Free Day of Yoga Labor Day event

For the 20th year, Austin yoga teachers and studios have united to bring Austin and neighboring communities free yoga classes all day Labor Day, to heighten awareness of the benefits of yoga. Residents and visitors have the opportunity to try yoga, meet instructors and experience different styles of mind/body practices, for free, at a wide variety of venues throughout the area. 

This year, mind/body advocates from Balance Academy are offering eight different sessions in Wimberley from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 3. 

Just as there are many styles of dancing, there are also many styles of yoga – i.e., Hatha, Integral, Ashtanga, Yin, Vinyasa, Kundalini and Restorative. Some styles of yoga are movement-based or cardiovascular, while others focus on breath work and meditation. The benefits of practicing yoga are multiple, including improving balance and focus and reducing stress. 

Graphic by Colton Ashabranner

The Wimberley offerings will focus on the balance between body and mind. All Wimberley sessions are open to people of all ages and all abilities and are designed for optimum wellbeing. They include Korean Ki meditation, Yoga in Motion combining Tai Chi, Xi Gong and Yoga, Yin Yoga and a Slow Flow gentle vinyasa practice at Balance Academy on RR 12. Additionally, two therapeutic sessions focusing on better digestion, metabolism and blood sugar levels will be offered by a certified yoga therapist at The Namaste Getaway off Carney Lane.   

Free Day of Yoga organizers encourage people who have never tried yoga to take their first class; and people who have studied yoga, may take this opportunity to try a different style or a new instructor. 

“Because we offer such a wide variety of yoga teachers, styles and classes on Free Day of Yoga, there is a class for everyone – whether you are tall, short, round, thin, physically active or sedentary,” Organizer Mary Esther Middleton said. 

For a complete listing of the Free Day of Yoga schedule, visit Free Day of Yoga's website. For Wimberley sessions, visit The Namaste Counsel's website. To reserve a spot, call 512-436-2048 or 210-381-1846. 

Free Day of Yoga Austin is a non-profit corporation dedicated to providing the gift of yoga to the community. They help to educate the community about the health and wellness benefits of yoga through interactive, participatory and educational events in the Austin area.

Tips for attending:

• Register in advance to ensure a place or arrive 15 minutes early.
• Wear loose comfortable clothes and be prepared to remove your shoes. 
• An empty stomach is best, although a light snack before class is fine. 
• Bring a yoga mat and/or cushions. If you don’t have any, loaners will be available.