Recorded on the historical site of the Weeksville Heritage Center, this episode welcomes Najee_ (interdisciplinary artist and yogi) and Erica Harper (VP of Learning and Engagement at WHC). The conversation with Dr. Layla Zami addresses restful practices and restorative sounds, African-American liberation history and the meaning of community. An episode full of emotions and information!

In conversation with

Najee (1987.Charleston South Carolina, USA) is a Multidisciplinary Artist ,Certified Yoga Instructor and Sound Practitioner based in Brooklyn New York, whose insights are rooted in Ashtanga, Rocket, and Iyengar philosophy. Najee_ is inspired to help others thrive in life by nurturing body, mind, and soul with yoga, hoping that you step off the mat feeling invigorated, nourished, and balanced. Najee_ specializes in experimental improvisation in soundscapes and arrangements that imbue the power of sound to facilitate transformative healing experiences . Often utilizing various percussion techniques and a range of vibratory instruments to free the mind and body from stress and create moments of inner peace and balance. Asé.

Erica Harper is Vice President of Learning & Engagement at the Weeksville Heritage Center. WHC is a historic site and cultural center in Central Brooklyn that uses education, arts and a social justice lens to preserve, document and inspire engagement with the history of Weeksville, one of the largest free Black communities in pre-Civil War America, and the Historic Hunterfly Road Houses. The Center celebrates and centers Black culture, community and creativity; and sparks dialogue and collaborations between local residents, artists, academics and activists that advance us towards a more just and equitable world. Programs include exhibitions, performances and other offerings such as Najee's weekly Rest & Restore session with yoga and sound.

Credits