Exploring the Controversial Legacy of Yoga and Fascism

In a reflective piece published in Dagens Nyheter, Leonidas Aretakis delves into the intricate and controversial connections between yoga and fascist ideologies, as outlined in Stewart Home's provocative book, 'Fascist Yoga'. Aretakis recounts a personal exploration of breathwork, a fundamental element of yoga, which has roots in California's 1970s wellness movement, but has evolved in Northern Europe to become a staple in modern practice.

Home's narrative casts a shadow on the popular perception of yoga, tracing its historical trajectory back to figures like Pierre Bernard and Gabriele D’Annunzio, who infused yoga with dangerous ideologies and questionable practices. Aretakis highlights how Bernard's associations with dubious activities and D’Annunzio's nationalist fervor complicate yoga’s legacy. He raises critical questions about whether contemporary practitioners understand the potentially manipulative roots of their beloved practice.

Despite the unsettling revelations, Aretakis posits that yoga's inherent benefits are significant and should not be overshadowed by its controversial past. He concludes that while legitimate concerns exist regarding yoga’s appropriation by certain political movements, the practice itself can foster health and well-being, urging a more nuanced understanding of its cultural significance.