The Hot Yoga Spot is excited to host Africa Yoga Project's Handstand, Hugs and Happiness tour for its second annual trip to the Capital Region! This year we will be hosting AYP instructors, Millie and Lizie, as they make their way around the country sharing their energy, love of yoga and mission of empowering change.

I first learned about Africa Yoga Project (AYP) in 2014 after attending Baptiste Level Two, led by AYP founder Paige Elenson. This was also when I met Millie and heard her story - how she discovered AYP, what its has meant to her and how committed she is to sharing it with her community in Kenya and across the world. I knew at that moment that I wanted to get involved with AYP.

The Hot Yoga Spot was a stop on the Fall 2017 HHH tour and was an amazing experience for me, my family and our community. I was so moved and lit up by the end of the weekend. As a community, we raised more than $5000 for AYP and my family got to spend time learning about a different culture and the impact yoga has beyond what I’ve shared. Yoga training has given hundreds of young people living in Africa the ability to provide for their families as certified instructors. They are sharing the practice and the tools with children, elders and people in their communities across Kenya and Africa and our efforts to support AYP makes a big difference. I will make my way back to Africa, but in the meantime, I can do my part here and am thrilled to be bringing AYP back to the area.

Join us in welcoming Millie and Lizie from Africa Yoga Project for a weekend of activities and community.

• 11/10 at 6:00 p.m. The Hot Yoga Spot Albany: Millie and Lizie will lead an all levels donation based community class.
• 11/11 at 7:00 p.m. Taste,Talk & Trivia: A private community gathering at my home where we can connect and get to know either other and the AYP mission.
• 11/12 Veterans Day at 9:30 a.m. The Hot Yoga Spot Clifton Park: Millie and Lizie will lead an all levels class for veterans, active service members, their families and our yoga community. It is a chance for us to come together and acknowledge the men and women who serve or have served.

To learn more and register for the special events, click here. If you are unable to attend but want to donate, please click here.

Written by Tanya when reflecting on HHH tour of 2017 and in anticipation of this year's tour. Experience programming with her and the rest of our Baptiste teachers during weekly classes or by participating in 40 Days to Personal Revolution and Compass Mentorship.