Yoga in America has never been more popular, and over the past several years there has been an exponential growth of studios and teachers.  While many have entered into yoga as a livelihood or have launched studios in hopes of sharing yoga with others, the profit model continues to pose challenges.

How do we reconcile the practicalities of running a business while still holding true to yogic principles and values while doing so?  What are some innovative approaches?  Panel members will share their experiences in implementing ethical and compassionate practices in their yoga projects and yoga venues, and in grappling with conventional definitions of business and profit.  
 
This exploratory and provocative conversation will ask the complex questions:

• Is it ethical to offer a spiritual practice for a profit?

• How do we maintain a vibrant "business" that also promotes inclusion, accessibility and an underlying sense of social justice?

• How might studios and teachers find a balance between offering commercially popular yoga classes while also making sure that all students of yoga feel included and safe, and that they are informed about aspects of yoga practice beyond asana?

Piedmont Yoga believes that rigorous and supportive collaborative discourse can lead to positive change. We hope you join us for a forefront conversation among engaged practitioners who are leading this inquiry nationwide.