The Yoga & Social Justice Blog
Intersectional Thoughts
for questions more than answers,
for considerations more than hard, fast rules,
for deep contemplation and earnest seekers
KPR WUNC: Yoga, Power And Privilege: What To Consider Before Your Next Yoga Class
This article delves into the complexities of yoga in the Western world, exploring the intersections of power, cultural appropriation, fitness culture, and spirituality, urging practitioners to consider the deeper aspects beyond physical poses.
Reflections on a Year of Challenges and Growth: Coping and Connecting Amidst the Pandemic
In this poignant piece, Michelle Johnson shares her experiences of being grounded for a year during the pandemic, cherishing moments with loved ones, embracing innovative ways of connecting with others online, and finding gratitude in the midst of fear and loss, while also celebrating her mother's well-being and the gift of time together.
A question for & about white women
The article addresses important considerations for white women practicing yoga, urging them to acknowledge the South Asian roots of yoga, seek diverse teachers, engage in critical conversations, and embrace yoga as a spiritual practice rather than a fitness trend.
So You Want to Chant Om & Namaste workshop
Using Om and Namaste with respect is education that never stops, it's as eternal as the mantras themselves. We're here to help you on the learning journey. April 23, 2021
White women co-opted pandemic yoga. Now, South Asian instructors are taking it back.
NBC Article Feature: White women co-opted pandemic yoga. Now, South Asian instructors are taking it back.
Apr 16, 2021
NBC: White women co-opted pandemic yoga. Now, South Asian instructors are taking it back.
In this article, South Asian instructors reclaim yoga during the pandemic, celebrating the authentic space, diverse voices, and thriving community of Tejal Yoga, while also highlighting the values of shared leadership, decolonized wellness, and being people-focused.
1 Year Look-back
In the past year, Tejal Yoga has thrived in a virtual space, hosting numerous classes, workshops, and community events, while embracing shared leadership, decolonized wellness, and social justice initiatives, showing the power of a supportive and dedicated community.
3 tips that may make you feel better.
In this personal reflection, the writer shares three tips for coping and finding peace during tough times, including laughing out loud, taking walks outside, and prioritizing rest, while also acknowledging the profound emotional impact of everyday life.
How to gain support for inclusion focused programs
This article discusses gaining support for inclusion-focused programs, sharing insights from a personal experience with the 20-60-20 rule, which shows that 20% of people may reject the idea, 60% may be receptive or skeptical, and 20% may fully support it, offering tips for navigating these dynamics in social justice initiatives.
Native American History Month Homework
Tejal Yoga's November newsletter addresses National American Indian Heritage Month, Thanksgiving Day's origins, and provides resources and prompts for learning about Indigenous Peoples and supporting affected communities.
Feeling Silenced + Yoga is Dead
A reflection on the aftermath of the "Yoga is Dead" podcast, discussing how negative feedback led to personal growth and the importance of speaking up in the face of injustice and discrimination.
Complexity of Spiritual Bypassing
In this email addressed to yoga teachers, the author discusses the importance of engaging in a thoughtful conversation on the complexity of Spiritual Bypassing and Spiritual Texts, providing resources to gain background knowledge and inviting teachers to share their thoughts and comments on the topic via Instagram and YouTube.
Wellness isn't welcoming in Today.com
The author shares updates on their mother's recovery, a published article on Today.com about wellness and toxic positivity, thoughts on ancestry and toppling statues, and introduces a new program on the 7 primary chakras.
Actions to fight the good fight
Embrace the call to action, switch to diverse resources, engage in socially conscious conversations, and join in the journey towards social justice and lasting change in the second half of 2020.
Take time for two things today
In the face of challenges, find strength in dedicating your breath to others and take time for personal reflection, appreciating the nostalgia of summers past and embracing new practices.
A different approach to moving forward
A different approach to moving forward: Reflecting on a weekend of intensity and connection during a Virtual Wellness Experience, the writer emphasizes the importance of individual action and collective change in addressing racial inequity, while finding solace in yoga and meditation as coping mechanisms and ways to support the community.