Tribal Markers, Drum Circles, and Veganism, Oh My!

In February 2020, we haven’t held back—we’ve offered multiple experiences that weave themes of LOVE. Celebrating love has been incredible. And. At Deepen we feel it’s equally important to acknowledge another important February theme of celebration: Black History Month.  

Pictured, clockwise from top left: West African tribal markings, plant-based diet, Nigerian music and dance ceremonies, traditional African drum circle.

To celebrate, we’re kicking things off by turning our attention to the elements that influence the Deepen community, and the conscious movement at large. Let’s look deeply into these experiential element’s that are rooted in Black history:

Tribal Markers: Originating from tribes throughout Africa, these markers indicate various meanings including spiritual and physical beautifying purposes. Tribal markings distinguished between the royal and the free born. For the Igbo women of West Africa, applying tribal markings protect their children from evil spirits. Yes, they look dope AF; and, traditionally, these markings carried with them significant meanings to the tribes from which they came.

Drum Circles: Though the oldest known drum dates back to 5500 B.C China, it is widely understood that the greatest explosion of drum knowledge and drum rhythms originate from Africa. The main idea of a drum circle is that anyone is free to join and express himself or herself in any way that positively contributes to the music and the community. All are welcome, rhythm is LIFE!

Music & Dance: Dance, music, and storytelling are among the ancient art forms that have flourished for many centuries in Africa. Ancient African society did not separate every day activities from their music and other cultural experiences. Sunrise dance parties and midnight sets? These existed long before Burning Man.

Plant-based Diets: This fancy jargon surrounding the current foodie movement makes it seem as if current trends such as Veganism and Paleo-diets are new discoveries. In fact, pre-colonial Africans relied predominantly on plant-based diets. Centuries later, European colonialists introduced capitalistic farming methods and large-scale domestication of animals. These commercial consumption practices resulted in more meat-centric diets. Pass the green juice!

At Deepen we pause to honor the life-giving practices black culture has shared with the collective. Let us continue to find the beauty in diversity, the strength in unity, and peace in our shared visions for what is possible. In the words of renowned human rights activist Desmond Tutu, “My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.”