safe-space
statements
land acknowledgement
As an uninvited visitor, originally hailing from the lands of the Tahuantinsuyo, present-day South America, I am deeply appreciative and humbled to reside and practice yoga on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
This acknowledgment is not only a tribute to the rich history and enduring resilience of Indigenous peoples but also a poignant reminder of the injustices, discrimination, racism, and colonial practices that have cast long shadows over these lands. These historical legacies persist today, creating formidable barriers for Indigenous communities and individuals striving for self-determination, equality, and justice.
yoga lineage acknowledgement
In embracing the yogic path, we offer our deepest acknowledgment and reverence to the thousands of years of tradition that have evolved in South Asia. The roots run deep, and we are grateful for the wisdom it imparts.
Numerous devoted yoga practitioners have dedicated their lives to sustain and share these practices, and we hold their guidance in the highest regard. Their teachings have shaped the practice and understanding of yoga's profound depths that we so cherish today.
As we continue on this journey, we do so with a sense of humility, recognizing that there is always more to learn, explore, and experience. We are dedicated to respecting the integrity of these sacred practices, avoiding cultural appropriation, and fostering genuine cultural exchange and growth.
Yoga is not just an exercise or routine; it's a way of life, a belief system that we deeply honor.
We remain committed to continuous learning and growth, with the hope that, through this practice, all beings everywhere may find happiness and freedom.
Lokāḥ Samastāḥ Sukhino Bhavantu
May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.
anti-racism and inclusion
As an educated Peruvian-Canadian woman of white privilege, I've recognized that I've been afforded opportunities that should be the birthright of every individual, regardless of their background. I've also been educated within a system that has historically oppressed Black and BIPOC communities. What I have learned has taught me that my duty is to go beyond my biases and doubts while striving for the highest standards of clarity and integrated representation. Not only as a devoted yoga practitioner, business owner or as an anthropologist, but as a fellow human being.
I acknowledge that I hold a wide sphere of influence, being a small business owner, mentor, community member, friend, sister, and daughter. I am resolute in using these platforms to actively advocate for equity and justice for Black People, Indigenous People, and People of Colour. My daily interactions are guided by an awareness of inequality and a determination to break it down.
In furtherance of these goals:
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I offer sliding scale fees to Black People, Indigenous People, and People of Colour.
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I choose to collaborate with individuals and businesses deeply committed to anti-racism, and who actively work towards creating safe and inclusive spaces for BIPOC People, 2SLGBTQ+ People, and Women.
I am fully prepared to experience discomfort and make the sacrifices needed for meaningful transformation. I approach these challenges with compassion for myself and others and welcome conflict as an essential part of growth.
To this end:
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I will challenge the yoga industry to be more inclusive in its communications and imagery. This means moving beyond the performative and ensuring community spaces where interactions and yoga practices are more accessible to everyone in the community.
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I will confront racism wherever I encounter it, regardless of any potential impact on my profits.
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I acknowledge I will make mistakes along the way and rely on others to challenge me and encourage me to continue moving forward.
I invite you to connect with me personally if you have any questions, comments, suggestions, criticism, or words of encouragement to share. Let's work together to create a more just and inclusive future.