Being connected to a community helps us feel like a part of something bigger than ourselves. It fosters our social and emotional connections; it encourages us to reach out to old friends to reunite and meet new friends that have similar interests. It eases our stress levels and any feelings of isolation or loneliness, and provides a platform for laughter, encouragement and sympathy. A welcoming and inclusive community makes us feel appreciated for our unique individuality, and the multitude of perspectives we each offer.
Try not to discount the social connection of taking a yoga class with peers versus just from a video at home. The strength in showing up for yourself is powerful, but we also have all felt a room full of strength when we needed it the most! Yoga isn't a team sport. You get to move how you want to, challenge yourself when it feels right, and slow down and step back when you know that's what you need. But the collective nature of moving and breathing together with a neighbor to lean on is healing.
Be open to sharing in the energy and uniqueness of this conglomerate of yogis. Maybe we will never know why the universe brought us all together to practice in the same space, but don't sell it short that each person who shows up for class at any given time is there for a reason.