What is the relationship between Yoga and Chanukah?

By Reisha Golden

Yoga means union.

Chanukah is the time of bringing union between G-d's graciousness and man's

ability to give back this graciousness to the world.

Let me explain:

Historically, the story of Chanukah is about when Judah the Maccabee reclaimed the Temple in Jerusalem and rekindled the Menorah that stood in the Temple. The pure oil he found in the Temple was expected to last one day but it lasted eight days instead. This miracle suggests that G-d's presence could only dwell in this physical structure of the Temple when it was clean and rededicated to be used by those who served him.

Where does G-d dwell today as we no longer have a Temple in Jerusalem?

According to the Jewish mystics, G-d now dwells within every human body.

We can allow more of G-d's presence to fill our bodies by being like the Menorah in the Temple. According to Rabbi Isaac Luria (the Ari), the purest oil was used to kindle the Temple Menorah. This is akin to G-d filling us with his presence. But the wick and the flame -- those represent our body and soul, respectively. The flame can be dim or light up a room. The more kindness we bring to the world and the greater our humility - knowing that everything we give and have is from a greater source - the more brilliant the light.

As you practice yoga postures, imagine that your body is a vessel like the Menorah with a wick in its center, able to receive divine energy (olive oil) and in turn use that energy to do good in the world (flame). So that with each pose, allow yourself to strengthen and stretch your divine consciousness - both as a receiver and as a giver - and to really experience the deeper meaning of Chanukah.