The practice of incorporating cannabis with yoga is not new. Rather, it’s as old as yoga itself. In fact, the earliest mention of cannabis has been found in The Vedas, which are a collection of sacred Hindu texts. These texts are thought to have been compiled as early as 2000 to 1400 B.C. According to The Vedas, cannabis was one of five sacred plants.
Ancient Hindu and Indian yogis commonly used cannabis while practicing yoga and meditation. For example, in India, the Sadhus (Hindu holy men) would sit in meditation while smoking cannabis. It was also common practice for the ancient yogis to consume a beverage called Bhang (edible preparation of cannabis).
In Hinduism, Shiva (or, Lord Shiva) is known as the first teacher of the science of yoga. He’s referred to as the God of Yoga. Yet, he’s also referred to as the God of Cannabis. The legend is that Shiva had an argument with his family and set out for a walk. He grew very tired from his emotional state as well as the heat. He then fell asleep near a cannabis plant. When he woke, he sampled the cannabis plant and felt rejuvenated. The legend says that cannabis became his favorite food as well as a significant piece of his identity.
Why I Teach Elevated Yoga Classes
There is a misconception that cannabis enhanced yoga classes are a fad. I can’t speak to the intent of other yoga professionals who may offer such classes. However, I can assure you that the intention of my cannabis enhanced yoga class is simply to return to the roots of yoga and the ancient practice of combining yoga with the use of cannabis. I view cannabis as simply another tool to aid one’s self to better understand all that is you. I believe cannabis is an instrument to help one achieve mental, physical and spiritual harmony. Similar to the power of essential oils during yoga which aid in opening up another dimension to one’s practice, cannabis contains the same power to help one tap into another dimension.
Yoga means to “unite” or “yoke”. On a deeper level, it means the union of individual consciousness (soul) with the Universal Consciousness (spirit). Yoga is a science that dates back thousands of years ago. Today, many think of yoga as solely a form of physical exercise by achieving complex poses. However, that is only one small aspect of yoga. Truly, the science of yoga is about discovering the infinite potentials of the human mind and soul and tapping in to one’s inner essence. Elevated yoga classes provide the opportunity to experience the symbiotic relationship between the therapeutic use of cannabis with yoga. The classes hold space for transformative experiences to happen. Incorporating cannabis with the spiritually and physically powerful practice of yoga is therapeutic. It allows for deep connection with the body’s consciousness which, in turn, makes room for healing to occur.
Common Questions
Q: What can I expect during an elevated yoga class with Karuna Yoga and Meditation?
A: You’ll be warmly greeted upon arrival. For new students, you’ll be given a waiver form to review and sign. You’ll then pay for class—currently, cash only. New students will need to bring their photo i.d. to prove they are at least 21 years of age. Classes are small and won’t exceed 10 students (first come, first serve). Please note, the door will be locked promptly at the beginning of class so be sure to arrive five minutes early. The first 10 minutes of class is devoted to consuming cannabis. You should know that it’s BYOC (bring your own cannabis). You also need to bring your own tools to consume your cannabis although it’s fine for you to share with a friend. At this time, you are only permitted to bring a vaporizer and/or a v**e pen as no smoking is allowed. You should also know that, as your yoga teacher, I will not be under the influence of cannabis. After the initial 10 minutes, you will be guided through a 60-minute slow-flow with hints of meditation mixed in. In fact, many students say they feel as though the entire 60 minutes is a fluid meditation due to the elevated factor. Rest assured, those new to yoga will feel extremely comfortable. You can also expect a mellow playlist throughout the entire class. The class ends with an optional Savasana massage (this sounds more serious than it is—it’s basically a relaxing neck, shoulder and/or temple massage while you are lying on your mat). Most importantly, you can expect to leave class feeling relaxed and connected to your inner essence.
Q: Should I consume cannabis before I arrive?
A: No. It is strongly recommended that you do not consume cannabis prior to arriving to the yoga class. When students simultaneously consume cannabis, at the beginning of class, it’s a profound experience when the effects begin to set in. I find the shared experience creates a vibrational energy that is magical.
Q: What strain(s) are best for elevated yoga classes?
A: I don’t recommend a particular strain. However, you should consume a Sativa strain if you’re looking for more of a cerebral experience. You should consume an Indica strain if you desire more of a body effect.
Q: Is there a minimum age requirement to attend class?
A: Yes, you must be at least 21 years old and bring a photo i.d. to prove your age.
Q: What style of yoga do you teach?
A: Imagine slow-flow Vinyasa with hints of meditation.
Q: When/Where are classes?
A: Upcoming class schedule: Wednesday, April 10 at 7:00 pm, Saturday, April 13 at 10:00 am, Saturday, April 20 at 10:00, Wednesday, April 24 at 7:00 pm, Wednesday, May 1 at 7:00 pm at Grand Rapids Yoga Company studio at 1119 Burton Street SE, #300 (park in back and enter through the back door--go down the stairs and you’ll see the yoga studio).
Q: What is the cost?
A: $15.00 per class (cash only)
