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Black men deserve safe spaces where their voices are heard, their experiences are valued, and their well-being is prioritized—let's connect to create a more inclusive and supportive world.

Black Men Heal Yoga 

Funded by Center for Public Health Initiatives at Norfolk State University

#BMHYOGA

About us

Our commitment to
men of color

Our commitment to Black men is to create a safe and equitable space for yoga practice where they can find peace, strength, and community.

What to expect if this is your first time experiencing a #BMHYoga class

A welcoming and
inclusive environment. 
A supportive and
understanding community.
Culturally relevant practices.
Tailored instruction for
individual needs.
A focus on mental and
physical well-being.
Opportunities for personal
growth and relaxation.

The benefits of yoga + breathwork 

Yoga improves strength, balance and flexibility

Yoga offers numerous physical benefits that significantly enhance overall health and well-being. Regular practice improves flexibility and strength, particularly in the core, arms, legs, and back, leading to better posture and reduced back pain. Additionally, yoga enhances balance, coordination, and flexibility. 

Enhanced Emotional Awareness

These practices enhance emotional awareness and control, which is crucial for managing the mental health impacts of systemic racism and discrimination. They foster a sense of calm and emotional stability.

Regular practice can improve concentration and cognitive function. This aids in better decision-making and problem-solving.

Community and Belonging

Engaging in yoga and breathwork classes or groups can foster a sense of community and belonging. This provides a supportive environment for personal growth and healing.

Participation in these practices can be a form of cultural reclamation and empowerment. They provide tools for self-care and resilience in the face of societal challenges.

Brenten and Courtney connected through their shared passion for serving our communities. United by their commitment to community and personal healing, they aim to provide safe spaces for those seeking refuge and support. Through their work with the Black Men Heal yoga team, Brenten and Courtney continue to create environments where healing and connection can thrive.

Our Creative Team + Founder.

Brenten began his journey with yoga in 2023, seeking various resources to support his mental health. Driven by his love for community, he founded the Black Men Heal yoga class to create a safe space for individuals like himself. Through this initiative, Brenten aims to foster healing and connection within the community.

Brenten Sims

Founder + Yoga Instructor

Courtney began practicing yoga nearly seven years ago and completed her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YYT) at Circle Yoga Cooperative in 2023. 

In addition to her 200-hour YYT, Courtney has completed a trauma-informed certification, a 30-hour strength coaching certification, and massage training for yoga teachers. She enjoys incorporating music into her practice and classes and finds joy in teaching yoga's strength, power, and stillness for both the body and mind. 

Courtney Pierce

Program Director + RYT

What some of the guys are saying......

It felt good to be amongst men taking interest in the care of our mental in the midst of all we go through. It' always gives me a moment to slow down, reflect, and breathe; I've seen a difference in the way I handle stress and conflict day to day thanks to these classes. 

Larry Whitaker Jr. 

Black men's yoga gave me the courage to take care of myself and try things I never thought I'd be apart of because the environments I was used to. 

@Neurospace.llc

Black men heal yoga is something that every black man should be able to experience. Seeing a group of black men meet for the purpose of physical and mental strengthening is an amazing sight. 

Carl Hale

Contact us

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