“Before Karuna, I was physically stiff and not too flexible. After attending programming, the benefits extend beyond the physical, yes more relaxed and flexible physically, but also calmer and more peaceful spiritually and emotionally. Mentally, I’m not just calmer but also happier. ”
December 2021, Mike Millios and Lauren Kvasnicka were honored to receive the Commendation Award from the Hennepin County Sheriffs Office for our programming in the jail.
Current Programs
Hennepin County Jail: Womens and Mens Facilities
Salvation Army: Adult Rehabilitation Center
VOA Residential Reentry Center, Roseville
Ramsey County Juvenile Detention Center
Ramsey County Correctional Facility: Womens Unit
Anoka County Jail: Adult Womens Facility
Programming Info
We facilitate programming through a trauma-informed/conscious lens, emphasizing safety, autonomy, and connection. These key components form the foundation of a sustainable practice and support transformative outcomes.
Safety and predictability
Creating the safest environment for participants, facilitators, and staff is of the utmost importance. Each class is clearly structured—no surprises, consistent setup, and clear expectations. Facilitators strictly lead from their mat with movements that are accessible to the class, providing modifications when needed. There is no walking around or physical touch.Example: Twelve mats spaced out in a room in a circle/oval shape so that participants are not in front or in back of one another. Facilitator is in the circle with participants leading. Facilitator avoids shapes that may feel vulnerable (i.e., bends, straddles, or hands behind back).
Emphasis on awareness, control, and grounding
Yoga inherently aligns with a person-centered approach by encouraging grounding and autonomy. Through breath and movement, participants cultivate emotional regulation, inner peace, and a sense of control over their bodies.Example: Facilitators lead participants through grounding shapes that reinforce present-moment awareness. Participants are invited to move at their own pace and choose what feels right for body, breath, and comfort.
Using clear and invitational language
We acknowledge that yoga can seem complex and feel unfamiliar, so we prioritize using simple language and movement for more participation. Using invitational language allows participants to remain in control of their experience, while straightforward cues keep the group connected in the present moment.Example: Facilitator invites participants to bring their hands over their head on their next breath in. Rest is always an option— participants are encouraged to take breaks/pause in a restful shape when needed. Facilitator avoids Sanskrit names of poses, mention of deities, or religious/historical texts.
Creating community connection
Each session opens and closes with time for check-in and debrief/reflection. This allows participants to share experiences, build trust, and foster a sense of belonging—an essential part of healing from trauma.Example: Facilitator leads the group with ice breakers or group prompts to help participants connect (i.e., favorite color, intention for the day). Debriefs invites participants to reflect on what challenged them, what supported them, and how they might incorporate the practices into daily life.
Within our work, trauma-informed yoga is viewed not as a one-size-fits-all intervention, but as a person-centered practice that honors autonomy and safety. Our knowledge, experience, and passion for this mission make us a leader in providing yoga to folks in incarceration, transition, and rehabilitation.
Interested in partnering with us to offer classes to your facility, organization, or group? Contact lauren@karunacmn.org
“I was feeling hectic with everything I had going on, and then after (Karuna Programming) I would be more relaxed... and now If I’m feeling stressed I can think about how a mental transformation is possible.”