Traditionally a form of spiritual self-discipline, and developed centuries before Christianity, yoga has been a popular way to exercise in the West for over 100 years.
Since 2006, Christians who may have felt the Hindu-based practices were mystical or un-Christian, have had a more orthodox way to practice. A Minnesota woman named Brooke Boon developed an international non-profit ministry in 2006 called Holy Yoga, which has over 850 instructors nationwide; many in Central Texas.
Class activities are fairly standard across the board, except Holy Yoga classes include prayer, Scripture and primarily contemporary Christian music.
Yoga has been shown to be good for arthritis, trauma survival and mental clarity, among other things. Locally, there are six locations for classes; the closest is in the Lake Forest Neighborhood in Round Rock and class types are many and varied. Beginning with infants 0-2 to Seniors. There are gentle classes to work on postures and breath up to dance and power classes with a lot of movement and stretching. Some include weights or are adaptable for those with special needs or who want to use a chair.
Round Rock instructor Monica Bovinich says, “There is a lot of science behind yoga and how it affects the body. The exercise and meditations help the body release endorphins and create positive energy that reduces stress and anxiety.” Bovinich says she really likes the breathing exercises, which help her outside of class to prepare for and fall asleep.
“You can do yoga anywhere and even if you’re not a Christian, it is about self control, patience and grace. Feeling goodwill toward others and generating positive thought helps bring bodies closer to healing.”
Some Christian leaders have criticized the group, saying yoga and eastern meditation are pagan and can’t be Christian just because people chant “Jesus” instead of “Om.” But many who practice holy yoga are content to know that God created everything, including yoga.
To find your class and location, many of which are at local churches, visit HolyYoga.net/studio/find-a-class. Bovinich holds classes in several locations in Round Rock but is able to create classes where the students are; she has held classes for 5-8 students in private homes. “I would love to have a community center or a church where I can introduce new people to the class and encourage them toward body awareness, stronger faith and overall wellness.”
For something whole-istic, yoga is an easy way to start a new regimen. “We start and end in prayer and it’s a great environment where you’re protected and getting healthy in Spirit.”
