Samira Shuruk 1/20/26 Samira Shuruk 1/20/26

Beyond Yoga Poses

“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.

Samira Shuruk 9/10/25 Samira Shuruk 9/10/25

Why take Yoga Teacher Training Now?

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.

Samira Shuruk 6/5/25 Samira Shuruk 6/5/25

Yoga in the Wild

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.

Samira Shuruk 4/1/25 Samira Shuruk 4/1/25

Steadfast and Strong in Spring

“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.

Samira Shuruk 6/19/24 Samira Shuruk 6/19/24

Embracing Change

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 …

Samira Shuruk 5/9/24 Samira Shuruk 5/9/24

You Belong Here

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.

Samira Shuruk 4/17/24 Samira Shuruk 4/17/24

Earth Day Meditation

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

Kelly Fisher 3/12/24 Kelly Fisher 3/12/24

Bloom Where You Are Planted

“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.

Samira Shuruk 2/13/24 Samira Shuruk 2/13/24

How do you celebrate love?

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?

Kelly Fisher 11/25/23 Kelly Fisher 11/25/23

Evolution

The Yoga Center of Columbia is a force of nature. It is one of the largest yoga studios on the east coast and its 31 year history is a testament to the power of these mindfulness practices and the strength of our community.

Kelly Fisher 11/1/23 Kelly Fisher 11/1/23

Team Practice

I loved two sports when I was a kid, gymnastics and softball…
Reflections by Kelly Fisher

Samira Shuruk 9/5/23 Samira Shuruk 9/5/23

Magnanimity of Mind

Magnimity of Mind and the elements of change.

Samira Shuruk 7/2/23 Samira Shuruk 7/2/23

The Yoga Center Makes The World a Little Brighter

The Yoga Center of Columbia made a big shift in June of 2023. Read more about it here.