The Mat as a Sanctuary

In the last weeks, I’ve found myself reflecting on a question that many yoga instructors wrestle with: Should we use our classes to take a stand on social or political issues? It’s a question with no one right answer—and I have respect for the many ways this path can be walked.

Some teachers believe it's an essential part of leading a practice to bring awareness to injustice and tie our practice directly to the world's urgent conversations that are in conflict with yoga philosophy. And I honor that.

But my own calling, especially right now, is to create a space for peace. A place where you can clear the noise, come home to yourself. Not to escape or ignore what’s happening around us—but to root deeply enough into your own truth that you can respond from a place of clarity, not reactivity.

I don’t believe in bypassing the hard stuff with empty positivity. But I do believe that peace is a powerful offering. When you step onto your mat, you’re creating a ripple. A small act of care, presence, and inner steadiness that touches more than just your own nervous system.

One of my favorite quotes says it perfectly:“Peace, it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.” —John O’Leary

That’s what I hope your yoga can be—a way to find calm in the middle of it all. When we practice from that place, even a quiet hour on the mat can be a powerful offering. For ourselves, and for the world.