Chelsea Jackson Roberts recently became the first Black yoga instructor at Peloton.

We sat down with her to talk yoga, joy, and much more.

In 2018, she became the first Black global ambassador for lululemon.

alt

We spoke to Roberts about yoga and activism, what brings her joy, and more.

When we first met at theStarshine & Clay yoga retreat, you were living in Atlanta.

How have you adjusted to living in New York and during a pandemic, no less?

Two young women practicing ballet with a teacher in the dance hall.

…

AtStarshine & Clay, led by Octavia [Raheem], we were talking about forced stillness.

And thats what this isthe yoga begins now.

So what is this for?

Woman doing hip exercises

Thats all I have to practice and call on in this transition.

This is the reason that I practice yoga.

This is one of the most impactful moments of my life where Ive had toput the yoga to work.

Cropped image of woman doing lunge yoga pose

What has the transition been like going from in-person classes and yoga festivals to teaching virtually?

Ive taught in China where there were 5,000 people and I could absorb that energy.

I can connect with people digitally and on social media.

Woman in leggings and bra doing Lunge with Arm Extended Up pose hip opener stretch during yoga session in morning at home.

…

Its what Ive been practicing for.

Your playlistsarefire.

In no other yoga class have I gone from Mahalia Jackson to Drake to Anita Baker.

Woman doing arm exercise without weights while sitting on mat at home.

What role does music play in your classes?

It was the music that brought them in.

To be here at Peloton is like going back to my roots.

A woman in sports clothes does yoga or gymnastics at home. Daylight. She smiles

How can yoga be used as a tool for social change?

Many people are being called to activism right now.

My yoga practice supports me in making informed decisions in how I move.

Its a routine and practice for me to always be aware.

We have to have these practices to remind us to breathe.

What advice do you have for people who may be new to yoga or curious about it?

Be kind to yourself.

It is a tall order.

Yoga is not easy.

Im not talking about the balancing and the handstands.

Im talking about the actual practice of carving out time for yourselfthats a commitment.

Take your time, be patient, and call a friend.

Have someone partner with you as you embark on this journey and enjoy the ride.

What is bringing you joy off the mat these days?

Joy in my life looks like seeing and working with the girls atYoga, Literature, & Artcamp.

We went completely digital.

And thats bringing me joy to know theyre being historians right now.

…

Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.