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Group Theoretical Perspectives Yoga
Introduction
This paper consists of the symbolic interactions, conflict theory, and
functionalism of yoga. It will talk about components of each theory and which theory
works the best. It will show how people think of yoga and the affect it has on society.
You will see different people’s opinions and attitudes toward yoga. There are
inequalities that exist in yoga that will be recognized.
Symbolic Interaction
There are stereotypes that go around about yoga only being for women and
those women have to be thin and in good shape; also, that the people who do yoga
have to be flexible to be able to do yoga these can be considered as the labels put into
yoga. The attitudes given by people can be either positive or negative. There are people
who might not think that it’s a workout, but there are others who enjoy doing it because
it eases their mind (Wilson).
Functionalism
There are two different types of functions: manifest and latent. There are also
dysfunctions. People can go to yoga and intend to lose weight, get healthy, and lower
their cholesterol (Palsson). They can also expect to relax, lengthen their muscles, and
meditate (Bauman). Some unintended things that can happen while at yoga can be
making new friends. The dysfunctions of yoga are that it’s time consuming; people have
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to pay to take yoga classes, there can be an instructor who gives out instructions that
are really confusing for the people.
Conflict Theory
The conflicts with yoga could be that a person might not be able to make it to the
scheduled class of yoga because of another commitment. Or a person could have a
disability that prevents them from being able to do yoga. The instructor might be a rude
so it’s hard to try and communicate with him/her. The inequalities would be that some
people might have connections to take yoga classes for free. There could also be
people who are just naturally better at yoga, maybe their more flexible.
Pros and Cons of each Perspective
Some of the good qualities of Symbolic Interactionism are analyzing how society
expects things to be and how we act within that expectation. It shows how people think
about the subject or views and how society creates the stereotypes we have. The cons
of Symbolic Interactionism are that it focuses on the attitudes and thoughts of people
and doesn’t really show the benefits or consequences of the actions.
The pros for Functionalism can consist of; how each thing connects to one
another and how well everything works together and brings the good to society. It also
goes more in depth of the situation and the background or history. The disadvantages
can be how it only focuses on how every part is tied together and not very objective in
thinking.
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Conflict Theory shows what problems can occur in society and shows where the
power is and those that are oppressed. It also show who is directly involved in
situations and if there needs to be a change the events. The negative for Conflict
Theory is that usually focuses on the bad and doesn’t explain why it is needed for
society or how society can change.
Best theory
The theory that best describes Yoga fitting into our society and the expectations
that most people have about Yoga is Functionalism. It shows how Yoga benefits
people, it is a type of exercise that helps the body stay healthy and the mind stay
emotionally positive (Walker). It also provides many latent functions that many people
would never realize but after a while they feel the effects. They are mostly health
factors that may increase your libido to having more energy to making friends (Wilson).
The dysfunctions are not harmful to surrounding people, mostly to self. You may get
hurt during a class session or just not have enough money or time to continue classes.
Conclusion
No matter how you look at Yoga, it is beneficial for society. It helps people have
more of a variety of choosing an exercise program. It is also very healthy in many ways
including general health, emotional, body chemistry, and disease prevention. People
who do Yoga love and enjoy the benefits they receive. It is a good way to feel younger
and enjoy a longer life.
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Works Cited
Bauman, Alisa. "Is Yoga Enough to Keep You Fit?" Yoga Journal. Yogajournal.com. Web. 19 Mar.
2012. <http://www.yogajournal.com/practice/739?print=1>.
"Celebrity Yoga: Is This Just a Fad?" Famous People Who Do Yoga and Effects on Practicing Yoga.
Yogadelights.com. Web. <http://www.yogadelights.com/yogadelights-articles/celebrities-andyoga.php>.
"Info on Celebrity Yoga Used by Various Yoga Celebrities." Yoga Techniques and Techniques From
Experts. Yogamiracles. Web. 19 Mar. 2012. <http://www.yogamiracles.com/yogaarticles/celebrities-that-do-yoga.htm>.
Palsson, John. "Article Doctor - Health and Fitness Articles." Hidden Benefits Of Yoga.
ArticleDoctor.com, 12 Dec. 2008. Web. 19 Mar. 2012.
<http://www.articledoctor.com/yoga/hidden-benefits-of-yoga-470>.
Walker, Meredith. "77 Surprising Health Benefits of Yoga." Nursing Schools : LPN RN BSN MSN :
Online Nursing Degree. The Nursing School Catalog. Web. 19 Mar. 2012.
<http://www.nursingdegree.net/blog/24/77-surprising-health-benefits-of-yoga/>.
Wilson, Hugh. "The Hidden Benefits of Exercise." MSN Arabia News, Music, Movies, Careers, Autos,
Sports, Finance and More on MSN Arabia. MSN Arabia: Lifestyle. Web. 19 Mar. 2012.
<http://arabia.msn.com/lifestyle/healthandfitness/tips/2010/november/hiddenbenefitsofexercise/t
he-hidden-benefits-of-exercise.aspx>.