In preparation for our upcoming Can We Talk? Arts & Wellness Summit, I, Kyara—BLHF’s Social Media & Community Manager—had the pleasure of experiencing firsthand a Capoeira class led by Contramesta Rasta, founder of Capoeira DC, at the ONE DC Wellness Center. The energy, rhythm, and healing spirit of the practice in the space truly embodied #BlackBoyJoy.
Coach Rasta guided two young men through Capoeira, a martial art form that originated in Brazil as an act of cultural resistance and liberation by enslaved Africans. He demonstrated the intentional stances, arm swings, and flowing movements that define Capoeira, all while weaving in its powerful history—a practice that has influenced breakdancing and continues to foster communal healing through dance circles.
The class ended with a drumming circle, where we began to “play,” blending rhythm, combat, and movement in perfect sync with the beat of the drums. Even the warm-up was deeply rhythmic—each stretch and step connected to the pulse of the music.
Coach Rasta reminded us that, unlike many martial arts, Capoeira isn’t about attacking. It’s about staying grounded—before, during, and after movement. His words stuck with me: no matter what’s happening around you, or who’s in front of you, if you stay rooted, you cannot be knocked down.
Capoeira is more than dance, more than martial arts—it’s the art of mastering tempo. To truly grow in Capoeira, you must embrace all of it: the movements, the rhythm, the history, the energy.
We’re honored to have Coach Rasta bring this powerful practice to this year’s Can We Talk? Arts & Wellness Summit. His work reminds us that healing transcends borders and brings us back to our roots.
If you’d like to learn more from Coach Rasta or take one of his classes, follow him on Instagram: @therastamethod.
Written by:
IG @birthsisterkey
