r/yoga
Which aspects of Yoga is religious?
This is Ashtanga Yoga Tech Support. Real questions from the yoga community, answered.
The Question
* what aspects of yoga is tied to religion I loveeeeee yoga and I really want to really dive into it, but the religious aspect is holding me back a little, for context I'm Muslim (24F). edit: I know yoga isn’t a religion, but it takes a lot from hinduism and Buddhism I think, like saying om and chakras ( kindly correct me if I’m mistaken) I want to really invest in the practice and learn about the history (at which I am completely open to learning about the history of the religious aspects) …
— via r/yoga
Our Response
You're right. Yoga comes from Hindu philosophy. The chanting, the Sanskrit, the references to Patanjali—it's all there.
But here's the thing. Ashtanga is a physical practice. You're learning postures. Breath control. Where to look.
The philosophy behind it? Universal stuff. Pay attention. Don't harm people. Be honest. Let go of what you can't control.
You don't have to adopt Hindu beliefs to do that.
The om? It's a sound. The bandhas? They're physical techniques.
You can practice Ashtanga and stay Muslim. Lots of people do.
What I'd say is this: learn the history. Understand where it comes from. Respect it. Then decide what serves your practice and what doesn't.
If chanting om feels wrong, don't chant. If the closing mantra crosses a line, bow out early.
The practice works because of what you do with your body and breath. Not because you believe in Shiva.
Take what helps. Leave what doesn't.
Not sure where to start?
Chat with the intake assistant — tell it about your practice and it’ll point you to what fits.
Talk to the Intake Bot →
Discussion
or explore Student Union