Even though I stay well-informed about global events, including politics, and often discuss these topics in my personal life, I usually avoid bringing them into platforms I use for work, including social media, or blog posts, unless I feel it’s important. A conversation with a new friend, a fellow yogi and self-described “refugee from the US” reminded me that this is one of those times, and inspired me to share some thoughts. She expressed heartbreak over what she sees as the slow erosion of democracy and equality in her country and how many in the yoga community contributed to it. “That’s what hurts the most,” she said. I have to say I agree and am worried about the future.
Creating positive change is challenging in a deeply divided world where truth is no longer a matter of fact but a matter of opinion, twisted and manipulated to serve power and wealth. We are witnessing regressive politics fueled by division and hate, and it is certainly disheartening to see many in the yoga community voicing support for figures like Trump, whose actions and rhetoric promote environmental destruction, division, and hate, all ‘values’ fundamentally opposed to yogic principles. Unfortunately, this troubling dynamic is not confined to the U.S.; similar trends appear to be taking root in Europe. At a time when unity is critical to address global crises, such as the existential threat of global heating, communities, including yoga communities, are instead fracturing, with some gravitating toward extreme politics and/or beliefs. There are many reasons why this is happening, some of which I'll explore here, discussing this issue from both a philosophical and psychological perspective.
Yoga as a self-care tool rather than a path of self-transformation
Yoga, in its traditional form, encompasses a rich spiritual and ethical framework that goes far beyond physical postures. However, when yoga was introduced to the West, it was often stripped of these deeper dimensions and presented primarily as a physical discipline. Over time, this emphasis on asana (postures) became the dominant representation of yoga, with its spiritual and philosophical roots receiving far less attention. In the West, including the U.S., the commercialisation of yoga, driven by fitness culture, marketing, and consumerism, has further narrowed its focus to wellness, personal health, and well-being. The multi-billion industry (branded yoga gear, luxury retreats, boutique studios, etc) caters to a wellness-oriented audience, framing yoga as a self-care tool rather than a path of self-transformation. For many, yoga became a to de-stress, calm or maintain physical health, often sidelining the deeperteachings that require a deeper dive - introspection, study, and commitment to ethical practices. Unfortunatly, this has led to a significant disconnect between yoga's traditional values and how it is often practised in modern contexts. A core aspect of yoga is the transcendence of the ego—the false sense of separateness—to realise one's place as part of the whole. This deeply contrasts with ideologies that prioritise individualism and personal well-being over collective well-being.
Yogic vs. libertarian principles, or unity vs. individualism
Yoga is rooted in the philosophy of interconnectedness, and selflessness. These principles are expressed through practices like ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), karma and seva (selfless service), to name a few, which emphasise compassion, cooperation, and mutual care. Libertarian ideals, by comparison, often emphasise self-reliance, personal freedom, and minimal government intervention. These values prioritise individual rights and success, sometimes at the expense of collective welfare, and seem to have been fully embraced by many yoga communities. In extreme cases, this perspective enables a 'me-first' mindset, where achievements and survival are viewed as the most important endeavour. This focus on individualism is in satrk opposition with yoga’s foundational emphasis on unity, interconnectedness, and the responsibility. Yogic teachings stress that our happiness and well-being are intrinsically tied to the well-being of others and the planet. In contrast, libertarian ideals often ignore or downplay the systemic issues such as poverty, inequality, or climate change, that require collective action. While empowering in some contexts and important for personal growth, self-reliance and emphasis on self- (care, growth etc) can cultivate a mindset of isolation or detachment from social responsibility, which stands in a way of seeing the bigger picture and being a part of the solution. Furthermore, yogic teachings encourage compassion and caring for the vulnerable. Libertarianism, however, can sometimes justify neglect of those who are struggling by placing the responsibility on the individual.
Distrust of institutions and the appeal of populism
Many yoga practitioners are drawn to alternative lifestyles and holistic health, often stemming from a desire to question conventional systems and seek paths that align with personal values. While this tendency to explore alternatives can empower and promote innovation and personal responsibility, it can also lead to unchecked scepticism toward mainstream institutions such as the media, government, pharmaceutical companies, and large corporations. While some of this scepticism may be justified, due to legitimate concerns about corruption, misinformation, or profit-driven motives, unchecked scepticism can create a fertile ground for mistrust and rejection of credible information. When paired with a strong desire for autonomy and self-determination, this distrust can make individuals more susceptible to populist or anti-establishment rhetoric that claims to offer solutions but is, in fact, a 'wolf in sheep's clothing'.
Anti-establishment rhetoric often exploits people's fears and frustrations, framing complex societal challenges in oversimplified, emotionally charged terms, often resonating with those seeking alternative perspectives. The structure of social media and the algorithms which prioritise engagement over truth or different perspectives at least, further deepen this issue. Content that provokes strong emotional reactions such as fear, anger, or hope, is more likely to spread, reinforcing biases and limiting exposure to differing perspectives. This dynamic can make it difficult for individuals to critically evaluate information or recognise when rhetoric conflicts with ethical principles yoga teaches us to live by. This dynamic can lead people to align with movements or ideologies that, on the surface, appear to support freedom, independence, or sovereignty but may, in fact, conflict with those same values as well as unity, compassion, and collective well-being. Without critical evaluation, the desire to question the status quo can unintentionally give way to narratives that divide rather than unify.
The confirmation bias and the absence of critical thinking
Critical thinking involves the ability to evaluate claims, question sources, and recognise logical inconsistencies. In yogic philosophy, this is known as the principle of viveka (discernment), or the ability to distinguish between truth and illusion; an essential tool for navigating life’s challenges with clarity, and ensuring that one’s choices align with higher values of compassion, truth, and unity. Without viveka or critical evaluation, it is easy to fall into the trap of confirmation bias or accepting ideas that align with pre-existing beliefs while dismissing contradictory evidence. As already mentioned, political movements that emphasise personal freedom, sovereignty, or resistance may resonate on the surface but can conceal deeper contradictions that are quite obvious to many but hidden from some due to confirmation bias. In the absence of critical evaluation, emotionally persuasive messaging can, and often does, override reason. When confirmation bias is present, certain rhetoric resonates with unconscious needs and desires that stem from unresolved traumas, fears, insecurities, or a need for validation, aligning with narratives that reinforce existing beliefs or provide a sense of belonging. Thus, critical thinking is essential for minimising the effect of confirmation bias (something we all fall prey to sometimes) and distinguishing between legitimate concerns about systemic issues and rhetoric designed to manipulate or exploit those concerns. The lack of critical thinking can lead people to overlook the long-term consequences of their alignment with certain ideas, making them support policies or ideologies that undermine collective well-being. Therefore, critical thinking is not just a tool for evaluating information but a necessary practice for aligning one’s actions with deeper values and ethical commitments, and I dare say, an essential tool for anyone walking the spiritual path.
Yogis as guardians of truth, equality, and Mother Earth
As yogis walking the spiritual path of yoga, we are called to align our lives with the principles of compassion, truthfulness (satya), karma (greater good), and unity (yoga). Yogic philosophy reminds us of that our happiness and survival are tied to the welfare of others and of our home, Mother Earth. In times of division, misinformation, and environmental crisis, we must rise to defend truth, equality, and the well-being of all, not just through personal practice but through meaningful action. Being informed about societal and global challenges is not separate from the yogic path; it is integral to it. Avoiding these issues in the name of staying apolitical or comfortable risks undermining our deeper purpose. Because yoga also teaches us to face discomfort, challenge our biases, and transcend ego.
As my new friend said, it is heartbreaking to see members of the yoga community supporting values and actions that contradict the essence of yoga. Yet, this also presents an opportunity for reflection and change. By recommitting to the principles of yoga and engaging with critical thinking and compassion, we can bridge the gap between practice and purpose. Together, we can ensure that yoga remains a force for truth, unity, and the well-being of all.
