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Standing with Coffee

white coffee mug with the stick figure in tree pose and the words yoga guy below

My first silent meditation retreat with Triple Gem of the North in March 2017 was a formative experience in my life. That weekend in Janesville, Minnesota was the first time I truly felt what it was like to live the practices of yoga and meditation throughout the day. Not just on the mat or cushion, but in the quiet, in-between moments that fill the day.

Transgender Day of Visibility Is a Call to Action for Everyone

The words Transgender Day of Visibility with a hand waving blue and pink ribbons

On March 31st, we recognize Transgender Day of Visibility. This day isn’t just a celebration. Today is a reminder of our shared responsibility to foster a world where everyone can live openly and authentically. It’s a chance to reflect on the lives and contributions of transgender individuals and acknowledge the challenges they face.

It’s more than a symbolic gesture. It’s about standing together, fighting for the right of every person to express who they are and live authentically.

Silly Poses, Serious Benefits

Someone with long curly blonde hair and a hoodie laughing

Do you ever have one of those really long belly laughs? The kind that leaves you nearly breathless, brings tears to your eyes, and makes your cheeks and abs sore? It’s the kind of laughter that can set the tone for an entire day, make your steps a little lighter, your smile a little quicker to appear, and a feeling, if only brief, that the world is going to be just fine. Those are great, aren’t they? Well, it turns out they’re actually pretty beneficial, too!

Revolutionary Love and the Heart of Yoga

a white line on a purple background that includes a hand and a heart
This week, I had the privilege of hearing Valarie Kaur speak, and her message resonated deeply. It felt like a yoga class without the mats. She reminded us that yoga is more than movement; it is union, truth, and action. Through the lens of revolutionary love, we are invited to see this moment not as an ending, but as a new beginning. How can we embody love in action, both on and off the mat? Let’s explore the connection between yoga and the radical, transformative power of love.

Finding Strength in Community

A group of people around a Lake Fellowship sign at The People's March in 2025
These days it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of bad news and mounting pressures. But what if the antidote to stress isn't avoidance but connection? Building and nurturing community can help you navigate these challenges and bring more peace into your life. By finding strength in each other and placing Love at the heart of our actions, we can support not only ourselves but also those who need it most. Let's dive into how you can show up for your community, support marginalized groups, and create a space for hope in troubled times.

The Antidote to Our Fear

lots of unitarians standing behind a side with love sign in front of the mn capitol
Amidst the chaos and challenges of the world, I've been striving to spread positivity and put my yoga into action. From rallying for the Minnesota Equal Rights Amendment to participating in the People's March and receiving the fantastic news of my oldest child's acceptance into a PhD program. These moments have been filled with hope and joy. But even in joyful times, fear still creeps in. In this blog post, I explore how yoga and meditation help me navigate fear and embrace love and compassion.

Seva in Action: Answering the Call for Justice and Equity

A large sea of people at the Minnesota capitol for the Women's March 2017
Discover the essence of Seva, a Sanskrit term for selfless service, as it intertwines with the practice of yoga and the call to action for justice. This week, join me (and many others) at two significant events in Minnesota: welcoming legislators at the Capitol and participating in the People's March in Saint Paul. Show up in solidarity for justice, equity, and the greater good, embodying the spirit of Seva both on and off the mat. Let's unite in mindfulness, presence, and intentional service, contributing to the collective good without expecting anything in return.

Acts of Inclusion, Waves of Change

A rainbow colored sign with the words all are welcome here on a window at The Marsh
In a world that can often feel divided, small acts of kindness and inclusion can make a big difference. Inspired by Stephen Cope’s concept of "Indra’s net," which reminds us that each of us plays a part in the interconnected web of life, this article reflects on the power of simple gestures like a welcoming sign, inclusive language, and community-driven change. Whether in a yoga studio, a faith group, or the wider world, every action ripples out, creating a more compassionate and just world. Small as they may seem, these efforts are part of something much bigger—and together, they add up.

Resisting Hate with Yoga and Sound Healing

Minnesota Arboretum Fireplace Room with lots of people in dragon pose. Matthew is sitting in the front of the room playing harmonium with 3 big windows behind him.
Resistance isn’t always bold and loud. It can also be found in quiet moments of self-care and connection. Reflecting on a childhood shaped by protests, this article explores how yoga and meditation can cultivate upeksa (equanimity) to face hate with clarity and compassion. Discover how creating intentional pauses and meaningful connections can empower us to build a world where justice and love prevail.

All Are Welcome Here

a clipboard on a door with the words all are welcome here
In a world where it can feel overwhelming to make a difference, small, consistent actions rooted in kindness and inclusivity matter. The Unitarian Universalists (UUs) recently took a powerful stand for transgender, nonbinary, and intersex communities. You can make a difference too. Simple steps, like posting an “All are welcome here” sign, adding pronouns to your email signature, or wearing rainbow colors, show respect and solidarity. These small gestures create change, just like ripples in water.