A new book by certified yoga instructor Linda Carl examines the spiritual risks associated with yoga, particularly for Christians, arguing that many practitioners are unaware of its deeper meanings and connections to Hindu spirituality.
Washington, D.C. — On May 11, Linda Carl, a certified yoga instructor and author, presented her latest book, “Yoga Unveiled: My Spiritual Journey from Darkness to Light,” at the Catholic Information Center in Washington, D.C. The discussion centered on the perceived dangers of yoga, which Carl argues are often overlooked by both practitioners and religious leaders.
Over the past two decades, Carl’s life has been heavily influenced by yoga and various New Age philosophies. Initially drawn to yoga as a form of exercise and mindfulness, she became a certified instructor, immersing herself in practices that she now views as problematic. After a profound personal transformation, Carl distanced herself from yoga, citing a spiritual encounter that prompted her to reevaluate her beliefs.
“I got swooped into the seduction, and it wasn’t until I fully removed myself from yoga that I was able to even begin to understand what I was deeply involved in,” Carl stated during the event. This personal journey led her to research the spiritual origins of yoga, ultimately culminating in her book, which she describes as a tool to help others navigate the complexities of yoga’s spiritual implications.
Understanding Yoga’s Roots
Carl emphasizes that many yoga practitioners may not fully understand the origins and meanings of the practice. She posed critical questions such as, “What is yoga?” and “Where did it come from?” According to her, yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning “to yoke or to unite,” and she argues that this union is not with the Judeo-Christian God, but rather with the Hindu concept of Brahman.
“It’s not the God revealed in the Bible,” Carl explained. “Scripture cautions us not to be yoked to unbelievers. Christians, on the other hand, yoke to Christ.” This perspective positions yoga as a form of Hindu spirituality that can open individuals to what Carl describes as occult practices, potentially leading to negative spiritual consequences.
The Dangers of Misinterpretation
Carl warns that the terminology and practices associated with yoga can be misleading. She cites her own experiences during teacher training, where the meanings of Sanskrit terms were often not explained. For instance, she refers to a breathing technique known as Ujjayi breath, which translates to “snake”—a term that she believes carries significant spiritual implications.
Highlighting the Kundalini yoga practice, which she views as particularly dangerous, Carl explains that it involves awakening a serpent-like energy at the base of the spine. “We know who the serpent is, right?” she remarked, drawing parallels between this concept and biblical themes of temptation and evil.
Yoga as a Gateway to New Age Ideologies
In her book, Carl explores how yoga serves as a gateway to broader New Age beliefs, such as astrology, crystals, and numerology. She argues that these ideologies can effectively replace traditional religious beliefs, leading individuals away from a connection with God.
“The New Age is an ideology that essentially replaces religion, which essentially replaces God,” she stated. This assertion raises questions about the spiritual paths that many individuals may unknowingly pursue through yoga and other New Age practices.
Clarifying Misleading Concepts
Carl asserts that the language used in yoga practices can create confusion, particularly for those who may lack a strong foundation in their faith. She provides an example of how the term “spirit” is often discussed in yoga contexts, which she argues can mislead individuals to misunderstand the nature of spirituality.
“It’s the snake spirit, not the Holy Spirit,” she said, indicating that the terminology can obscure the true nature of the beliefs being practiced. This point underscores the importance of discernment and understanding in matters of faith and spirituality.
Conclusion: A Call for Awareness
Carl’s insights present a compelling call for awareness among Christians and others who practice yoga. She advocates for an informed understanding of the spiritual dimensions of yoga, emphasizing the need for clarity in distinguishing between various belief systems. “Spirituality has to be tethered to something, and if it’s not tethered to God, then it’s tethered to something not of God,” Carl concluded.
As yoga continues to gain popularity around the world, discussions like Carl’s may serve as a critical reminder for practitioners to consider the spiritual implications of their practices. Her book aims to equip readers with the knowledge necessary to navigate these complex issues, urging them to approach yoga and similar practices with caution and discernment.
