Riverbend Prison Project | Amy Barnes Yoga

THE RIVERBEND PRISON PROJECT

My study, dedication, and devotion to my practice, continues to deepen my understanding and experience of living life in an authentic & fully co~creative way…the way of relationship…with self, other, & all, both human and divine. One of the highlights of my life to date is sharing these practices of devotion in service at Riverbend Maximum Prison for men. Holding space and co-facilitating the Friday evening “Weeds” service has been and continues to be one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences I have ever known. The love and trust that is cultivated between us is the foundation for true healing and transformation in us all. No matter the theme or content of our service, the chanting, the collaborative devotional music always takes us into our hearts and creates a palpable unified “shared” experience. It’s a time when I see miracles unfold before my very eyes; joy and love permeate amidst the pain & suffering in and around us. This…I do believe, makes a difference; it makes the world a better place.

“I was so moved by the welcoming spirits of the Innsiders who came out to share in the Kirtan.
It was a privilege for me.”

~Jori

To all Riverbend Kirtan Participants,

Thank you all so much for your courage, presence and sincere participation in our Friday night Kirtan, a brand new experience for most of you. I continue to be in awe & wonder at the art & practice of Kirtan, the mysterious and practical/scientific way that it helps to open our hearts and clear our minds, returning us to a deeper state of pure feeling. Even in our doubts and unknowing, singing these Names, these mantras, has a way of opening and delivering us to an inner connection with our true nature, which is love; a welcome blessing in the midst of the constant challenges of daily life, whatever our outer circumstances happen to be. One of you said, “Tonight, this place was not a prison.” I got chills when I heard this. For me, those words are a testament to the journey within, to yoga, to the inner freedom that is always available to us, as we have the courage to breathe into our hearts and call out, sing out from that place deep in the heart of longing, for peace, for connection, for love, for union with all of life. We hope to return to Riverbend and sing some more, to continue our exploration and practice of Bhakti Yoga Kirtan.

Blessings of Peace and Love,
Amy