Today’s teams are different from the teams of the past: They’re far more diverse, dispersed, digital, and dynamic (with frequent changes in membership).

Sure, I’ve heard of tales of yoga bitchiness, amid jealousy over who has the best expensive yoga gear, in between slightly competitive posturing over Headstands and Handstands, and the odd cat fight over the hot yoga guy in the corner — not that yoga is a competitive sport!

But I’ve found no evidence of any of the above, to the contrary.

Yoga Unites

What I’ve found is a diverse group of yogis of all ages and from all backgrounds, united (yoga does mean to yoke) in their love of yoga and a common desire to be friendly off the mat.

I’ve been able to deepen friendships through the transformative experience that is teacher training, during blissful weekend yoga retreats, and through the simple act of sharing warm conversations and the odd cool drink.

I’ve connected with my soul sisters, found other meditation mammas, and felt a sense of belonging that may not be on offer at a gym class (just sayin’).

With yoga as the glue, I have become certain of the wisdom that the things we have in common are far greater than those things that set us apart. And I think that’s why yoga studios are such a great nurturing ground for friendships.

Yoga gives us the chance to practice how to be a good friend on the mat, and then lets us ‘perfect’ this in real life. Here’s why yogis make amazing friends.

In yoga practice, on and off the mat, we learn not to judge ourselves and to accept how we ‘yoga’ on any given day. We come to appreciate that yoga is not a competition with others, and it isn’t a competition with ourselves either.

When you cut yourself some slack because King Pigeon is not in your practice today (or ever, even), then it becomes easier to extend this attitude of non-judgment to others.