We are so honored to have Joanna on the pod! 

Joanna is a registered yoga teacher and the owner of Embody YOGA. She first developed an interest in yoga as a teenager. Over the years, she experimented with various forms of physical fitness and dance before returning to the practice in 2011. Joanna started Embody YOGA, on a mission to share the practice of yoga with people of color by offering classes that were accessible, affordable and culturally relevant. Since its founding in 2015, Embody YOGA has served over 400 students, the majority of whom identify as people of color. Nothing brings Joanna more joy than to witness her students develop a personal relationship and connection to the practice of yoga. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling (with an emphasis in child and adolescent counseling) from Marquette University and has a deep commitment to promoting holistic wellness in communities of color.

In this episode, Joanna dives into her yoga journey, the formation of EMBODY YOGA and it's powerful purpose in sharing yoga for people of color. She explains ways in which studios can be unintentionally exclusive, the harm that this causes BIPOC trying to join in the practice and the positive impact that happens when students see themselves and their culture reflected in the space. We also discuss the emotional and mental benefits of yoga, the importance of allowing yourself rest, and she reminds us to seek out moments that bring joy.  

We also chat about:

• The Aspiring Black Yoga Teachers' Education Fund 
• Her personal experience in YTT
• Yoga in the park! 

Resources:

• Instagram: @embodyyogamke 
• Website:  embodyyogamke.com 
• The Aspiring Black Yoga Teachers' Education Fund page 
• Mentioned: Yoga One Studio, The Nap Ministry