Return Yoga

Return Yoga is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the transformative power of yoga out of the studio and into the real world. We believe that yoga is not simply a business or a form of physical exercise, but a powerful tool for personal and social revolution. We strive to dismantle the co-option of yogic practices by the white wellness industry, especially the traditions and wisdom of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Our mission centers around three core pillars: providing accessible yoga and meditation instruction to underserved communities, facilitating service opportunities that connect qualified yoga teachers with those in need, and offering high-quality yoga teaching at realistic costs.

We recognize that the traditional studio environment can be both isolating and exclusionary, often characterized by high costs, a lack of diversity, and a focus on superficiality. Return Yoga challenges this status quo, offering a more inclusive and equitable approach to yoga. We understand that yoga can be deeply personal, but it's also inherently interconnected with the world around us. True liberation comes from addressing societal issues like economic injustice and trauma, which often intersect with individual struggles.

Deeper Practice: Mentorship & Community

Return Yoga recognizes that the journey of yoga can be challenging and sometimes isolating. We offer personalized mentorship to support teachers and serious practitioners seeking deeper understanding and guidance. This mentorship provides a safe and supportive space to explore the complex questions and challenges that arise on the yogic path.

Our approach to mentorship goes beyond the physical practice of asana. We delve into the rich philosophical and ethical foundations of yoga, encouraging self-reflection, critical thinking, and a commitment to social responsibility. We explore the intersection of yoga with real-life experiences, addressing issues like trauma, mental health, addiction, and systemic inequalities.

Through our monthly gatherings and online community, we foster a sense of connection and shared purpose among practitioners. These opportunities provide a platform for peer-to-peer support, dialogue, and shared learning.

The Work of Karin Lynn Carlson

Karin Lynn Carlson, the founder of Return Yoga, is a dedicated teacher and advocate for social justice within the yoga community. Karin deeply honors the traditional wisdom of yoga while remaining critical of its co-option by the wellness industry. She is committed to dismantling the colonial and oppressive structures that have marginalized BIPOC voices and practices within yoga.

Renowned for her insightful teachings and commitment to ethical practice, Karin leads workshops, retreats, and teacher trainings that emphasize body awareness, social responsibility, and personal transformation.