Many of you know the story of Yoga Among Friends, which began with the pure intention of developing a community where people could gather and share a common commitment to a practice of healing physically, emotionally, and most of all, spiritually. Yoga was and never has been purely an exercise program. I opened with the understanding that yoga is a “healing modality for the soul.” What a lofty phrase!
I watched the world embrace yoga as a glorified way to improve body image, wear wonderful yoga clothes, and enjoy being physically challenged. There is nothing wrong with meeting yoga as a fitness workout. It brought many of our students into the studio for the first time and allowed them a safe place to begin the journey inward.
Life is confusing, and yoga offers a deeper place of reflection. Yoga Among Friends is a welcoming place. In our world today, we are all struggling with the uncertainty of life. I opened the studio to embrace each person as a human being, not an object to identify skin tone, body shape, gender, or skill of yoga poses.
I struggled in my youth, always feeling like an outsider to the popular world. When yoga came into my life, I began to embrace my whole self, my greater self. I found a way to quiet my thoughts and listen to a deeper place. I felt a doorway into something greater. Today, as the world struggles with the loss of human nature to listen and trust, we are seeing more anger and fear arise, which only hurts humanity.
Yoga Among Friends is a safe haven to fall apart, breathe life into a fragile body, and begin to feel whole again. Community is the key, and everyone is welcome. There are only beginners on the journey of the soul. Healing is our mission, not perfection. Healing can be messy, yet I feel we are all ready for the light inside us all to be revealed. We welcome this time as a beginning and how exciting it is to have a place to share.
Have you experienced yoga as more than just a workout? Has it helped you find healing, connection, or self-discovery? I’d love to hear your thoughts—share in the comments below!
And if you’re looking for a space to explore yoga beyond the physical, I invite you to join us at Yoga Among Friends. Come as you are, and let’s journey together. Check out our new student special to try us and find a class that speaks to you!
Love and light,
Laura Jane
