I believe yoga should be available to everyone, whatever is happening in their bank account. That’s why we’ve offered donation-based classes and circles for years. If you’ve seen “donation-based” on a schedule and wondered what it means, or how much you’re supposed to give, this one’s for you.
What is donation-based yoga?
Donation-based yoga is a class where there’s no fixed price. You give what you can. Some people give more, some give less, and some give nothing at all on a hard week. Nobody is turned away.
It’s sometimes called “pay what you can” or community yoga. The idea is simple: cost shouldn’t be the thing that keeps someone from a practice that helps them.
How does a donation-based class work?
At our studio, it works like this:
- Pre-register for the class so we know you’re coming.
- Come as you are. Community classes are beginner-friendly and open to all.
- Give what you can in person, at the class.
That’s it. There’s no membership needed.
How much should you give for donation yoga?
This is the question people feel most awkward about, so let me take the awkwardness away. Give what feels right and possible for you. There’s no judgment either way.
Some of our offerings suggest a range to give you a sense of it. For example, our Women’s Moon Circle suggests $10 to $25. But if that isn’t possible right now, come anyway. The whole point is access.
If you’re in a season of plenty, giving a little more helps make space for someone who can’t.
Where does the money go?
This is one of my favorite parts. Proceeds from our donation-based community classes go to a charity of the teacher’s choice. Over the last year, our community offerings have donated more than $5,000.
Organizations our community has supported include The Sato Project, Amma Foundation, Love Serve Remember Foundation, Chive Charities, Susan G. Komen, Veterans Yoga Project, the Humane Society, Survival International, Rachel’s House, the Franz E. Winkler Center for Adult Learning, Rock Out Cures, Hand Up for Haiti, Special Olympics and United We Om.
Many classes also support local causes: food kitchens, children’s organizations, school raffles and fundraisers and teacher-led events.
Some circles work a little differently. Donations for the Women’s Moon Circle go to its steward, Jennifer Myers, and donations for the Men’s Sun Circle go to its steward, Anthony Heyward, to help fund the wellness professionals who lead with him.
Is donation-based yoga lower quality?
Not at all. Our community classes are taught with the same care as any class on our schedule. Think of them as a gift in both directions: you receive a class, and your donation goes somewhere good.
Who is donation-based yoga for?
Everyone. It’s a great fit if you are:
- New to yoga and want to try it without a big commitment
- Between jobs or on a tight budget
- A student, retiree or caregiver with limited funds
- Someone who loves the idea of practice that gives back
- Looking for community and connection
Other donation-based offerings
Community yoga isn’t only about poses. At our studio, donation-based and free offerings include:
Women’s Moon Circle. A monthly circle honoring the new and full moon, with meditation, journaling, gentle movement and optional sharing. It meets in person and virtually, with seasonal summer beach gatherings in Long Beach.
Men’s Sun Circle. A monthly circle with breathwork, restorative poses, meditation and group dialogue to support emotional wellbeing. It’s not a replacement for therapy, but a place for men to build tools and community.
Online Spiritual Book Group. A free weekly Zoom group led by Stephanie Cleary, reading A Monk’s Guide to Happiness by Gelong Thubten together on Sundays at 8 PM ET. Join anytime.
Monthly kirtan. Call and response chanting, offered on a donation basis. You can learn more on our kirtan page.
Free philosophy and meditation. Our Sadhana library of recorded practices and texts is free for everyone, no membership needed.
Donation yoga etiquette
A few simple things make community classes feel good for everyone:
- Register ahead, so the teacher can plan for the group.
- Arrive a few minutes early to settle in.
- Bring cash if you can, since donations are made in person.
- Treat it like any class. Silence your phone and take care of the props.
- Don’t worry about what others give. Nobody is keeping track.
Is donation yoga a good way to start?
It’s a lovely way to start. If you’re nervous about your first class, a community class is relaxed and welcoming. When you’re ready for more, our New Student Special gives you three weeks of unlimited classes for $49.99, and you can see all options on our pricing page.
A space to belong
Our community classes are about more than saving money. They’re about showing up as you are, being supported and remembering you’re not alone. All colors, races, ages, genders, religions, abilities, sizes, cultures and people are welcome.
If you’re in Rockville Centre or anywhere nearby in Nassau County, come practice with us at 7 North Village Avenue. Check the community schedule, pre-register and bring what you can.
