The Untold Story of Rosa Parks: A Yogic Journey
Rosa Parks, a name synonymous with courage and resilience, is often celebrated for her pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. Yet, beneath her iconic act of defiance lies a lesser-known facet of her life: her dedication to yoga. A photograph from the Library of Congress, taken in March 1973, captures Parks in a serene bow pose, or dhanurasana, her eyes twinkling with a quiet strength. This image not only reveals her commitment to holistic well-being but also ties her activism to the mindfulness and courage that yoga embodies.
Yoga and Activism: The Mind-Body Connection
Parks’ refusal to surrender her seat on a Montgomery bus in 1955 was not driven by physical exhaustion but by a resolute mind. This act of defiance, a cornerstone of the Civil Rights Movement, reflects the yogic principle of satya, or truthfulness. Stuart Sarbacker, a professor of comparative religion, notes that yoga disciplines both the mind and body, fostering the strength needed for impactful action. Parks’ practice of satya was evident in her unwavering commitment to justice, aligning her actions with her beliefs and fueling her activism.
A Century of Yoga in America: From India to the US
Yoga’s journey to the US began with Swami Vivekananda’s address at the 1893 World’s Parliament of Religions. By the early 20th century, it had gained popularity, particularly among women, as a means to achieve health and beauty. Parks, like many others, was introduced to yoga during its rise in the 1950s, a time when celebrities and Black Hollywood figures embraced the practice. This historical context situates Parks within a broader movement, where yoga became a tool for empowerment and self-expression.
Parks’ Early Life and the Roots of Her Discipline
Born in Alabama, Parks’ early life was marked by her mother’s emphasis on health and exercise. Stephanie Evans, a historian, highlights that Parks’ daily routines, taught by her mother, laid the groundwork for her disciplined approach to life. This foundation of physical and mental well-being likely contributed to her resilience and readiness to challenge injustice.
Yoga as a Tool for Empowerment
Yoga was more than a personal practice for Parks; it was a communal endeavor. She taught yoga, sharing its benefits with others, and incorporated it into the programs of the Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute. This integration of yoga into her activism underscores her belief in holistic empowerment, blending personal well-being with community strength.
Beyond Self-Care: The Need for Collective Action
While Parks’ commitment to self-care was radical, historian Brenna Greer cautions against overlooking the need for systemic change. Parks’ legacy reminds us that true transformation requires both personal and collective efforts. yoga, as Parks practiced it, serves as a testament to the power of mindfulness and community, inspiring a balanced approach to social change.
This untold chapter in Parks’ life invites us to reflect on the synergy between personal well-being and societal transformation, offering timeless lessons on resilience, community, and the enduring fight for justice.
