How can yoga be incorporated into Christian spiritual practice? (aka What is Christian Yoga?)
Meghan's yoga classes use the same postures and poses as traditional/secular yoga to strengthen the body and improve flexibility and balance. We learn in scripture that the body is the temple of God, so it’s important that we take care of it! Yoga is also a wonderful way to relax and de-stress. While secular yoga ends with the physical benefits of yoga, her classes incorporate scripture, prayer and Christian meditation taking the practice beyond the physical and into the spiritual. A chance to rest and relax in God’s presence, thanking God for the miracle of life and the opportunity to move and breathe in our amazing bodies while getting centered with Christ.
Isn't yoga Hindu?
The practice of yoga is a physical methodology, not a theology or a religion. The methodology pre-dates Hinduism and the other Eastern religions that use yoga. While we are mindful and respectful of the centuries-old connection between yoga and ancient Eastern traditions, yoga can be practiced as part of any religion or no religion at all.
How do I know I’m not worshipping other gods when I’m practicing yoga?
Worship is all about intention. You can’t worship any gods without intending to. Just as you can eat bread and drink wine without taking communion, you can do yoga without worshipping Hindu gods. In Christian yoga, we intentionally worship the Triune God: Creator, Christ and Holy Spirit. For more information about yoga as a Christian spiritual practice, please visit the Christians Practicing Yoga website.
When are the classes?
Tuesday 11:00 am: Gentle
Thursday 3:00 pm: Chair
Chair Yoga: mostly sitting in a chair, some standing with chair to assist for balance
Gentle Yoga: mostly lying/sitting on the floor, with some standing postures
Flow Yoga: a bit more of a workout than gentle
Open to the public. Please join us!
*Due to lack of participation, Wednesday 6:00 a.m. class is on indefinite hiatus. We will re-asses interest in the class after Lent, so please let us know if you would like to participate.
Following a first trial class (no donation requested) participants are invited to support this ministry with a sliding scale suggested donation of $12-$35 per 6 classes or $2.50-$5.50 per "drop-in" class. Checks may be made out to "First Presbyterian Church" with "yoga" in the memo line. Church family already contributing financially to First Presbyterian are encouraged to discern your ability to contribute further. No one will be turned away for lack of donation. See Meghan for further details.
|