Religion: Myth #2
May 05, 2010 
Carrisa 
In my family, no holiday gathering was complete without an afternoon of Politics & Religion. Especially, when my Pepere was watching the news, which was always. LOL Outside of these wonderful family gatherings, I have learned not to discuss these two subjects in public. However, I do want to clarify Myth #2. Yoga is a Philosophy, not a religion. Got it? Good.
For many of us, when we think of Yoga, beyond the postures and breathing, we start to wonder about the ‘Chanting’. Is that a religious thing? Nope.
Sometimes chanting can make a Yogi a bit uncomfortable; especially if they’ve never studied Sanskrit (the first language of Yoga). Some chants may refer to Sages, who are knowledgeable guides. Dunno about you, but I think most of us could use our own personal Sage. 
For some folks it can be spiritual, but it is not necessarily religious. Chants are most often words of inspiration or Mantras. If you are participating in a Yoga class, feel free to ask the teacher for the translation.
Why this myth? Since Yoga comes to us from India, sometimes people of different Faiths get a wee bit squirmish as Buddhism and Hinduism are the popular beliefs. Yes, there are some thoughts in Yoga that coinside with some of the inspirational aspects of Eastern religion, but these words can come from anywhere. Sometimes they come from religious leaders, like the Pope or Gandhi. Other times they are thoughts that have been used by leaders such as Martin Luther King or Abraham Lincoln. No matter where it comes from the purpose is the same, to inspire. Enliven us to be happier people, live better lives, and just be kinder to ourselves and everything around us, no matter what our Religion may be….
Om Shanti’ Shanti’ Shanti’
Om Peace Peace Peace
Namaste’
Carrisa
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