The intersection of cultural identity and wellness practices is increasingly recognized as a vital component of holistic health. For many, finding spaces where their heritage is not only acknowledged but celebrated can be profoundly empowering, particularly within traditionally homogenous environments like yoga studios. A recent reflection on incorporating Spanish-language music into yoga classes highlights the power of representation and the positive impact it can have on students.
Anaiz Ochoa, a yoga instructor, recounts a childhood shaped by her grandfather’s gentle insistence on acknowledging and celebrating her Latino heritage alongside mainstream American culture. This early experience, while sometimes frustrating as a child, ultimately instilled a deep sense of pride in her identity. She describes how her grandfather would consistently balance her exposure to popular culture with reminders of their cultural roots, whether through music or dance. This foundational experience would later inform her approach to teaching yoga.
Ochoa noticed early in her yoga career that representation was lacking. While she didn’t initially perceive this as a barrier to her own practice, she recognized its potential impact on others. Later, as a teacher, she learned that some students specifically sought out her classes because of her name, finding comfort in seeing a Latino instructor. This realization sparked a desire to further create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
The idea of incorporating Spanish-language music into her playlists arose from her personal enjoyment of artists like Bad Bunny. She envisioned using “200 MPH” and its lyrics, “Debajo De Sol” (“Under the Sun”), as a fitting accompaniment to Sun Salutations. However, she initially hesitated, questioning whether blending Sanskrit, English, and Spanish would be well-received. This hesitation stemmed, in part, from a previous negative review she received for including a Snoop Dogg song, which led her to question her authenticity as an instructor.
Despite her anxieties, Ochoa ultimately decided to take the leap and include a Spanish song in her playlist. She teaches at a studio known for its supportive atmosphere, which undoubtedly contributed to the positive reception. The inclusion of Bad Bunny’s music began to attract a new demographic to her classes. Students returned, specifically praising the playlist, and one Latina woman even brought her family to experience the class, citing the music as the primary draw.
The positive feedback encouraged Ochoa to expand her use of Spanish music, leading to multiple students expressing gratitude for the inclusive environment she fostered. This experience underscored the importance of honoring one’s identity and culture, a lesson she attributes to her grandfather’s unwavering encouragement. The culmination of this journey was the creation of a “Bad Bunny Flow” vinyasa class, timed to coincide with his Super Bowl LX halftime performance, which quickly sold out.
The “Bad Bunny Flow” class was more than just a yoga session; it was a celebration of culture and identity. Ochoa began by sharing the story of her grandfather and her initial fears about incorporating Spanish music. She emphasized the idea that authenticity attracts like-minded individuals. The class itself was characterized by vibrant energy, with students dancing and singing along to the music, particularly during songs like “Titi Me Pregunto.” Ochoa designed the sequence to allow for free movement, incorporating poses like Goddess, Standing Wide-Legged Forward Fold, and Down Dog, even including Rabbit Pose as a playful nod to “Bunny.” The atmosphere was described as filled with “energized love and joy,” mirroring the spirit of Bad Bunny’s music.
The experience reinforced for Ochoa the importance of creating space for others to feel seen and empowered. She recognizes that her journey is a testament to her grandfather’s teachings and a powerful example of how embracing one’s heritage can enrich both personal and communal well-being. This story serves as a reminder that inclusivity in wellness spaces is not merely a matter of politeness, but a crucial element in fostering a truly holistic and accessible practice for all.
The experience highlights a growing trend in wellness: the recognition that cultural relevance can significantly enhance the appeal and effectiveness of practices like yoga. By intentionally incorporating elements that resonate with diverse communities, instructors can create environments where individuals feel more comfortable, connected, and empowered to participate.
