It’s National Yoga Month!
Did you know? If not, it may be because it was only in 2008 that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services officially named September as National Yoga Month.
The goal of National Yoga Month is to educate people about the health benefits of yoga and inspire more people to practice. That first year, tens of thousands of people participated in the 10 City Yoga Health Festival Tour. The tour featured yoga classes, lectures, music, and other yoga-related fun in (you guessed it) ten cities across the United States.
National Yoga Month has grown quite a bit since 2008. Now, you’ll find lots of yoga events throughout the country every September. The biggest is probably Global Mala, which happens around the Autumnal Equinox on September 19-21.
Want some other ideas for National Yoga Month? Try a few (or all) of these:
Participate in Global Mala.
The event features a challenging practice of 108 sun salutations. The number corresponds to the sacred cycle of 108. But don’t worry; if the thought of 108 sun salutations overwhelms you, there’s always child’s pose!
Attend a class you’ve never tried before.
Ideally this will be something more challenging than your usual class, but sometimes, slowing down is a better option. So, if you’re a power yogi and have never experienced a restorative class, now may be the time to try one!
Host a yogi lunch.
I got this idea from one of my yoga teachers who often invited yogis to her home for lunch. It’s a great way to build community and bond outside of class.
Gift the gift of yoga.
Do you know someone you think would love yoga but has been reluctant to try it? Give your friend a gift certificate for your favorite yoga studio. Better yet, offer to pay for a great yoga app your friend can use at home. (Of course, you know which one I mean!)
Practice karma yoga.
Karma Yoga is the yoga of service. September is a great month to begin volunteering for local charity. Maybe you can get your yoga classmates involved as well. Hold a fundraiser or food drive at the studio you attend, for example.
Treat yourself to a yoga vacation if you can.
National Yoga Month is a good reason to get away on a yoga retreat. If you can’t do that, sign up for a workshop or buy some new yoga music or a that brand-new mat or prop you’ve been needing to support your practice.
Start a yoga book club or other yoga group.
Meeting regularly with fellow yogis is another great way to build community. National Yoga Month is a great time to start! If you’re not a reader or would just like an alternative to a traditional book club, consider starting a circle of yoga friends who meet to share other aspects of the practice and socialize with each other.
How are you celebrating National Yoga Month? Share your ideas in the comments!
