Looking for an alternative to drinking, drugs and regular raves? If so, yoga raves may be just the thing you are looking for. David Sye, a yoga instructor, teaches a yoga class at his church in Boulder, Colo., and he is not the only one conducting these sober raves that are available in the United States and several other countries.
What is a yoga rave?
At a typical yoga rave you will find candles, glow sticks and live music. Sometimes they are held in nightclubs, but alcohol is never involved. It gives those who want to be healthy a way to have fun without having to consume alcohol. Plus, it gives people with common interests the chance to meet and enjoy a new type of yoga together. Great music to lift your spirits combine with relaxing yoga to give one the ultimate, drug free high.
Avani Dilger, with Natural Highs Sober Yoga Rave in Boulder says, "The original rave movement had nothing to do with drugs and alcohol, and was very pure. It was all about actually going back to tribal community celebrations where people would enter into an altered state together, just through movement, dance and music. It's so sad that it's been taken over by a drug culture." She also says, "We're teaching people that you don't need drugs and alcohol to feel extraordinary states. We're fed up with being in this consumer mindset that tells us that you need to take drugs to get somewhere."
What does a yoga rave look like?
For an overall picture, watch the preview by Yogarave.org. Visit YouTube to see a yoga rave that took place in Vancouver. This rave features music, glow sticks, dancing and yoga. Another yoga rave features a lot of yoga, clapping and of course, glow sticks.
Where to find a yoga rave
Visit Yoga Rave to find a class near you. Currently yoga raves are taking place in the following cities:
New York City
Philadelphia
Chicago
Columbus
Atlanta
Houston
Seattle
Tickets cost about 35 dollars for adults and 15 dollars for students. Yoga Rave is a nonprofit organization and the proceeds go to an organization called YES! that helps schools offer methods for students to reduce stress and live a healthy life.
I am hoping the yoga rave catches on in every state because I would love to experience one firsthand. How about you? Are you ready to join the yoga rave?
More from Rebecca Bardelli:
Top Yoga Poses to Beat Summer Heat
Five Reasons to Perform Yoga on the Beach
What is Holy Yoga for Christians?
Top 10 Yoga Poses to Boost Metabolism
Rebecca completed courses in Medical Terminology, Administrative Medical Assisting, and Coding and Billing. She is recognized by the National Healthcareer Association as a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) and Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA). In addition, Rebecca is a former gymnast and is avid about yoga, swimming and other athletic activities. Follow her on Twitter @RebeccaBardelli.
