Abstract
CHAITANYA CHARAN DASA reflects on his transformative journey from atheism to Bhakti yoga, exploring the evolving dynamics of yoga within the broader Vedic tradition, and its interaction with other spiritual paradigms, particularly Christianity. Initially skeptical of both self-help literature and the modern postural yoga movement, he grew to appreciate their potential as entry points to spiritual growth, especially in Western outreach contexts. Drawing from his decades-long practice of Bhakti yoga and cross-cultural experiences, he addresses the tensions between universality and specificity in spiritual practices, critiques cultural misappropriations of yoga, and examines the phenomenon of "Christian Yoga" as a microcosm of broader interfaith and intercultural dialogues. Dasa proposes that yoga, as both a practice and a philosophy, can serve as a bridge to higher consciousness and spiritual unity when approached with integrity and inclusivity, fostering a deeper connection to the Divine across traditions.
Recommended Citation
Charan Dasa, Chaitanya
(2025)
"VIEWPOINT ARTICLE: Postural Yoga: A Bridge or a Barrier to Spiritual Growth?,"
Journal of Hindu-Christian Studies:
Vol. 37, Article 7.
Available at: https://doi.org/10.7825/2164-6279.1883
