Ashrams for Autism

Ashrams for Autism grew organically out of a mother’s love for her daughter and a desire to heal individuals through yoga. When founder Sharon Manner’s youngest child Kerri was diagnosed with autism, the young mom went through a gamut of ups and downs, trying to figure out how to best help her daughter -- and deal with the difficult diagnosis herself. As a yogi, Manner instinctively knew her yoga teachers and practices would help support her. What she didn’t realize, at least at first, was how much yoga would help her daughter too.

In 2010, she founded Ashrams for Autism, whose mission is to create yoga programs and facilities where individuals with autism can live, work, play and contribute to their community. By utilizing yogic techniques and modern-day scientific advances, these faculties will seek to empower and guide each individual towards peacefully achieving their highest potential. She shares her journey with us here.

The theme of this issue is INSPIRATION, what inspired you to create your non profit Ashrams for Autism? Everything we do and commit ourselves to at Ashrams for Autism stems from a labor of love. Over the years of caring for an autistic child, I have found that yoga has consistently provided a space of peace and calm for myself, my child and my entire family. After seeing such progress I decided to share the gift of yoga with others who desperately need the tools and resources to live a full and happy life. So in short, my loving daughter is the inspiration behind the organization. Without her none of this would be possible.

Who can take your YTT? We encourage autistic individuals, teachers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, family members and friends of individuals on the spectrum to participate in this training. We also encourage families with individuals on the spectrum to take it all together.

What can people expect from this YTT? This training will exceed your expectations. We have put together a curriculum that is all encompassing from start to finish that includes a team of highly educated facilitators who go above and beyond to ensure an optimal learning experience for everyone.

Where can people find classes? We offer free classes on our YouTube channel and you can also check out our website for upcoming trainings and special events. We also specialize in providing yoga in schools and facilities. We are currently working on a directory to include all of our graduates.

Ashrams for Autism seeks to empower and guide the autism community toward peacefully achieving their highest potential through yoga. We firmly believe that yoga can provide the proper tools for self-regulation and empowerment for this population.

LEARN MORE: ASHRAMS4AUTISM.ORG