Clash and Synthesis of the Spiritual Traditions of the East and the West
Yoga Science & Spirituality June 30, 2026 Bojana Artinovska
Spirituality is a broader concept than religion, philosophy, or science, centered on self-knowledge and inner transformation. Eastern traditions generally accept multiple paths to spiritual realization, fostering tolerance and dialogue, while Western traditions often show stronger exclusivist tendencies and less openness to alternative viewpoints. Historical contacts between Eastern and Western cultures, including exchanges among philosophers, spiritual seekers, and travelers, occurred long before the modern introduction of yoga and contributed to the transmission of ideas. Greater awareness of these historical interactions and shared spiritual aspirations may promote mutual understanding, intercultural respect, and a more inclusive approach to spirituality.