My Day Began at a University and Ended in Prison I am a Prison Yoga Teacher

Last week I went back to prison. Unlike my students, I can come and go as I please. I enter, teach yoga, and leave when my class is done. 

            It takes close to an hour to drive to the prison. Once I arrive, I receive a badge that allows me access to pass through the locked gates and doors. When I arrived at the front entry, the student from the yoga teacher-training program where I work was already there. She and I waited, along with a pizza delivery guy, to gain access. Eventually a guard arrived, and we were allowed to enter the prison complex.

            Once we got to the yard where I teach, I asked for the keys that allow me to leave the yard. The keys were missing. What this means is that I, and my student, are now in a yard where 1000 inmates are housed with no ability to exit. We would need to knock on the door and wait to be let out of the yard. 

            Trying not to give this too much thought, we headed to the classroom. At my first visit I had taught a gentler class for all levels. During that class I realized how strong and flexible these woman are, so this second class was more challenging. They loved it! The student that came with me actually joined the class – she chose a mat front and center right next to an inmate. After the class she said how many positive comments she heard from the students.

            When the class ended I asked my students to please give me, or the activities director, feedback on what they want in their yoga classes. It wasn’t until the next day that I realized how odd this must seem to them. I’m not sure how often, if ever, inmates are asked what they want.

            I am beyond grateful for this experience and look forward to returning soon. To all of you who donated – thank you! I will now be able to teach these women twice a month. Stay tuned for the next installment of teaching yoga in prison.

Originally published in LinkedIn April 3, 2022