Hello Wellness Practitioners,
I hope this blog finds you well and safe from the nasty seasonal bug that is currently circulating.
Today, I am so excited to introduce you to a great new initiative: a Community Yoga Fund.
Yoga helps us in hard times
I’m sure you would agree that current world events are negatively impacting our daily lives. The financial sector is unstable and the cost of living has soared in recent times. Unfortunately, it is during difficult times like these that expenses connected with fitness and wellbeing are often cancelled. This is, of course, understandable.
But here is the irony: it is during stressful times that people could most benefit from taking time to engage with their communities and practise gentle exercise. It is a fact that yoga can support physical, emotional, mental and spiritual wellbeing.
What is the demand in Bath?
Incidentally, a small number of Bath residents asked whether I offer concessions for people on low incomes, including NHS staff and students. That is a fair question, and I assume there are other people who would benefit from support but feel afraid or uncomfortable asking.
I looked at what other yoga teachers do in these circumstances because I am a big believer in not reinventing the wheel. Based on what I found, I decided to launch our own Community Yoga Fund.
The fund will be supported by the community itself. There will be an option to donate on the actual class-booking page, as well as two separate links for people who would like to donate but are not regular attendees at my community classes.
Please scroll down for the links.
Giving and receiving the gift of yoga
If you know the value of yoga, perhaps from your own experience, and are able to support people who could benefit from yoga during these difficult times, please donate whatever amount your heart desires.
Every contribution is gratefully received. I realise that this scheme is based on trust and goodwill, especially at the beginning. Please know that I will do my best to make sure the funds reach the right people.
People who would like to receive funding can apply through a quick online form. There is no need to provide evidence or disclose personal details about their situation. Again, this is based on trust. Applicants will receive a unique discount code to use when booking classes.
However, classes will not be entirely free or funded forever. A portion of the cost, up to 50%, will still need to be paid. This is intended to show commitment and help the fund support as many people as possible. You can reapply if you still need assistance.
At the moment, the funding pot is empty, so applications will be placed on hold until funds become available. However, you can still donate or apply today.
How to donate funding
Below are the important links relating to the Community Yoga Fund.
You can make a one-off donation to the Community Yoga Fund using the gift form linked above. Choose any amount between £5 and £100.
Alternatively, you can send a monthly donation using the subscription feature on Momence linked above. Choose any amount between £5 and £50.
Donate while booking your own class
There is an option to add £5 to your ticket price at check-out. You will see a drop-down menu. (An example is shown at the end of this blog – scroll down.)
How to apply for funding
If you are currently struggling financially and would like to attend my community yoga classes in Bath, please complete the brief application form linked below.
I will acknowledge receipt of your application and let you know when funds become available, along with a discount code.
That’s all for today. I do hope you approve this new initiative – as I would very much like to make all my classes accessible to all who wish to attend regardless of financial circumstances.
Thanks for reading, donating, applying, and participating in classes. You are all appreciated. If you have any questions or comments, you can email me.
Wishing you a wonderful autumn,
Sossi
