Dear Revolution Community,
The month of November is often tied with gratitude as we celebrate Thanksgiving and take inventory of all the things in our life that mean something to us. For our staff though, November often means that we are gearing up for practicing Seva (selfless service), the two being inextricably linked.
When we practice gratitude, our cup flows over with so much that it feels natural to extend that abundance to serve others. Gratitude extends the table so we may invite more to sit down to eat. Gratitude and Selfless Service (service for the sake of service - without expectation of return) both require a certain trust and faith in the universe to provide more, once the giving is done. Trust that there is an abundant well that all may drink from.
When the perspective shrinks though, we may feel there isn’t enough to give. The spiritual lens of yoga teaches that there is a universal bank account, one which you contribute to in faith that will always lift you up when needed. This world is, after all, a mirror that reflects back to us what we feed into it. So through generosity and service, you’ll find a mentality blossoms that takes us out of constricted viewpoints, which can be a relief to the mind.
The person who doesn’t have more room at the table to serve, doesn’t lack resources, only perspective. There are always ways to give that merely require a willingness. One of my teachers used to say the best remedy to sadness is volunteering and seva (selfless service) because it shifts the mind: which builds your experience of reality.
Beyond Revolution’s monthly offerings of community classes, from which thousands are donated to charities annually, in November we start offering workshops, donation drives and events that help those in need during the Holiday Season. Many hands make light work, and a community coming together has a greater impact than we can perform on our own. I’ve included a message from our instructor Lisa Braun, who will be leading a class on Thanksgiving, where a portion of proceeds will go to helping feed the hungry. We will also be delivering food and resources that day that we will be collecting through November, to help out food pantries for the season ahead.
From Lisa B:
The holidays are a joyous time of year for many, but for others the holidays arrive with anxiety of how to make it all possible for them and their families. At Revolution Yoga, we are a community of yogis and students who care for one another and create a bridge through the most troubled waters.
If anyone requires help at this time, take the step to ask us, so your community can serve you.
In “The Million Steps” story in her book Ganesha goes to Lunch (2011) Kamala K. Kapur tells us the story of Krishna (a representation of divinity), and his childhood friend Sudama, who grew up playing music together. They eventually parted ways with Krishna moving into his glorious palace.
Unfortunately, Sudama and his family lived in poverty, in a small broken down home with little food and clothing. But he never forgot his friend. Sudama decided to visit Krishna, and on his way out, his wife reminded him to ask Krishna for help. His wife reminded him of the bhajan he used to sing:
If you take one step towards the Divine, the Divine will take a million towards you.
Sudama took the long trip to see Krishna worrying that his friend would not remember him. But upon entering his palace, Krishna greeted him and it was as if not a day passed between them.
Sudama stayed for a few days. Krishna and Sudama played music and sang together. Finally, Sudama had to journey home and on his travels, he suddenly remembered he never asked Krishna for help. On his arrival home, he found his home was not in shambles, but a beautiful new house. There was plenty of food. His wife greeted him in gorgeous clothes, and the children were dressed well. It was all because he took one step.
In this time, we are reminded that those in need only need to take that one step.
If you need assistance this season, please reach out to us. We are here for you. – Lisa Braun
Peace and Love,
Amanda and the good folks at Revolution Yoga
Originally shared in our November 2025 newsletter.