Finding Strength and Community

I start in a tabletop position. I ensure my elbows are underneath my shoulders and I interlace my fingers. I slowly shift the upper body forward and bring my head to the mat holding the back with my fingers. I pike up my hips over my shoulders while walking my feet close to my torso. With intention, I press my hands firmly to the mat and lift one knee to my chest and slowly get the other knee. I have done this before but have failed miserably in many attempts to get my feet up. I pull my core in tight and give it another go, with determination and I succeed in pulling my feet off the mat this time.

Suddenly, I hear a voice from my mat neighbor: “You can do it!” She reminds me to press my hands into the mat and engage my core. Another voice joins in, encouraging me to lift my legs higher, and I can sense the excitement in both of their tones. With their words of support, I focus, block out the doubts, and—I do it. My legs rise higher than before. It’s not perfect, but it’s progress. I can feel my body moving into the headstand, inching closer with each attempt.

In today’s world, we are often consumed with our own lives, rushing from task to task, constantly juggling work, family, and responsibilities. We forget to slow down, to pause, and to connect with others. At Karuna, however, I found something different. Here, I’m surrounded by people who greet me with smiles, genuinely happy for every fellow yogi’s progress—whether big or small. It’s a community that celebrates the journey, not just the destination.

Yoga, as they say, is the union of mind and body. At KARUNA, I’ve found the perfect environment to nurture both. The physical strength I gain from my practice is rewarding, but the mental and emotional peace I find within this group of like-minded individuals is what truly keeps me grounded.

-Sarvani J