Will yoga’s explosive growth equal bad karma?
July 28, 2008 by Susan Watiker
Filed under Fitness
I read some impressive business statistics about yoga while doing research over the past couple of days.
Based on the average expenditure made by those of us who practice yoga, it has become a $27 billion dollar business. It is estimated that about 18 million Americans alone now practice yoga at some level.
Wow. I am very happy for all of us who practice, teach it and believe in it. Still, when I see numbers like that, I wonder if the growth is really going to translate into something totally positive for everyone. I am going to err here on the side of believing it will.
There is a growing discussion in the yoga community as to whether or not this growth decries the basic beliefs that those serious about yoga try to adhere to, not the least of which is a life grounded in simplicity.
Do we really want everything yoga subject to corporate sponsorships, for example? Is yoga really something that should make us monetarily rich, as opposed to more spiritually prosperous? Won’t the former corrupt the latter?
Well, I can see that being an issue. However, I think the growth in awareness and the expansion of yoga is a very good thing. If it means that millions of people who were previously unaware of the benefits of yoga and how it could enrich their lives now are, then I say that’s fabulous.
For those of us who take it very seriously, the spirit of yoga will continue to live on beyond the noise created in the marketplace. We know who we are and why we are engaged in our practice. And for those who become genuinely involved and find their lives are enhanced by yoga as a result of this explosion in popularity, even better, welcome aboard.
However, the first time I see “this yoga seminar sponsored by So-n-So Mart,” I’m sorry, but I am going to have to organize a protest. Seriously, let’s not go there.
I’ve been starting to wonder the same thing, myself. Whenever something like this become mainstream we tend to lose sight of the real meaning behind it.
On the other hand, an increased spread of yoga WILL benefit the people who do really believe in it and all, so maybe we can look past the potential drawbacks and see that it is helping a lot of people who practice it.
I recently read a story that was similar to this about how yoga is becoming more and more commercialized, and it is a valid arguement. I mean really, is yoga about the cute capris, mats and bags? Or do those things inspire people to practice regularly? It’s kind of good and bad, right? So yea, I’m on the fence on that one.
However, I have noticed a lot of classes in clubs that try to take the spirtual side out of yoga. Without that, can you even really consider it yoga? Or is it just stretching?
Okay, I just opened another can of worms. Susan, feel free to comment or ignore entirely. lol.
I have only done Yoga a few times so far so I’m not sure I have full grasp of the meaning behind it yet. As far as a “workout” I think it is very beneficial.
I know part of the goal is to clear your mind and connect with your body, but honestly I’m just trying to not fall over :) for now anyway.
when i first saw the title of this, I thought it was going to be about Self Mag’s recent article on yoga injuries skyrocketing. I haven’t even thought about the possibility of corporate sponsorship of major yoga events. It’s tough b/c on one hand, it’s so great that more and more peeps are using yoga (even kids now! Dogs too!) but then it has been getting way overcommercialized and slick. ironic considering it’s all about balance, huh?