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At a time when a third of Americans are struggling with anxiety and depression, and many are feeling isolated or detached from community, it can be difficult to prioritize self-care routines.
Seeing a need to take part in fostering a sense of community and in honor of International Yoga Day, Cariloha is hosting a virtual Yoga at Home event on Sunday, June 21, beginning at 11 a.m. ET. As makers of the luxuriously soft Bamboo Fit activewear, made from sustainable bamboo viscose, Cariloha knows that getting up and moving is an essential part of self-care. What better way to care for your body and mind than with some meditative yoga?
The event will run live on Instagram, using the hashtag #CarilohaYoga. All will be welcomed into an inclusive community of individuals seeking to take care of their physical and mental well-being. The event will feature free live yoga sessions led by beloved instructors from across the country. Each session will cover different techniques and will guide followers of all skill levels in strengthening their minds and bodies.
For those who are new to yoga, this online event can eliminate feelings of intimidation by allowing you to explore yoga from the privacy of home. It took Landon Gallant, a leader with Cariloha’s Yoga at Home, just one class to become convinced that yoga would have a permanent place in his life. “By the end of the class, tears were streaming down my face. The seed was planted,” he said. Fellow event leader, Houston Merrill, also encourages yoga newbies to really be present within themselves as they give it a try. “Remember your presence in that moment. If you’re going to give it a shot, show up physically and intentionally for yourself,” he said.
If you are just beginning to dip your toes into the discipline, be patient with yourself and your body. Reflect on what you are experiencing both mentally and physically as you work to foster harmony in your mind, body, and environment. “Feel whatever you are feeling. Yoga has a tendency to cause us to feel sensations, both physical and emotional, that we may have otherwise been avoiding,” shares Coral Brown, senior Prana Vinyasa Flow teacher, mental health counselor, and event leader.
Yoga is sought after for its healing abilities. There is an ever-growing demand for yoga classes and those with the skills and patience to teach. Those who are eager to lead are encouraged to begin their path of study. “It’s never been a better time! The world needs as many healers as possible right now,” encouraged Koya Webb, Spiritual Health and Wellness Educator and event leader.
Yoga’s therapeutic benefits improve mental and emotional wellbeing, allowing you to pause time, focus on your body’s reactions and the thoughts flowing through your mind. Dianne Bondy, a leader of the “Yoga for All” movement and Cariloha’s event shares, “[Yoga] has helped me focus on what is really important, like meaningful and authentic relationships. It has helped me appreciate my body and make peace with it.”
Cariloha Yoga at Home leader Jamie Sage believes that International Yoga Day is a great opportunity to embrace the inclusive community and power of yoga. “Yoga is for everyone! It is also good for everyone,” she said. “Moving your body, connecting with your thoughts, and becoming more aware of your actions and reactions will serve you in every aspect of your life.” Alexis Chanel Kener, who will co-lead a session with Houston Merrill, appreciates that this day of recognition shines a light on physical and mental wellbeing. “[International Yoga Day] helps deliver a paradigm on yoga, that being physically and mentally healthy and loving your infinite spirit is always going to be cool,” she shared.
Though meeting publicly for classes is a challenge right now, attending a session virtually can still be empowering for everyone. “I hope they take away that connection is not reserved for in-person moments. I hope they feel a deep sense of connection with themselves, other participants and their community,” said Webb.
Virtual events like Cariloha’s Yoga at Home have helped event leader and influencer Melissa Burch connect with supporters beyond the walls of her studio. “I’ve love being able to reach family and friends who want to support me,” she said. “It’s been fun to connect with people I’m emotionally tied to, but physically disconnected from.”
Whether you’ve never stepped foot on a yoga mat, or you’ve been posing since you could walk, Cariloha’s Yoga at Home event is open for all to share the benefits of yoga and be in communion with others across the country. Learn a new pose, take part in fun giveaways for new Cariloha Bamboo Fit yoga apparel, and come together to celebrate and enjoy the benefits of yoga.
Cariloha’s Yoga at Home Schedule:
Follow the hashtag #CarilohaYoga on Instagram Live on Sunday, June 21 2020, to join in. Sessions begin at 11 AM ET/ 8 AM PT.
Learn more about each free, live yoga session here. We’re looking forward to enjoying International Yoga Day with you.