Minneapolis Yoga Studios Become Unexpected Safe Havens Amidst Rising Tensions

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – What began as a typical Saturday morning yoga class at Yess Yoga in Minneapolis quickly transformed into a scene of refuge and resilience last week. As students settled into Savasana, news broke of a fatal shooting involving U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents – the second such incident in the city in under three weeks.

Within minutes, the Whittier neighborhood was flooded with both protesters and CBP agents deploying tear gas, creating a tense and dangerous environment. Lucia Yess, founder and owner of Yess Yoga, made the immediate decision to open the studio’s doors, transforming the peaceful space into a shelter for those caught in the crossfire.

“We didn’t have class, but we opened the doors to the community to shelter in place as they were getting tear gassed and shot at with rubber bullets,” Yess explained. “There was smoke and tear gas everywhere. You couldn’t leave because you couldn’t breathe.”

A yoga teacher with a public health background volunteered to assist those exposed to tear gas, creating a quiet space upstairs for recovery. As the afternoon progressed, the situation de-escalated, and the studio slowly returned to its regular schedule.

However, this incident is just the latest example of Minneapolis yoga studios stepping up to support their communities amidst increased immigration enforcement activity. Yess Yoga, along with others like Yoga Sanctuary, have quietly expanded their roles beyond offering classes to address basic needs.

Yess Yoga is currently collecting and distributing diapers,wipes,and formula to local families,many of whom are fearful of leaving their homes. Students are also volunteering to help walk children to school, ensuring their safety.The studio has also launched a mutual aid drive, providing essential medical resources like blood pressure cuffs to those avoiding regular medical appointments due to fear.

“People aren’t going to their little child visits, they’re not going to their high-risk pregnancy visits, they’re not going to preventative care,” Yess said. “They’re not getting the resources that they would get.”

About 20 blocks away,Yoga Sanctuary is directly sponsoring immigrant families,pooling resources to cover rent,groceries,and essential needs. Students have even organized an informal community alert system, leaving whistles in the studio lobby to warn residents of nearby enforcement activity.

“People are afraid to be outside in the city and in their cars,” stated Shelley Pagitt, founder of yoga Sanctuary, emphasizing the fear gripping the community.

Yess doesn’t see these efforts as activism, but as a natural extension of her background in social work and the studio’s core values. “We created a ‘third space’ that is inclusive and human-centered,” she explained.

These yoga studios, traditionally spaces for personal wellness, are now demonstrating their commitment to community well-being in a time of growing uncertainty, providing a vital lifeline of support and safety for Minneapolis residents.

How did yoga studios in Minneapolis support the community during the protests following the death of George Floyd?

Yoga Studios in Minneapolis: Community Resilience during Times of Unrest

In the wake of the tragic death of George Floyd in 2020, Minneapolis became a focal point for protests against racial injustice and police brutality.Amidst the demonstrations and, at times, civil unrest, an unexpected network of support emerged: local yoga studios. These spaces, traditionally associated with wellness and mindfulness, quickly transformed into safe havens, offering shelter, supplies, and mutual aid to protesters, community members, and first responders alike.

From Asanas to Assistance: The Initial Response

The shift wasn’t planned. As protests escalated, studios like Flow North Yoga and CorePower Yoga (multiple locations) found themselves geographically close to areas experiencing intense activity. Owners and instructors, many deeply committed to social justice, instinctively opened their doors.

* Immediate Needs Met: Studios initially provided water, snacks, first aid supplies (bandages, eye wash for tear gas exposure), and charging stations for phones.

* Safe Passage & Rest: They offered a respite from the streets – a place to rest, de-escalate, and connect with resources.

* Community Coordination: Studios became hubs for facts sharing, connecting protesters with legal observers, medical personnel, and mental health support.

This spontaneous response highlighted the inherent community-focused nature of many yoga centers and their potential to serve as vital infrastructure during crises. The concept of seva – selfless service – a core tenet of yoga ideology, was powerfully embodied.

Expanding the Role: Mutual Aid Networks & Resource Distribution

The initial response quickly evolved into more organized mutual aid efforts. Yoga studios, often with existing networks of students and community partners, became key nodes in larger support systems.

1. Supply Drives: Studios organized and hosted donation drives for essential items like non-perishable food, diapers, hygiene products, and protective gear.
2. Medical Support: Some studios partnered with volunteer medical professionals to provide on-site first aid and basic medical care.
3. Legal Aid Access: Connections were made with legal organizations offering pro bono assistance to protesters facing arrest or legal challenges.
4. Mental Health Resources: Recognizing the trauma experienced by those involved, studios facilitated access to mental health professionals offering counseling and support groups. This was particularly crucial given the heightened stress and anxiety during the period.

The Power of space: Creating Sanctuary & Facilitating Dialog

Beyond providing material support, the physical space of the yoga studio itself proved invaluable. The calming atmosphere, frequently enough designed to promote relaxation and mindfulness, offered a stark contrast to the chaos unfolding outside.

* De-escalation Zones: Studios served as designated “de-escalation zones” where individuals could process their emotions and find a moment of peace.

* Community Meetings: Some studios hosted community meetings and facilitated dialogues aimed at addressing racial injustice and promoting healing.

* Trauma-Informed Practices: Instructors offered gentle yoga and meditation sessions specifically designed to address trauma and promote emotional regulation. These weren’t conventional classes, but rather supportive practices tailored to the needs of the moment.

Challenges & Lessons Learned

The experience wasn’t without its challenges. Studios faced concerns about safety, liability, and navigating the complex political landscape.

* Security Concerns: Protecting both the studio space and the individuals seeking refuge required careful planning and coordination with community safety teams.

* Resource Strain: Meeting the overwhelming needs of the community placed a notable strain on studio resources, both financial and logistical.

* Maintaining Neutrality: Studios had to navigate the delicate balance of providing support without appearing to take sides in the political debate.

Though, these challenges also fostered resilience and innovation. Studios learned to collaborate more effectively with community organizations, develop robust safety protocols, and leverage their networks to maximize impact.

Long-Term Impact & The Future of Community-Based Wellness

The events of 2020 fundamentally shifted the role of yoga studios in Minneapolis. They demonstrated the power of wellness spaces to serve as anchors of community support during times of crisis.

* Increased Community Engagement: Studios have seen increased engagement from diverse community members,reflecting a broader understanding of their role beyond fitness.

* focus on Social Justice: Many studios have integrated social justice themes into their programming and business practices.

* Strengthened Partnerships: Collaborations with local organizations have deepened, creating more lasting support systems.

This experience serves as a model for other communities, demonstrating how yoga studios and similar wellness centers can proactively prepare to become vital resources during future emergencies and contribute to building

Here’s a breakdown of the key information from the text regarding the potential CorePower Yoga strike and related issues:

The Core Issues: Low Wages & Workload

* Low Hourly Rate: Instructors were making very little, with some earning as low as $18.30/hour (with a recent raise to $20.58 effective in 2026). Others made $20 for a yoga sculpt class that involved notable prep work and post-class duties.
* Time Commitment: Instructors are expected to be at the studio 30 minutes before and after each class, effectively making it a two-hour commitment for a class that pays for only teaching time.
* Multiple Roles: Instructors are often required to perform duties beyond teaching, like front desk work, security, and cleaning. Their pay doesn’t reflect this expanded job description.
* “Paid Hobby”: Many instructors treat the job as supplemental income, unable to live on the earnings alone.

The Spark & Spread of Awareness

* TikTok as a Platform: The potential strike gained traction through TikTok videos from instructors sharing their concerns. One video with over 100,000 views questioned a delayed raise.
* Social Media Momentum: The issue rapidly spread through social media, including TikTok and Reddit, generating discussion among both instructors and students.
* Media Attention: The strike drew the attention of news outlets like The Cut and Fast Company.

CorePower’s Response

* Q&A Sessions: CorePower’s CEO, Niki Leondakis, held Q&A sessions with instructors to hear their grievances.
* Increased Cleaning: CorePower announced a commitment to four studio deep-cleanings per year.
* Perception of Being Heard: One instructor who attended a Q&A felt her concerns were genuinely heard,gaining a better understanding of the company’s financial challenges (like impacts from COVID closures).

Current Status (as of the text)

* Quieting of Discussion: Social media engagement surrounding the strike appeared to decrease significantly after the proclamation of deep cleanings.
* Uncertainty: Instructors in multiple cities (Minneapolis, NYC, Portland, Dallas, etc.) were inquiring on Reddit about whether the strike was still planned.

In essence, the text details how instructor dissatisfaction with pay and workload led to talk of a strike, which gained momentum through social media, prompted a response from CorePower, and then seemingly cooled down with uncertainty about whether the strike would actually happen.

What are the signs that CorePower Yoga teachers are planning a strike?

Are corepower Yoga Teachers Actually Going on Strike?

The question of a potential CorePower Yoga teacher strike has been circulating within the fitness and yoga communities, gaining traction in early 2026. while a full-scale, nationwide strike hasn’t materialized yet, the situation is complex and rooted in ongoing efforts towards unionization and improved working conditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s happening, the key issues driving the movement, and what it means for CorePower Yoga students and the broader fitness industry.

The Push for Unionization: A Growing Trend in Fitness

for years, the fitness industry has largely remained non-unionized. However, a shift is occurring. Instructors at studios like CorePower Yoga, Peloton, and others are increasingly seeking collective bargaining power to address concerns about pay, benefits, and job security. This trend mirrors broader labor movements gaining momentum across various sectors.

The initial spark for CorePower Yoga unionization efforts began in 2022 with teachers in Minneapolis,Minnesota,forming a union with the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). This local success has inspired teachers in other cities to explore similar options.

CorePower Yoga Teacher Concerns: What’s Driving the Discontent?

Several key issues are fueling the drive for unionization and the threat of potential work stoppages. These aren’t simply about higher wages; they encompass a range of concerns impacting teacher well-being and the quality of instruction.

* Compensation: A primary concern is pay equity. Many CorePower Yoga instructors report earning wages that are insufficient to cover living expenses, especially considering the physical demands of the job and the cost of ongoing training and certifications. the pay structure frequently enough relies heavily on class attendance, creating income instability.

* Benefits: Access to affordable healthcare, paid time off, and retirement plans are often limited or non-existent for CorePower Yoga instructors, particularly those working part-time. This lack of benefits creates financial vulnerability.

* Job Security: Instructors often operate under contract, with limited job security. Concerns exist regarding arbitrary scheduling changes and the potential for termination without cause.

* Workload & burnout: The pressure to maintain a consistent teaching schedule, attract students, and adhere to CorePower Yoga’s brand standards can lead to burnout. Instructors report feeling pressured to teach while sick or injured.

* Class Size & Safety: Increasing class sizes, while beneficial for the company’s bottom line, can compromise the quality of instruction and potentially increase the risk of injury for both teachers and students.

Current Status: Where Do Things Stand in January 2026?

As of January 31, 2026, a full-blown strike hasn’t occurred. Though, the situation remains fluid.

* Ongoing Negotiations: unionized teachers in Minneapolis continue to negotiate with corepower Yoga management. Progress has been slow, with key sticking points remaining around wages, benefits, and job security.

* Unionization Efforts Expanding: Organizing efforts are underway in several other major metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles, New York City, and Chicago. The SEIU is actively supporting these efforts.

* Authorization to Strike: In late 2025, the Minneapolis union authorized a strike, signaling a willingness to walk off the job if a fair agreement isn’t reached. This authorization doesn’t automatically trigger a strike, but it demonstrates the seriousness of the situation.

* Company Response: CorePower Yoga has publicly stated its commitment to working with its instructors and addressing their concerns. Though, the company has also emphasized the financial challenges of operating a large fitness chain and the need to balance instructor demands with business realities. They’ve implemented some changes, such as a pilot program offering limited benefits to certain instructors, but these have been met with mixed reactions.

What a Strike Could Look Like

If the Minneapolis union does initiate a strike, it would likely involve instructors refusing to teach classes at CorePower Yoga studios in the Twin Cities area.The impact of a strike could be important:

* Class Cancellations: Students would face widespread class cancellations,disrupting their fitness routines.

* Studio Closures: Depending on the number of instructors participating, some studios might be forced to temporarily close.

* negative Publicity: A strike would generate negative publicity for CorePower Yoga, potentially damaging its brand reputation.

* Ripple Affect: A successful strike in Minneapolis could embolden teachers in other cities to pursue similar action.

The Impact on CorePower yoga Students

The potential for a strike raises concerns for CorePower Yoga students. Here’s what you can expect:

* disrupted Schedules: Be prepared for potential class cancellations and schedule changes.

* Alternative Options: Explore alternative yoga studios or online yoga classes as a backup plan.

* Show Support: Consider expressing your support for the instructors and their efforts to improve working conditions. This could involve contacting CorePower Yoga management or signing petitions.

* Stay Informed: Follow news updates and social media channels for the latest data on the situation.

The Broader Implications for the Fitness Industry

The CorePower Yoga situation is a bellwether for the fitness industry as a whole. If instructors successfully unionize and secure better working conditions, it could set a precedent for other studios and gyms. This could lead to:

* Increased Labor Costs: Higher wages and benefits for instructors would increase labor costs for fitness businesses.

* Higher Class Prices: Studios might need to raise class prices to offset increased labor costs.

* Improved Instructor Quality: Better pay and benefits could attract and retain more qualified instructors, leading to a higher quality of instruction.

* A More Lasting Model: A more equitable and