P.o.W'er Yoga: Plurality in Yoga

"What is Yoga Philosophy?"  To reduce all the areas of influence under the singular term, "Yoga Philosophy," is an oversimplification which leads to distorted impressions in current practice. 

Following on the conclusions of current Yoga scholarship, and evident in the teachings and writings of traditional teachers, Yoga is far more multi-faceted than what most curricula suggest. Far from being a diverse collection of practices which share a similar goal, Yoga reveals such similar practices that lead to a multitude of vastly different goals. 

The contemporary period is no different and has brought the various Yoga practices into contact with previously unrelated streams of thought and populations. This means that a singular understanding of "Yoga philsophy" no longer describes the lived experience of Yoga practice today.

During this online discussion I am happy to present some of my research into the religious and spiritual diversity present in modern Yoga, how different identities relate with Yoga's history, and suggest some progressive ways of thinking about Yoga's future.