Jahala, a Denver native, is a massage therapist aiming to bring holistic health and wellness to the forefront of the Black community. She offers her services at Urban Sanctuary and during special events. Jahala is also pursuing a doula certification and is accepting soon-to-be-mommies as clients for the months of September and October. Here’s what she shared with me about her experience.

What does it mean to you to be Black in Denver?

To be Black in Denver for me is to be authentic. So often we try to accommodate the European standards of approval, I feel having the true ability to stand in your truth, blackness, and personal beauty is freeing and admirable. I aim to be authentically me every day.

What do you love most about living in Denver?

Denver is like art, you can create what you want with the right perspective, and of course, the SUN!

How have your experiences in Denver shaped you?

My experiences in Denver have made me more open to connections and how important it is. As well as being a Black woman in a predominantly white state, it certainly made me realize that if there isn’t a seat at the table, I will build my own and that seat will be bigger and better than the one I wasn’t allowed at to begin with.

Find special promotions for Jahala’s massage practice on Facebook and Instagram.