Beyond Colonial Spirituality with Paris Abbas

Paris is a mother, yoga teacher, and doctor. Born in Russia of Iranian descent, Paris has Muslim and Jewish family while she herself is a practicing Hindu. Perhaps this is why she embodies tolerance through different identities and ideologies.  Amidst a resounding silence throughout the yoga and wellness world, Paris has been a steady and unapologetic voice for humanity. In our conversation, we talk about the rupture that is happening when people who consider themselves spiritual turn away from the live-streamed suffering of others. We talk about this being colonial spirituality, extracted from its cultural context and roots, rife with toxic positivity and spiritual bypassing.  Paris explains that it is precisely because of her yoga practice and study of yoga principles that she feels she must center the oppressed and call for the liberation of all. It is the difference between being connected to your heart and coming from ego.  Please enjoy the at once down-to-earth and ethereal — Paris.  Paris' IG Leah's IG