We recently received an email from a reader who asked us to explain our position on Holy Yoga in light of several myths such as how Christianity was allegedly founded upon paganism, and how one’s intentions are all that matters when performing yoga. Hopefully, our answers were able to clear up some misinformation about this controversial topic.
Category Archives: Yoga
Should Catholics Perform Bharata Natyam?
Image courtesy of Wikicommoms images, Garvit Khanna CC BY-SA 4.0
TM writes: “I have a question to submit to you about an Indian dance called Bharata Natyam. I am of Indian origin, a practicing Catholic, and so is my family. . .
Is JOGA Different from Yoga?
GS asks: “I was wondering if you could tell me the difference between joga and yoga. Is joga safe or just a “wolf in sheep’s clothing”? It is being introduced into my child’s catholic school health program. I have warning bells going off in my head- should I be concerned?”
What Does the Church Teach About Yoga?
TV writes: “I had heard that Pope Benedict said that Yoga is not a sin in itself but the worshiping of our bodies is sinful. Is there more you can share about our Catholic Church’s teachings of yoga.”
Barre3 is Sneaky Yoga
GG asks: “I have heard that the Barre3 workout incorporates yoga. Is this true?”
Hot Yoga is NOT Good for Your Health!
In addition to the controversy surrounding Hot Yoga founder Bikham Choudhury, the health risks associated with this particular type of yoga are getting renewed attention after experts warn of its dangers.
Downward Facing: The Dark Side of Yoga (Part II)
This is Part II of a two-part series documenting the experience of Priscilla de George, a devout Catholic woman who thought she would be safe if she prayed to Jesus and Mary while attending yoga classes, and whose life began falling apart shortly after she started the practice.
Downward Facing: The Dark Side of Yoga (Part 1)
The “yoga wars” are hotter than ever, with both sides staking out their positions and hammering their tent pegs ever deeper into the ground, but for everyday people like 54 year-old Priscilla de George (not her real name), this isn’t a matter of taking sides – it’s a matter of life and death.
If the Church Christianized Other Pagan Practices, Why Not Yoga?
VV writes: “I’m a catholic school teacher and found out that some of my colleagues experienced yoga, Nia and QiGong. I informed them that this is new age and you can’t call up the demonic in the name of Jesus and make it okay. The truth needs to be told. Your thoughts?”
Disaster on a Yoga Mat
by Monsignor Stephen Rossetti
The woman in the story below wished to share her experience as a warning to others. She does not want others to “learn the hard way,” as she did…
