As modern students of yoga, it is important to acknowledge that the “yoga” we practice in the west today is rooted in colonialism and cultural appropriation. Additionally, at NPK Yoga, our yoga hikes and beach yoga classes take place on the unceded land of the Coast Miwok people. There is much for us white, western practitioners to learn. Here, I’ve included some resources to help jump-start your own education.

Another shadowy corner of western yoga is that it’s often recommended as a catch-all solution for mental health challenges, eating disorders, and more. While it is usually suggested with best intentions, when your health and well-being are at risk, yoga is not a replacement for appropriate care provided by a professional. Therefore, this list also includes some helpful sources of reputable yoga-based support.

Marin Coast Miwok

Our yoga hikes and beach yoga classes take place on lands that are part of unceded Coast Miwok territory. You can learn more about the Coast Miwok and their presence in Marin County here.

Suzanna Barkataki

Suzanna is a respected yoga culture advocate and inclusivity promoter. Her blog serves up a great deal of food for thought for yoga practitioners on topics including western appropriation, spirituality, and cultural respect.

Yoga to Cope

A nonprofit organization that provides free online yoga-based services for people working through trauma, grief, depression, and more.

Eat, Breathe, Thrive

This nonprofit organization offers support and education around eating disorders.