Yoga Journal #8

 November 3, 2021

Yoga Journal #8

Yoga has no clear or true definition. However, it is defined in my practices as a way of being and staying healthy, creating a beautiful body, and a spiritual experience. Yoga has evolved over the years to fit the needs and appeal to consumers in the west, creating modern postural yoga. 

Becoming and or staying healthy is strongly connected to the BKS Iyengar yoga we practice earlier in the semester. Creating and having a beautiful body was connected to most group practices such as BKS Iyengar yoga, Ashtanga yoga, and Bikram yoga. Essentially all yoga practices can be considered spiritual but are completely dependent on the practitioner. 

These connections are made outside of the practice and how most westerners perceive yoga. Consumer culture had a huge influence on the beautiful body concept of yoga through magazine publications and celebrity advertising of the practice. Yoga is also associated with a health outside of the practice, also thanks to consumer culture in selling healing energy items such as crystals, herbs, and jewelry. Spirituality of the practice is also identified through consumer culture and ritual practices giving meaning to objects that are found in and outside of the practice.