“If yoga practice [insert your mindful movement here, Pilates, qigong, nature walks] doesn’t make you a better person, why do it?” I once had a yoga teacher ask me this and I’ve never forgotten it. I was a gymnast through middle and high school and began yoga once that seemed too dangerous, but it was and is the mental and spiritual benefits that keep me coming back to my practice.

Practicing yoga is an act of social resistance. When society continues to push and say, more consumption, more things, more busy, much faster, and no need to think of others’ welfare, to slow down and really feel is an act of rebellion.

My nephew recently graduated from college. He went to James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA, so we went down to help him celebrate with his family. It is an exciting time to see his promise and potential, and we drove home on Skyline Drive. Taking the scenic route home reminded me that we do not have to go far to have wonderful experiences. This summer, celebrate with the Yoga Center. If you are traveling somewhere near or far, snap a pic of yourself in a yoga pose, then follow and tag us on social media. We are @The Yoga Center of Columbia on Facebook and @Columbiayoga on Instagram.

“I am beginning to despair and can see only two choices: either go crazy or turn holy.”

― Adélia Prado, The Alphabet in the Park: Selected Poems

What does yoga practice have to offer us in times of great chaos? Among other things, stability, grounding, connection, will power, and perspective.

There is an excitement in the air. With springtime comes a wondrous shift in nature as the flowers bloom in waves, and temperatures warm as we approach the summer solstice. There is a shift at the Yoga Center also …

In our kick-off Yoga Teacher Incubation Space, Lauren Vint shared with us a quote from Yoga Teacher Max Strom, and I am paraphrasing here: a good friend is more healing than a chemist. I just love this because it is so true. Having someone you trust that you can talk to is so precious.

Celebrate Earth Day with Kelly Fisher and the Yoga Center of Columbia. Enjoy this free guided meditation.

“Bloom where you are planted.” I first heard this phrase above from esteemed yoga teacher Betsy Downing from Garden of the Heart Yoga in Florida. The phrase is evocative for me.

Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, it is a season of love. At the Yoga Center of Columbia, we provide classes, workshops, and trainings that offer love and support to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. But what does that mean truly?