There’s a lot of chatter on social media about the importance of ‘finding your tribe’. This sounds lovely. But is there really a tribe for everyone? Is it possible to ‘call in your people’ and attract a group of supportive friends who will journey with you through the next phase of your life? In today’s distracted, screen-obsessed world, do these wild woman sisterhoods -and brotherhoods- really exist?
But is there really a tribe for everyone? Is it possible to ‘call in your people’ and attract a group of supportive friends who will journey with you through the next phase of your life?
Well, yes, I think they do. In spite of the apparent fragmentation in our modern world, it’s been said by many wise teachers that there’s an increasing global unity of minds. Despite the craziness we get flooded with from the media (good Lord, have you read this?) wise people like Wayne Dyer, Martha Beck, and Richard Rohr say there’s a powerful movement underway that’s bringing people closer to their own human truth, leaving us more equipped than ever to be there for each other in the ways that matter.
Yoga itself is an invitation to be mindful of the ways we are all the same. The physical exercise of yoga is a vehicle for this, for sure, but at its core, yoga is the practice of letting go of all attachments so we can learn to be open to the ways we are tied together on this planet.
Without a doubt, in the course of a lifetime, true friendship is one of the most beautiful things. If you’re someone who’s been searching for a like-minded group of friends or if you’re a yoga teacher seeking to attract people who will resonate with your teachings, here are some tips to help make this happen.
#1: Set your intention
Do you want to make new supportive friends to discuss your recent divorce or parenting challenges? Are you seeking to create a group of people to discuss topics that interest you? Or are you intending to build a group of yoga students? Best to clarify what you really want before you set out.
#2: Maintain your inspiration
As a spiritual and self-help book junkie, I’ve discovered MANY teachers that have given me the same level of inspiration and support that I get from my closest friends. A couple of the teachers that have inspired me most include Adyashanti, Richard Rohr, and Jeannie Zandi. These ones may not be your jam, but guaranteed, there are some amazing teachers out there who you’ll resonate with, and who can provide wisdom and guidance to you around the topic of fostering meaningful relationships.
These teachers can also serve as a gateway to new relationships, as you can find other like-minded people who love them, too – via social media pages and forums, live meet-ups, and discussion groups. For example, through the Adyashanti website, I recently discovered a weekly study group in Vancouver.
#3: Explore online community calendars
In most towns or regions, you won’t have to look too far to discover calendars and forums dedicated to yoga events, retreats, and groups.
Spaces like this commonly list meditation groups and community circles, which offer opportunities for more in-depth dialogue, discussion, and relationship-building.
If you’re a teacher seeking students, these online calendars and forums are invaluable places to share your offerings. When you list your events, be sure to include your bio, website, a nice photo, and social links. Not only will you be able to promote your offerings to students, but you’ll get your name out there online and on social media, which helps boost the SEO of your own website, so people can find you in the future. Win, win.
#4: Go in depth
You’ll find that some workshops and retreats are tailored to offer more in-depth levels of connection, through closed discussion groups and one-on-one exercises like gazing, designed to help people see themselves in the other. Whether you’re drawn to Nondual Spirituality, Transcendental Meditation, or Ayurveda, do some searching and you’ll discover opportunities to deepen these practices with other people. Explore calendars like Head + Heart, Eventbrite, Facebook Events, Meetup and use Google to help you find the best options.
#5: Walk down the street
The good ol’ fashioned bulletin board at your local yoga studio, community center, and/or other studios in your town is a great place to find local events and community groups. Lots of teachers solely use these places to promote their events, so they can be a true goldmine for community discoveries.
Teachers: I highly recommend you create a beautiful postcard or flyer explaining your offering and post it in as many of these places as you can!
At the end of the day, we’re all much more similar than we are different. No matter who you are, there are others out there with similar beliefs and philosophies wanting the same type of relationships you do. It may take a little exploring so give yourself some time, and enjoy the process.
“Because you are alive, everything is possible.” Thich Nhat Hanh
Illustration by Ksenia Sapunkova
Edited by Jaimee Hoefert, the Scientist Yogini
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