Why Is Yoga So Misunderstood In America?

Before the Beatles discovered the Maharishi, and before our friend and artist Peter Max brought Swami Satchidananda to America, where he opened the Woodstock Festival, Yoga was relatively little known in the US. Now, cross-legged Yogis can be seen in adverts for everything from computers and credit cards to herbal teas; major newspapers and magazines carry stories on the benefits of Yoga with tips from famous film stars, and in our local post office, on the wall behind the counter, fliers advertising Yoga classes hang next to overseas postal prices. But with this popularity has come some misunderstanding, as Yoga was never intended for commercial gain.

At the same time, Pope John Paul II declared that chanting OM may cause moral deviations and warmed Christians against the spiritual dangers deriving from practicing Yoga, that "the body postures can even become an idol and thus an obstacle to the raising up of the spirit of God." Where meditation is concerned, the Vatican warned that to give any symbolic or mystical significance to sensations of well-being from such a practice can lead to ''a kind of mental schizophrenia which could also lead to psychic disturbance and, at times, to moral deviations.''

We first discovered such misunderstanding in a small church in England, where we found leaflets describing Yoga as evil, devised by Satan, and leading to ones downfall. We can only hope that Benedict XVI will see through this irrational delusion and open the door for greater understanding and tolerance.

Another misconception about Yoga is that it is basically Hinduism. (BTW, you must be born a Hindu and cannot convert.) Although Yoga has it's roots in Hinduism, Patanjali, the well-known Indian sage, and other great Yogis took Yoga beyond religious confines. When Ed trained at the Bihar School of Yoga in India, his teacher taught how Yoga is a way of life that relaxes the body, calms the mind and emotions, and frees the spirit. The word Yoga means to yoke together, or the union of mind, body and spirit. As everyone, of any religion, can be stressed, Yoga can be of benefit to all. It is made up of many different aspects, all of which support an attitude of personal self-enquiry. These include: Karma Yoga (selfless action); Bhakti Yoga (love, kindness and compassion); Jnana Yoga (reflection and insight); and Raja Yoga (eight limbs that include ethics, intention, Hatha Yoga, meditation and Self-Realization).

But these misunderstandings are only a part of the picture. For there is also a big disconnect in the way Yoga is taught in America, from how it was developed and is still taught in India. This is partly because, when anything moves from one country to another, it tends to adopt the culture of the new country. Hence we now have a form of instant Yoga, similar to fast food, although perhaps a little better for you!

In general, Americanized Yoga is misunderstood as being Hatha Yoga, or primarily about postures, and has been glamorized as being for weight loss and looking good. This is fine as the postures are particularly beneficial, but it is a bit like having a tiny slice of delicious pie and thinking you have the whole pie. There is so much more pie to go, as traditional Yoga is a whole way of life that enables us to deepen our understanding of the whole of ourselves.

Rather than learning to perfect extreme postures, we learn how to deal with our mind and emotions, as well as our body, and to develop a powerful connection with our inner selves. Ultimately, this leads to Self-Realization, the discovery of our peaceful and true nature, free from ego identification. As Yoga Master Swami Satchidananda said, Yoga is standing on our feet, not just on our head.

There are other differences between the Eastern and Western approaches. One, in particular, struck us when we were invited to teach at a Yoga conference in Pondicherry, India. In India, it is mostly men who practice Yoga, while in the US we find mainly women practitioners. Deb had to explain this when she was teaching a room full of male Yoga students, who found it very hard to understand. Yet Isaac, the manager at our local gym, told us that many men see Yoga as 'girlish.'

Yoga is a way of raising our conscious out of a negative or self-centered preoccupation. Ed experienced this when he went to India in the late 60's, when the hippie revolution and the Beatles were making going to India the hip thing to do. Once there, it seemed to him that everything was in reverse. Where Yogis see life from the inside-out, American's tend to see life from the outside-out. We also over-identify with the body as who we are. Yet we are so much more than this, and there is great joy in this realization!

What does Yoga mean to you? Do you have a story to share? Do leave us a comment. You can receive notice of our blogs every Thursday by checking Become a Fan at the top.

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Ed and Deb Shapiro's new book, BE THE CHANGE, How Meditation Can Transform You And The World, Forewords by the Dalai Lama and Robert Thurman, with contributors such as Marianne Williamson, Michael Beckwith, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Jane Fonda, Gregg Braden, Byron Katie, Ed Begley, Ellen Burstyn, Jack Kornfield, Seane Corn, Dean Ornish, Russell Bishop, Andrew Cohen, Gangaji, Linus Roache and others, will be published November 3rd 2009 by Sterling Ethos. Deb is the author of the award-winning book YOUR BODY SPEAKS YOUR MIND. Ed and Deb are the authors of over 15 books, and lead meditation retreats and workshops. They are bloggers for Intent.com, corporate consultants, and the creators of Chillout daily inspirational text messages on Sprint cell phones. See: www.EdandDebShapiro.com
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Comments

[Jonahson]

pt.2 In case other religions have fear of conversion checkout Goenka’s speech here;
In summing up Mr. Goenka quoted the Emperor Ashoka who in one of his Rock Edicts said, "One should not honor only one's own religion and condemn other religions. Instead, one should honor other religions for various reasons. By so doing one helps one's own religion to grow and also renders service to the religions of others. In acting otherwise one digs the grave of one's own religion and harms other religions as well. Someone who honors his own religion and condemns other religions may do so out of devotion to his religion, thinking, 'I will glorify my religion'; but his actions injure his own religion more gravely. Concord is good. Let all listen and be willing to listen to the doctrines professed by others." As for Yoga I think there won’t be a shortage of yoga teachers here I am sure. Maybe formulate a standard Yoga practice.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Jonahson- thank you very much for both pt. 1 and pt.2 they are compassionate comments

we all are here to be of service and to help eliminate the ignorance that causes suffering.

as usual you are doing your part to bring understanding where it is needed.

Much Metta,

Ed

[Jonahson]

pt1 Here’s a suggestion on the practical use of Yoga and Meditation for prisoners. It help prisoners to maintain a healthy mind and body. It also help them to realize their wrong doings and become a better person. Err… one draw back is people may purposely break the law to get free yoga and meditation lessons in prisons.
NS Goenka once came to New York to speak on "Millennium World Peace Summit" at the United Nations World Headquarters in New York in 2000. I don’t know how many of you remember him, he is a master in Vispasaana Meditation. He had also taught meditation in prisons and the results were fantastic. Check this out http://www.prison.dhamma.org/tihar.htm.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Goenka is well known for his retreats and his work in prisons. I have many friends who have done his 10 day Vipassana Retreats. They are known for their intensity and people just seem to love them.
Deb and I have taught in England at Gaia House a Buddhist Vipassana Center in the South west. We led retreats at Gaia House for a good few years.
Vipassana or mindful meditation is a brilliant way to understand how the monkey mind works.
Our new meditation book will be published Nov. 3rd 2009 it is called:

BE THE CHANGE
How Meditation Can Transform You And The World

Forewords by the Dalai Lama & Robert Thurman

Contributors - Marianne Williamson, the Karmapa, Sylvia Boorstein, Jack Kornfield, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Byron Katie, Jane Fonda, Roshi Joan Halifax, Russell Bishop, Ellen Burstyn, Ram Dass, Ed Begley, Seane Corn, Richard Freeman, Bernie Glassman, Lindsay Wagner, astronaut Edgar Mitchell, Ganagaji, Kaythlyn and Gay Hendricks and others.

Joyfully,

Ed

[Donna Lee]

Ed an Deb You are both so awesome!!!! Thank you so much for your book "Your Body Speaks Your Mind" It was a bleesing to meet both of you this weekend and to get to know you both. You are welcome and part of our family!!!!!!! We love You!!! Donna and Billie Lee

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi Sweet Billy and sistah Donna Lee- Deb and I loved teaching at the Edgar Cayce Center in Va. Beach this past weekend and being with you all.

Everyone came together and we were able to touch each others hearts.

we look forward to our next meeting.

Big Love,

Ed

[jake106]

Yoga has no historical context in western culture as a whole. This doesn't mean it isn't practiced, but the entire discipline stems from Eastern philosophical/religious practices and as a result, doesn't make sense to most westerners.

That doesn't mean it that Americans can't become more understanding of the practice over time, but I seriously doubt that it will ever be "mainstream". At least, not for many many more years. First, the population base of the nation would have to change from predominately Christian to...something else. That is possible, the dynamics of America's population growth are always changing and it is a known fact that the number of practicing Christians is decreasing. However, there is more to it than that. It isn't just enough to say, "Oh well now that we aren't all Christian, people will accept/understand yoga!" There must also be more education on the subject. A public face to yoga, if you will.

That is why people like the Shapiro's are so valuable. Besides their own knowledge on the subject, they are a couple that can be pointed to as an example. "See...practicing yoga doesn't make you a mystical swami." Millions, probably billions, of people practice yoga on a regular basis. Eventually the practice will take further root in America also.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi jake- That's for your comment and sharing your point of view-

Yoga is becoming more and more mainstream than most people think. I am amazed when I see programs on T.V. (even like CSI Miami/CSI NY- Law and Order (where our friend Linus Roach is the Star) that Yoga has come into the story at times. It is in commercials etc.

Yoga should not be misunderstood as having to do with religion. Yoga is a science even an art. It has transcended all limitations.

As I have trained with Indian Masters religion was never an issue. If anything I am an Undo- I undo it all.

Treasure yourself,

Ed

[jake106]

Ed,
I've been studying daoism for several years now and it has given me a little bit of understanding that I didn't have before.. Believe me when I say that I DO mean a LITTLE. Before I began to study the dao, I would have thought yoga was a form of meditation that belonged to a religion. Buddhism's version of the Stations of the Cross, so to speak. I doubt I was alone in that misconception.
I've learned much since then, but I like your definition as being an Undo. I've been Undoing myself for two years, at least. It's an amazing process and I hope to one day follow your example and study with true Master's of the practice. Semper,
Jake

[Eli Davidson - Huffpost Blogger]

Dearest ed and Deb,
The ancient wisdom of yoga and the yoke of mind. body and spirit is the foundation of the personal growth movement. Note that it is called the personal growth movement.We practice shifting our focus from lack to abundance. from judgment to compassion much like the way the yoga postures we practice,

Blessings to you,
Eli avidson

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Gorgeous Yogini Eli

Love it when you comment- Your blogs inspire me!!!!

Your comment is spot on-

There is so much to learn

We should all remember and maintain- the following

Zen Mind Beginners Mind

Ed

[LyssaBarnes]

Most people are too afraid and lazy to accept anything that welcomes them to look inside.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

LyssaBarnes- Great point and there is much truth in that

But with Loving Kindness, Patience, Wisdom and Compassion

We can serve as an example

Yes We Can

OmBama,

Ed

[PresidentRobertBooth]

Most Americans don't even understand evolution, and you expect them to understand yoga?

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

PresidentRobertBooth- You crack me up!

Ya know ya gotta start somewhere.

We just have ta be patient.- it is a virtue.

We just need ta trust.

Enjoy the journey,

Ed

[pfairMSW]

I am a fan of yoga and believe it is beneficial to our overall heath and daily life functions. Although I am a novice and have not practiced yoga in some time, with my graduate studies behind me I plan to rejoin a class at my favorite yoga studio very soon. My eagerness to begin yoga comes with the belief that it will increase my flexibility and that it connects the body, mind and spirit as one.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

pfairMSW- thanks for your comment- I am happy to hear you are eager to get into Yoga- it will offer you whatever you put into it

Yoga is vast and allows you to expand your vision- your health and your goodness.

Joy in Yoga,

Ed

[Janice Taylor - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi Ed & Deb,
I know you are on the road teaching until Sunday night. I look forward to reading your replies to the great comments when you return! Janice

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi Janice- That you for being you. Your wisdom is classic

We had a great weekend in Va. Beach where we were teaching

YOUR BODY SPEAKS YOUR MIND

everyone told us they loved how Deb and I teach and bring humor into together.

It was a fabulous weekend.

People were delightful.

Ed

[froggie]

Such a wonderful post, thank you Ed and Deb.

I am always surprised when I attend a class in Yoga here, in United States, how it is so often focussed on the postures, the asanas, and so little on the breath.
Everyone is different, has a different rhythm, and in general since you immediately start to calm down as you get into a yoga session, it is always fun to see class here treated as an aerobic class.

Thank you again, namaste ! :))

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hey froggie- thanks for your comment

That is why it is very important to chose a good Yoga teacher

You can often tell about a tacher by they way they treat people in their class and their approach to yoga
are they warm, kind caring and loving- it is important for a teacher to be present- and to be in the presence
Yoga is a great gift to humanity,

Be happy,

Ed

[Restructured]

I too have been disappointed at how poorly understood yoga is in this country.

I have been practicing yoga for 15 years or so, with only an occasional nod to hatha yoga. My principal practices are meditation, self enquiry and offering service to my guru at my local meditation center.

Though the Catholic Church may not think much of yoga, I consider yoga to be sanctioned and practiced within their very organization. I was recently reading from the writings of St. Teresa of Avila regarding the stages in the practice of contemplative prayer.

Her book The Inner Castle, (a.k.a., The Mansions), is, in my reckoning, a manual on Christian yoga. The practices and interpretation are fully Vatican approved, but in essence this book is a guide to the stilling of the modifications of the mind, ideally resulting in transformative union with the Absolute.

Namaste.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Restructured- Brilliant- Thanks for your comment and your understanding

It is so interesting when someone like you can point our this info

Christian Yoga how cool.

I have met some pretty amazing Evangelicals who were so kind and caring and loving and were truly Yogic in that their lives were dedicated to service of other- Karma Yoga

We are on human family- we are different-- how boring if we were all the same

Joy in Yoga,

Ed

[Kari Henley - Huffpost Blogger]

Great post!
A sad statement to our American cowboy style shallowness that yoga here is all about the right bod for women and not about the true purpose of tending the inner life.

I wish more men could take on yoga, they would feel so much better. I am amazed at how well children take to it- they just plop into poses in nothing flat and love it!

Always fun and always thought provoking!
Love
Kari

[Dharma kate]

I'd like to defend American yoga against the charge of 'shallowness', presumably a conclusion brought about by the emphasis on asana (postural) practice within much of American yoga.

Here's something to consider. According to US govt statistics, two-thirds of American adults are overweight and almost one-third are obese. To me, this indicates a major disconnect between mind and body. Volumes could be written on the nature of this disconnect and its causes, contributing elements etc but let's keep this basic... 2 out of every 3 American adults has a disconnect between body and mind that is evidenced by the fact they eat more food than is required for them to maintain life.

So if we're dealing with that defined population, where would be a good place for them to start the journey to sva-tantra (self-mastery)? Asana (postural) work helps heal this mind/body fracture. It brings awareness of the body into conscious thought.

I don't see this as shallowness. I see this as healing. What's the sense in telling someone to breath deeply if the intercostal muscles are so tight that they can't properly expand the chest? People need to walk before they can run. So, let's all be patient with American yoga because the body work IS important.

[Pema]

wonderful response kate. very well said.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Dharma Kate, Thank you for your thoughtful & compassionate response- What you are saying is spot on!

But there is the other side of it as well- as you are well aware- (dharma) it would be great if there was more Yoga education and even if we could bring Yoga into public schools- the movement and breathing and Yoga Nidra (which I have taught in schools and prisons) is wonderful and sooo beneficial.

When we have a gift such as Yoga we who know want to share it!

Ed

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi Kari- Thanks for your comment-

There is so much to be larned about with Yoga!

I would like to see it in public schools as it is so beneficial to kid with the ability to concentrate

I have taught Yoga Nidra to a school teacher who taught it to his class and they were much more focused

Tara Guber teaches Yoga in schools.

Love your blogs Kari

Big Hugs,

Ed

[sonoffestus]

Continued from my post below...................I believe the growth of yoga is an offshoot of how unhappy and disconnected people are with themselves and others. It is an attempt to connect with themselves and others on common ground.
Unfortunately, for many it becomes just another gym routine and the greater connection is never made, but then they do look good in their lululemon!

I am now working for a major food retailer serving cheese, fine pasta,and charcuterie. I work for little pay, but am surrounded by good co-workers and in most cases lovely clients. I removed myself from the management position that I had started with 4 weeks ago. I have found that most major corporations manage for mediocracy and this company did nothing to change my mind. I now aspire to being a "cheese buddha" serving my well heeled and lululemon dressed guests.

The cheese buddha says; peace to all and in these difficult days remember......Do not trip over what is behind you."

I hope this note finds you both well.............SOF.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

SOF - Great to hear from you and the news about your work progress- life is so interesting and full twists and turns of new experience-

we never know what is in front of us-

i love your statement.

Do not trip over what is behind you."

remember - don't let your karma run over your dogma

Enjoy the journey,

Ed

[sonoffestus]

Hi Ed and Deb,
It's been a while. I really enjoyed this post and can't tell you how appropriate it is for me. I have never believed that one must tie oneself in knots or control one's breathing to find focus and clarity of thought, though I understand yoga is way more than this. Though these elements may aid one in reaching whatever one is searching for; inner peace, compassion and love can be found through a variety of pursuits.

My yogis are the people whom I have contact with everyday. They bring me a greater understanding of myself and the world. There are those who make direct positive contributions to my well being, and those who dwell in negitivity. The latter may be the best yogis of all as they shine a light on a path I would rather not travel. I find it unfortunate that their unhappiness reinforces my well being, yet only they can find their peace. Maybe I should recomend a yoga class? LOL!

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Namaste sonoffestus- so happy to hear from you!

I appreciate your comment- you are spot on in your understanding

We have so much to larn from everyone- those we meet and those that create difficulties for us-

we do learn so much about ourselves fro the naughty ones -

hen we have self respect and dignity and are at peace within - no one can disturb our peace

Joyfully,

Ed

[davidwayneosedach]

I admit my ignorance on the subject. But after reading this article I'd be willing to give it a try.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

davidwayneosedach- it's really worth a try

Yoga is a great gift to us all- as we clearly state it's not a religion - rather it is a way of being kind to your self.

to have a healthy body - a clear mind and a joyful spirit is everyone persons birthright.

I have been involved with Yoga my whole life (since I was 23) and couldn't have been luckier and happier- because of Yoga

Joyfully,

Ed