If you’re looking to patronize a Black-owned yoga studio, there are quite a few. While some yogis will take a class regardless of who is leading it, others are more particular. Is the owner a person of color? What about some of the instructors? Does the social media and marketing material resemble an Equinox ad? Or does the studio adopt the approach of Blink Fitness; everybody welcome and every body happy?
Some studios put their own spin on the yoga practice. While some classes are conducted in complete silence (save for the teacher’s instructions), others are taught with music. Some employ drummers, harpists and other musicians. Last October, we did a feature on Deep Beats Yoga, where participants do yoga in a nightclub while a live DJ plays deep house music. And for a really out- there concept, there’s metal yoga, which promotes the idea that inner peace can be unlocked with screeching vocals and growls. Who would have thought that Slayer or Children of Bodom could add spice to your Adho Mukha Svanasana (or Downward-facing dog)?
Here are five Black-owned studios dedicated to helping you find your center.
Urban Asanas- New York
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The founder of Urban Asanas in Brooklyn, Jyll Hubbard, was frank in her interview with Black-Owned Brooklyn.
She said, “I’m brash, I’m an Amazon, I don’t bite my tongue, and I’m not for everybody.” She taught at numerous studios before opening her own.
In addition to helping the community build strength, flexibility and confidence, Urban Asanas is also quite affordable.
Stacked Yoga- New York
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This is another Brooklyn- based yoga studio proudly operated by a Black woman.
Owner Natalie Cosby knows from personal experience what it’s like to have people make assumptions about her. A stranger once said he could help her get her body “right,” and she replied that it already was.
Inclusiveness and love of self at all sizes are encouraged here.
Anacostia- Washington D.C.
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Anacostia is in Washington D.C.
Founder Sariane Leigh considers herself “a modern revolutionary who tackles health disparities in a unique way.”
In addition to classes, Sariane also has a podcast, writes blogs about yoga and has been featured by Essence, The Washington Post and Origins magazine.
Move With Grace- New York
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This Brooklyn studio doesn’t just offer yoga, but Pilates and access to a juice bar. It encourages participants to engage with the world in a healthy way.
Founder Grace Tappin has been teaching yoga for years and also has a background in jazz, ballet and modern dance.
As of now, you can take live-streaming classes or book a private yoga or Pilates class curated for your specific needs.
Black to Yoga- California
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Black to Yoga is based in Oakland, and puts participants in contact with several Black instructors. There’s no ambiguity that this is a Black-centered space!
The classes (online and outdoors) are curated for older people, those with physical disabilities, people living with anxiety and depression and more.
There’s also an online shop where you can purchase bags, shirts and other swag.
