MUIS says Muslims can practise yoga for health, physical benefits
Posted: 28 November 2008 2131 hrs

	Photos  of

SINGAPORE : The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has said Muslims can continue to practise yoga solely for its health and physical benefits, while ensuring that their Islamic faith is properly observed.

MUIS issued this statement to clarify its stand on yoga in response to media queries.

MUIS said the Fatwa Committee had issued a religious ruling in 1984 which explained that Muslims are not allowed to practise yoga if it contains elements of rituals and beliefs of other faiths, such as recitations, as these practices are non-Islamic and are no longer a physical exercise per se.

MUIS reiterated that Muslims should be well informed and conscious of all aspects of any form of mental or physical exercise, so as to distinguish between its physical and religious expressions.

MUIS said such an approach is applicable to all aspects of Muslims' religious life, where it allows them to practise their faith comfortably and confidently.

It added that Muslims are encouraged to put in effort to preserve their mental and physical health at all times. - CNA/ms