A lifelong student of dance and alternative medicine, Shari is a 500-hour RYT experienced in Vinyasa & Kemetic Yoga, Eastern theory, herbalism, massage therapy, and dances of the Diaspora. Shari created AFRODISIA in response to the lack of representation she found in yoga classes over the years. Looking for lower back pain relief, Shari started practicing yoga in her late-20's. Her practice also helped improve her chronic pain, mindset, flexibility, physical fitness, and to release emotional blockages that she'd unknowingly stored in her body and psyche. Through yoga, Shari unlocked the powerful resources that we each have within to awaken her purpose and transform into her higher self. However something valuable was missing, and she felt disconnected in many yoga spaces. Often the only person of color in the room, she also lacked the ballerina body type so commonly found in those settings. Shari knew that while we each have our own trauma, there are nuances some could never understand or hold space for, which is crucial in spaces of vulnerability, support, and healing. AFRODISIA reclaims this space with a platform that celebrates and centers Black and Brown bodies. Join us in our joyous celebration of community and wellbeing!