Think Flow Grow

On Isolation and Elitism in the Single Story

Episode 8: In this episode, I discuss the isolation and elitism in the narrative about lineages of yoga as being a product of and indicative of the single storytelling that is done to compartmentalize complicated issues and people we choose not to see and/or understand. The term “lineage” is used in the context in reference to particular styles of yoga: Ashtanga, Baptiste, Bikram, etc., and the debate over which is better or more authentic is a pervasive, divisive, and ridiculous debate within the yoga community in which students new to the practice get caught in the crosshairs. Find the videos referenced on my IGTV @diva_transcending. A reconciliatory meditation on compassion begins at 31:25.

Role-Crafting and Genderization with River Davis

Episode 7: In this episode, River Davis, international creative director & community-builder, joins Tamika in a vibrant discussion on the history and implications of role-crafting, gender and gender roles, and the dualistic nature of the Divine as both feminine and masculine. Catch River and Tamika in the Red Tent at YOUniverSOUL Fest -- a one-day mindfulness festival empowering attendees to live their best lives through the nine limbs of YOUniverSOUL Fest: yoga, art, enlightenment, movement, music, healing, community, environment, and children. This episode's meditation will be uploaded separately as River and Tamika will be guiding an interwoven Yoga Nidra on wholeness.

Women, Sex, and the Language of Women

Episode 6: In this episode, I examine sexual politics and their history; women as sexual, sensual, sentient beings whose consent is often forced; and how through the practice of yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and self-awareness, one becomes the definer of one’s reality and the author of one’s truth. 

 

The reflection is followed by a Sacral Chakra Meditation.

Thoughts on Making our Way out of Dark Times

Episode 5: In this episode recorded after a weekend of tragic events in the US (Dayton, OH & El Paso, TX shootings), I take a deep dive into history for context, the yogic philosophy and practice of pratyahara (turning inward) for guidance, and methods to finding our way out of dark times in life for the betterment of our mental health and society. A meditation on Connectedness follows.

The Lies We Tell Ourselves and Other Ramblings

Episode 4: In this episode, Mark Pierson II of the podcast No Country for Old Mark and Juan joins me to discuss lies that we tell ourselves that keep us in stories and situations we have the power to change. We also meander a bit into topics on race and gender, and how those identifiers inform our perspectives. Oh, and we laugh a lot.

At the end of this episode, get comfortable to be guided through a mediation on the release of old stories.

Gardening, Turning Inward, and Truth

Episode 3: This episode takes a deep dive into how to tap into truth to eliminate the stories that have been created, which stymie personal growth, self acceptance, and the path to enlightenment. There's a bit of history, some reflection, relatable yogic philosophy, and a guided meditation.

Loyalty, Joy, and Non-Attachment

Episode 2: How can you be loyal without being co-dependent? Can you find joy in letting something or someone go that you love deeply? In this episode I share some experiences of attachments to a brand and to a community, and how non-attachment (aparigraha) reduces suffering and unhealthy relationships in other areas in our lives.

A meditation inspired by the theme of aparigraha follows.

Ancestry, Visioning, and Empowerment

Episode 1: This episode is an introduction to Tamika the yogini, how yoga has informed her view of herself and the world, and the shift from shame to healing. She discusses the importance of tapping into ancestral wisdom to evolve the culture, empower oneself and others, and to create a vision for your life. Enjoy a bit of history and yoga philosophy, followed by a guided meditation on visioning.