Second Chances

A documentary project that explores the transformative power of yoga in the Utah State Correctional Facility.

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This is a story about second chances.

We invite you to be part of an inspiring documentary that explores the transformative power of yoga within the Utah State Correctional Facility. Our upcoming story shines a light on the incredible work happening behind bars, where yoga and mindfulness are fostering rehabilitation, improving mental health, and promoting self-awareness among incarcerated men and women.

Recidivism In The United States

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the most recent studies on recidivism rates among formerly incarcerated individuals found that:

68% were rearrested within 3 years
77% were rearrested within 5 years
83% were rearrested within 9 years

Of all the graduates in the Yoga Forward program since 2017, only 2% have returned to prison.

This is proving to be one of the most effective programs in the entire U.S. prison system, setting a new standard for transformative change behind bars.

Meet Denise Druce

Denise has a Masters Degree in Public Health, is a certified yoga therapist, a Schwinn Master Trainer, and yoga teacher trainer.

In 2017, Denise formed Yoga Forward, a non-profit that “takes yoga where it isn’t”. With an army of volunteers, they offer yoga classes, and 200-Hour yoga teacher training inside the Utah State Correctional Facility. She inspires her students to find purpose in their pain. Her most recent hard place is thriving amidst a recurrence of Stage 4 cancer, which she lovingly calls her best teacher.

A few of her notable accomplishments include:

  • Recipient of the IDEA World Inspiration Award
  • Speaker at TEDx Salt Lake City 2019
  • American Heart Association Women’s Conference Keynote Speaker
  • Master Trainer for Schwinn Cycling
  • University of Utah Yoga Teacher Training, Program Director
  • Lululemon Legacy Ambassador
  • Lead Trainer/Director BIPOC Yoga Teacher Training Program
  • Board of Directors for the Utah State Alliance for Cardiovascular Health
  • Chair for the Community Physical Fitness Advocacy Committee

37°01'11.3"N 111°32'17.9"W

The sun will rise and set regardless. What we choose to do with the light while it’s here is up to us. Seize the day. Say yes to adventure!