Reclaiming Wellness: African Spirituality, History & the Practice of African Kemetic Yoga
- Tyla Kennedy
- Sep 9
- 3 min read
Photo credit: Nappy.co
Introduction
During my time at Xavier University of Louisiana, I often struggled to find a form of exercise that truly resonated with me as a young Black woman. Traditional yoga never felt like the right fit—it was often presented in spaces dominated by white culture, leaving me feeling disconnected. That changed when I was introduced to African Kemetic Yoga by Zachary Ramsey III, an elder and pillar in the Black community of New Orleans. He came to our campus recreational center and generously offered free classes to the community, opening the door to a practice that felt both grounding and culturally affirming.
Photo credit: Nappy.co
What is African Kemetic Yoga?
African Kemetic Yoga is a system of movement, meditation, and breathwork that traces its roots back to ancient Egypt (Kemet). The practice is inspired by postures found in hieroglyphics, showing that yoga is not only an Eastern tradition but also deeply African in origin.
Unlike fast-paced Western yoga styles, Kemetic Yoga emphasizes slow, intentional movements, deep breathing, and alignment with the mind, body, and spirit. It’s not just exercise—it’s a holistic practice that connects participants to African spirituality, ancestral wisdom, and inner healing.
African Kemetic Yoga Versus Mainstream Yoga
For many Black practitioners, Kemetic Yoga feels different from mainstream yoga because it’s not just a workout—it’s a culturally grounding practice. It reconnects us to African history, affirms our ancestral roots, and transforms exercise into a spiritual experience. In spaces where yoga is often dominated by Westernized, commercialized images, Kemetic Yoga creates a sense of belonging and cultural pride.
Benefits of African Kemetic Yoga
Practicing Kemetic Yoga offers more than just physical exercise—it supports mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being:
Mental Health: Reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression through mindful breathing and meditation.
Spiritual Connection: Reconnects practitioners with African heritage, creating a sense of grounding and ancestral pride.
Physical Wellness: Improves posture, flexibility, and circulation with slow, intentional movements.
Emotional Healing: Encourages mindfulness, inner peace, and balance in everyday life.
Community & Belonging: Provides a culturally affirming practice that feels inclusive for Black practitioners.
Photo credit: Nappy.co
Building Community
Practicing African Kemetic Yoga has not only deepened my self-care, but it has also helped me reconnect with my body in meaningful ways. The geometric poses feel natural and affirming, especially as a Black woman, because they honor the body’s design rather than forcing it into unfamiliar shapes. Through this practice, I’ve connected with other Black scholars and community members, creating a space where wellness is shared, celebrated, and rooted in cultural pride. Together, we’ve explored holistic ways to care for our bodies and minds—reminding me that healing is stronger when practiced in community.
Summary
Kemetic Yoga reminds us that wellness is not new to our culture—it’s deeply rooted in our African ancestry. By blending movement, meditation, and spirituality, this practice offers more than physical exercise; it’s a pathway to healing, grounding, and reconnecting with history.
For Black mental health, this connection is powerful. It affirms that healing doesn’t have to look like what mainstream spaces present—it can be rooted in our own traditions, honoring our ancestors while nurturing our bodies and minds. Whether practiced for stress relief, spiritual grounding, or cultural pride, Kemetic Yoga is both resistance and restoration.
When we move with intention and breathe with awareness, we’re not just exercising—we’re reclaiming our story of wellness.
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