Finding Balance in Unexpected Places: Why I Teach Yoga Outside the Studio (And Why You Should Practice There, Too)

Yoga used to feel like such a mystical, exclusive thing to me. Even the name sounded like a club I wasn’t sure I belonged to.

I still remember my very first introduction to the practice. It was actually buried inside a combined gym class—a mix of yoga, Pilates, and tai chi marketed as a way to build strength and flexibility. It felt different. It felt uncomfortable, yet... good? I remember wondering, how is that even possible?

From the Physical to the Mental

Like me, most of us roll out the mat for the first time for purely physical reasons. It’s usually a nagging lower back, an overuse injury, or that classic moment of being so stressed out that your doctor finally says, “Look, just go try yoga.”

But if you stick around long enough, something shifts. The practice eventually moves away from being just about your physical self. It becomes the place you return to for peace, mental clarity, and a mirror that reflects the truths we don't always want to face—emotionally, mentally, and physically.

Over the years, I’ve practiced absolutely everywhere: gyms, beaches, parks, pool decks, hotel rooms, airports, and honestly, even in my boss's office when I desperately needed a single minute of sanity.

Lately, I’ve made the intentional choice to teach in some of these non-traditional spaces, too. And, because it’s the internet, there are always haters. Spend thirty minutes on social media and you’ll start questioning your entire life.

Some critics think teaching or practicing outside of a traditional setting goes against the ethical principles of yoga. They look at concepts like Saucha (purity of body and mind) or Brahmacharya (moderation and balance) and ask, "Why would you practice yoga at a distillery? That isn't very yogi."

But here’s my take: We live in a Western culture. I have deeply embodied yoga philosophy, and I can honestly say I live it every day. I’ve also never confused the fact that I am a Louisiana girl living in a modern world. I take a very pragmatic approach to just about everything, and teaching yoga is no exception. If the mat invites us to show up exactly as we are, then I want to meet people exactly where they are, too.

Now, don't get me wrong—there is absolutely no substitute for a good studio practice. I teach at a studio that is incredibly warm, welcoming, and inclusive. I’ve built mental resilience and deep skills in those dedicated spaces, and there is nothing quite like that focused environment to elevate your practice (and I hope you’ll join me there, too! 😉).

And sure, some fitness trends can get a bit ridiculous and misappropriated. But hey, sign me up for puppy yoga. Why not? 🤷🏻‍♀️

Teaching and practicing outside the box isn't "non-yogi." It just serves a different, beautiful purpose. Here is why I love it:

1. The Real-World Test

It’s easy to practice Saucha and find a clear, pure mind in a perfect, quiet room. But can you find that steady breath and mental clarity in a space that isn't perfect or familiar? To me, practicing yoga in an everyday setting is the ultimate test of mindfulness.

2. Embodying True Balance

Brahmacharya is all about moderation and balance, not running away from the world. Teaching at a distillery doesn't contradict that philosophy—it’s actually the perfect backdrop to practice balance and mindfulness right in the middle of real, everyday life.

3. Building a Bridge to the Studio

Traditional studios can feel intimidating if you've never stepped foot inside one. Heck, just making a recent move to a new studio as a seasoned yogi and teacher felt uncomfortable to me at first! Bringing yoga into casual, familiar spaces strips away that fear. My highest hope is that trying a class in a relaxed environment sparks a curiosity—and gives people the courage to eventually step inside those studio doors. (Plus, teaching to completely mixed levels keeps my own teaching skills sharp! 😉)

4. Radical Connection

At its core, yoga means "union." It is community, self-care, and connection. It’s about meeting people exactly where they are on any given day, without context or judgment.

Off the Mat and Into the World

Yoga isn't trapped inside a single setting, nor is it confined to four walls with burning incense. Yoga is wherever you show up, connect, and breathe.

Where is the most unexpected place you've ever unrolled your mat? I’d love to hear about it!

And if you missed last night's practice at the distillery, come and give it a chance!

I'll see you on July 8!

Keep Seeking Up!

Amy