Creating Access to Yoga

In this article and corresponding podcast episode, I interview Liz Veyhl (Executive Director) and Mikka Parrish (Outreach Manager) at Small World Yoga. Small World Yoga’s mission is to connect people and create community by increasing access to yoga. Period! They believe in the power of yoga to transform individuals through healing and connection and envision a world in which everyone has access to these benefits.

To listen/watch to the full podcast interview hosted by Greater Than Zero Percent (GTZP), visit our or Spotify or Apple.

Yoga has become a global phenomenon, attracting millions of practitioners worldwide. It is regarded as a transformative practice that nurtures one's physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

However, despite its many benefits, yoga can sometimes feel exclusive, with high-priced classes and limited accessibility. That's where Small World Yoga steps in – an organization that is revolutionizing the yoga community by providing access to free or donation-based classes for all.

In this article, we will explore the power of yoga and how Small World Yoga is creating accessibility and building a thriving community through their innovative initiatives.

The Benefits of Yoga

Before delving into the impact of Small World Yoga, it is essential to understand the numerous benefits that yoga offers. Yoga is not just a physical exercise; it is a holistic practice that combines movement, breathwork, and meditation. Regular yoga practice has been proven to reduce stress, improve flexibility, increase strength, enhance mental clarity, and promote overall well-being.

By bringing these benefits to individuals who might not otherwise have access, Small World Yoga is empowering communities and transforming lives.

The Founding of Small World Yoga

Small World Yoga was founded in 2014 by Liz Veyhl, a passionate yogi who recognized the need for accessible yoga classes in her community. Liz's vision was to break down the barriers that prevented individuals from experiencing the transformative power of yoga.

She started by offering free yoga classes in local parks, community centers, and even homeless shelters. The response was overwhelming, and Small World Yoga quickly gained traction, expanding its reach across different cities and states.

Creating Access

One of the primary objectives of Small World Yoga is to make yoga accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or financial situation. They achieve this by offering free or donation-based classes in various community spaces.

By removing the financial barrier, Small World Yoga ensures that individuals from all walks of life can experience the physical and mental benefits of yoga. Additionally, they provide yoga teacher training scholarships, allowing individuals to become certified instructors and spread the practice in their communities.

Building Community

Small World Yoga's impact goes beyond providing access; it also focuses on building a strong sense of community.

By offering classes in community spaces, they create a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals can connect and support one another. The sense of belonging that arises from these interactions fosters a deeper connection to the practice and encourages individuals to continue their yoga journey. Small World Yoga also organizes community events, workshops, and retreats, further strengthening the bonds within the yoga community.

Collaborations and Partnerships

Small World Yoga understands the power of collaboration and partnerships to amplify their impact. They actively seek collaborations with local organizations, schools, and businesses to bring yoga to underserved communities. By partnering with these entities, Small World Yoga can reach populations that might not have otherwise considered yoga as an option. This approach has allowed them to extend their reach and create a broader impact within the communities they serve.

Measuring Impact and Success

Small World Yoga believes in the importance of data-driven approaches to measure their impact and success. They collect data on class attendance, participant feedback, and community engagement to assess their programs' effectiveness.

This information helps them refine their strategies, identify areas for improvement, and showcase the tangible benefits of their initiatives to potential funders and supporters.

Conclusion

Small World Yoga is a shining example of how a simple idea can grow into a powerful movement that revolutionizes an industry. By creating access to yoga through free or donation-based classes, Small World Yoga is breaking down barriers and empowering communities.

Through their emphasis on community-building and partnerships, they have created a supportive environment that fosters growth and connection. As Small World Yoga continues to expand its reach, it is inspiring individuals to embrace yoga as a tool for personal transformation and creating a more inclusive and accessible yoga community for all.

To listen/watch to the full podcast interview hosted by Greater Than Zero Percent (GTZP), visit our or Spotify or Apple.

Want to learn more, donate, or get engaged with Small World Yoga?

• Donate: https://smallworldyoga.org
• Phone: +1 (615) 784-9642
• Email: info@smallworldyoga.org
• Website: https://smallworldyoga.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmallWorldYoga/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallworldyoga/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/small-world-yoga/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv1HJPjN1mgz2cflN1mlOJA