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THE EMPTY MAT YOGA CEREMONY

International Women's Day Yoga Ceremony in Support of Yoga Gives Back

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THE EMPTY MAT YOGA CEREMONY

On this International Women’s Day, we gather for a quiet, meaningful ritual centered on one simple symbol: an empty yoga mat.

One mat in the room will remain unoccupied. It represents a girl somewhere in the world who cannot be here today—a girl without access to education, safety, or opportunity.

We practice in her honor.
We breathe in her name.
And through generosity, we help open her path.

This gentle, all-levels gathering includes:

• A small tea ritual to arrive and set intention
• Gentle yoga with live mantra music
• Guided breathwork for nervous system calm
• Meditation and quiet reflection
• The Empty Mat Ceremony
• Closing circle of gratitude

During the ceremony, participants may place donations, notes, or prayers on the empty mat.
Each offering supports women and children through education and microloans.

Why We Gather

All proceeds support Yoga Gives Back, empowering women and girls through education, vocational training, and small-business support.
This event is made possible by the generosity of Center Street – A place for the heart who donated their space so every dollar raised can go directly to the cause.

www.yogagivesback.org

About the Practitioner

Arieta Berisha Kirk

Arieta Berisha Kirk

Arieta Berisha Kirk, E-RYT 500, founder of A-WELL Yoga in Sanford, Florida, and online, teaches yoga as a path of honest self-inquiry.

With a background in clinical psychology and neuroscience, and over a decade of yoga teaching experience, her classes begin with quiet observation of self, meeting the breath before movement so the nervous system can settle and practice can arise from awareness, not performance.

Arieta believes yoga begins the moment we are willing to meet ourselves with truth.
Her mission is simple: to help people understand why they practice, so yoga becomes a way of living.

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