Yoga


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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.

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.

A Day of Sadhana at the Minnesota Arboretum

A large yoga class from the viewpoint of inside the red bard
There’s something special about a full day of yoga. I recently had the privilege of practicing for an entire day at the Autumn Yoga Retreat at the Minnesota Arboretum. It was a full day of sadhana, the dedicated journey of yoga and self-discovery. Stepping away from daily distractions fosters deep self-reflection and connection, reminding us that nurturing our practice is essential for living fully. It’s such a joy to experience a day of practice and enjoy shared moments in nature.

Breathe. You've Arrived. A Reflection on Slowing Down at Kripalu

A sign with a brown backgroud and tan letters that reads Breathe. You've Arrived.

Last week, I returned to Kripalu, a place that feels like a home for my practice and personal growth. I arrived just after lunch, with a few hours before anything was officially planned. In years past, this would have been a green light for me to jump into “maximizing” my time — mapping out a hike in the woods, a stroll by the lake, and maybe squeezing in a class or two. But this time, I did something different. I did pretty much … nothing.

How I Teach to Focus on Reality in Yoga

a meditation bench in a room with lots of windows overlooking a marsh on beautiful sunny day
When you step into a yoga class, you might expect a focus on perfect poses or ideal wellness. However, I believe the essence of yoga isn’t about flawless postures or achieving a specific body shape — it’s about connecting with yourself and others in a meaningful way. It’s about investigating the nature of reality. This describes a few key aspects of my approach.

Discover the Best Types of Yoga for Stress Relief: 6 Science-Backed Options

yoga class with a diverse group of people standing in high lunge
Many styles of yoga have stress-alleviating benefits. Ultimately, what works best comes down to individual needs and preferences. This article explores six science-backed types of yoga that have helped me cultivate more peacefulness and ease: Kripalu Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, and Trauma-Informed Yoga.

Can Yoga Reduce Stress?

woman sitting at a laptop with her hands on her head staring at a screen
Yoga, an ancient practice originating in India, has evolved from a spiritual pursuit to a widely touted method for enhancing physical health. But as a 2023 global study of yoga by Yoga Alliance revealed, “stress relief” has replaced “flexibility” as the primary motivator for people to embrace yoga. But does yoga truly have the power to relieve stress? This article explores the role of breath control, physical postures, and yogic meditation for stress reduction, and offers practical tips for beginning a yoga practice for stress relief.
Yoga