For more than 15 years, Lauren Peterson has embodied the true spirit of yoga—not only through her teaching, but through her unwavering commitment to service. A beloved teacher, mentor, and longtime supporter of Yoga Gives Back, Lauren continues to inspire her students and community by demonstrating that yoga extends far beyond the mat.
With more than 25 years of personal practice and over three decades of teaching experience, Lauren (E-RYT 500) has touched the lives of thousands through workshops, retreats, teacher trainings, and her compassionate approach to guiding students on their individual journeys.
A dedicated student of both Iyengar and Ashtanga Yoga, Lauren studied with renowned teacher Chuck Miller for more than a decade. She has also been recognized on Healing Quest and in Yoga Journal for the groundbreaking yoga program she developed at the Monte Nido Eating Disorders Center, where she introduced yoga as a powerful tool for healing women recovering from eating disorders.
Lauren’s connection with Yoga Gives Back began over 15 years ago, and her dedication has only deepened with time. She has traveled to India twice with Yoga Gives Back founder Kayoko Mitsumatsu, witnessing firsthand how education, microloans, and compassionate support can transform the lives of women and children living in underserved communities.
Reflecting on why she continues to support the organization, Lauren shares:
“I decided to help YGB because it started with one person wanting to help a few people. It has grown organically through many people donating. You can readily see how your donations are helping people. I feel confident my money—and the money of my friends—goes directly to the people who need it.”
On July 5, Lauren once again opened her heart and her community by hosting a beautiful Global Gathering for India at Malibu Fitness in Los Angeles. The event brought people together for an uplifting yoga practice, an inspiring presentation by Kayoko Mitsumatsu, and a restorative sound bath—all in support of raising critical funds and awareness to empower women and children in India.
Lauren’s generosity reminds us that every yoga class, every gathering, and every act of kindness has the potential to create lasting change. Her leadership demonstrates that yoga is not simply a personal practice—it is a practice of compassion, connection, and service.
Yoga Gives Back is deeply grateful for Lauren’s friendship, leadership, and more than 15 years of steadfast support. Through dedicated ambassadors like Lauren, our global community continues to expand opportunities for mothers, children, and young women across India.
Thank you, Lauren, for showing us what it truly means to live yoga both on and off the mat.
To learn more about Lauren Peterson and her teaching, visit her Instagram: @ohlaurenpeterson.
