Answer: For many Christians in the West who don’t understand the history behind it, yoga is simply a means of physical exercise, strengthening, and improving flexibility of the muscles. However, the philosophy behind yoga is much more than physically improving oneself. It is an ancient practice derived from India, believed to be the path to spiritual growth and enlightenment. The word “yoga” means “union,” and the goal is to unite one’s transitory (temporary) self with the infinite Brahman, the Hindu concept of “God.” This “God” is not a literal being, but is an impersonal spiritual substance that is one with nature and the cosmos. This view is called “pantheism,” the belief that everything is God, and that reality consists only of the universe and nature. Because everything is God, the yoga philosophy makes no distinction between man and God. Hatha yoga is the aspect of yoga that focuses on the physical body through special postures, breathing exercises and concentration or meditation. It is a means to prepare the body for the spiritual exercises with fewer obstacles in order to achieve enlightenment. The practice of yoga is based on the belief that man and God are one. It is little more than self-worship disguised as a high level of spirituality. The question becomes, “Is it possible for a Christian to isolate the physical aspects of yoga as simply a method of exercise without incorporating the spirituality or philosophy behind it?” I don’t believe so. Yoga originated with a blatantly anti-Christian philosophy,