While having lunch, I overheard the next table discussing about Yoga. This, no doubt, captivated my attention. One Chinese lady asked if Yoga is related to religion. The other Indian lady replied no. According to her, although it originates from India, Yoga is more of a cultural practice. I did not agree with this answer of course. If Yoga is a cultural practice in India, why do we not see majority of the Indian households practicing Yoga?

The practice of Yoga may have nothing to do with religion but the practice has indeed been quoted in the Hindu scriptures. The next question to ask then is "What is religion?" Is it not a collected set of beliefs that people are brought together with?

I would say that Yoga is more of a self-awareness or self-discipline practice. It has the essence of spirituality that every being would aspire for regardless of their religion to develop concentration, discipline, one-pointedness, patience, confidence and tolerance. 

So no. Yoga is not about the propagation of any religion or culture but the growth of one's inner self. When the element of the mind is properly controlled, the quality of health and life would invariably improve. This is the reason why Yoga is such an important element in the practice of Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Medicine). Practitioners know that the Mind is the ultimate determinant of all physical conditions and experiences.

Have an inspiring week ahead.

Love and light, 
Genevieve