Is Yoga a Religion?

Yoga is an ancient practice that has gained global popularity for its physical, mental, and emotional benefits. However, one question often arises: Is Yoga a religion? This question has sparked discussions among practitioners, scholars, and religious communities alike. Perhaps we can begin to gently unravel the religious vs. secular debate as we take a brief look at the contrast between Yoga’s ancient origins and its modern-day applications.

The Origins of Yoga

Yoga traces its roots back to ancient India, emerging more than 5,000 years ago from a cultural philosophy we now connect to the present-day religion of Hinduism. This original philosophy was practiced by one of the first large civilizations on Earth (which probably emerged slightly after Mesopotamia and the Egyptians). These gentle people lived along the Indus River in the Indus valley and practiced Sanatana Dharma which translates “Eternal Truth.” I can’t imagine that religion as we know it today was present in their society. But a spiritual way of living – an Eternal Truth - was. According to Sri Swami Satchidananda (as stated in his book The Living Gita at page vii):

Even today in India this philosophy is known simply as Sanatana Dharma, and not as Hinduism. The word Hindu is incorrect. That label appeared only when foreigners came to India, saw a beautiful culture around the Indu Valley and started calling the people of that area “Indu.” Later it became Hindus.

These early people who later became known as Hindus simply practiced this way of living to promote the wellbeing of individuals as well as their society as a whole.

The earliest mention of Yoga appears in the Rig Veda, one of the oldest sacred teachings from the Indus River people. The other 3 Vedas followed along with the Upanishads and various other teachings. But it was Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras which laid the foundation for modern Yoga practices. Interestingly, the Yoga Sutras are not specifically tied to any religious belief but rather provide specific instructions in a rather scientific manner.

A few words from Sri M’s book entitled Yoga Also For The Godless at page 11 may be helpful:

[e]xcellence in yoga, the science of expansion of consciousness and achieving freedom from limitation, has nothing to do with one’s personal beliefs, religious or otherwise. It depends entirely on the step-by-step practice of the methods described in the yoga texts and guidance of a proper and authentic expert.

Therefore, while Yoga is deeply embedded in Indian spiritual traditions, it is not confined to one religion or to religion at all. Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism have all incorporated Yogic principles, yet Yoga itself predates these religions. And, as Sri M points out, the profound benefits of Yoga are also available to atheists and agnostics. This universality that we find in modern-day Yoga simply rests on the universal application of the original ancient Sanatana Dharma as a way of life: to calm the mind, free our thinking of burdens and disturbances, thus finding the pure mind of tranquility.

Yoga as a Spiritual Practice

Yoga is often associated with spiritual growth and self-realization. Many traditional forms of Yoga, such as Bhakti Yoga (path of devotion) and Jnana Yoga (path of wisdom), emphasize inner transformation and connection with the divine. The chanting of OM, meditation, Yogic breathing techniques called Pranayama and ethical principles (Yamas and Niyamas) all have spiritual connotations. However, spirituality does not equate to religion. While modern day Yoga encourages self-discovery and mindfulness, it does not require the worship of a deity or adherence to religious doctrines.

Modern Yoga: Secular and Inclusive

In today’s world, Yoga has evolved beyond its ancient spiritual roots. Most Western Yoga classes focus on Hatha Yoga, emphasizing posture, breath control and relaxation techniques. Many people practice Yoga purely for fitness, stress relief, or mental clarity without engaging in its spiritual aspects.

Yoga is also embraced in secular spaces, including schools, workplaces, and healthcare settings, where it is taught without religious undertones. Scientific studies highlight its benefits for physical health (lowers blood pressure, increases flexibility, coordination and balance, and reduces arthritis pain and back pain), and mental health (reduces stress and anxiety, fosters a calmer mind and increases an overall sense of well-being). Indeed, there is no doubt that Yoga is beneficial and accessible to people of all beliefs.

Religious Concerns vs. Secular Interpretation

Some religious individuals view Yoga as incompatible with their faith due to its historical ties to Hinduism and spiritual practices like meditation or chanting. Sometimes, this has led to controversies, particularly in schools and public institutions, where concerns over religious influence arise. On the other hand, many individuals argue that Yoga is what you make of it - whether it’s a spiritual journey, a physical workout, or a meditative practice. Yoga does not require belief in a specific deity or religious framework, which makes it adaptable to various lifestyles and philosophies. Yoga is truly available to all bodies and all ages, as well as compatible with all cultures and all beliefs.

Conclusion: Yoga Is What You Make of It

So, is Yoga a religion? The answer depends on how the individual views it. While its origins are spiritual, Yoga itself is not a religion - it is practicing a peaceful way of living. Whether you see it as a sacred path or a fitness routine, Yoga remains a powerful tool for self-improvement and well-being.

Ultimately, Yoga is a personal journey, and its meaning is shaped by the individual who practices it.