Yoga as a religious practice vs yoga as exercise
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Yoga as a religious practice vs yoga as exercise
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As a yoga instructor, I believe it's essential to understand the distinction between yoga as a religious practice and yoga as exercise. While yoga has deep roots in spiritual traditions, it has also evolved into a popular form of physical exercise in the modern world. Traditional yoga incorporates elements of mindfulness, meditation, and breathwork aimed at spiritual growth and self-realization. On the other hand, yoga as exercise focuses more on the physical postures (asanas) to improve strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. Both approaches offer valuable benefits, whether you seek a holistic mind-body-spirit connection or simply aim to enhance your physical health. It's important to honor and respect the origins of yoga while also recognizing its adaptability to meet the diverse needs and preferences.