Locs in Yoga: Spiritual Hair Meaning + Cultural Appropriation

"I've had enough, this is my prayer - That I'll die living just as free as my hair.” --Lady Gaga, Hair

✨ Seven years ago, I vowed not to cut or brush my hair — a commitment rooted in Yogic tradition — and to let my hair form into natural locs, also known as Shiva Jatas. This vow became a living prayer, a spiritual practice, and ultimately, a profound lesson in liberation, identity, and community.

✨ In this tender, candid episode, I share the story of how the vow to wear this controversial hairstyle for seven years transformed my life, my spiritual practice, and my relationship with identity. We also talk honestly about cultural appropriation and the history of hair discrimination. (TW: racial trauma)

This dynamic conversation weaves together personal storytelling about what the practice meant for my spiritual path, with reflections on cultural appropriation, racial justice, and Yoga philosophy. Under the Sun in Gemini and the Gemini New Moon, we’re speaking truth, exploring identity, and practicing brave self-expression. ✨

From shaving my head in ceremony to reflecting on the meaning of hair in Yoga and culture, together we’ll explore how personal expression can be sacred—and why representation, inclusivity, and accessibility in wellness matter now more than ever!

In this episode, you’ll discover:

✨ How the energy of Sun + New Moon in Gemini amplifies communication, curiosity, and duality — perfect timing for a nuanced conversation on a controversial subject matter.

✨ Why I vowed to let my hair form into Shiva Jatas for 7 years

✨ The spiritual lineage and meaning of locs in the Yogic tradition

✨ Honest reflections on privilege, cultural appropriation, and the experience of people of color who face discrimination for their hair

✨ Why diversity and representation in Yoga spaces is essential— and practical ways we can do better as teachers and communities

This one is raw, tender, and full of lessons learned. Stay tuned until the end, where I share the full video timeline of my locs journey and the sacred hair-cutting ceremony led by my mentor, Swami Sankaranandaji of the Sivananda Yoga tradition. Hit play now! ✨

Resources + Links:

• ✉️ Join my email list + get the free self-care resource guide → ⁠⁠youareloved.one/pod⁠⁠

• 🌺 Guatemala Yoga Retreat (Feb. 3-10, 2026): ⁠youareloved.one/guatemala⁠

• 💌 If you’re a person of color or simply have thoughts about cultural appropriation, representation, or accessibility in yoga, I’d love to hear from you. Please email me at ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠. This conversation matters and I hold it with humility and openness.

  
  

No matter who you are or where you come from, you are welcome here. You are loved here. You are enough. 🌈 The practices of Yoga + Ayurveda can help us heal guilt and shame, and create harmony with ourselves, with others, and with the Earth.

Please like, subscribe, share, and leave a 5-star review if this episode moved you. It helps this work ripple out into our greater queer and spiritual communities!

Blessed be,

Lee Devi 🌙

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What is up, my witches? Welcome to the Queer Soul Alchemy podcast, a supportive community helping queer folx to embrace their authentic selves by exploring Yoga, Astrology, and Spirituality. I’m your host, Lee Devi. New episodes on Thursdays.

Queer Soul Alchemy explores Yoga, Ayurveda, Astrology, Sexuality, and Spirituality as tools for healing, self care, and personal transformation. Rooted in queerness and the LGBTQ+ community, this space celebrates queer identity, uplifts transgender voices, and inspires you to embrace your authentic self. A sanctuary for seekers, allies, and the queer community, this is where magic and soul meet.

About Your Host

I’m Lee Devi, a queer and nonbinary teacher, healer, and guide (they/them). Through over a decade of Yoga practice, Ayurvedic study, and living a Yogic lifestyle, I’ve unraveled — and continue to unravel — layers of mental and spiritual conditioning. Jai Ma! Om.