Bringing yoga to those less fortunate

The practice of yoga is not always a cheap endeavor. There are classes, books, mats, and everything in between made available to enthusiasts. That's why it may be difficult for some people less fortunate to get on board with such a beneficial activity.

That's what inspired Sue Jones to spread the love and teach yoga to women in need. She started an organization that reaches out to homeless shelters, addiction programs and domestic-violence safe houses. The experience of helping these women was so rewarding that she says it makes her feel like a Christian missionary. Already there are volunteer practitioners in Boston, Seattle, Oakland, Los Angeles, and New York City.

As a treatment for substance abuse, yoga's effectiveness for overcoming such addiction is debatable. While it certainly doesn't hurt for that purpose, it helps relieve stress even better. That much is common knowledge! In fact, restorative yoga instilled a sense of pride in needy women after only one class. The results were right there for all to see, and that's what motivates people like Sue to continue spreading the practice.