How to do non-yoga stretches

If you’re like me, you find yourself rationalizing things you know aren’t good for you more often than you might care to admit, including in your spiritual life. For some, yoga falls into this category. While Western culture isn’t as up to speed on Eastern medicines and skincare, we have fully embraced yoga. We always hear how relaxing and healthy it is, but the truth is, yoga is not simply stretching. 

No matter your reasons for engaging in yoga, the practice is deeply rooted in a religion. The Himalayan Yoga Institute emphasizes that in order to be an effective yoga teacher, one must embrace the yoga lifestyle. They disagree that yoga is only a form of exercise; “it provides a spiritual way of life designed to unite us with the whole of existence.” 

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) created an entire campaign entitled Take Back Yoga specifically to emphasize yoga’s roots in Hinduism. In 2008, HAF wrote a letter to Yoga Journal, outlining their frustrations of inaccurate descriptions of Gita, an ancient Hindu scripture that references yoga as a foundational part of the religion, and ancient Sanskrit texts that are the philosophical backbone to Hinduism called Upanishads. The national health and wellness publication responded. Their excuse? They avoid the word “Hinduism” because it “carries too much baggage.”

Catholics value tradition. Understanding the background and tradition that informs any activity we undertake is important. That is true for just about every activity we undertake, including our exercise routines. 

Your body is a temple… of the Holy Spirit

We are called to be good stewards of our bodies. After all, Corinthians 1-6:19-20 says, “You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” Stretching is a great way to limber up your body, keep flexible, and prevent injury before exercise. Here are some stretching exercises you can do at home without the worrisome spiritual roots of yoga.

Neck and side stretch

1. Sit crossed-legged on the floor. Sit up straight and tilt your head toward your right shoulder.

2. Then, extend your left arm out to the side and gently reach with your fingertips to the left.

3. Continue to lean your head to the side, but this time let your head move up and down at a 45 degree angle. 

4. For a deeper stretch, gently place your right hand over your ear, leaning your head to the right side.

5. Repeat on your left side. 

Across the middle

1. Sit down and extend both of your legs, each to their respective side. 

2. Round your back, and extend your arms forward. Try to lean your core and head toward your hands. If you are unable to place your forehead on the ground, stack your hands while making fists, and rest your forehead on your hand. 

3. Repeat. 

4. For a deeper stretch, extend your hands to each leg and side of your body.  

Tuck and Roll

1. Lay flat on your back. While bending your legs, bring your hands behind your knees pulling your legs to your chest. 

2. Maintain a flat back, and gently rock back and forth from side to side. Be sure to continue to breathe. 

3. Repeat

Number Fours

1. Lay flat on your back, cross your left leg over your right.

2. Place your hands around your hamstrings, pulling your legs toward your body. 

3. Repeat.

Want to pray with the Word while you stretch, check out this video. Looking for a quick routine? Click here.