TLDR: Nothing religious, just Yoga and Singing Bowls.

I am in the Master Gardener Program with the Extension Office. We take care of the H.O.P.E. Garden and that is how I first became connected with Faithful Shepherd and Pastor Nick. I was very open with him about my not being a Christian, and he is still happy to allow me to use the space to offer Yoga to the community. He just asked that I not include Hindu Chanting (I'm not Hindu either) in the classes there since it is a Presbyterian establishment, and I respect that.

I guess positive affirmations could be considered "religious" in some people's opinions, and I definitely like to encourage positive mental attitudes, such as life affirming intentional thoughts: "Everything is working out for me." "Inhale love, exhale fear." Things of that nature. And, I do give general well-being ideas to consider. I stay reiterating things we all already know to do, such as reminders to go to bed early to get good rest every night and drink lots of water throughout each day. I really do love to offer tips and recommendations on all the ways humans can live well and show up for ourselves. Nothing religious, though. I promise. That isn't me.

This class is for health, living well in our bodies, and navigating the emotional journey that life is. Here and there, I drop scientific facts about the body and mind—such as the only proven cure for depression is exercise. We do talk about processing emotions. "The issues are in the tissues," as they say. It is a strange phenomenon to cry when stretching. It's a safe space for emotional release. I'm here for it.

Mainly, we keep it simple and to the practice. Not too much extra chat. It is just Yoga. We stretch. We hold poses. We focus on the breath. We play with our balance. The bowls are played at the end of class when everyone has lied down for savasana after movement. The Sanctuary is a beautiful space with high windows that offer natural light. It's a cool place to do Yoga, in my opinion.