage, and reflexology can have systemic effects due to pressure applied to certain areas of the body. The physical basis for the effects of Yoga asans may be related. The asans and breathing techniques provide a deep massage and strong compression of the parts of the body where endocrine glands are located. Many Yoga stretches seem to target the nerves in the legs, arms, neck, and spine.

Physical growth is directly influenced by the glandular system. It is a complicated process, and the powerful physical and mental effects of Yoga asans may interfere with natural growth.

How to Get Started

Consult your health care advisor on the type of yoga you would like to study and the frequency.  Based upon the response of the health care advisor proceed or do not proceed with the practice of yoga.

Namaste

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