Namaste Miami - It's Yoga in the Grove

Yogis are increasingly finding creative ways to move their practices from their mats into their communities. One stellar example in the Magic City is It's Yoga Miami, a 10 a.m. class offered Saturdays in Kennedy Park off South Bayshore Drive near Kirk Street in Coconut Grove. The class is free but a $10 donation is suggested.

The money goes to Camillus Health Concern, which runs Camillus House, the homeless shelter and service center for low-income residents.Started in November 2007, the project began with the vision to attract yoga newbies and project balance and unity in South Florida -- utterly admirable if unattainable goals. Since its start, the classes have attracted more than 400 yoga newcomers in its 800-plus participants. More than $5,000 has been raised in that time.

Such goodwill actions reveal yoga's potential to the larger community. It shows that practicing is not just about stretching and toning to complement a cardio workout but has the potential to reach beyond the sun salutations one does that day. When's the last time running on a treadmill or lifting weights has achieved that?

For more information on the classes, call 786-417-4450 or email vicmunoz@globalwealth.com or info@luanahervier.com.ar.

--Janine Zeitlin