What's New in the World of Yoga:

It's great to belong to a local yoga studio where you get to interact with fellow yoga devotees, share similar experiences, and enjoy the benefits of having a regular teacher you can rely on who knows your practice.

Unfortunately, the reality is that during these days of economic turmoil, it is becoming more and more difficult for local studios to stay in business. While some have so far been able to weather the storm and continue with their regular yoga classes, others have had to roll up their mats and close their doors.

At YogaHub, we are acutely aware of the daily challenges that many yoga studios and teachers are facing to maintain their presence and service to their community. We believe there is great insight and inspiration to be gained from their experiences. In recognition of these committed individuals, over the next few weeks we will be reaching out to yoga studios and teachers in cities across the U.S. to share with us their journeys through these uncertain times. Although there may be a few goodbyes, we are confident that we'll be able to bring you many accounts of the resilience and resolve of many yoga studio owners who are determined to be a continued yoga presence and resource in their neighborhoods.

One example on the international front is Paula Flood, owner of the Lotus Yoga Centre in Dublin, Ireland. Paula has been able to retain her students and is hopeful that she will continue to do so. Her optimism stems from her belief that "When there's so much negative talk about an economic downturn, people tend to seek out alternative healthy systems like yoga and relaxation methods, and Lotus offers that urban oasis of peace and tranquility."

We hope to bring you many more inspirational stories like Paula's over the next few weeks. We also encourage you, our YogaHub community, to share your experiences with us. Are you the owner of a yoga studio? If so, why not join our YogaHub social Networking community "My YogaHub" and post your story on our website? Or maybe you have a favorite studio in your neighborhood that's come up with an innovative way to continue with their classes. You can either encourage them to join us or you can post their story so that others may learn and benefit from their ideas and suggestions.

There must be so many inspiring stories out there and we're looking forward to interacting with you over the next few weeks as we share stories and exchange ideas by either posting them on your profile or submitting them to us at the YogaHub Blog.

Updates from the Blog:

Step Two: Self Awareness

This is the second part of my series on safety tips that people should consider when starting yoga instruction. In Step One, I talked about the importance of consulting with your doctor to ensure that you have no health issues that could affect your yoga practice. Continue Reading...

Encouraging a Parent on Yoga

My mother is now in her 80's. She's looking good for her age, which is surprising, as she really didn't start taking care of herself until she was in her late 50's. Continue Reading...

Other Insightful Blog Posts:

• My Aching Neck
• Yoga Study Updates
• Tales of a Yoga Virgin