In the bustling world of Silicon Valley, Zee Clarke’s story of transformation from a successful tech executive to a wellness advocate is nothing short of inspiring. Armed with a Harvard MBA and an impressive resume, Zee seemed to have it all. However, the harsh realities of being a Black woman in America, facing daily microaggressions and racism, took a heavy toll on her mental and physical well-being, leading to severe burnout. It was at this pivotal moment that Zee realized that a profound change was necessary for her own healing and the betterment of her community.
Taking a leap of faith, Zee decided to quit her job and embark on a transformative journey to India. This decision, which she humorously refers to as the “Black girl version of Eat Pray Love,” allowed her to explore powerful wellness tools from around the world. For two years, Zee immersed herself in practices like yoga, meditation, breathwork, sound healing, and Reiki, seeking healing and inner peace. The result was beyond her expectations—she felt rejuvenated and more connected with herself than ever before. A newfound sense of purpose arose within her, compelling her to share these empowering practices with Black and Brown communities facing similar challenges.
As research increasingly sheds light on the detrimental effects of racism on physical and mental health, Zee’s approach to wellness becomes even more pertinent. The practices she mastered have been scientifically proven to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and offer an array of other health benefits.
Zee’s commitment to her community is evident in her book, “Black People Breathe,” where she reveals 33 powerful mindfulness and breathwork techniques. These practices are specifically curated for Black individuals and people of color, equipping them to confront the adversity of racial profiling, microaggressions, and other life challenges with resilience and inner strength.
Through her engaging workshops, Zee now teaches at prominent companies like Google, Visa, and Amazon. She guides participants on a journey of healing from microaggressions, emphasizing self-care, boosting confidence, and thriving despite the challenges they may encounter.
Among Zee’s various breathwork experiences, the ROOTS breathwork stands out as a potent method to connect with one’s ancestors, gain insights into personal challenges, and unlock creativity. ROOTS draws inspiration from Holotropic breathwork, developed during psychedelic research in the ’70s. The breathwork technique, coupled with a carefully curated musical journey, facilitates access to the subconscious mind, yielding a range of transformative effects:
Deeper Connection to Intuition and Inner Wisdom**: ROOTS breathwork fosters a profound understanding of oneself and the world around, tapping into inner wisdom and intuition.
Stress Relief: Engaging in this breathwork practice provides effective stress relief, promoting mental and emotional well-being.
Reduction in Anxiety & Depression: Participants often experience a decrease in anxiety and depression, finding a greater sense of peace and mental clarity.
Releasing Emotional Blockages: ROOTS breathwork allows individuals to release emotional blockages, paving the way for emotional healing.
Healing Unaddressed Traumas: This practice has been instrumental in addressing past traumas, facilitating a path to healing and growth.
Accessing Creativity: Many find their creative potential unlocked through this breathwork, unleashing a wellspring of innovation and imagination.
For Zee, ROOTS breathwork is a direct link to her ancestral heritage, connecting her deeply with her West African roots. A crucial aspect of this experience is the curated musical journey, which exclusively features sounds created by people of African descent from the continent or across the diaspora. This cultural representation infuses the practice with a powerful energy, inviting the ancestors into this sacred space of healing and growth.
In her ongoing mission to empower others, Zee has recently launched an online course, “Breathing Through Microaggressions & Racism.” This course offers guided mindfulness and breathwork practices aimed at reducing stress and blood pressure triggered by racial discrimination. With specific modules catering to various emotional responses like feeling triggered, anxious, or angry, participants are equipped to navigate these emotions with mindfulness and strength.
Zee’s dedication to fostering wellness continues with the next ROOTS breathwork experience scheduled for the end of August. Additionally, she plans to offer retreats later this year and early next year, providing participants with immersive wellness experiences that promote healing, growth, and empowerment.
To stay updated and be part of Zee Clarke’s journey to create a community of healing and resilience, interested individuals can join her mailing list at zeeclarke.com. Zee’s story is a testament to the power of self-discovery and the profound impact of sharing healing practices with marginalized communities. Her journey serves as a guiding light for individuals seeking wellness and empowerment in the face of adversity.