Yoga practices hold incredible potential for improving both mental and physical well-being, yet Black women often face unique barriers to fully accessing its benefits. This Black History Month, let’s explore these challenges and celebrate discuss how yoga can empower Black women in profound ways.
For many Black women, the lack of diversity and representation in yoga spaces can create an unwelcoming environment. Research shows that “white normativity” in wellness culture perpetuates stereotypes about yoga as being exclusive to thin, white, affluent individuals (Source: “Roll Out My Mat and Take Up Space”: A Study of Black Women’s Resistance to Yoga’s White Normativity). Additionally, financial costs, geographic inaccessibility, and the underrepresentation of Black instructors contribute to feelings of exclusion.
Despite these challenges, yoga can be a transformative tool for Black women, particularly in addressing racial stress and trauma. Restorative yoga, which emphasizes relaxation and nervous system health, is particularly beneficial for Black women dealing with stress or serious health conditions. This approach highlights the importance of rest and gentle healing. Despite the “white normativity” in wellness culture, research has shown that yogic practices and meditation have played a role in Black women’s inner lives for a long time. In 2016, Stephanie Evans published an essay called “Yoga in 42 African American Women’s Memoirs Reveal Hidden Tradition of Health” in the International Journal of Yoga, wherein she completed a review of memoirs from African American women to examine the possible perceived benefits of yoga within a Black population. Evans found that yoga was mentioned in 42 memoirs where the practice contributed to increased longevity, healed physical injuries, decreased substance use, and enhanced breast cancer treatment. These narratives shed light on the importance of holistically understanding Black women’s experiences.
Community-centered yoga spaces designed specifically for Black women are increasingly breaking down barriers, offering accessible and inclusive environments. Research supports that practicing in culturally affirming spaces enhances the psychological benefits of yoga, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Studies have also recommended that yoga instructors undergo training to be more aware of the unique challenges faced by Black women, such as the impacts of racism and social inequality.
This Black History Month, let’s celebrate the power of yoga to uplift, heal, and inspire. And let’s continue working toward making yoga a practice where all feel welcome.
Yoga District offers a free class for the BIPOC community every Saturday from 2:45pm to 3:45pm at our H Street Studio. Book here.
For more insights, check out our summaries of the following two research studies referenced in this post: Barriers and Benefits of Yoga for Black Women and Black Women’s Resistance to Yoga’s White Normativity.
