As yoga continues to grow in popularity, more women are getting on the mat that don’t fit the “stereotypical” yoga persona. Previously, many thought that yoga was reserved for thin, white women, when that couldn’t be further from the truth when you explore true, yogic philosophy. Yoga is truly for everyone, but I have to admit, sometimes I do find that it lacks diversity. It doesn’t necessarily bother me, but it is noticeable. I don’t see a lot of women of color on the communities I frequent, especially when we’re talking about advancing from practitioner to teacher. But they are out there! I wanted to highlight these ladies because they are truly changing the face of yoga, and that’s pretty inspiring and badass.
Faith Hunter (Spiritually Fly): Not only is Faith the owner of Embrace Yoga DC, she also created Spiritually Fly, which is “celebrates every moment of life, and uses yoga’s tools of sound both chanting & music, breath, and movement, in a fresh and modern way to encourage students to embrace their unique flow in life – on and off the mat.” She leads a number of retreats and teacher trainings across the world, and you can also find her online on DoYouYoga (she has a Guide to Meditation as well as Yoga for Strength and Flexibility), Cody, and more. I’ve done her meditation challenge and absolutely loved it.
Chelsea Jackson Roberts, PhD (Chelsea Loves Yoga): Chelsea is an Atlanta-based yoga instructor and educator, focusing on community and youth. In 2013, she created a Yoga, Literature, and Art Camp for teen girls, which has been featured in Yoga Journal and highlighted at Spelman College. Chelsea has also graced the cover of Yoga Journal and featured in several publications. Currently, you can find Chelsea at workshops and events across the country. Be sure to join her mailing list for updates!
Jessamyn Stanley: Lately, Jessamyn has been all over the online yoga and fitness communities, and with good reason. Her emphasis on body positivity and the emotional aspect of yoga are incredibly inspiring, especially if you’re one of the people who thought that you couldn’t practice yoga. She currently teaches in Durham, NC at Durham Yoga Company and contributes to Mind Body Green, Wanderlust, and Elephant Journal. You can also practice with her online with her Everybody Yoga plans and at Stream Yoga. Jessamyn was also recently featured by Cosmopolitan for her thoughts on body image – I highly recommend checking it out.
Yoga Racheal: Racheal is a gymnast turned yogini based out of the LA-area. You may have seen her amazing asana pictures and video sequences on Facebook – her strength is absolutely ridiculous and I love how she often focuses on progress in her posts. If you’re in the area, you can contact her for private lessons or a yoga party (seriously, that sounds so awesome) or subscribe to her site for updates on workshops. She also recently created PALM-AID, a spray for your feet and hands that helps prevent slipping during your practice.
Seriously, how can you not be inspired by all of this black girl magic? I’m about to get on my mat right now. Namaste!
Who are your favorite yogis?
