As you may know, yoga was born centuries ago in India. It took the world by storm in the twentieth century, and it has never been more popular than it is today. Western practitioners have been captivated by yoga’s physical, mental, and spiritual benefits, and rightly so. It's an engaging and innovative approach to overall health and fitness, and the mind-body harmony yoga provides is an essential counterpoint to the hustle and bustle of daily modern life.

Yoga techniques are known to be both introspective and challenging, but it doesn’t need to be an individual practice. In fact, sharing the traditions and learning from others is a great path toward growth. That’s why we’re so excited about the sixth annual Texas Yoga Conference, which is coming to Houston the weekend of February 20-22. The ultimate event for yoga fans of all ages and experience, the event features invigorating yoga workshops, informative wellness seminars, and exciting concerts. Whether you are an expert yogi, or simply a curious neophyte, you won’t want to miss this enlightening opportunity.

With nearly 70 presentations on the schedule, the event attracts regional and national yoga teachers who offer classes at all levels of experience, from the beginner to the advanced student. Learn about new practice techniques as well as scientific research on the effects of meditation and yoga inside the brain. Engage your mind with a wide range of lecture topic including yogic philosophy, community service, and personal spiritual growth.

Workshops on the schedule include fascinating titles such as: Green Psychology; The Physics of Thought; Challenging Boundaries of Strength, Breath, Flexibility and Focus; Why Sugar is the New Fat; and 65 more presentations. Shop at nearly 100 exhibitors onsite, showcasing aroma-therapeutic massage, natural products, health foods, jewelry, yoga clothing and other unique gifts. Hear incredible music on both Friday and Saturday with Vish from The Mayapuris and Bhakti House Band. Additionally, the popular traveling bands will contribute to the festive atmosphere of the conference with musical appearances all throughout the weekend.

The event will be held at the newly completed ISKCON Temple and Cultural Center. Passes to the conference are $350 online or at the door. The concerts are open to the public with tickets $10 in advance, $15 at the door.

For more information, please visit www.texasyogaconference.com.

Photography courtesy of Sheryl Braun, Simon Gentry