Weekly Journal Entry #7: Yoga as a Lifestyle and Culture

            Yoga as a "pop culture" is a new, evolving concept in the West. From what I have observed, yoga in the West is a physical exercise, a spiritual outing, as well as a lifestyle-altering practice. Yoga in the West comes with various connotations and stigmas, some of which we discussed in class. One area where yoga affects "pop culture" is in dieting fads. The stigma attached to the life of a disciplined yogi is that of a low-calorie, "clean" diet. Yogi's in the West assimilate themselves to the western culture of yoga that desires a slim frame and a lower body weight for better movement and flexibility. Many aspiring yogis beginning their yoga journey in the West start their journey wanting to be the stereotypical Western yogi, a skinny, fit human being with fantastic flexibility and range of motion.

           Yoga in "pop culture" has also changed the attire of people in the West, specifically women. It is my understanding that 20-30 years ago women weren't wearing yoga tights on a daily basis in public. Yoga has also started a fashion movement where women are comfortable wearing attire that is designed for yoga practice outside of the practice room. I think that this is important to note because yoga pants are not a popular thing to wear in public in other areas around the world, this is purely a western-centric concept.  

           The effects of yoga on the West are widespread. In a way, I am happy for the presence of yoga in the West as I feel that in moderation, it does promote a lifestyle that is far healthier than the lifestyle that most people in the West adhere to. I believe that yoga has many health benefits and these are being revealed at a faster rate now that yoga has gained popularity in the West. I believe that long term effects of yoga will include reductions in obesity, stress, and an increase in spirituality.