DAYA Foundation Reviews

The team at the DAYA Foundation has been incredibly inspiring to me. Being mentored to teach authentic yoga, connected with the roots of yoga in India, has spared me from the high burnout factor of other yoga teachers. I have been both personally and professionally mentored by Sarahjoy, whose dedication to teaching authentic yoga for over 30 years inspires me so much. She brought yoga to Oregon's prisons after living at Breitenbush Hot Springs. Leaving Breitenbush to come back into the city on behalf of prisoners is something that I really admire in her. Not only is Sarahjoy a source of encouragement, the staff, other teachers, and the students are also so encouraging.

Working with Sarahjoy to support her vision, and the expanding vision contributed to by the volunteers for the outreach programs, was an exceptional life experience for me. Sarahjoy's dedication to service and her integrity in creating and providing programs showed me what yoga can do in someone's life. She works as a volunteer in everything she does for the DAYA Foundation. Every class, every program, and every administrative hour she gives of herself to the mission and vision. Yet she does this with ongoing grace and appreciation; and without burning out, without resentment. It's like being with a true yogi. (Somehow she does this so gracefully while also dedicating herself to her livelihood in yoga, beyond her service to DAYA.) I felt welcomed to contribute my skills, ideas, and passions. My questions were also welcomed. Mistakes or missed deadlines were always met with understanding and an attitude of "we'll improve on this together". Sarahjoy demonstrated an ability to recognize her mistakes or limitations in knowledge or capacity and always did so with a humble and reparative attitude. I learned that it is safe, and human, to be ever learning and growing. We do not need to be already excellent in all areas, nor can we. Service, ethics, integrity and compassion go together.