To many, Yoga Rave is a night of fun, energetic dancing, glow, and meditation. But Yoga Rave is so much more.

I met with Group Fitness Assistant Director, Christy Coleman to ask questions and gather information about the history, origin, and vibe of Yoga Rave. I am extremely excited to share our conversation, and I guarantee you will learn something you didn’t know about this great event!

How Yoga Rave Began

Bear Townsend was a Campus Recreation Yoga instructor who tragically passed away in 2014. Christy describes Bear as “fun and idealistic, with contagious energy, and a true zest for life.” After his passing, the Group Fitness family along with Bear’s fraternity, did a yoga rave in his honor. There was some yoga and dancing, an instructor who sang, and most importantly a tribute to Bear’s life. His family was extremely moved and encouraged The Rec to continue the event.

The Transition

The rave evolved into one of Campus Recreation’s signature events — Yoga Rave. A true celebration of life, the event includes glow lights, a DJ, face paint, Yoga, dance, and more. Each year, The Rec partners with Counseling Services and emphasizes the importance of mental health. Christy explains, “Yoga Rave has incorporated various themes throughout the years from gratitude to self-love. We have also done a recognition of others we have lost by putting their names on the wall.” She continues to reveal “This year’s theme is joy, because we are joyful that we can move and have resources to help us through hard times.” Even in hard times, coming together in the community, reaching out, and seeking help is critically important.

What to Expect

As a student who has attended Yoga Rave in the past, I assure you that this isn’t an event that you want to miss! In terms of what to wear, Christy says, “Wear anything that will glow in black lights. If you wear bright, neon colors, that’s fantastic!” I followed this question by asking what the difficulty is and if beginners can attend. She responded, “It should be easy for all. It may be more challenging for beginners to hit and hold the poses or follow along with terminology, but everybody should have a great time!” Yoga Rave is for all fitness levels. Don’t forget to bring a friend for the partner routine at the end!

This year there will be a DJ, face painting, 360-photobooth, treats, and (of course) Aubie!

The unicorn was something Bear identified with; he embraced hope. Unicorns are incorporated into a cake and cupcakes as a post-event treat.

Yoga Rave is entirely student-led. All of the routines and choreography are curated by Group Fitness instructors. Mixing Yoga with dance has been the recurring routine through the years, and that isn’t changing! You can expect Yoga flows, cardio, toning, and meditation. According to Christy, “There will be a moment for guided meditation and reflection, but that’s about the only quiet time you are going to have!” This is a fun, energetic event that will make you want to come back next year!

Beyond Yoga Rave, The Rec continues the partnership with counseling services for Mindful Mondays. This is a Group Fit class offered every Monday to reflect and meditate.

Yoga Rave is March 19, 2024! For more information, click here.

Peace. Love. Rave.

Be Well, Auburn.