Demystifying American Yoga: Beyond the Myths

Stereotypes and misunderstandings shape how many people see yoga—and often convince them it isn’t for them. I’m not flexible. It’s too expensive. I don’t have time. These familiar refrains reflect a narrow, commercialized image of yoga built on polished photos, perfectionism, and consumer culture.

But yoga is far more expansive—and far more accessible—than that.
Join Sarah Hentges, PhD, E-RYT 500, professor at the University of Maine at Augusta and author of Demystifying American Yoga: Embodied Movement for Individual and Collective Transformation, for a dynamic and engaging presentation that challenges common myths and explores yoga as a practice of embodied awareness, personal agency, and collective transformation.

Drawing on her scholarship, teaching, and experience as a studio founder, Sarah invites participants to reconsider what yoga is, who it’s for, and how it can serve as a practical tool for navigating everyday life. This interactive session includes simple, accessible breath and movement practices you can take with you—no flexibility, special clothing, or prior experience required.