As I enter my final six months serving on the Board of Directors for The Yoga Connection (TYC), I find myself reflecting with gratitude on the lessons learned, the meaningful connections made, and the growth I’ve witnessed—both in the organization and in myself. It has truly been an honor to serve this incredible community.

The Yoga Connection is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization based in Greensboro, NC, dedicated to supporting the well-being and empowerment of immigrant and refugee women through the healing, community-building practice of yoga.

Since 2019, TYC has offered free, accessible yoga classes to immigrant and refugee women in Guilford County. These classes go far beyond physical movement—they are safe, welcoming spaces where women from all over the world come together, connect, and build lasting community. Each year, we host two eight-week series led by certified yoga teachers and supported by an amazing team of volunteers—yoga professionals, childcare providers, college students, and community advocates.

In 2020, TYC received the Seva Award from the International Association of Yoga Therapists, an honor recognizing programs that bring yoga to underserved communities. While this recognition is something we’re deeply proud of, what truly matters most are the lives that continue to be touched and transformed through this work.

A Circle of Connection

I still remember my very first-time volunteering in the classroom. I didn’t know exactly what to expect and admittedly felt a little out of place. But then I realized many of the women attending might feel the same way—arriving in a new country, unsure of their surroundings, and often unable to speak the same language.

Quickly, the circle of yoga became our common ground. We connected through shared smiles and movement, and soon I found myself making a friend. We bonded over the busyness of daily life and the importance of making time for ourselves. She shared how she made sure to carve out space in her day to attend class—and that simple act of showing up was a reminder of resilience and self-care.

Now, each time I come to class, I look forward to seeing familiar faces and new ones joining our ever-growing circle. This past fall season was the largest to date!

Words That Connect Us

One of my favorite parts of class is when the teacher begins by sharing a theme word—a simple English word that we then translate into each participant’s native language and even learn the word in American Sign Language! It’s always such a beautiful moment of cultural exchange, where everyone has the chance to shine and share a piece of themselves. In that circle, you can feel the pride, autonomy, and deep sense of belonging that fills the room.

When I had the opportunity to teach, some of the words I shared included: home, grow, heart, join, and breath. These words may seem small, but they carry so much meaning. Each one becomes an anchor for connection, reflection, and joy—reminding us how powerful language and shared experience can be in bringing people together.

During our class on breath, I brought in colorful beach balls to help visualize how our lungs expand and release with each inhale and exhale. What started as a simple demonstration quickly turned into laughter and play as we tossed the beach balls around the room. It was a reminder that breath isn’t just about oxygen—it’s about energy, life, and the joy of being fully present together.

Another time, our regular classroom space wasn’t available, so we took our mats outside. The timing couldn’t have been better—the sun was shining, the air was warm, and our theme for the day was "grow." Surrounded by trees and nature’s quiet beauty, the word took on new life. We could feel growth all around us—in the earth, in the community we were building, and within ourselves.

Celebrations

At the end of each semester, we have a huge celebration with recognition, gifts, and food! Women who have attended four or more times receive a yoga mat—a celebration of their consistency and a way for them to carry the practice forward. It’s my favorite day of the entire program because this is when the ladies truly shine and their personalities light up the room. It’s a day filled with hugs, smiles, laughter, and even a little dancing!

Beyond the Mat

While I often have to rush off to pick up my boys at school after class, many of the women stay to share a healthy meal and conversation. This time together allows us to learn more about thier lives and find ways to support one another beyond the yoga mat. One day I was able to stay and learned about one women who makes and sells beautiful handmade bracelet! I love that I was able to buy one and support her. There is so much creativity and talent that fills our circle.

I’m incredibly grateful for the friendships and deeper connections I’ve built beyond our regular meeting times. Whether it’s long walks, cozy coffee chats, or fun experiences outside the classroom, these moments have become some of my favorites. The two wonderful women pictured below is just a glimpse of the many meaningful friendships that have grown and flourished thanks to TYC.

Let Your Star Shine

One of the most beautiful lessons I’ve learned during my time with The Yoga Connection came from an early encounter with one of our participants. We were talking about our busy lives—how often we pour our energy into serving others, sometimes forgetting to care for ourselves.

She shared a story with me that I’ll never forget: The Story of the Star Inside an Apple.

When you slice an apple the right way, you’ll find a small, perfect star hidden at its core. She explained that each of us is like that apple— we carry a star within us. Our talents, our gifts, our light—it’s all there, sometimes just waiting to be revealed.

Her words were a simple yet powerful reminder: We each have something special inside of us. We just need to discover it and let your star shine!

Support and Love

While yoga is the foundation of the program, it’s really just the common ground. The true impact reaches far beyond the mat, creating a ripple effect of connection, support, and shared purpose.

One afternoon after class per the suggestion of a TYC Teacher, we made solidarity pins—a simple yet powerful gesture. Each pin symbolized mutual support, unity, and the reminder that we’re standing together, especially during challenging times. We each created one and then gifted it to someone else in the circle. That exchange felt like a small act of love, passed hand to hand.

Another beautiful example of this community’s heart is the keepsake clay piece I received during The Yoga Connection’s Summer Solstice Labyrinth Walk. Every participant received a handmade clay heart created by one of our talented board members. Mine sits on my desk as a gentle reminder of our shared humanity and the beating hearts that connect us all. Every time I sit down to work, it brings those special memories back to me.

One lesson I learned years ago—is that it’s okay to ask for help. Just as important is accepting help when it’s offered. Giving, receiving, and welcoming support doesn’t make us weaker; it strengthens us and equips us to face life’s challenges with resilience. With a strong foundation of support and unconditional love, we can grow—and rise—together.

Leading with Purpose

My role on the board is Event Coordinator which means I have the privilege of organizing and planning TYC’s two signature Solstice Events each year—the Summer Solstice Community Outreach Event and the Winter Solstice Fundraiser.

The Summer Solstice is a community celebration and labyrinth walk that welcomes the changing season and symbolizes how we welcome new neighbors into our growing community. It’s a time for reflection, connection, and expansion of our ever-widening circle.

The Winter Solstice, coming up on Tuesday, December 16th from 5:30–7:00 PM at New Garden Friends Meeting, is our annual fundraiser. This special event brings people of all skill levels together for traditional sun salutations and restorative practices to celebrate the return of light. It’s a chance to set intentions for the new year—and to help sustain TYC’s work in the community.

This will be my last year leading the Winter Solstice event, and I would love your support!!! Your participation and contributions directly funds the work that allows TYC to continue offering free yoga and community-building opportunities for immigrant and refugee women. Please register or donate here: https://www.the-yoga-connection.org/winter-solstice

Continuing the Journey

As I wrap up two fulfilling years on the board, I’m incredibly proud of how far The Yoga Connection has come—and even more excited for what lies ahead. We’ve impacted countless lives, but there is still much more to do.

If you’re looking for a way to make a difference, I invite you to join us:

✨ Become a donor to sustain our mission.

🧘‍♀️ Volunteer your time—in the classroom, at events, or behind the scenes.

🌍 Spread the word so our circle can continue to grow.

Together, we can continue to create spaces where women feel seen, supported, and empowered—one yoga pose, one connection, one breath at a time. Please join our circle.