Healing Through Yoga: Teaching the Unhoused with Ashley Irwin
Episode Overview
Teaching yoga to individuals experiencing homelessness provides physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Using respectful language like 'unhoused' instead of 'homeless' helps reduce negative connotations. Logistical challenges include finding suitable locations and managing limited resources. Persistent efforts and empathy are crucial in building trust and encouraging participation. Yoga can offer a sense of community and belonging, significantly impacting students' lives.
The goal is simple: people come in one way and hopefully leave better physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually.
In this episode of the UK Health Radio Podcast's Natural Healing Show, host Catherine Carrigan chats with Ashley Irwin, a dedicated yoga teacher and founder of TLCYoga.org. Ashley shares her inspiring journey of teaching yoga to individuals experiencing homelessness in Atlanta, Georgia. With nearly three decades of yoga teaching under her belt, Ashley brings a wealth of experience and compassion to her unique classes tailored for the unhoused community.
She discusses the importance of using respectful language when referring to people without homes and the logistical challenges of teaching yoga in unconventional settings. Ashley's story is filled with heartwarming anecdotes about the positive impact yoga has had on her students, including one who is now on the path to becoming a yoga teacher himself.
The episode sheds light on the transformative power of yoga and how it can provide not just physical relief but also a sense of community and belonging. Catherine and Ashley's conversation is a testament to the healing potential of yoga and the importance of serving others with empathy and persistence. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or someone interested in community service, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Tune in to learn how small acts of kindness and dedication can make a significant difference in the lives of those facing challenging circumstances.