A funky fresh new LOGO!

Look at this sweet new Funky Buddha logo! And why we’ve kept the Ruby all these years <3 

Where does the ruby come from?   

This Kabir poem:  

The small ruby everyone wants has fallen out on the road.  

Some think it is East of us, others West of us  

Some say, “among primitive earth rocks,”  

others, “in the deep waters.”  

Kabir’s instinct told him it was inside,  

And what it was worth –  

And he wrapped it up carefully in his heart cloth.  

Kabir was a 14-15th century poet and mystic born in Varasani in northern India. He wrote about not only devotion and connection but also equality and freedom; all things important in our yoga practice and our spaces. These words he penned hundreds of years ago have served as a guide for us as we created our Core Values, as we’ve grown and changed over the years, and to remind us of our goal to awaken the inner teacher in each of us.   

Why was the ruby such a special symbol for Kabir?  

In Upper Myanmar in the Magok Valley, rubies have been mined and revered for centuries. In 15th-century Myanmar, it was a common understanding that those in possession of a ruby would be rewarded with safety and guidance. This stone was also associated with love, energy, passion, and empowerment. In the language of yoga, Sanskrit, the ruby is called ratnaraj, or ‘king of precious stones,” and was considered one of the most precious.   

Kabir chose this image of the ruby carefully, to represent all that is important, and to remind us that we already have it all, wrapped up in our hearts.  

Why do we love the ruby?  

For us, the ruby continues to symbolize the wisdom that lives within. We develop teachers focused on facilitating the most important relationship that exists in yoga: the relationship between a student and their yoga practice.   

The ruby is our reminder that your practice has everything you need; all that’s needed is to show up for yourself and meet yourself exactly as you are. You don’t need to be more flexible or get a special mat or do anything other than, be. You’ll learn about yourself as you move with us, you’ll learn about community as you share your practice with others- and our staff is right there with you to help you find that ruby within.   

Your ruby is right here, inside your heart cloth; ready to be remembered, ready to support you in your growth through practice.  

The jewel you seek is in your own heart.  

Our Mission: Growth Through Practice-  

This new logo is another iteration and symbol of our growth. We were not only delighted in the creativity with which Lydia Writes Good designed our name into the ruby shape, but also gave us an absolute gem (pun not intended, but feel free to giggle with me) of a ruby and turned it into a heart (swoon!).  

My own heart swelled with joy to see these symbols we love, coming together as a reminder of where we’ve been and who we are, while shining a light on who are still yet to become. We lead with our hearts; our teams teach, guide, and offer support from the heart. We invite you to continue opening your own heart, and your own growth and wisdom- one practice at a time.  

What’s to come?  

You’ll see the new logo popping up on socials, the updated colors in the studios, and a few more fun surprises. We’re always looking for ways to make accessing your practice easier and easier, and these refreshments will continue to support that goal. We’ll share more sneak peeks soon; keep your eyes on our socials! 

With more and more love, 

Larissa (Executive Director and poetry lover)