At one point in my life, I was stressed out and needed to find an outlet.
I had some hurdles when it came to finding a yoga studio, but I’d seen ads and heard several people talk about a yoga studio in South Shore called Studio Yogi—and I was intrigued. When I learned that Studio Yogi offered free classes to Black men, I was highly interested. I’ve come across other African American-based yoga classes before, but they either met once a month or required a monthly membership. I love yoga, but I felt I shouldn’t have to take a 30-minute Uber to a neighborhood where few people look like me.
Studio Yogi, located on 71st Street, offers a space and classes for those seeking to connect with their mind, body, and soul. From 6am to the evening, Studio Yogi offers classes to all experience levels. The affordable and accessible yoga studio (the studio is easy to maneuver and easy to get to on CTA, with drop-in rates starting at $14) was started by necessity, both for the community and for the owner, Julia Perkins.
Perkins founded Studio Yogi after she was diagnosed with osteoarthritis, a condition where the tissue at the end of bones wears down. She wanted to find a yoga class that was easy on her body and located in her own neighborhood.
The same neighborhoods that people are afraid to go to and explore are, ironically, the same neighborhoods that offer peace and tranquility. Despite what people may read or believe, beyond Cermak Road and 51st Street on the South Side are places where people gather to relax and share a common goal: to elevate the mind.
I entered the studio for the first time in the fall of 2023. I was immediately hit with a sense of calmness. No shoes are allowed beyond a certain point, so walking around felt like home. Entering a room with other Black men interested in yoga was welcoming, yet quiet at the same time. Everyone was focused on their own mental state and yoga practice. The class itself is challenging and motivating at the same time. Don’t get me wrong, you will sweat and work on muscles you probably didn’t know you had. But you come out of it more relaxed, more in tune with your body, and most importantly, with a better sense of community.
The participants in the class, as well as the instructor, don’t just pack up and leave after the class. We share stories, ideas, commentary, personal struggles, and books—yes, you can even get free books or donate books in the waiting area. Coming here has been good for my soul and has rejuvenated my interest in the beauty and history of South Shore. It’s easy to relax when you’re surrounded by culture and inspired by endless possibilities.
Studio Yogi, 1840 E 71st St. @studioyogichicago on Instagram. View class hours at www.studioyogi.com