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What's the deal with yoga in the west?

Writer's picture: Marybeth JordanMarybeth Jordan

Yoga – a word that has become synonymous with serenity, flexibility, and a touch of the spiritual. But how did this ancient practice from the East find its way into the hearts and minds of the Western world? Let's dive into the fascinating journey of yoga in the West, unraveling the mysteries and truths that lie behind the practice that has captured the attention of millions. And ask ourselves why us westerners must try to put a competitive edge onto everything!


The Beatles' Role in Introducing Yoga to the West


"I, me, mine. I, me, mine. I, me, mine."  - George Harrison crooned these lyrics in a song that echoed the sentiment of individualism and the struggle to find inner peace. As a member of the legendary Beatles, Harrison was not just a musician but a spiritual seeker. Alongside his bandmates, he delved into the world of transcendental meditation, yoga, and Eastern philosophies. Their trip to India in 1968 introduced them to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and kick-started a revolution of sorts in the Western understanding of spirituality. You will find many eastern elements in the music they made at that time. The Beatles' influence on the young people of the day popularized yoga, making it more than just a practice but a lifestyle choice for many.


Yoga: Not a Competitive Sport


In a world filled with competition and comparison, yoga offers a sanctuary where the only opponent is ourselves. Unlike sports with winners and losers, yoga is a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement. There is no race to the finish line, no trophies to be won – just you and your mat, breathing in sync with the universe. In yoga, the goal is not to be better than the person on the mat next to you, but to be a better version of yourself than you were yesterday. We notice when western folks get ahold of things they apply their win or die philosophy to everything, but in yoga the irony is that its exclusive to the practitioner, theres no "i'm better at yoga than you! Lets let go of the ego and just have fun with it!


No Right and Wrong: Making Yoga Work for Your Body


One of the most beautiful aspects of yoga is that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Each body is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Yoga encourages you to listen to your body, to honor its strengths and limitations, and to adapt the practice to suit your needs. Whether you can touch your toes or not, whether you can hold a headstand or prefer to stay grounded – it's all yoga.we all have a human body, now just wiggle it around, and realize that'



s yoga too! The only rule in yoga is to make it work for your body, to find comfort in discomfort, and to embrace the journey, not just the destination. Theres so many styles of yoga that are available these days, hatha, yin, hot, ashtanga, to name a few. Just make sure you pick one that balances your lifestyle (this is an ayurvedic principle) and doesn't contribute to adding more stress.


Yoga: A Philosophy of Inner and Outer Peace


At its core, yoga is not just a physical practice but a philosophy that guides us towards inner peace and harmony. Through the practice of asanas (poses), pranayama (breath control), and meditation, we learn to connect with ourselves on a deeper level. Yoga teaches us to be present, to let go of the past and the future, and to find peace in the here and now. It is a path to self-discovery, a journey inward that leads to a greater sense of connection with the world around us. So for you yoga may be running, it may be meditation over a cup of coffee, it could also be a walk in nature. Only you decide what yoga is for you, nobody can tell you "that's not yoga"!


At the heart of yoga in the West lies a quest for something deeper, something more profound than just physical fitness. It is a journey towards self-realization, towards finding our true selves amidst the chaos of modern life. So, the next time you roll out your mat, remember that yoga is not about perfection or competition; it's about finding your own path to inner peace.



As you flow from one pose to another, let go of expectations, embrace what you think of as your flaws as unique reminders that you are you, and celebrate your progress with inner words of praise. Yoga is a mirror that reflects your inner landscape – let it guide you towards a place of serenity and balance. In a world that thrives on speed and noise, let yoga be your anchor, your sanctuary of peace in the storm. Namaste.

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