Community Conversations is a way to build community through conversation. Coming together as a community is something we highly value at Satya. While each of us leads lives across a diverse array of experiences, beliefs, and backgrounds, the practice of yoga is what unites us all – building a greater connection with ourselves, and each other.  Community Conversations is a space where members of the Satya community – and beyond – continue the unifying practice of yoga through purposeful, facilitated conversations. Much like the physical practice of yoga asana (poses), the practice of intentional conversation is a practice of connection and awareness. As we exercise our capacity for purposeful and patient communication, we gain a greater understanding of ourselves and others, build a stronger sense of community, and carry compassion forward into the rest of our lives.  

This practice integrates fundamental tenets of yoga philosophy, namely ahimsa (nonviolence) and satya (truth), while using the framework of Community Building Circles (CBCs) to facilitate the intentional conversation. In each 90-minute conversation, Madison will guide participants through thoughtfully prepared questions that center around a particular theme, to which all participants have the opportunity to respond. In order to ensure a respectful space for all, conversations follow community-established guidelines.

CURRENT THEME THROUGHOUT AUTUMN 2025:

This season of Community Conversations is inspired by Paul Tillich's The Courage to Be. According to Tillich, courage is essential to human existence. Courage is what drives us to act intentionally as we navigate the many challenges and uncertainties of life. When we feel overwhelmed by tragedies of the world, be they near or far, courage is what enables us to create positive change. Courage calls us to be brave in the face of doubt, demands that we act rather than surrender. As we collectively strive to create a better world, courage is what makes every one of us powerful, resilient, and capable.

Each conversation in this theme will ask individuals to explore this idea of courageous being. We will each have the opportunity to share about our unique expression of being courageous, as well as listen to how others find courage within their own sense of self. Through honest dialogue and compassionate listening, our community will learn about courage and being.