Reflections on the 2024 Black Yoga Teacher Alliance Conference
I had the privilege of attending the 2024 Black Yoga Teacher Alliance (BYTA) Conference at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.
From August 22 through August 25, I had the privilege of attending the 2024 Black Yoga Teacher Alliance (BYTA) Conference at the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. It was an inspiring and transformative experience, surrounded by over 80 Black yoga teachers from across the United States. This gathering not only deepened my practice but also reaffirmed the importance of the work we do as Black yoga practitioners and educators.
One of the highlights of the conference was the opportunity to honor Dr. Gail Parker, former BYTA Board President. Dr. Parker’s contributions to the yoga community, particularly in advocating for the inclusion and recognition of Black voices, have been monumental. Seeing her recognized for her many years of service was a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate yoga community.
The sessions I attended were both insightful and thought-provoking. "Making Liberation & Freedom Happen in Music, Meditation, Movement & Life" explored how we can integrate these elements into our practices and our lives, creating spaces of healing and empowerment. The session "Yoga in the Black Community: Healing Practices and Principles" resonated deeply with me, as it emphasized the unique needs and experiences of our community, offering practices rooted in our cultural heritage to support our healing journeys.
Another session that stood out was "Your Yoga Teacher is not Your Therapist." This discussion was crucial in clarifying the boundaries between yoga instruction and therapy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the distinct roles that yoga teachers and therapists play in supporting mental and emotional well-being.
Beyond the sessions, the conference offered opportunities for reflection and connection through sunrise yoga each morning and a meditation hike. These experiences, coupled with the serene beauty of the Stockbridge Bowl, the local lake, provided a perfect backdrop for contemplation and renewal.
Attending this conference was a reminder of the power of community and the importance of spaces like BYTA that center Black experiences in yoga. As I return to Noir Yoga, I carry with me the lessons, insights, and energy from this incredible gathering, eager to continue fostering a space where liberation, healing, and inclusivity are at the heart of our practice.
Namaste.