Our conversation delved further into embodying peace as a form of activism. Decolonization is usually associated with force and rebellion, however when we decolonize wellness, it happens by way of our inner relationship speaking to our outer body experience, which is a peaceful endeavor. According to Owl, the ability to be multidimensional in our stillness is what breeds compassion. We can unlearn the ways in which we were conditioned by creating an inner foundation of understanding. This gives us the ability to be objective and open to new information without bias, which is the true purpose of TMS.

Owl revealed to us the guilt they experienced throughout their life prior to their transition as gender non-binary. Raised to be a Black “male..conditioned to see white as right,” they found themselves editing the way they spoke, dressed, and moved through spaces within a compulsory white standard. They explained it was through multidimensional yoga and taking that control from within that they truly began to love their Indigenous, Black, and queer self. Keeping that connection true to themselves is what keeps them on their path, continuing the conversation and decolonizing yoga practice with a sense of kindness and self worth. “Awareness,” they said, “lets you see your past.” When you are aware, only you can make the decision to move forward.

One story that resonated with the group came from first-time participant Dianna (also from San Diego). She asked Owl about how yoga could have played a role in the intergenerational trauma of her family. She explained how her family never had access to these practices growing up, as it was something that had been whitewashed and inaccessible. She wondered if her family had access to mindfulness and yoga, would they have been able to cultivate inner peace and pass it onto others? The group found it relatable territory, identifying with the oppression of being denied a practice that is now easily available through many virtual communities. With many Youtube channels and TikToks (like Owl’s) available, this new accessibility creates an even stronger sense of diversity and inclusion where trauma can be released and yoga can be valued for its original purpose.

As we begin the New Year at The Mixed Space, once again we appreciate everyone who came and contributed. Thank you for bringing your full selves to the conversation and for vulnerably sharing your experiences with our community. If there are any additional takeaways you have from this blog or this meetup, we’d love to hear from you.