Our Space

Surrounding yourself with living plants also honors yoga’s deep-rooted connection with nature. Ancient yogic teachings celebrate union with the natural world—and this is embodied in the many postures named after animals and natural elements (like cobra or crow), and even in the symbolic presence of deities like Agni (fire) and Vayu (wind). In this way, our living studio becomes more than decor—it becomes a sacred ecosystem of presence.

There’s also growing acknowledgment that biophilic design—bringing living things into our built spaces—supports mental and emotional well-being. Studies show that elements of nature indoors help reduce stress and speed recovery from psychological strain. At Khali, the plants aren’t just beautiful; they are quiet teachers, reminding us to breathe, to soften, and to reconnect—with our bodies, each other, and the larger web of life.

In yoga, the ritual of smoke reaches back to the Vedas—the oldest sacred Indian texts, foundational to the practice of dhupa (incense offerings). Sandalwood, in particular, is praised in the Vedic hymns and Ayurvedic texts as both sacred and cooling, often offered in fire rituals, made into incense, or applied as a paste on the skin to purify and calm the mind. Beyond India, sacred smoke arises across cultures: in Mesoamerica, copal has long been used by Maya and Aztec peoples as a spiritual bridge; in Christian, Orthodox, and Buddhist practices, frankincense and myrrh ascend as both prayer and presence. By lighting our plant allies, we carry forward this shared human rhythm of transformation and reverence.

When you practice at Khali, you’ll often notice sacred smoke as part of the rhythm of our space. Before and after classes, we burn our plant allies to cleanse the room of what has been released and to prepare the hearts of those arriving. You may see us walking gently through the studio with a copalera or a small bowl of glowing resin, letting the smoke drift into the corners and across the mats. Sometimes, plant allies are also invited into the practice itself—supporting release, clearing energy, and helping us all connect more deeply with the divine. In this way, each class begins and ends not just with movement and breath, but with ritual.

Modern research affirms what traditions have always held: sacred smoke also supports the body. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that Ayurvedic smoke blends significantly reduced airborne bacteria.

Frankincense offers antimicrobial activity—and aromacologists identify calming compounds like incensole acetate that ease anxiety. Myrrh has shown bactericidal effects in lab studies. Copal is often described as a messenger and guardian—purifying, clearing grief and fear, and anchoring ceremonial space. Sandalwood has been shown to carry antimicrobial properties and compounds that calm the nervous system, aligning with its Vedic role in soothing the mind and preparing for meditation. White sage demonstrates immune-supporting and antimicrobial properties, too.

While these practices are not medical prescriptions, they beautifully echo what humans have known for centuries—sacred smoke is both a medicine and a prayer, a way to cleanse, to ground, and to signal that the practice has begun.

Sage

A powerful clearing ally, sage helps sweep away stagnant energy. Its smoke also carries antimicrobial qualities, making it both a spiritual and physical purifier.

Copal

Called a “messenger between worlds,” copal has been used in Mesoamerican ceremony for centuries. Its sweet smoke grounds, protects, and creates a sacred container for practice, easing grief and fear while inviting clarity.

Frankincense

Burned in temples and churches across the world, frankincense opens the heart and steadies the mind. Scientific research highlights its antibacterial and anti-anxiety properties, echoing its long-held role as a sacred purifier.

Myrrh

Often paired with frankincense, myrrh is a resin of deep purification. Used in ancient Egyptian, Christian, and Ayurvedic traditions, it also shows antimicrobial benefits, making it both sacred and protective.

Sandalwood

One of the most sacred substances in Vedic ritual, sandalwood is burned as incense and also applied as a cooling paste to the body. Its gentle, sweet smoke supports calm, focus, and devotion, making it a favorite in meditation and pūjā. Modern studies note its antimicrobial properties and its soothing effect on the nervous system, affirming its long use as an ally for stillness and clarity.

Palma Dulce

A traditional incense used in Andean and Mesoamerican sahumeríos, palma dulce (sweet palm) is burned to bless and sanctify. While research is limited, its cultural role as a gentle, protective smoke runs deep.

Pegote

Used in community ceremonies across Central and South America, pegote resin is known for its grounding, earthy qualities. It is often burned to prepare for prayer, meditation, and healing rituals.