Making Space to Breathe in the Heights

Funded Feb 21, 2023

I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey in yoga teacher training.

So far, I have gained a deeper understanding of yogic practices that connect the mind and body. Through this training, I have discovered that focusing on my breath can help me find stability during challenging times. I have also developed a greater appreciation for the history and philosophy of yoga.

Over the past month, I have started practicing yoga and meditation daily. This routine has helped me become more self-aware and has brought me closer to an aspect of yoga called brahmacharya, which involves managing energy in ways that bring inner peace. Although I am still in the process of learning, teaching yoga to my family members outdoors has been a highlight of my training so far. I still need to work on further preparing to teach a yoga class, but it was a wonderful experience to share this practice with people I love.

The Breathe for Change training has also helped me create a structured social-emotional learning practice that supports physical and emotional growth in my students. These methods promote radical self-love and acceptance and aim to build a community in both the classroom and school community. Besides yoga, I am excited about introducing meditation to my middle and high school students. One meditation practice I am looking forward to sharing with them is the Loving Kindness Meditation, which encourages individuals to send love and kindness to themselves, others, and the world. Encouraging this form of love and mindfulness will help my students feel connected to their peers and embrace humanity by caring for all living things.”

With gratitude,

Ms. Thompson