Shining Bright: The Holistic Life Foundation's Journey with Yoga and Mindfulness
Episode Overview
Ali, Atman, and Andres share their journey of teaching yoga, meditation, and breathwork to at-risk kids They emphasize the transformative power of yoga and its ability to cultivate patience, empathy, and resilience The episode delves into the parable of the two wolves, highlighting the importance of conscious awareness and choice in directing one's energy The hosts discuss the significance of mantra meditation and breath work, exploring the deeper spiritual and energetic aspects of these practices Anecdotes from their own lives and teachings offer valuable insights into the holistic approach of yoga and its potential for personal and societal transformation
To us, yoga is basically like how Pat and Jolly described it as the eight limbs, you know, things that you should do, things that you shouldn't do, the yamas and niyamas, then the postures, then also the breathing practice, like you were saying. Meditation is really important that a lot of people just skip. And, you know, a lot of people think that it's something that you do when you roll out of mat, but our teacher used to always say, it's not something that you do, it's something that you are.
Imagine finding peace and purpose through yoga, a practice that not only transforms your inner world but also has the power to change communities. In this episode of 'The One You Feed', host Eric Zimmer sits down with Ali Smith, Atman Smith, and Andres Gonzales, the dynamic founders of the Holistic Life Foundation. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness, especially for at-risk youth.
The trio shares how their godfather, a former Black Panther turned yoga enthusiast, profoundly influenced their lives. His journey from revolutionary activism to inner peace through yoga in the 1960s laid the foundation for their upbringing. This unique background inspired them to create the Holistic Life Foundation, an organization dedicated to teaching yoga, meditation, and breathwork to children and adults alike.
Throughout the episode, you'll hear about their experiences working with at-risk kids, using yoga to help them develop patience, empathy, and resilience. They discuss the parable of the two wolves, a central theme of the podcast, illustrating how conscious awareness and mindful choices can shape one's life. The conversation also delves into the spiritual depths of mantra meditation and breathwork, highlighting how these practices can bring about profound personal and societal change.
With anecdotes from their own lives and teachings, Ali, Atman, and Andres offer valuable insights into the holistic benefits of yoga. Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this episode provides a rich tapestry of wisdom and inspiration. Tune in to discover how you can let your light shine and make a positive impact on the world around you.