CEDAR HILL, Texas — It is tough being a sibling, but the Thompson brothers manage it well.
“We’re Black boys and we meditate,” said 9-year-old Michael Thompson.
For more than a year, Michael and his younger brothers, 7-year-old Jordan and 4-year-old Jalen, have been coming to their mother’s yoga studio in Cedar Hill.
“I wanted them to not only see what mom was doing and learn the practices so that they can learn how to regulate their emotions but for them to feel empowered as leaders and create something,” said Helsa Thompson, The Aura House.
“Me and my brothers help kids feel strong and happy through yoga, meditation, managing our emotions and using positive affirmations,” said Michael.
“It really focuses on making mindfulness accessible to underserved communities,” said Helsa Thompson. “I want to make sure that we are able to touch as many kids as possible because they’re dealing with so much right now like social media, the messages that they’re getting, unfortunately suicide rates, depression, anxiety. Those things are increasing, so the younger we can teach kids tools of how to deal with the stressors of just everyday life, it’s going to help with their mental health.”
They use exercises such as their “Coloring Calm” coloring book and their Affirmation Alphabet. They also teach yoga to adults and other kids.
Each brother does his part, but Saturday, Michael will be stretching out on his own.
“He will be recognized during the Kids’ Choice Awards, which is really awesome because I grew up watching Nickelodeon,” said Helsa Thompson.
Michael will be honored for creating Black Boys Meditate. He received a bronze medal for his impact in the community. He's hoping to achieve the gold medal in September.
“When I knew about it, I was like, ‘How does a little group in the southwest area get to do stuff with Nickelodeon?’” said Michael.
The answer is by simply making an impact.
“You can do a lot of things to help your community. It’s just I do yoga,” said Michael.
It is a skill that not only keeps them grounded but helps their community become mentally balanced.