While many think of the yogi as someone who sits cross-legged, peaceful and calm, watching the world go by, there is plenty of room for the driven or “type A” personality in yoga. In fact Yoga philosophy tells us that taking skillful action rather than sitting passively by is desirable in most situations. One teacher of mine describes it as a mandate to “act according to the need of the hour.” Then the big trick is to be unattached to the outcome of your actions. Accept whatever happens.

I started my yoga journey with the intention of integrating the poses into my psychotherapy work, helping clients connect with themselves and helping my couples reconnect with each other in a new way. Little did I know, that intention would shift inward and I would meet a new version of myself.

How we can elevate diversity and inclusion in yoga? What does that look like for you? Does that mean venturing out and exploring new class styles or teachers? Does that mean holding spaces that elevate Black yogis, such as this one? How can we make room for everyone on the mat to be their most authentic self?