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Community Event | Yoga In Times of Global Crisis

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

Yoga Alliance Gathering and Practice

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.

Centering Mental Health | Understanding and Combating Mental Health Stigma Around the World

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

Centering Mental Health | Understanding the Barriers to Accessing Mental Healthcare in the U.S.

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 | Supporting Young People Through Today’s Mental Health Crisis

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.

The Uncommon Yogi: A History of Blacks and Yoga in the U.S.

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.

Yoga Beyond the Studio: Exploring Black Identity, Community & Collective Care

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.

Freedom Flow

“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!

Root To Rise: Planting Seeds of Identity, Blooming into the Future

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.