Dear myYogaTeacher community,
It feels like every month this year is more intense than the last. This morning I woke up, checked Facebook and immediately started crying.
Look, before you continue reading — this isn't a standard message from us, it's not a feature update, or a new class announcement.
This is about Black Lives Matter — supporting our brothers and sisters who need our help today!
I wrestled with sending you this message because mYT is a sanctuary. It's your safe space to unwind, let go of your day, and recharge.
I know for many of our students, your 1-hr class is the only time you get for yourself.
And I want to protect that. So please do not continue reading if you don't have the capacity to deal with this right now.
But if you do, if you want to help and want to know what we're doing to help — read on.
We're crushed by what's happening right now.
I won't speak for the rest of the team, I'll only speak for myself… I spent most of my life avoiding my feelings, especially difficult ones. Yoga and meditation gave me the inner strength I needed to face, hold, and be with the most painful things inside of me.
But today, I'm overwhelmed with sorrow.
I don't know what I can do, what I should do, and to top it off I'm not even sure if it's safe to go out in public and join the protests.
As a small community myYogaTeacher is supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. We don't want to force politics, social activism, or any additional stressors into your life.
But we want to do something!
So I'm reaching out to ask you what we — as one human family, as a community of yogis — can do.
What can mYT with 60+ yoga teachers, thousands of students, and a beautiful platform for sharing virtual teachings and classes… what can we do that will keep mYT your safe space and sanctuary while contributing to justice and equality for all?
What can we do that doesn't turn your time for rest, relaxation and self-care into a burden?
For starters, we are going to donate $10 of every new Membership to the Black Lives Matter movement. (This will start today and continue for the next month.)
But I really don't want to stop there. I want to do more, all of us on the team want to do more!
Having lived in yoga communities and at yoga and meditation retreat centers — we pray, we meditate, we believe that thoughts, energy and words can transform the world.
We also believe that true change starts with ourselves.
And we do not believe it ends with these intangibles. But activism is not our strength. Personal transformation, mindfulness, self-empowerment, self-awareness, and personal growth are our strengths.
Me (and I believe many on the team) are not fighters. We're every-day people who care.
So I've also proposed things like having our teachers lead group meditations on compassion, love, and insight. Meditations to focus on helping ourselves and all living beings let go of our fears and learn new depths of love.
Would group meditations like this interest you?
We've also considered sending you some of our favourite resources to deepen your understanding of the BLM movement and racial inequality today. Is this something you might like to learn more about?
My personal view is that I don't hate those who are full of fear, hate, and aggression. And I don't believe hate is the solution.
The Dalai Lama, in response to George Floyd's murder said,
"If we as human beings do not harm one another, but help one another, serve one another and be compassionate with one another, then we will have a peaceful world."
For me, these are words to live by...
In case you want to help save lives in the US right now, I've attached a few links at the bottom of this email. You can do a couple easy things right now (from your sofa) to make a real difference today!
Look, this isn't meant to be a one-way message. I know very few people will read this entire email. And even fewer will respond.
But I want to hear from you. I want your help and guidance on how we, as a small community of yogis, can help our brothers and sisters who are desperately seeking the justice, love, respect, and equality they deserve.
It's time to overcome hatred and fear. To live with love, care, and mutual support. We are one human family.
With Love, Sorrow, and Hope — your friend,
Will
Online Yoga Classes – Live & Interactive
Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!
{"slug":"we-support-black-lives-matter","recentPosts":[{"id":"cldebisqj8am10bk2riasiyyy","slug":"self-love-yoga-event","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Self Love Yoga & Meditation Event: Empower Yourself This Valentine’s Day","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Empower yourself this Valentine's Day with our Self Love Yoga & Meditation Event. Find inner peace and self-acceptance through yoga and meditation practices","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-27T09:24:55.671424+00:00","coverUrl":"rvpz4az7wyk8pdo4fvyg.png","content":{"text":"Announcing our free Self Love Event February 13-14!\\n\n\\nEmbrace yourself and practice self love this Valentine’s Day and every day with the help of MyYogaTeacher’s expert yoga teachers.\\n\\nYoga has been a powerful tool for self-improvement and personal growth for centuries, and self-love yoga is no exception. Unfortunately, many of us struggle with self-doubt, self-criticism, and negative self-talk. Self-love yoga can help to change that by promoting self-acceptance and self-compassion.\\nThis special yoga and meditation event\\n focuses on building self-acceptance, self-worth, and self-compassion through a combination of physical postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness practices.\\nSelf-love is the foundation of all healthy relationships, including the relationship with ourselves. Without self-love, we cannot truly love and accept others!\\n\n\\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Self Love Event:\\n\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\\n\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\n\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\n\\nMake this event the start of something wonderful for your mental, emotional, and physical health! So you, too, can be happier, more self-confident, and more productive!\\n\\n\\nNurturing Relationships Through Self Love \\n\\nMonday, February 13 at 5 pm PST/ 8 pm EST\\n\n\\nSelf love isn’t selfish! It’s critical to creating deeper, more meaningful relationships and becoming the best version of yourself you can be! Join us in this discussion based self love class with a guided meditation and walk away prioritizing your health and happiness!\\n\n\\n\\nEmbrace Yourself: Balancing the Heart Chakra\\n\\nTuesday, February 14 at 5 pm PST/ 8 pm EST\\n\\nReady to love yourself (and others) more and better? Need more compassion and kindness in your life? Join this yoga for self-love class designed to open your heart chakra and help you walk away feeling empowered to have more meaningful relationships and showing more love\n\\nThis special event will offer a unique opportunity to nurture yourself and discover the power of self-love. Don't miss out on this transformative experience. Sign up today and awaken your inner strength and self-love.\\nAnd don’t forget to check out other yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\n\n\\n\\nAnnelise Piers\\n\\n\\nShika Sood\\n\\n\\nSwati Dalvi\\n\\n\\nAbhishek Bodhi\\n\\n\\nPreeti Goswami\\n\\n\\nRohan Shroff\\n\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Self Love Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":["myYogaTeacher"]},{"id":"clczdmysytyzn0ak616x0ikhn","slug":"yoga-for-fitness-event","author":null,"title":"Join the Yoga Movement: Free MyYogaTeacher Yoga for Fitness Event for Everyone!","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Join MyYogaTeacher's new free Yoga for Fitness Event starting soon and get fit faster with yoga!","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":["Fitness","HathaYoga","Ashtanga","Yoga","Vinyasa","Hatha"],"createdAt":"2023-01-16T22:27:36.746406+00:00","coverUrl":"fegu2jin0qfhgaefpml6.png","content":{"text":"Are you ready to get fit, flexible, and unleash your inner radiance?! Don’t miss our 3-day FREE Yoga for Fitness Event January 29-31!\\nYoga is a great way to improve your flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as reducing stress and promoting relaxation. This event will feature a variety of yoga styles and levels to suit everyone from beginners to experienced yogis.\\nOur authentic, expert yoga instructors from India will guide you each day through sessions focused on improving your physical fitness and overall well-being. Plus, the even is completely free, so there’s no excuse not to come give it a try!\\nHow to join the Yoga for Fitness Event:\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\nDiscover all the best ways yoga can help you get fit fast. So you can live your life to the fullest and move with more ease.\\nWe've put together an entire schedule of yoga for fitness classes dedicated to helping you relax and sleep better.\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\\n\\n Hatha Yoga for Physical Fitness with Ankit\\n\\nSunday, January 29 at 6:00 am PST/ 9:00 am EST\\n\\n\\nHatha yoga is focused on the physical practice of yoga and is perfect for helping you build strength, get fit, and improve flexibility. Bonus? You’ll feel more relaxed and rejuvenated after this hatha yoga class! Join us for asanas, Sun Salutations, and other strength building poses!\\n\\nFind Fitness in Flow: Vinyasa Yoga with Monica\\n\\nMonday, January 30 at 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\n\\nReady to get fit while finding your flow? The fluid movement of this challenging vinyasa yoga class is perfect for building up a sweat, improving flexibility, and building strength, making it a perfect class for overall fitness! Join us!\\n\\nAshtanga Yoga for Increased Fitness with Sujit\\n\\nMonday, January 31 at 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\n\\nDo you like structure in your yoga class? Need a workout focused on building strength through muscle training? This is for you! Join the ashtanga yoga class designed to help you get fitter and stronger faster!\\nWhether you're looking to improve your physical fitness, reduce stress, or simply try something new, our free yoga for fitness event is the perfect opportunity. So come and join us, and discover the many benefits of yoga for yourself!\\nExperience getting fit in a way that works for you and \\nwith\\n you! We’re here to support you on your journey now \\nand\\n when the event is over!\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check out other fitness related yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\\n\\n\\n\\nShweta Jain\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nMonica Agarwal\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nArchana\\n \\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Fitness Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"clct2nkfx04xw0bk3fr4lrcjp","slug":"yoga-poses-for-osteoporosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"8 Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis: Maintaining Bone Health","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga can prevent and in some cases reverse osteoporosis and osteopenia by stretching and strengthening muscle tissue to rebuild and maintain bone density.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn how to prevent osteoporosis with a few simple yoga poses.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-12T12:33:31.959847+00:00","coverUrl":"pmkhkhuxo5s9dq2qkevm.jpg","content":{"text":"Preventing and Reversing Osteoporosis with Yoga\\n\n\\nIf you suffer from the painful symptoms of osteoporosis, or if you are at risk of developing this limiting disease, there is help (and health) in starting your own regular yoga routine. In fact, doctors are now prescribing yoga as treatment and prevention for osteoporosis and osteopenia, making it an important part of maintaining physical health and wellness throughout your 50s and 60s — and beyond.\\n\\nOsteoporosis and osteopenia are conditions that commonly emerge throughout our later years, and if left untreated they can affect your mobility, bone density, and even your ability to remain self-sufficient. These conditions cause bones to be come weak and brittle, and over time more vulnerable to fractures and even breakage. \\n\\nBut a recent\\n \\n2016 study\\n discovered that yoga can be used in conjunction with other treatments to prevent the loss of bone density and in some cases reverse early onset of osteoporosis. Plus, as an added benefit, yoga is also a low-cost and low-risk treatment option, meaning there is little to lose by giving it a try.\\n\\nHow Yoga Can Treat Osteoporosis\\nThe process by which yoga treats and prevents osteoporosis is simple — through stretching and strengthening your muscle tissue you can build bone density and prevent fractures. Yoga postures exert subtle force upon your bones, prompting them to build up density and become stronger.\\n\\nYoga also improves your balance, which can help prevent falls — which may result in fractures or breakage. Along with building strength and flexibility, yoga also increases your mobility, endurance, and energy levels, helping you stay active no matter your age.\\n\\nIt should be noted that yoga may not cure osteoporosis on its own, and for some advanced cases it may not be effective in reversing this disease. Results vary on an individual basis, depending on your age, bone density, and other factors such as weight and co-existing conditions\\n\\nPracticing Yoga for Osteoporosis\\nIf you’re thinking of starting your own yoga regimen to prevent or reverse osteoporosis, there are a few things you should know. It’s important to first consult your doctor before practicing yoga for osteoporosis or osteopenia, to find out if there are any specific precautions you should be taking and whether or not it’s a safe activity for you. \n\\nPatients with advanced osteoporosis who have suffered fractures, breaks, or acute bone loss may need to avoid practicing yoga. If you’ve recently undergone surgery or if you’re still healing from an injury, you should wait until you’ve fully recovered before getting started.\n\\nMost importantly, you should take care to listen to your body when practicing yoga for osteoporosis. If a particular yoga pose causes pain or strain on your bones or joints, stop for a moment and take a break. Or, try using a modification like a bolster, block, or yoga blanket if applicable.\\n\\nIn their 2016 study, scientists found that the best results for using yoga as treatment for osteoporosis came from regular practice. Try performing yoga poses at least 3-4 times per week, or daily if you can. The more regularly you practice, the more bone density you’ll build, and the more strength and balance you’ll develop in your body.\\n\\n8 Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis:\\nIf you’ve been cleared by your doctor to practice yoga and you’re ready to get started, there are some simple yoga poses you can do at home to help prevent osteoporosis. You can also try taking a yoga class specifically designed for patients with osteoporosis. Here at\\n \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n, certified instructors can help you stay safe and injury free while giving you the independence to practice yoga in the comfort of your home.\\nReady to get started? \\nFollow the steps below to begin your own personal yoga journey.\\n\\n1. Mountain Pose (Tadasana)\\n\\nThe foundation of all balance poses, Mountain pose helps you find stability and improve your posture.\\nStart by standing at the front of your mat. Keep your feet hip distance apart, and you can rest your arms at your sides or bring your hands together in prayer formation. Inhale and feel your chest opening and your collar bones widening as you focus on balancing your weight proportionally on both of your feet. Gaze straight forward and maintain this pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n \\n2. Tree Pose (Vrksasana)\\n\\nFrom Mountain pose, you’ll begin to transition into Tree pose to further improve your balance and stability.\\nBring your awareness to your left foot and firmly ground it into the mat. Begin to shift your body weight to your left foot, while gently lifting your right foot. Depending on your ability to balance, you can place the sole of your right foot on your left calf or thigh. As you do this, be sure to keep your pelvis aligned, your spine straight, and your gaze focused forward. Give yourself a moment to steady yourself, and then, if you feel comfortable, press your hands together in prayer formation. Hold for 5-6 deep breaths and repeat on the other side, then return to Mountain pose.\\n \\n3. Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana 2)\\n\\nThis standing pose also improves your balance and builds strength in your legs and core. If you have trouble balancing and wish to modify this pose, try practicing it next to a wall or with a chair.\\nMove to the back portion of your mat and step your right foot forward. Your right toes should be pointed forward and your left (back) foot should be kept parallel with your mat. Bend your right knee at 90 degrees, taking care not to overextend. Your right knee should not move forward past your toes. With your hips evenly squared, stretch your arms out to both sides, so that your right arm extended out in front of you and your left arm behind you. Open your chest and focus on activating your legs so that you are grounded into your mat. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n4. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)\\n\\nThis pose also requires strength and balance, and can be modified by performing it next to a wall. You can also place a block next to your front foot for easier hand positioning. \\nJust like with Warrior II, step your right foot forward for Triangle pose, keeping your left (back) foot parallel with your mat. Inhale and stretch out both your arms the same as in Warrior II, but keep your right leg straight with a slight, soft bend in your knee. As you exhale, hinge at your hip and bend forward, placing your right fingertips on the floor, or you can place your hand on the block positioned next to your right foot. Turn your upper body and reach your left hand toward the ceiling, and either turn your head to gaze up at your hand, or keep your eyes focused straight ahead. Hold for 3-5 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n5. Cat-Cow Pose (Chakravakasana)\\n\\nThis pose is excellent for increasing mobility in your spine and hips.\\nMove to a tabletop position on your mat, with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. Feel the stretch in your chest and abdomen. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n \\n6. Locust Pose (Shalabhasana)\\n\\nLike Cat-Cow, Locust improves your spinal mobility with a soft backbend, but in this pose you will also be working your core muscles, glutes, and shoulders.\\nFrom Cat-Cow, lower yourself onto the mat so that you are lying face down on your stomach with your legs extended straight and your arms at your sides. On your inhale, strengthen your core and lift your head, legs and arms at the same time, balancing your body on your lower abdomen, pelvis and upper legs. Engage your glutes and press both of your legs together while holding them up. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths, and then relax back onto your mat.\\n \\n7. Child’s Pose (Balasana)\\n\\nAfter the strengthening work of Locust pose, give your body a rest with Child’s pose\\nAfter Locust you’ve likely returned to lying face down on your mat. Press your palms and knees into the floor as if you were rising back into tabletop position, but this time bring your hips back so that your buttocks are resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Extend your arms forward so that your palms are resting on the mat in front of you, and bring your forehead to the mat. Breathe gently and allow your body to fully sink into this pose, supported by the floor. Hold for 5-6 minutes.\\n \\n8. Corpse Pose (Savasana)\\n\\nAfter practicing the above stretching and strengthening poses, it’s important to let your body fully digest the movement by resting in Corpse pose. \\nCome to a seated position on your mat. Slowly lower your body to the floor, so that you are lying flat on your back with your legs extended straight and your arms at your sides, palms facing up. Close your eyes and bring your focus inward. Bring your awareness to your body and check in with each and every body part, noticing if you feel any tension and allowing yourself to fully relax. Soften your face, neck, and shoulders, and let yourself melt into your mat while visualizing any tension leaving your body. Rest in this post for 5-7 minutes."},"category":["pain_management"]},{"id":"clct29qar2mln09k7b9xhmih5","slug":"8-yoga-poses-for-psoas-pain-relief","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"8 Yoga Poses for Psoas Pain Relief","subTitle":"Learn yoga poses that target your psoas muscle to relieve pain.","seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"By practicing a few specific yoga poses, you can directly stretch the psoas and surrounding areas, relieving tension, pain, and stiffness\n","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-12T12:22:46.336259+00:00","coverUrl":"fitbgltpzxzyqblmzhjg.jpg","content":{"text":"Possibly the most integral muscle group in your entire body, the psoas governs the central functioning of your core. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to move properly, walk, stand, or do much of anything, because the muscles in this group also attach your legs to your spine.\\n\\nIssues with your psoas can be deeply painful, and it’s a difficult area to massage. The psoas major, psoas minor, and iliacus combined make up your iliopsoas, commonly referred as simply the psoas. And when the psoas is unhappy, it can cause symptoms with a range of severity, from slightly uncomfortable to totally debilitating, like difficulty walking or standing upright, lower back pain, and pelvic pain. \n\\nAthletic injuries, prolonged periods of sitting and surgery can affect the health of your psoas, and if you’re experiencing a tight and shortened psoas, it’s likely you’re also suffering from weakness and pain. You can relieve your symptoms and fully recover from psoas issues by stretching and strengthening this important muscle group with yoga. \n\\nHow to Relieve Psoas Pain\\n\\nPsoas pain can affect the entire structure of your body, causing adjoining muscles to become overworked and your posture to become off-kilter, leading to widespread chronic pain. Yoga can help correct issues with your psoas and get you back to feeling balanced again. By practicing a few specific yoga poses, you can directly stretch the psoas and surrounding areas, relieving tension, pain, and stiffness.\\n\\nIt’s important to also strengthen the psoas to enable your body to function properly. A weak psoas can put enormous strain on your surrounding muscles and joints, and a strong core is essential for your physical health. By lengthening and strengthening your psoas at the same time, you can correct issues and reduce pain.\n\\nIf you’re suffering from a tight or weak psoas, try practicing the yoga poses below on a regular basis to start the healing process.\n\\n8 Yoga Poses for Psoas Pain Relief\\n\n\\n1. Low Lunge Pose\\n\\nLow Lunge is an easy pose to start lengthening your psoas muscles, and you can adjust this position to stretch as deeply as you feel comfortable.\\nFrom a kneeling position, start by bringing your left foot forward and bending your left leg at the knee. Inhale while reaching your arms over your head, keeping them parallel with the sides of your head. Allow your chest to expand and lengthen your spine. Remember to keep your chin level and your gaze focused straight ahead. Repeat on the other side.\\n \\n2. Tree Pose\\n\\nTree pose strengthens and stretches your psoas muscles by isolating the area building strength through balance.\\nStand in Mountain pose and place your feet hip distance apart, arms relaxed at your sides. Gently shift your body weight to your left foot and bending your right knee, lifting it upward. Place the sole of your right foot on the inside of your left thigh. Keep your spine and head straight, with your gaze facing forward. Give yourself a moment to steady your balance, bring your hands together in Namaste formation. Hold for 5-6 deep breaths.\\n \\n3. Boat Pose\\n\\nOne of the best asanas for your core, Boat pose strengthens your abdominal muscles for better balance and posture.\\nStart by sitting with your legs stretched out in front of you and your arms at your sides. Lean back slightly so that your weight is evenly balanced. Inhale, engage your core, and exhale as you lift both your legs to a 45 degree angle, and extend your arms straight out alongside your legs. If this pose feels too difficult, try bending your knees and bringing your hands behind your knees for support. Keep your spine long and your core engaged as you hold this pose for 30-45 seconds.\\n \\n4. Knee-To-Chest Pose\\n\\nWhen your psoas is in pain and walking or standing upright feels difficult, Knee-To-Chest pose offers a supine stretch that can relieve your symptoms.\\nLie down flat on your back with your arms at your sides. Inhale, and then as you exhale, bring your right knee to your chest. Thoughtfully extend and stretch your left leg until you feel the tension begin to release from your abs and inside your hip. As you hug your knee to your chest, remember to breathe and focus on allowing your core to fully relax. Hold for 30-60 seconds and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n5. Dancer’s Pose\\n\\nLike Tree pose, Dancer’s pose works to strengthen your psoas through balance, with a deep stretch that lengthens all of the muscles in the front side of your torso. \\nStand in the middle of your mat with your weight evenly balanced on both feet. Transfer your weight onto your left foot while bending your right knee and grabbing your right foot with your right hand. Lift your left arm up toward the ceiling. Bend at your waist and slowly lean forward, lifting your right leg and engaging your core. You can deepen the stretch by creating some resistance — simply push outward with your right foot while pulling in with your right hand. For better balance, focus your gaze on a fixed point in front of you. Hold for 3-5 breaths, then repeat on the other side.\\n \\n6. Supported Bridge Pose\\n\\nSupported Bridge pose uses a yoga block to both support your weight and lengthen the muscles in your core and inside your hips.\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent and a yoga block placed nearby. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Take your yoga block and place underneath your lower back, supporting your weight and providing a deep stretch to the frontside of your pelvis. Stay in the pose for 30-60 seconds.\\n \\n7. Reclining Hero’s Pose\\n\\nBy modifying Hero’s pose to a reclining position, you can gently lengthen your psoas and stretch your quad muscles.\\nKneel on your yoga mat and rest your buttocks on the backs of your heels. Sit with your spine straight and inhale, and as you exhale, begin to gently lower your torso to the floor. You can move slowly, lowering yourself onto your back one vertebrae at a time. Rest your hands on your chest or reach your arms above your head to increase the stretch. Once your are resting on your back, you can also bring your focus to your hips and allow them to rise slightly upward for a greater stretch in your psoas minor.\\n \\n8. Cobra Pose\\n\\nCobra pose lengthens your abdominal muscles and releases tension in your lower back.\\nLie on your stomach with your legs extended, arms folded under your head and your chin resting on your forearms. Place your hands at the level of your chest and press down with your hands. Slightly lift your head off the mat, keeping your head and back aligned, and press your thighs together. Now, steadily pull your elbows towards your ribs and align your hands and shoulders. On a deep inhale, press your hands into the mat, curl your shoulders backward, and lift your upper body off the mat. Make sure to gaze upward and press your hips into the mat to target your psoas. Hold this position for a few breaths and then rest."},"category":[]},{"id":"clckc2txxldwd0ajx6v2ewnfg","slug":"everyday-selfcare-event","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Announcing MyYogaTeacher’s Free Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Daily self-care yoga event for relaxation and rejuvenation. All levels welcome. Come find your inner peace and leave feeling ready to tackle the day ahead","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-06T09:47:25.040388+00:00","coverUrl":"sqksdkhom5g0uivl5z2l.png","content":{"text":"Ready to make time and take time for YOU in the New Year? This 2-day event on January 16-17 makes it easier than ever to start and keep a self care routine going.\\nAnd, of course, you’re invited!\\n\\nAlmost everyone is guilty of not putting themselves first most of the time. \\nBut did you know that research shows that self care reduces heart disease, stroke, and cancer? Not to mention that people who have a consistent \\nself care routine\\n are 67% more productive, 71% happier, and 64% more self-confident than those who don’t! \\nThe impacts of a yoga for self care routine are nothing but positive. And there is nothing standing in your way of creating one with MyYogaTeacher’s free event. Imagine how much better you’ll feel and how much more productive you’d be if you just took some time for yourself everyday. Your routine doesn’t have to be time consuming. Even 30 minutes of yoga for self care may make all the difference in your life! \\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we understand creating a self care routine may seem unobtainable at first. That’s why we created this event!\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event:\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\n\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\n\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\n\\nMake this event the start of something wonderful for your mental, emotional, and physical health! So you, too, can be happier, more self-confident, and more productive!\n\\nWe've put together a schedule of yoga sessions designed specifically to get you started on your self care journey.\\n\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\n\\n\\nYoga Breathwork: Relaxation and Self Care with Archana\\n\\nTuesday, January 17 at 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\n\\nDo you make time for selfcare? Meditation and yogic breathing are excellent forms of selfcare that you can do almost anywhere or any time! Join us for this relaxing class focused on breathing, meditation, and gentle stretching. Discover how easy it is to take time for you!\\n\n\\n\\nYoga for Self Care: An Everyday Practice with Archana\\n\\nMonday, January 16 at 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\n\\nDo you struggle to make time for self-care? You’re not alone! This beautiful yoga session is designed to help you learn asanas and stretches that you can do every day specifically as a self-care practice. Join us for self-care through yoga!\\n\n\\nWe offer these events so you have the tools and guidance to live in harmony with your inner self, outer self, and the world. So you can move in the world with peace and good health. And so you can be less stressed, more productive, and more \\npresent\\n.\\n\\nExperience the peace that comes from yoga and explore all the tools our expert yoga instructors offer to help you start and maintain a consistent self care routine. We’re here to support you on your journey now \\nand\\n when the event is over!\n\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check other yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Many are perfect for continuing your self care routine long after this event is over. Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\\n\\n- Ankit Bhatnagari\\n- Abhishek Bodhi\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":["yoga"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"ckfqz5jrs021l0126j0gsw2jd","slug":"yoga-nidra-cured-my-insomnia","author":null,"title":"Yoga Nidra Cured My Insomnia","createdAt":"2020-02-14T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"isq4hw4ivknbxwkgziz0.jpg","content":{"text":" \\n\\nWhat is the translation of Sankalpa?\\n\\nClick here to find out!\\n\\nFrom Sanskrit --> English!\\n\\nSankalpa is a Sanskrit word. \"San\" means a connection to our highest self and \"kalpa\" means vow or promise. So it literally means a promise to yourself!\\n\\nTo find my Sankalpa, I use two methods. Sometimes I scan my body and my emotions and see what I come up with. If I notice that my jaw is really tight or my stomach feels anxious, I might state “I have peace within my body.” \\n\\nThe other method I use is to imagine what my perfect life would be like. How do I feel? What do I think about? What happens in the morning? What is the best part of that day? And then I use that to craft a short statement. For example, “I have time to enjoy things.”\\n\\nOnce you have decided your Sankalpa, you say it a few times in the beginning of the session. \\n\\nYou do not fall asleep in Yoga Nidra\\n\\nIt happens sometimes! And if it does, just go with it. Your body is the expert and might need sleep more than Yoga Nidra that day.\\n\\nI once heard it described as the “knife’s edge of sleep.” In Yoga Nidra, your body is asleep but your mind is not. This is called the hypnagogic starte, but no need to geek out. \\n\\nWith your body asleep, much of the brain power normally used to control the body is reduced. This lets you to get to the source of your sleep issues: YOUR MIND.\\n\\n \\n\\nThe Five Steps of Yoga Nidra\\n\\nAfter an initial relaxation and stating your Sankalpa, your teacher guides you through five stages. These five stages generally align with the Koshas. The Koshas, according to ancient Yoga texts, are the “sheaths of being”. The Yoga Nidra sequence addresses each of these, moving from the outermost physical layer to the most central self (called the “Atman” in Sanskrit). \\n\\nWant the hard science behind this?\\n\\nClick here!\\n\\nScience Rocks!\\n\\nYoga Nidra changes the pace of brain waves while also releasing hormones that relax blood vessels, initiate digestion and other parasympathetic nervous system activities.From a psychological perspective, this journey can be considered explorations through the ego to the self, observing inner reactions with an unbiased perspective.\\n\\nThis is why Yoga Nidra begins with the sequence of naming body parts. This allows your mind to spend energy and focus on the physical body. The particular sequence of body parts is very important and done in a similar fashion each and every time. By the end of this sequence, the mind can release it’s hold of the body and begin to focus on something else. In turn, the muscles of the body soften and release any holding or tension. \\n\\nThe next three stages address the breath, then the energy within your body, then moves to your senses. This part of the practice balances the way you feel emotionally and physically. \\n\\nThen you can begin the deep work of Yoga Nidra.\\n\\nWhile in this deeply relaxed state, you can begin to release some of those nasty patterns that keep us awake, keep us stressed, and keep us unhealthy. In Yoga, we call these \"Samskara\". Samskara are the mental and emotional habits or loops we get stuck in. Our brains love autopilot. Autopilot is why we can continually learn new things without forgetting the old. But sometimes, autopilot keeps us stuck.\\n\\nIsn't this the same thing as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?\\n\\nNope! But it's close. Click here to learn more.\\n\\nIt's super close though!\\n\\nCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing schemas, sometimes called assumptions or core beliefs. Schemas are automatic thought patterns that have negative effects. If every time, you make a mistake you think “I’m so dumb” that’s a (very basic) example of a schema. Samskaras are almost identical to this but they tend to be deeper and difficult to articulate.\\n\\nFor example, my insomnia wheels were turning at the thought of things I’d say at meetings, concerns over etiquette and competency. My Yoga Nidra practice began peeling back the layers about WHY I thought these things. Yoga Nidra helped me face one of my Samskaras. \\n\\nThis is the real power of Yoga Nidra. Yoga Nidra can help you rewire things that are no longer serving you. Yoga Nidra can help you be a better person - to yourself.\\n\\nFor this part of Yoga Nidra to be effective, you NEED a trained and experienced teacher. It's even better when you're seeing the same teacher and they know you well.\\n\\nAt the end of the practice, you revisit your Sankalpa and your teacher skillfully guides you back to an awake state. Your body and mind energized - but relaxed. A truly amazing feeling. From here you can go on with your day, or as I did that first night, find your way to bed for a wonderful satisfying sleep.\\n"}},{"id":"ckfqzkgt402b70179zy67ywb2","slug":"the-sequel-of-my-weight-loss-story-started-in-2011","author":{"name":"Annelise","teacherMytSlug":"anneliese-1","pictureUrl":"Annelise.jpg"},"title":"The sequel of my weight-loss story started in 2011","createdAt":"2020-05-12T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"wt7l7ttfrsewvuvrqsqp.png","content":{"text":"The landscape had been treacherous, marred by some very steep trails and some very long plateaus. I had tried every quick-fix in the book that promised to get me to my 30-kg lighter destination — the soya flour diet, fit for life, the IN-famous GM diet, Atkins… I even spent 30,000 rupees to be plugged to vibrator machines and kneaded like dough in the hope of getting off my well-trodden weight-loss path leading nowhere.\\n\\nMy morale was low and I hated everything about myself. Needless to say I fell off the wagon to bounce back to my happy 94-kg frame.\\n\\nThen one day, I won the lottery: I finally got a seat in an NLP practitioner course I had been chasing for 6 years! Dr. Richard McHugh (Dick), an Irish Jesuit priest, had been ordaining NLP disciples for decades in India.\\n\\nMy turning point was an NLP exercise that fired something off inside me – and it’s been a magic carpet ride, to say the least. Loving myself and knowing exactly what my goal looked, sounded, and felt like, I embarked on my journey yet again, determined to travel light.\\n\\nI then decided to go all-in and license as a Master NLP Practioner and Trainer with the co-founder Dr. Richard Bandler in the States and the UK.\\n\\nAs the weight fell off, I realised that the other burning issue I had was hormonal ups and downs as I had embarked on a very uncertain perimenopausal roller coaster ride. The sudden surprises from very painful breasts to breathless palpitations had me in a spin. After much searching, I decided to put on my researcher lab coat again, and immersed myself in research on digestive health and its impact on the mind, hormones and weight.\\n\\nIn Jan 2016, I began my \\nyoga teacher\\n journey, specialising in yin yoga – a gentle, meditative practice that works on not just the physical, but the subtle energetic and emotional body as well.\\n\\nI have since spent my time in personal sadhana, studying anatomy, various teachers’ styles, and the application of \\nyogic philosophy\\n in contemporary times. I’ve taken off for yoga retreats to Gokarna, Kerala and Goa, India to steep myself in my practice and surround myself with like-minded yogis.\\n\\nToday I meet my body where it is, listening deeply and gently supporting it as it rides each new wave.\\n\\nSo, this is what I've learnt and am on a mission to teach you:\\n\\nNurture your adrenal glands that produce the stress hormone cortisol. As we move towards menopause, the responsibility of estrogen production is placed on the adrenals, making it even more vital you reduce your exposure to stress of various kinds – mental, physical, nutritional, etc\\n\\nMost of the major hormonal glands correspond with the energy centers in the body (read chakras). Bringing about this balance on the physical often requires work on the emotional, mental and Spiritual. I use \\nyin yoga\\n and essential oils to bring me back to equanimity.\\n\\nTrack your cycle, make sense of patterns and follow the moon to restore your natural rhythm.\\n\\nSo remember, you can stay in control when you know how.\\n"}},{"id":"cl6eo45ac0km10bjx9w1bqkh6","slug":"welcome-dr-savitha-kootil","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Dr Savitha Kootil - advisory board member of MyYogaTeacher","createdAt":"2022-08-04T06:39:30.753885+00:00","coverUrl":"omiasndmkn41wbtvzoij.png","content":{"text":"Dr. Savitha Elam-Kootil is an advisory board member at MyYogaTeacher, and she practices internal medicine at Kaiser Permanente where she specializes in primary care, chronic disease management, and elder care. She is also a lead physician for depression care management – a primary care initiative to improve patient health. \\nRaised in Southern India, Dr. Elam-Kootil developed an awareness of yoga early on in her life. After moving to the United States, she began to see a need for the transformative effects of yoga to improve her patients’ mental and physical health. \\nHaving witnessed the benefits of yoga, Dr. Elam-Kootil regularly recommends it to her patients to help with a wide range of issues, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, sleep apnea, insomnia, depression, anxiety, chronic low back pain, and chronic addictions.\\n“I tell patients that yoga is not just a physical practice with difficult poses, but also a mental practice that can help with breathing, posture, and feeling better emotionally,” says Dr. Elam-Kootil, who takes a holistic approach towards health.\\nEducation\\n- J.L.N. Medical College\\n- Belgaum, Karnataka, India\\n- Internship at the University of South Carolina Richland Memorial Hospital\\n- Residency at the Atlanta Medical Center\\nProfessional Accomplishments\\n- Board certified in internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine\\n- Recipient of Kaiser Permanente’s Golden Stethoscope award\\n- Board certified in sleep medicine by the American Society of Sleep Medicine\\n- Clinical hypertension specialist certified by by the American Society of Hypertension.\\nCurrent Practice\\n- Internist at Kaiser Permanente Georgia\\n"}}],"relatedPosts":[],"blogContent":{"id":"ckfqzo0w802df0178s0s5zd85","slug":"we-support-black-lives-matter","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"We support Black Lives Matter","createdAt":"2020-06-16T00:00:00+00:00","updatedAt":"2020-11-16T13:16:47.933534+00:00","coverUrl":"blm-123.jpg","seoDescription":"Thoughts, energy and words can transform the world. Yoga & meditation gives the strength needed to face, hold, and be with the most painful things inside of us","content":{"text":"Dear myYogaTeacher community,\\n\\nIt feels like every month this year is more intense than the last. This morning I woke up, checked Facebook and immediately started crying.\\n\\nLook, before you continue reading — this isn't a standard message from us, it's not a feature update, or a new class announcement.\\n\\nThis is about Black Lives Matter — supporting our brothers and sisters who need our help today!\\n\\nI wrestled with sending you this message because mYT is a sanctuary. It's your safe space to unwind, let go of your day, and recharge.\\n\\nI know for many of our students, your 1-hr class is the only time you get for yourself.\\n\\nAnd I want to protect that. So\\n please do not continue reading if you don't have the capacity to deal with this right now.\\n\\nBut if you do, \\nif you want to help and want to know what we're doing to help\\n — read on.\\n\\nWe're crushed by what's happening right now.\\n\\nI won't speak for the rest of the team, I'll only speak for myself… I spent most of my life avoiding my feelings, especially difficult ones. Yoga and \\nmeditation \\ngave me the inner strength I needed to face, hold, and be with the most painful things inside of me.\\n\\nBut today, I'm overwhelmed with sorrow.\\n\\nI don't know what I can do, what I should do, and to top it off I'm not even sure if it's safe to go out in public and join the protests.\\n\\nAs a small community myYogaTeacher is supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. We don't want to force politics, social activism, or any additional stressors into your life.\\n\\nBut we want to do something!\\n\\nSo I'm reaching out to ask you what we — as one human family, as a\\n community of yogis — can do.\\n\\nWhat can mYT with 60+ \\nyoga teachers\\n, thousands of students, and a beautiful platform for sharing virtual teachings and classes… \\nwhat can we do that will keep mYT your safe space and sanctuary while contributing to justice and equality for all?\\n\\nWhat can we do that doesn't turn your time for rest, relaxation and self-care into a burden?\\n\\nFor starters, we are going to donate $10 of every new Membership to the Black Lives Matter movement. (This will start today and continue for the next month.)\\n\\n\\nBut I really don't want to stop there. I want to do more, \\nall of us on the team want to do more!\\n\\nHaving lived in yoga communities and \\nat yoga and meditation retreat centers — we pray, we meditate, we believe that thoughts, energy and words can transform the world.\\n\\nWe also believe that true change starts with ourselves.\\n\\nAnd \\nwe do not believe it ends with these intangibles.\\n But activism is not our strength. Personal transformation, mindfulness, self-empowerment, self-awareness, and personal growth are our strengths.\\n\\nMe (and I believe many on the team) are not fighters. We're every-day people who care.\\n\\nSo I've also proposed things like \\nhaving our teachers lead \\ngroup meditations \\non compassion, love, and insight.\\n Meditations to focus on helping ourselves and all living beings let go of our fears and learn new depths of love.\\n\\nWould group meditations like this interest you?\\n\\nWe've also considered \\nsending you some of our favourite resources to deepen your understanding of the BLM movement and racial inequality today.\\n Is this something you might like to learn more about?\\n\\nMy personal view is that I don't hate those who are full of fear, hate, and aggression. And I don't believe hate is the solution.\\n\\nThe Dalai Lama, in response to George Floyd's murder said,\\n\\n\"If we as human beings do not harm one another, but help one another, serve one another and be compassionate with one another, then we will have a peaceful world.\"\\n\\nFor me, these are words to live by...\\n\\nIn case you want to \\nhelp save lives\\n in the US right now, I've \\nattached a few links at the bottom of this email\\n. You can do a couple easy things right now (from your sofa) to make a real difference today!\\n\\nLook, \\nthis isn't meant to be a one-way message\\n. I know very few people will read this entire email. And even fewer will respond.\\n\\nBut \\nI want to hear from you\\n. I want your help and guidance on how we, as a small community of yogis, can help our brothers and sisters who are desperately seeking the justice, love, respect, and equality they deserve.\\n\\nIt's time to overcome hatred and fear. To live with love, care, and mutual support. We are one human family.\\n\\nWith Love, Sorrow, and Hope — your friend,\\nWill\\n","html":"<p>Dear myYogaTeacher community,</p><p></p><p>It feels like every month this year is more intense than the last. This morning I woke up, checked Facebook and immediately started crying.</p><p></p><p>Look, before you continue reading — this isn't a standard message from us, it's not a feature update, or a new class announcement.</p><p></p><p><strong>This is about Black Lives Matter — supporting our brothers and sisters who need our help today!</strong></p><p></p><p>I wrestled with sending you this message because mYT is a sanctuary. It's your safe space to unwind, let go of your day, and recharge.</p><p></p><p>I know for many of our students, your 1-hr class is the only time you get for yourself.</p><p></p><p>And I want to protect that. So<strong> please do not continue reading if you don't have the capacity to deal with this right now.</strong></p><p></p><p>But if you do, <strong>if you want to help and want to know what we're doing to help</strong> — read on.</p><p></p><p>We're crushed by what's happening right now.</p><p></p><p>I won't speak for the rest of the team, I'll only speak for myself… I spent most of my life avoiding my feelings, especially difficult ones. Yoga and <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">meditation </a>gave me the inner strength I needed to face, hold, and be with the most painful things inside of me.</p><p></p><p>But today, I'm overwhelmed with sorrow.</p><p></p><p>I don't know what I can do, what I should do, and to top it off I'm not even sure if it's safe to go out in public and join the protests.</p><p></p><p><strong>As a small community myYogaTeacher is supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. We don't want to force politics, social activism, or any additional stressors into your life.</strong></p><p></p><p>But we want to do something!</p><p></p><p>So I'm reaching out to ask you what we — as one human family, as a<strong> community of yogis — can do.</strong></p><p></p><p>What can mYT with 60+ <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\">yoga teachers</a>, thousands of students, and a beautiful platform for sharing virtual teachings and classes… <strong>what can we do that will keep mYT your safe space and sanctuary while contributing to justice and equality for all?</strong></p><p></p><p>What can we do that doesn't turn your time for rest, relaxation and self-care into a burden?</p><p></p><p>For starters, we are going to donate $10 of every new Membership to the Black Lives Matter movement. (This will start today and continue for the next month.)</p><p></p><p></p><p>But I really don't want to stop there. I want to do more, <strong>all of us on the team want to do more!</strong></p><p></p><p>Having lived in yoga communities and <strong>at yoga and meditation retreat centers — we pray, we meditate, we believe that thoughts, energy and words can transform the world.</strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>We also believe that true change starts with ourselves.</strong></p><p></p><p>And <strong>we do not believe it ends with these intangibles.</strong> But activism is not our strength. Personal transformation, mindfulness, self-empowerment, self-awareness, and personal growth are our strengths.</p><p></p><p>Me (and I believe many on the team) are not fighters. We're every-day people who care.</p><p></p><p>So I've also proposed things like <strong>having our teachers lead </strong><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles\"><strong>group meditations </strong></a><strong>on compassion, love, and insight.</strong> Meditations to focus on helping ourselves and all living beings let go of our fears and learn new depths of love.</p><p></p><p><strong>Would group meditations like this interest you?</strong></p><p></p><p>We've also considered <strong>sending you some of our favourite resources to deepen your understanding of the BLM movement and racial inequality today.</strong> Is this something you might like to learn more about?</p><p></p><p>My personal view is that I don't hate those who are full of fear, hate, and aggression. And I don't believe hate is the solution.</p><p></p><p>The Dalai Lama, in response to George Floyd's murder said,</p><p><em></em></p><p><em>"If we as human beings do not harm one another, but help one another, serve one another and be compassionate with one another, then we will have a peaceful world."</em></p><p></p><p>For me, these are words to live by...</p><p></p><p>In case you want to <strong>help save lives</strong> in the US right now, I've <strong>attached a few links at the bottom of this email</strong>. You can do a couple easy things right now (from your sofa) to make a real difference today!</p><p></p><p>Look, <strong>this isn't meant to be a one-way message</strong>. I know very few people will read this entire email. And even fewer will respond.</p><p></p><p>But <strong>I want to hear from you</strong>. I want your help and guidance on how we, as a small community of yogis, can help our brothers and sisters who are desperately seeking the justice, love, respect, and equality they deserve.</p><p></p><p>It's time to overcome hatred and fear. To live with love, care, and mutual support. We are one human family.</p><p></p><p>With Love, Sorrow, and Hope — your friend,</p><p>Will</p><p></p>"},"category":[],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>Dear myYogaTeacher community,</p><p></p><p>It feels like every month this year is more intense than the last. This morning I woke up, checked Facebook and immediately started crying.</p><p></p><p>Look, before you continue reading — this isn't a standard message from us, it's not a feature update, or a new class announcement.</p><p></p><p><strong>This is about Black Lives Matter — supporting our brothers and sisters who need our help today!</strong></p><p></p><p>I wrestled with sending you this message because mYT is a sanctuary. It's your safe space to unwind, let go of your day, and recharge.</p><p></p><p>I know for many of our students, your 1-hr class is the only time you get for yourself.</p><p></p><p>And I want to protect that. So<strong> please do not continue reading if you don't have the capacity to deal with this right now.</strong></p><p></p><p>But if you do, <strong>if you want to help and want to know what we're doing to help</strong> — read on.</p><p></p><p>We're crushed by what's happening right now.</p><p></p><p>I won't speak for the rest of the team, I'll only speak for myself… I spent most of my life avoiding my feelings, especially difficult ones. Yoga and <a\n class=\"inline-cta\"\n id=bd955213-2fb0-4002-accd-96372bbbed62\n href=\"/free-trial-o?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckfqzo0w802df0178s0s5zd85&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=We support Black Lives Matter&entity_slug=we-support-black-lives-matter&page_or_popup=/articles/we-support-black-lives-matter&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"bd955213-2fb0-4002-accd-96372bbbed62\")\n title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n data-title=\"We support Black Lives Matter\"\n data-slug=\"we-support-black-lives-matter\"\n <u>meditation </a></u> \n </a>gave me the inner strength I needed to face, hold, and be with the most painful things inside of me.</p><p></p><p>But today, I'm overwhelmed with sorrow.</p><p></p><p>I don't know what I can do, what I should do, and to top it off I'm not even sure if it's safe to go out in public and join the protests.</p><p></p><p><strong>As a small community myYogaTeacher is supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. We don't want to force politics, social activism, or any additional stressors into your life.</strong></p><p></p><p>But we want to do something!</p><p></p><p>So I'm reaching out to ask you what we — as one human family, as a<strong> community of yogis — can do.</strong></p><p></p><p>What can mYT with 60+ <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\">yoga teachers</a>, thousands of students, and a beautiful platform for sharing virtual teachings and classes… <strong>what can we do that will keep mYT your safe space and sanctuary while contributing to justice and equality for all?</strong></p><p></p><p>What can we do that doesn't turn your time for rest, relaxation and self-care into a burden?</p><p></p><p>For starters, we are going to donate $10 of every new Membership to the Black Lives Matter movement. (This will start today and continue for the next month.)</p><p></p><p></p><p>But I really don't want to stop there. I want to do more, <strong>all of us on the team want to do more!</strong></p><p></p><p>Having lived in yoga communities and <strong>at yoga and meditation retreat centers — we pray, we meditate, we believe that thoughts, energy and words can transform the world.</strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>We also believe that true change starts with ourselves.</strong></p><p></p><p>And <strong>we do not believe it ends with these intangibles.</strong> But activism is not our strength. Personal transformation, mindfulness, self-empowerment, self-awareness, and personal growth are our strengths.</p><p></p><p>Me (and I believe many on the team) are not fighters. We're every-day people who care.</p><p></p><p>So I've also proposed things like <strong>having our teachers lead </strong><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles\"><strong>group meditations </strong></a><strong>on compassion, love, and insight.</strong> Meditations to focus on helping ourselves and all living beings let go of our fears and learn new depths of love.</p><p></p><p><strong>Would group meditations like this interest you?</strong></p><p></p><p>We've also considered <strong>sending you some of our favourite resources to deepen your understanding of the BLM movement and racial inequality today.</strong> Is this something you might like to learn more about?</p><p></p><p>My personal view is that I don't hate those who are full of fear, hate, and aggression. And I don't believe hate is the solution.</p><p></p><p>The Dalai Lama, in response to George Floyd's murder said,</p><p><em></em></p><p><em>"If we as human beings do not harm one another, but help one another, serve one another and be compassionate with one another, then we will have a peaceful world."</em></p><p></p><p>For me, these are words to live by...</p><p></p><p>In case you want to <strong>help save lives</strong> in the US right now, I've <strong>attached a few links at the bottom of this email</strong>. You can do a couple easy things right now (from your sofa) to make a real difference today!</p><p></p><p>Look, <strong>this isn't meant to be a one-way message</strong>. I know very few people will read this entire email. And even fewer will respond.</p><p></p><p>But <strong>I want to hear from you</strong>. I want your help and guidance on how we, as a small community of yogis, can help our brothers and sisters who are desperately seeking the justice, love, respect, and equality they deserve.</p><p></p><p>It's time to overcome hatred and fear. To live with love, care, and mutual support. We are one human family.</p><p></p><p>With Love, Sorrow, and Hope — your friend,</p><p>Will</p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"we-support-black-lives-matter","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"free-trial-o","redirectURL":"#","current_url":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/we-support-black-lives-matter","student_details":"","facebookUrl":"","twitterUrl":"","copyUrl":"","emailUrl":"","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. 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Yoga & meditation gives the strength needed to face, hold, and be with the most painful things inside of us","content":{"text":"Dear myYogaTeacher community,\\n\\nIt feels like every month this year is more intense than the last. This morning I woke up, checked Facebook and immediately started crying.\\n\\nLook, before you continue reading — this isn't a standard message from us, it's not a feature update, or a new class announcement.\\n\\nThis is about Black Lives Matter — supporting our brothers and sisters who need our help today!\\n\\nI wrestled with sending you this message because mYT is a sanctuary. It's your safe space to unwind, let go of your day, and recharge.\\n\\nI know for many of our students, your 1-hr class is the only time you get for yourself.\\n\\nAnd I want to protect that. So\\n please do not continue reading if you don't have the capacity to deal with this right now.\\n\\nBut if you do, \\nif you want to help and want to know what we're doing to help\\n — read on.\\n\\nWe're crushed by what's happening right now.\\n\\nI won't speak for the rest of the team, I'll only speak for myself… I spent most of my life avoiding my feelings, especially difficult ones. Yoga and \\nmeditation \\ngave me the inner strength I needed to face, hold, and be with the most painful things inside of me.\\n\\nBut today, I'm overwhelmed with sorrow.\\n\\nI don't know what I can do, what I should do, and to top it off I'm not even sure if it's safe to go out in public and join the protests.\\n\\nAs a small community myYogaTeacher is supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. We don't want to force politics, social activism, or any additional stressors into your life.\\n\\nBut we want to do something!\\n\\nSo I'm reaching out to ask you what we — as one human family, as a\\n community of yogis — can do.\\n\\nWhat can mYT with 60+ \\nyoga teachers\\n, thousands of students, and a beautiful platform for sharing virtual teachings and classes… \\nwhat can we do that will keep mYT your safe space and sanctuary while contributing to justice and equality for all?\\n\\nWhat can we do that doesn't turn your time for rest, relaxation and self-care into a burden?\\n\\nFor starters, we are going to donate $10 of every new Membership to the Black Lives Matter movement. (This will start today and continue for the next month.)\\n\\n\\nBut I really don't want to stop there. I want to do more, \\nall of us on the team want to do more!\\n\\nHaving lived in yoga communities and \\nat yoga and meditation retreat centers — we pray, we meditate, we believe that thoughts, energy and words can transform the world.\\n\\nWe also believe that true change starts with ourselves.\\n\\nAnd \\nwe do not believe it ends with these intangibles.\\n But activism is not our strength. Personal transformation, mindfulness, self-empowerment, self-awareness, and personal growth are our strengths.\\n\\nMe (and I believe many on the team) are not fighters. We're every-day people who care.\\n\\nSo I've also proposed things like \\nhaving our teachers lead \\ngroup meditations \\non compassion, love, and insight.\\n Meditations to focus on helping ourselves and all living beings let go of our fears and learn new depths of love.\\n\\nWould group meditations like this interest you?\\n\\nWe've also considered \\nsending you some of our favourite resources to deepen your understanding of the BLM movement and racial inequality today.\\n Is this something you might like to learn more about?\\n\\nMy personal view is that I don't hate those who are full of fear, hate, and aggression. And I don't believe hate is the solution.\\n\\nThe Dalai Lama, in response to George Floyd's murder said,\\n\\n\"If we as human beings do not harm one another, but help one another, serve one another and be compassionate with one another, then we will have a peaceful world.\"\\n\\nFor me, these are words to live by...\\n\\nIn case you want to \\nhelp save lives\\n in the US right now, I've \\nattached a few links at the bottom of this email\\n. You can do a couple easy things right now (from your sofa) to make a real difference today!\\n\\nLook, \\nthis isn't meant to be a one-way message\\n. I know very few people will read this entire email. And even fewer will respond.\\n\\nBut \\nI want to hear from you\\n. I want your help and guidance on how we, as a small community of yogis, can help our brothers and sisters who are desperately seeking the justice, love, respect, and equality they deserve.\\n\\nIt's time to overcome hatred and fear. To live with love, care, and mutual support. We are one human family.\\n\\nWith Love, Sorrow, and Hope — your friend,\\nWill\\n","html":"<p>Dear myYogaTeacher community,</p><p></p><p>It feels like every month this year is more intense than the last. This morning I woke up, checked Facebook and immediately started crying.</p><p></p><p>Look, before you continue reading — this isn't a standard message from us, it's not a feature update, or a new class announcement.</p><p></p><p><strong>This is about Black Lives Matter — supporting our brothers and sisters who need our help today!</strong></p><p></p><p>I wrestled with sending you this message because mYT is a sanctuary. It's your safe space to unwind, let go of your day, and recharge.</p><p></p><p>I know for many of our students, your 1-hr class is the only time you get for yourself.</p><p></p><p>And I want to protect that. So<strong> please do not continue reading if you don't have the capacity to deal with this right now.</strong></p><p></p><p>But if you do, <strong>if you want to help and want to know what we're doing to help</strong> — read on.</p><p></p><p>We're crushed by what's happening right now.</p><p></p><p>I won't speak for the rest of the team, I'll only speak for myself… I spent most of my life avoiding my feelings, especially difficult ones. Yoga and <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">meditation </a>gave me the inner strength I needed to face, hold, and be with the most painful things inside of me.</p><p></p><p>But today, I'm overwhelmed with sorrow.</p><p></p><p>I don't know what I can do, what I should do, and to top it off I'm not even sure if it's safe to go out in public and join the protests.</p><p></p><p><strong>As a small community myYogaTeacher is supporting the Black Lives Matter movement. We don't want to force politics, social activism, or any additional stressors into your life.</strong></p><p></p><p>But we want to do something!</p><p></p><p>So I'm reaching out to ask you what we — as one human family, as a<strong> community of yogis — can do.</strong></p><p></p><p>What can mYT with 60+ <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signUp\">yoga teachers</a>, thousands of students, and a beautiful platform for sharing virtual teachings and classes… <strong>what can we do that will keep mYT your safe space and sanctuary while contributing to justice and equality for all?</strong></p><p></p><p>What can we do that doesn't turn your time for rest, relaxation and self-care into a burden?</p><p></p><p>For starters, we are going to donate $10 of every new Membership to the Black Lives Matter movement. (This will start today and continue for the next month.)</p><p></p><p></p><p>But I really don't want to stop there. I want to do more, <strong>all of us on the team want to do more!</strong></p><p></p><p>Having lived in yoga communities and <strong>at yoga and meditation retreat centers — we pray, we meditate, we believe that thoughts, energy and words can transform the world.</strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>We also believe that true change starts with ourselves.</strong></p><p></p><p>And <strong>we do not believe it ends with these intangibles.</strong> But activism is not our strength. Personal transformation, mindfulness, self-empowerment, self-awareness, and personal growth are our strengths.</p><p></p><p>Me (and I believe many on the team) are not fighters. We're every-day people who care.</p><p></p><p>So I've also proposed things like <strong>having our teachers lead </strong><a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles\"><strong>group meditations </strong></a><strong>on compassion, love, and insight.</strong> Meditations to focus on helping ourselves and all living beings let go of our fears and learn new depths of love.</p><p></p><p><strong>Would group meditations like this interest you?</strong></p><p></p><p>We've also considered <strong>sending you some of our favourite resources to deepen your understanding of the BLM movement and racial inequality today.</strong> Is this something you might like to learn more about?</p><p></p><p>My personal view is that I don't hate those who are full of fear, hate, and aggression. And I don't believe hate is the solution.</p><p></p><p>The Dalai Lama, in response to George Floyd's murder said,</p><p><em></em></p><p><em>"If we as human beings do not harm one another, but help one another, serve one another and be compassionate with one another, then we will have a peaceful world."</em></p><p></p><p>For me, these are words to live by...</p><p></p><p>In case you want to <strong>help save lives</strong> in the US right now, I've <strong>attached a few links at the bottom of this email</strong>. You can do a couple easy things right now (from your sofa) to make a real difference today!</p><p></p><p>Look, <strong>this isn't meant to be a one-way message</strong>. I know very few people will read this entire email. And even fewer will respond.</p><p></p><p>But <strong>I want to hear from you</strong>. I want your help and guidance on how we, as a small community of yogis, can help our brothers and sisters who are desperately seeking the justice, love, respect, and equality they deserve.</p><p></p><p>It's time to overcome hatred and fear. To live with love, care, and mutual support. We are one human family.</p><p></p><p>With Love, Sorrow, and Hope — your friend,</p><p>Will</p><p></p>"},"category":[],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":null}
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