Angie Lam, a Hong Kong-based Christian yoga instructor, shares her inspiring journey of healing, faith, and community building through the practice of Christian yoga. Her story highlights the transformative power of yoga combined with Christian faith, offering a unique approach to personal growth and spiritual connection.
Angie Lam’s Path to Christian Yoga
Angie’s journey began in 2008, during a challenging period marked by depression and suicidal thoughts. She discovered yoga somewhat serendipitously, taking over a studio membership from her sister. While the yoga classes provided a temporary respite, offering physical and mental space for positivity, it was her faith in Jesus Christ that ultimately broke the chains of depression. Recognizing the profound benefits of yoga and her newfound faith, Angie felt a calling to combine her passion for both into a career. In 2012, she began teaching yoga, with a focus on using her classes to glorify God and foster a sense of community.
Deepening Her Practice with Holy Yoga
Five years into her teaching journey, Angie felt a pull to deepen her understanding of Christian yoga. In 2017, she traveled to the United States to train with Holy Yoga, an organization dedicated to integrating Christian principles into the practice of yoga. This training equipped her with the tools to seamlessly weave biblical teachings into her classes, creating a unique and enriching experience for her students. Following her training, Angie was invited to become a Foundational Member of Grace x Strength (GxS), a platform that supports and encourages Christian yoga teachers in their faith journey.
Building Community Through Christian Yoga in Hong Kong and Asia
Angie is passionate about sharing the benefits of Christian yoga with people across Hong Kong and Asia. She envisions her classes as spaces where individuals can experience both personal growth and spiritual connection within a supportive community. Her focus extends beyond individual well-being, emphasizing the importance of togetherness and shared experiences in faith.
The Rewards of Connecting Faith and Fitness
For Angie, the most rewarding aspect of being a Christian yoga teacher lies in the sense of community it fosters. She believes in the power of shared experiences and the strength found in supporting one another. This philosophy aligns perfectly with the motto of GxS: “together is better.” As someone who has personally struggled with depression and found solace in her faith, Angie understands the importance of human connection and the comfort of knowing one is not alone. Her classes provide a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can share their experiences, pray together, and grow in their faith. Angie’s Christian yoga classes are not just about individual soul-searching; they are a testament to the power of community and the transformative potential of combining faith and fitness. She finds immense joy in witnessing her students leave her classes feeling replenished, both in mind and soul, strengthened in their faith and equipped to navigate life’s challenges.
The Power of Togetherness: A Biblical Perspective
Angie’s emphasis on community resonates with the biblical passage from Ecclesiastes 4:9-10: “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labour: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” This verse underscores the importance of mutual support and the strength found in togetherness, a core value reflected in Angie’s approach to Christian yoga.
What is Christian Yoga?
Christian yoga integrates Christian principles and scripture into the practice of yoga. It aims to deepen one’s relationship with God through movement, meditation, and prayer. While traditional yoga originates from Hinduism and Buddhism, Christian yoga adapts the physical postures and breathing techniques while focusing on a connection with Jesus Christ.
How does Christian Yoga differ from traditional yoga?
The primary difference lies in the spiritual focus. Traditional yoga emphasizes connection with a universal consciousness or higher self, while Christian yoga centers on a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Christian yoga often incorporates prayer, scripture readings, and worship music into the practice.
Is Christian Yoga suitable for everyone?
Christian yoga is generally suitable for people of all fitness levels and backgrounds. However, it is essential to find a qualified instructor who aligns with your beliefs and values. If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s always advisable to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
FAQ: Common Questions about Christian Yoga
Q: Is Christian Yoga a form of worship? A: For many practitioners, Christian yoga is a way to connect with God through physical and spiritual practice. While it can be incorporated into a personal worship routine, it is not typically considered a formal act of worship in the same way as attending church services.
Q: Can non-Christians participate in Christian yoga? A: Absolutely. Many people find the combination of physical exercise and mindfulness beneficial regardless of their religious beliefs. However, it’s important to be respectful of the Christian focus of the practice.
Q: Are there any denominations that discourage Christian yoga? A: Some Christian denominations have expressed reservations about Christian yoga, citing concerns about its origins in Eastern religions. It is important to research and understand these perspectives if you have any concerns.
We encourage you to share your questions and experiences with Christian yoga in the comments below. Let’s continue the conversation and explore the intersection of faith and fitness together.
