“Mama Moon Meditations” CD by Natasha Ria El-Scari (from the artist)
Breathe in for four, hold for 12 and exhale for eight. Repeat that twice more. You just meditated. Feel more present? More grounded? That is the mission of Natasha Ria El-Scari’s album, “Mama Moon Meditations,” a meditation journey centered on the Black experience.
In a world of noise, oppression and change, protecting Black mental health is crucial. El-Scari sees meditation as a solution.
Meditation is an ancient practice with roots in parts of Asia. Over time, it has manifested in many forms — yoga, breathwork, mindfulness and more. In Black culture, meditation is deeply intertwined with spirituality, manifesting through prayer, gospel music and communal worship. These practices create moments of reflection, healing and resilience. Tarrying, or waiting in prayer for divine revelation, and the rhythmic repetition of scripture and affirmations, have long been integral to Black religious traditions, offering strength and solace.
Yet, as meditation became westernized, it also became whitewashed, often excluding Black voices. El-Scari created Mama Moon Meditations to reclaim space. Infused with African and ethnic sounds, it reflects the realities of Black life. “More African Americans are prioritizing self-care, and having Black voices and music that matches our experience in meditation makes it more accessible,” El-Scari says.
As a Kansas City native, she challenges traditional meditation and infuses it with her Midwestern roots.
“Kansas City is an influence in that I am a city dweller like many African Americans. I wanted the project to not have complete silence and to show a connection from our everyday lens. I don’t think people consider that nature isn’t always safe for Black people, so I wanted sounds of the city in the project. My clock chimes, furniture squeaks — that is on purpose. Even the title is intentional. ‘Mama’ is familiar in the Black community, and the moon symbolizes feminine energy.”
“Meditation is about being in a space while transcending it,” El-Scari added. “I feel like meditation projects have this sterility and perfection deeply tied to the perception of whiteness, and I wanted my project to be a real-world experience.”
For those new to meditation, El-Scari suggests starting with “Black Body Recovery” or “The Drum” because of their movement. “Meditation doesn’t have to be rigid. I meditate in my car, while walking, even cleaning. It’s about what feels good for your body.”
Her mission also fuels her vision for the Black community in Kansas City.
“My vision is to have meditation included in larger social spaces. I want African Americans to see this practice as a tool for inner and outer change.”
Now, she’s expanding her work through in-person meditation events, a new meditation project, and her upcoming book, “Steelife.” She’s also partnering with NickiFit to offer free mindfulness sessions for teachers.
In a world that constantly takes from Black culture, reclaiming rest is radical. “We deserve to be well,” she says. “When we love ourselves, we become agents of peace. My work is always meant to amplify Black lives, particularly Black women, who are the keepers of culture.
Mama Moon Meditations is available on all streaming platforms (visit natasharia.hearnow.com) and on CD with limited collectors copies.
