CHITUNGWIZA, Zimbabwe (AP) — Before dawn breaks on a Saturday, a small group assembles at Socialite Bar on the outskirts of Zimbabwe’s capital. Instead of nursing hangovers, they sit with eyes closed, bodies in meditative poses on the bare floor.

It's an unexpected venue for a yoga class. In Zimbabwe, yoga is not common and is mainly practiced in affluent neighborhoods. However, it is quietly establishing a presence here in a beer tavern in Chitungwiza, a low-income town 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Harare, the capital.

This effort is spearheaded by Actions Winya, a yoga instructor who recognized the detrimental impact of economic hardship and social pressures on the mental health of his community.

“Yoga is expensive … but we also have people in the ghetto who need mental wellness,” said Winya, who usually conducts classes in wealthy areas, charging between $30 and $100 monthly. Such costs are unattainable for most, particularly in a country where many rely on informal employment for survival.

Since 2023, Winya has been providing free weekend classes to those most affected by Zimbabwe’s economic difficulties.

The sessions have become a lifeline for individuals navigating relentless challenges. Authorities acknowledge an escalating societal crisis exacerbated by drug abuse, domestic violence, and poverty, further aggravated by a lack of public health services and therapists.

“As a coach, people bring their family issues to me. This is where we step in and suggest, ‘Guys, try yoga, it might help,’” Winya explained.

Yoga, an ancient Indian practice, has evolved into a multibillion-dollar industry and a daily ritual for millions worldwide. Over a decade ago, the United Nations designated June 21 as International Day of Yoga.

In Africa, countries like Kenya and South Africa are introducing yoga to underprivileged communities, with support from the Indian government to promote its spread across the continent.

Inside the Zimbabwean tavern, soothing music played as around a dozen participants flowed through poses. They had no mats, only a cold brick floor, but a strong resolve for inner peace. One mother tried to maintain focus as her toddler ran around, interrupting her poses.

For 47-year-old John Mahwaya, the practice has been transformative. A father of four, he also supports relatives in rural areas, a responsibility that he said once heavily burdened his mental well-being.

“My mind was constantly racing. I thought I was losing my sanity, and the stress began causing back pain,” he shared. “Yoga helps me relax and clear my mind. I sleep peacefully now.”

He noted that many Zimbabwean men suppress their emotions, afraid to show vulnerability in a highly patriarchal society that values toughness.

“We emphasize physical fitness, neglecting the mind,” he said. “We suffer quietly, but the mind suffers first, leading to a gradual decline.”

Edinah Makosa, 24, joined the class earlier this year and found hope in it.

“I used to be very depressed. For people my age, our main stressors are unemployment and relationships,” she said.

“Yoga changed my outlook. I used to think negatively all the time. Now I have started selling beauty products to make a living. Regarding romance, if it works, it works; if not, it doesn't. I no longer stress over men. I go with the flow.”

As they practiced, the sounds of township life filtered in. Taxi drivers shouted for passengers, and vendors pushed carts, calling out to potential buyers.

“We need a proper environment and studio. But we are doing our best,” Winya said.

For participants like Mahwaya, the setting was secondary to the healing experience.

“We need to promote yoga in the communities because everyone has a mind. Mental fitness is everyone’s responsibility, no matter where you live,” he said.