Your Yoga Alliance

Info Session: Join Yoga Alliance’s Boards of Directors
2025-08-06 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Passionate about advancing the yoga community? Join us Wednesday, August 6th at 12 PM EST for an informational session about serving on our Boards of Directors (2026-2028 term). Connect with CEO Shannon Roche, Board Chair Jo-Ann Bance, and board member Chantelle Diachina to learn about the impact of board service, key responsibilities, and our application process. This collaborative session, led by Board Governance Manager, Kevin James Karas, includes time for your questions about the Board and application process.
Please join us and discover how your voice can help shape the future of the practice.

In Remembrance of Our Dead
2024-10-09 12:00 - 13:00
To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in the tradition of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), we will respectfully build an ofrenda (offerings placed on an altar) and dedicate our sadhana to our beloved who are deceased.

Designed and led by Daniel Hickman (he/him), we’ll intentionally use this time as an homage to our ancestors, dearly departed friends, and perished animal companions.

We welcome everyone to create their own ofrenda, or Día de los Muertos altar, to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of their loved ones who have departed. The altar serves as a celebration of life, honoring the joy, spirit, and cherished memories of those who have passed with love and remembrance.

Learn more here: Dia de los Muertos Symbols and Traditions

Class will begin and end with chanting. Asanas will include mobility, flexibility, core stabilization and static strength to move us through the six directions of the spine. We will then make use of pranayama to enter stillness in dhyana in remembrance of our dead.

Chants: rhythmic repetitions of a song, prayer, word, or sound. In yoga, sound is seen as healing and sacred.
· Bija Mantras (short one syllable word chanted aloud or silently to cultivate concentration, mindfulness, and a state of meditation.)
· Om Mani Padme Hum (mantra that encapsulates the core teachings of compassion and wisdom and is said to represent the path to enlightenment.)

Pranayamas: Ancient breathing techniques that involve controlling one’s breath using different styles and techniques

· dirgha (known as “three-part” breath; this technique consists of slow and deep breathing, filling up the chest, abdomen, and clavicular regions. Its benefits include prolonged breathing, stress reduction, increased inner focus, and connection of the mind, body, and breath.)
· surya bheda (known as right nostril breathing; a technique that consists of inhaling through the right nostril and exhaling through the left.)
· chandra bheda (known as single nostril breath, or left nostril breathing; a technique which involves blocking the opposite nostril, typically done in a seated position at the end of a yoga practice to calm and cool the mind and body down.)

The class will end with a brief question and answer session led by Nana Amoako-Anin (she/her), Ghanian-American seasoned yoga teacher, E-RYT 500, YACEP, and owner of Bliss Yoga Accra.

Items to bring: yoga mat, blanket, blocks, meditation cushion and… items to decorate our ofrenda in a way that connects you to your dead loved ones. Be it flowers, food, pictures, clothes, textiles, even books, jewelry, flowers and candles.

“Freedom from & Freedom to” Flow
2024-08-21 12:00 - 13:00
The word freedom comes from the English word FRĒODŌM , a state of emancipation, liberty, or free will. This word is composed of: free or “FRĒO,” indicating an exemption from something and “DŌM” is a suffix in Old English indicating judgement or condemnation.

Designed and led by Nana Amoako-Anin, this practice carves out space for us to explore FREE-dom. Freedom from elements of life that are blocking our progress. Offering us space to experience joy.

Going deep into movements for the FREE-body, this vinyasa flow class is a mix of heart-openers and grounding poses. This practice will begin with contemplation and reflection about what freedom means to each of us. We will ponder how our self-beliefs may prevent progress. The practice will encourage openness and release.

The class will end with a brief question and answer session led by Rodrigo Souza (he/him), Adaptive & Accessible Yoga Teacher and founder of Allihopa Yoga.

Items to bring: yoga mat, yoga block, and journal

Community Class | Our Presence Has Purpose
2024-07-31 12:00 - 13:00
Celebrate Disability Pride Month and join our online seated adaptive and accessible yoga class. This event is Adaptive which means it will allow you to adapt all the movements to your own wonderful and unique body, and Accessible because it’s open to the entire community — disabled and non-disabled folks alike. Disability both diminishes and magnifies, and we will wholeheartedly celebrate the diversity of the human experience. You’ll be invited to inhabit your body gently and kindly through breath, movement, music, awareness, and meditation—a genuinely nourishing, intimate, embodied experience with your Self.

Props: If you do not use a wheelchair to travel the World, we kindly ask you to show up with a sturdy chair and a few props.

Info Session | Join Yoga Alliance’s Boards of Directors
2024-07-09 14:00 - 15:00
We believe that if more people practice yoga, the better the world will be. Yoga Alliance has released its 2024-2030 Strategic Plan and we are now looking for individuals to join Yoga Alliance and Yoga Alliance Foundation’s Boards of Directors. In this info session, you will learn what it means to serve on the Boards of Directors, roles and responsibilities, details about the application process, and more.

This event is moderated by Kevin James Karas, Board Governance Manager at Yoga Alliance.

Community Class | Pride and the Pursuit of Progress
2024-06-26 11:15 - 12:15
Be like the moon. Show up in the world regardless of what phase you’re in.” As the LGBTQIA+ community celebrates Pride month in the United States, join your Yoga Alliance community for a multi-faceted all-levels practice including asana, pranayama and meditation. Washington, D.C based yoga teacher Chris Reber (he/him) will lead the Yoga Alliance team and a virtual audience in a practice that explores how your personal identity connects you to your community. The class will end with a brief question and answer session led by Lauren DeVera (she/her), founder of The Lion’s Den.

Items to bring: yoga mat

Community Class | CONFIDANCE
2024-05-22 12:00 - 13:00
According to vulnerability researcher Brené Brown, “there is no form of self-expression that makes us feel more vulnerable than dancing. It is full body vulnerability”. In an art form that requires us to be seen, not only by ourselves but by others, in our own bodies, it’s no wonder most of us don’t feel confident when we move.

Join us for an inspiring yoga practice to celebrate AAPI Month! Designed and led by Lauren DeVera (she/her), this movement and introspective workshop will guide attendees in taking up space, being seen, and moving with confidence. Integrating a slow flow, improvisation and journaling, attendees will experience a deeper sense of self, safety in one’s body and confidence to explore our edges.

When we all take up space fully, the world becomes a brighter place.

This event will be moderated by Stephon JB, Founder & CEO, LifeWell. This class is open to everyone.

You can learn more about Lauren DeVera at www.lauren-devera.com.

Items to bring: yoga mat, journal and pen

Root To Rise: Planting Seeds of Identity, Blooming into the Future
2024-02-28 12:00 - 13:00
Join Sihnuu Hetep, for this one-hour exploration that dives into the intersection of identity and culture, celebrating the richness of Black history. Through a curated yoga flow and reflective journaling, participants will connect with their roots, both personally and collectively, in a meaningful and inspiring way.

The intention of this practice is to provide a space for self-discovery and empowerment, honoring the past while envisioning a future rooted in strength and authenticity. The workshop is designed to celebrate Black voices, drawing inspiration from both historical figures and contemporary Black artists, authors, and speakers.

Key Takeaways:

· Grounding Yoga Experience: Engage in a 30-minute curated yoga flow designed to ground participants in the present moment and connect with their roots.
· Reflection with Black Voices: Explore your sense of identity through journaling prompts inspired by quotes from influential Black authors, speakers, and artists.
· Cultural Heritage Celebration: Connect historical narratives with personal reflections, celebrating the strength, resilience, and achievements of the Black community.
· Empowering Intentions: Set intentions for your future infused with inspiration from both historical and contemporary Black voices.
· Nurturing the Soil: Conclude the session with a brief meditation focused on nurturing and honoring your unique journey.

Freedom Flow
2024-02-23 11:00 - 12:00
“The point of yoga is to get us free; we cannot get free, healed or whole disembodied or by ourselves.”

Join us for an inspiring yoga practice to celebrate Black History Month!

Designed and led by Stephon JB, this practice carves out space for practitioners to explore layers where we are most embodied. This practice begins with contemplation and reflection, offering space to think things over, before moving into a steady, upbeat vinyasa flow. Deeply rooted in loving-kindness practice and orientation toward doing justice, Freedom Flow empowers us to believe a new world is possible.

This class is open to everyone, so be sure to share with friends, family, and colleagues!

Yoga Beyond the Studio: Exploring Black Identity, Community & Collective Care
2024-02-22 12:30 - 13:30
For Black communities across the United States, yoga has and continues to play a unique role beyond the conventional studio setting. Join us for a unique panel discussion expanding on the recent Yoga Journal article by Tamika Caston-Miller, “Where Are the Black Yoga Studio Owners?”, while examining the intersections of yoga, identity, community, and collective care.

Moderated by Sharon Cyrus, Director of Strategic Projects at Yoga Alliance.

This event is open to the public.

To access detailed findings, methodology, and insights from the Yoga in the World Research Study, visit yogaalliance.org/yoga_in_the_world.

The Uncommon Yogi: A History of Blacks and Yoga in the U.S.
2023-02-28 11:00 - 12:00
Join us for a live watch part of the groundbreaking documentary The Uncommon Yogi: A History of Blacks and Yoga in the U.S. We will be joined by documentary creator and the Executive Director and co-founder of the Black Yoga Teachers Alliance, Jana Long.

Her film traces the historical roots of yoga practice in black communities in the U.S. and highlights some of the yoga teachers who have emerged from the early 1920s into the 21st century. It also dives deep into the influence Black individuals and communities have on the practice, and stories that are far too often left out of yoga education and conversation.

After the screening, Jana will host a live Q+A, and attendees will receive helpful resources and guidance on how to integrate this important information into their yoga teachings.

**Content Warning: This film explores topics like slavery and suicide and depicts images of racial violence that may be triggering for some individuals.﻿

Centering Mental Health | Supporting Young People Through Today's Mental Health Crisis
2022-11-29 14:00 - 15:00
There is a mental health crisis among young people. Unparalleled levels of depression and anxiety are plaguing today’s youth. For supporting adults, guardians, or youth organizations, it can be difficult to find the tools, resources, and social skills to address these issues in a way that resonates for the younger generation.

In this event, Centering Mental Health series host Richard Lui is joined by Alyssa Garza, scholarship winner with Active Minds—a premier organization impacting young adults and mental health—for an honest dialogue about what’s going on with young people today. Hear more about what is needed to support kids and teens in their mental health struggles and where yoga can help.

Walk away with a greater understanding of how you can support the young people in your life and the confidence that we can make a difference in the wellness, happiness, and health for the next generation.

Centering Mental Health | Understanding the Barriers to Accessing Mental Healthcare in the U.S.
2022-11-02 13:00 - 14:00
In the United States, accessing mental health care can be challenging for many reasons. For some, simply the cost and time of speaking with a professional is enough to keep them from seeking support. For many more, the negative stigma surrounding mental health remains a huge, unfortunate deterrent to getting help.
Join series host, Richard Lui, and special guest, Dr. Kevin Waldorf-Cruz, DSW, LICSW, E-RYT, LMT, for the third conversation in the Centering Mental Health Series as they discuss barriers to accessing quality mental health care in the United States and what action can be taken to support those seeking these services.

Centering Mental Health | Understanding and Combating Mental Health Stigma Around the World
2022-10-04 12:00 - 13:00
One of the greatest barriers to receiving quality mental health care for individuals around the world is the pervasive stigma associated with mental illness. Join Richard Lui as he hosts a discussion with two leaders in the fight against mental health stigma: Mme. Sophie Grégoire Trudeau and Jessi Wolz of the organization RefuSHE. We will examine:

· What mental health stigma looks like around the world, and within various communities
· How de-stigmatizing mental illness can support individuals’ decision to seek help
· How yoga professionals can de-stigmatize mental health in their classes and daily lives

Yoga Alliance Gathering and Practice
2022-09-28 07:00 - 08:15
Join Yoga Alliance to mindfully start your day before the White House Conference on Hunger Nutrition, and Health. You’ll hear from Yoga Alliance representatives about its work to expand access to yoga followed by a 45-minute chair-based yoga practice led by Susanna Barkataki, E-RYT 500, RPYT, RCYT, YACEP, yoga advocate, speaker, and teacher. This event is online and free and open to the public. American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting and closed-captioning available.

Community Event | Yoga In Times of Global Crisis
2022-04-21 10:00 - 11:00
From the wars in Ukraine and Tigray and the ongoing refugee crises in Syria and Afghanistan, people around the world are experiencing unprecedented times. As yoga teachers, it can often feel overwhelming to know where or how to lend your support. And, when it comes to taking your seat as a yoga teacher, it may feel daunting to guide students in their own practices. Hear from leaders in the yoga community and global activists as they share their perspectives on current crises, how yoga teachers can find their seat in these watershed moments, and the role that yoga can play in supporting humanity during these times.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Community Conversation | Yoga and Yoga Therapy
2021-12-08 12:00 - 13:00
Join the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) and Yoga Alliance (YA) in conversation as YA shares its updated policy and the role Scope of Practice plays in providing guiderails for yoga teachers and yoga therapists. This session will be hosted by Marsha Banks-Harold, owner of PIES Fitness Yoga Studio, who contributed to Yoga Alliance’s Standards Review Project and Yoga Therapy Task Force. She will be joined by IAYT Board Member Molly McManus, YA Board Member Staffan Elgelid, and YA Vice President of Standards Dr. Christa Kuberry.

Community Sangha | Live Life in Joy
2021-11-19 10:00 - 11:00
In this Community Sangha, Rev. Melissa Moorer-Nobles discusses how the art of living in joy has supported her in meeting many of today’s challenges. We also explore how the practice of joy inspired her to create InJoy-OutJoy program to help others open their lives to joy.

Community Sangha | The Other Yoga: How to Integrate the Practice of Yoga Beyond the Class
2021-10-15 10:00 - 11:00
Davine Del Valle joins Yoga Alliance’s Vice President of Cross-Cultural Advancement Maya Breuer to share her perspective on how we use energy moment to moment. She discusses The Other Yoga (TOY), her approach on integrating yoga into one’s life. TOY is a theory that can impact all aspects of an individual’s life and relationships. It helps us to transcend our unexamined automatic responses and reactions; we learn to choose conscious actions based upon expanded awareness.

Community Sangha | Yoga and Self-Care
2021-09-17 10:00 - 22:45
Unpack yoga and self-care in this community sangha. Here, Dr. Solmaz Behtash shares how she found yoga, and explores insights on her daily yoga and meditation practices. Hear how they support her as a physician and parent.

Community Sangha | Meditation and Active Dreaming, Part 2
2021-08-20 10:00 - 10:45
Ava Wolf is back to explore the value of night-time dreams, liminal waking experiences, and even “ordinary” waking experiences to solve problems and discover allies. This community sangha reveals how mediation and active dreaming can help us recognize future challenges and opportunities, maintain health, reveal life patterns and themes, communicate with the departed, inspire creativity, unlock mysteries of relationships, and ultimately, reveal larger Purpose.

Community Sangha | Self-Care and Awareness Through Tantra Yoga
2021-07-16 10:00 - 10:45
Cinthya Esquea shares teachings and perspective on the importance of self-care and the practice of White Tantric Yoga in this insightful conversation with sangha host and Yoga Alliance’s Vice President of Cross-Cultural Advancement, Maya Breuer. Learn more about yoga, Ayurvedic practices, and meditation.

Community Sangha | Yoga and Caregiving for Seniors
2021-05-14 10:00 - 10:45
Robin Downes, former entertainment journalist, and award-winning producer discusses her role as the primary caregiver for her father and creating Yoga Flava: The Silva Lining, which helped saved her dad’s life.

Community Sangha | Teaching Yoga and Meditation
2021-04-23 13:30 - 14:15
Presenter Monique Schubert (E-RYT 500, YACEP) shares reflections from her explorations into meditation and contemplative practices. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience, she also addresses the importance of personal practice and how to adapt the teachings of mindfulness and meditation to fulfill your intentions as a teacher, meeting students where they are as they are.

Community Conversation | "How Can the Yoga Community Heal Its Divisions in the Wake of 2020?"
2021-04-16 16:00 - 17:00
2020 was a tumultuous year for many, including the yoga community. Deep divisions, conspiracy theories, misinformation, and using the guise of yoga to justify violence has left many wondering how we got here. In this conversation, leading yoga teachers Amy Ippoliti, Hari-kirtana das, and yogic activist Reggie Hubbard discuss the foundations of yoga and how we can begin to heal this divide and move forward with truth, integrity, and compassion.

Community Sangha | Meditation and Active Dreaming
2021-03-19 10:00 - 10:45
Explore the value of night-time dreams, liminal waking experiences, and even “ordinary” waking experiences to solve problems and discover allies. This community sangha reveals how mediation and active dreaming can help us recognize future challenges and opportunities, maintain health, reveal life patterns and themes, communicate with the departed, inspire creativity, unlock mysteries of relationships, and ultimately, reveal larger Purpose.

Community Sangha | The State of Union (Yoga) Address
2021-02-19 10:00 - 10:45
Community sangha host Maya Breuer comes together with guests Shankari Goldstein and J. Miles on State of Union (Yoga) in this groundbreaking six-part series that uplifts and amplifies the voices and experiences of Black and Brown yoga teachers.

Community Sangha | Native American Healing, Part 2
2021-01-15 10:00 - 11:00
Shawn Stevens, known as Red Eagle, and Maya Breuer come together for part 2 of this inspiring sangha on Native American Healing. Listen in as Red Eagle shares his experience living a Native American spiritual way of life as a traditional artist, storyteller, drummer, dancer, singer, and flute player.

Yoga Alliance Office Hours | Teaching for Equity Pilot Program Q&A
2020-12-14 06:00 - 06:45
Nominations for the Yoga Alliance Foundation’s “Teaching for Equity” program close on December 18th. Do you have questions about the program or nomination process? Join Yoga Alliance Foundation and Ivy Child International for a Q&A conversation to learn more about this opportunity and how it can benefit your or your favorite yoga teachers.

Community Sangha | Native American Healing
2020-12-11 10:00 - 11:00
Shawn Stevens, known as Red Eagle, and Maya Breuer come together for this inspiring sangha on Native American healing. Listen in as Red Eagle shares his experience living a Native American spiritual way of life as a traditional artist, storyteller, drummer, dancer, singer, and flute player.
