Yoga

TOL understands that gross motor movement is a wonderful tool that can be used to increase strength and stamina of all participants. Yoga is growing in popularity in American culture. The roots of Yoga are found in non-Christian religious practices. Americans may view Yoga and Stretching as synonymous, but it is the position of TOL that Yoga is an extension of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The following considerations are the policies surrounding Yoga.

• Physical stretching is accepted and encouraged.
• Meditative prayer in the spirit of Christian Mysticism is acceptable.
• The term “Yoga” must be avoided.
• Common yoga positions must not be used when describing non-yoga stretching techniques (ie. downward dog, lotus position.)
• Any physical activity that involves stretching and calming must not be called Yoga. It can be called cool down time, stretching, movement time, or another creative term.
• Programs that use Yoga must be avoided or get pastoral approval before being incorporated at the facility.