Some Christians argue that yoga is a religion designed to create oneness with Brahman, Hinduism’s concept of god. Far from the personal deity of Christians (as well as Jews and Muslims), Brahman is a spiritual substance, an impersonal being that simply exists. The most ardent opponents have even claimed the practice is the work of the devil.

It is true that Hindus use the meditation, breathing exercises, and physical yoga workout in their religious traditions; however that doesn’t necessarily make yoga a religious practice. Even some Hindu purists contend that yoga is strictly religious and the practice cannot be separated from Hinduism.

Yet other observers note that Eastern religions use yoga as a way to become closer to their deities, much like people of many other faiths, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, use prayer to get closer to God.

In fact, some Christians have adopted yoga as part of their religious practice. For example, practitioners in a Christianity-based yoga program might chant the name “Yahweh” or “Jesus” during mediation. The instructor might lead the group with scripture, prayer or Christian reflections.

Yet yoga itself is not a religion, according to the American Yoga Association. There is no fixed creed, prescribed deity or religious organization. As practiced by most people in the United States, it’s a way to create a more healthful lifestyle that includes better strength and increased flexibility as well as better stress relief. Yoga and yoga workout is practiced by people of many faiths and beliefs.

When you take a yoga class, the instructor may ask you to recite a chant or say a word, typically in the Sanskrit language (which is an ancient language of India.) Again, don’t hesitate to ask what the word means. While you’ll find that most of them aren’t religious in nature, if you are uncomfortable with a chant, substitute one of your own. For example, you might chant a word like “God,” “Jesus,” or even a relaxing sound.

When you attend yoga classes and do your yoga workout at the local fitness center or “Om” along with a yoga DVD, you’re more likely to find a way to create balance in your mind and body rather than, as some anti-yoga advocates argue, a gateway to hell.