In honor of Black History Month, this candlelit yoga and sound bath experience is rooted in the powerful affirmation that rest is a form of resistance. Inspired by the teachings of Tricia Hersey and The Nap Ministry, this gathering invites us to reclaim rest as a sacred, liberatory act in a culture that glorifies exhaustion—especially for Black bodies and communities.
Held on February 17, during the New Moon and Lunar New Year, this evening carries the energy of renewal, intention, and new beginnings. The new moon asks us to turn inward, while the Lunar New Year marks a collective threshold into a fresh cycle—making this an especially potent time to slow down, listen deeply, and set intentions rooted in restoration rather than productivity.
Through gentle movement, stillness, and immersive sound healing, we will create space to soften, exhale, and remember that rest is not a reward, but a right.
Open to all, this practice centers the wisdom that slowing down is a way of healing, restoring dignity, and honoring ancestral resilience.
About the Teacher
Shirley Johnson is a licensed therapist and yoga teacher & sound healer with over 15 years of experience guiding others through practices of healing, embodiment, and restoration. Known for her warmth and grounded presence, she weaves together yoga, meditation, and sound healing to create spaces where people feel safe to soften, reconnect, and come home to themselves.
This in-person gathering will be held at:
YWCA Berkeley/Oakland
2600 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA 94704
📅 Tuesday, February 17th, 2026
🕕 6:30–7:30PM
What to Expect:
Gentle Yoga: Slow, soothing postures to unwind tension and ground into the body.
Guided Breath Meditation: Simple breathing practices to quiet the mind and balance the nervous system.
Sound Bath: Immersive tones of crystal bowls and gong to support deep relaxation and energetic rejuvenation.
This class is designed for all levels—no prior experience needed. Come as you are, ready to exhale, restore, and settle into the nurturing embrace of winter’s calm.
Please bring your own yoga mat and eye mask, and any yoga props you prefer. Dress warm in layers
