Malaysians no longer allowed to practice Yoga

Huummmm… Have you ever tried a Yoga class? Chances are big you have, as Yoga is quite popular these days. It is promoted as the ultimate way to relax after another hectic day in modern life. With a few easy exercises, you train your body and empty your mind of your stressful thoughts…

Sounds good? That’s not what Malaysia’s top Islamic body thought, as they declared Yoga haram last Saturday. Haram is the Arabic term for “forbidden” and used to describe anything a good Muslim shouldn’t do. They reportedly based their decision on “the religious elements, chanting and worshipping,” which they see as an integral part of yoga. Seasoned yoga practitioners defied this statement, saying that it doesn’t have to be religious if you don’t want to.

Although the NFC’s advice is not binding, the Muslim two-thirds of the country is likely to oblige. Egypt has already made a similar ban on yoga back in 2004.

Not all Muslims agree though. “To come out with a fatwa is an insult to intelligent Muslims. It’s an insult to my belief,” said a Muslim who has practiced yoga for 10 years, as reported by msnbc.