Congressman aims to cut free yoga for federal workers

WASHINGTON — A U.S. congressman has an idea how to lower the national debt and cut government spending.

He’s taking aim at yoga.

Rep. Matt Salmon, R-Arizona, recently introduced a bill that would eliminate grants for yoga classes at most federal agencies.

As we first reported last year, conservatives have said they don't have a problem with workers taking yoga -- just not on the taxpayer's dime.

Salmon said that his bill would reduce wasteful federal spending.

“We have to cut somewhere. It's just like a family budget,” said Salmon. “When you can't make your mortgage payment, you don't go out and buy a Picasso. It's just common sense.”

Salmon’s bill would not affect members of the military, veterans, or homeland security employees. “I think we have to ask ourselves every day what are our top priorities, and let's work down from there," he said. We need to start paying down the debt.”

“Is it worth borrowing against our children's future to pay for this program? And when I think about yoga classes for federal employees, the answer is a resounding no.”

Proponents of taxpayer-subsidized yoga say it raises morale, reduces stress and encourages productivity.

Michael Hall, who has taught yoga to federal employees for more than eight years, said it builds a workplace with more camaraderie, greater productivity and better attendance.

“They are in less pain physically and mentally,” said Hall.

In our reporting last year, federal agencies highlighted the health benefits of offering yoga. One agency spokesman said free yoga classes are a small portion of the overall budget.

Cox Media Group