The practice of Glowga or Glow Yoga is becoming more and more popular on today’s campuses. It mixes the physical and spiritual dimensions of yoga with the social fun of using glow-in-the-dark body paint and glow sticks under black lights to create a relaxing, appealing atmosphere. 

At California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB), an All Community Glow Yoga event was held, hosted by the Basic Needs program, which has been offering yoga to students, staff and faculty. There’s no cost and the classes are designed to be accessible to all, reported The Lutrinae.

“Often fitness classes can be expensive or inaccessible, so we wanted to be sure to provide a space in which any students can feel great moving their body, while practicing mindfulness,” Robyn DoCanto, Basic Needs program coordinator, told the paper. “Yoga is for everybody and every student is welcome to join us, regardless if they have practiced before or not!”

During CSUMB’s Glow Yoga event, students could use the available glow-in-the dark body paint for a little extra flair. Due to the use of glow sticks or glow necklaces/bracelets, Glowga can be done either inside or outside under the stars. Sometimes it’s a gentle, peaceful experience, while other times upbeat music is involved. Oh, the possibilities!

Yoga in the Greenhouse

Another possibility happens at the State University of New York at Potsdam where students can take Wednesday yoga classes in the Wagner Institute Sustainability and Ecological Research (WISER) Greenhouse. The various plants and heated floors offer a great yoga backdrop.

Sources: The Lutrinae, 2/6/24; WISER Center, State University of New York at Potsdam

Check out campus ideas like this one within our NEW Building Community Connections: Adaptable Innovations from 100 Campuses guide, filled with usable campus ideas to enhance belonging and well-being.