Namasteach

In this Episode of the Namasteach podcast, Techa unpacks ways that the community can become more involved in our schools. We are all feeling the impact of living amid a pandemic and the systemic inequities that have existed in our country for centuries are now being seen. Our school is a microcosm of society. School climate is a direct reflection of our society as well as our community. Techa discusses ways that our communities can address some of these societal challenges to support students impacted by trauma. Techa feels that the time is NOW. We can strengthen and build relationships to support all of our students. Communities want to get involved, but may not know how. As educators, we know what our students need. We have to educate our communities and provide ways that they can support our ALL of our students.

Feel free to email us with comments, suggestions or to share ideas: Our email address is:   [email protected]

 In this episode, Jen and Techa discuss ways that educators and individuals can show up during this dual pandemic--the Covid19 pandemic and the  pandemic of systematic racism and racial injustice.  They reflect on recent world events and how we as individuals are seeing now more than ever how truly interconnected we are.  The episode ends with a guided practice to  remind us of our human connection and  also serves as a call to action to make this work sustainable in our lives and in our classrooms. The work starts with US. As you listen to this episode, ask yourself  two questions:

1. How do I want to show up right now? and 2. What am I doing to make things better?

Resources

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/tag/race-matters

https://www.theconsciouskid.org/

https://socialjusticebooks.org/

https://public-montessori.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9f5e66487b78e45eb5fe7425c&id=81e2669af8&e=23c601147d

https://blog.calm.com/blog/how-to-use-mindfulness-to-stand-in-solidarity-with-the-black-community

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HjP6Ap4MZFaYSGUwfxpn9VnR7MRMoiNAi-7pJGnzdXU/edit

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1orHXKievjWFxRnt-D85olVFcf8DX5orSTwodPcv9d8o/edit

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BRlF2_zhNe86SGgHa6-VlBO-QgirITwCTugSfKie5Fs/preview?pru=AAABcna23ZU*UFxcccsKPO0IBoX5nP79aw

Description: In this brief but poignant episode, Jen and Techa reflect on ways they are processing the shifting educational landscape during the global pandemic.  They offer tools that they have created to help them stay present during this time in the hopes that they will support listeners.

If you would like to be a part of the conversation on our changing educational landscape during this era, please email [email protected]

Check out Still Soul Studio for Techa’s weekly  Virtual Sunday Community Meditation Class @11 am

https://www.stillsoulstudio.com/

Link to Techa's Affirmations

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-I9PwLW65GHScHB1VJGGhOZPfn56MxGFKdfFgkS5z_4/edit?usp=sharing

Link to Jen's Poem Quarantine Blessings

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UA7LEoDMgEck3mcsbmAYL3V5fsTGjG0HN9zH_lwcuIo/edit?usp=sharing

The Namasteach podcast welcomes Danielle Parker, an adolescent Montessori guide, yoga teacher, and small business owner.  Sharing her unique educational journey, Danielle liberates educators by reminding us that the teaching journey is a practice that ebbs and flows. From failure to perseverance, Danielle also reminds us that our weaknesses are truly road maps to our super powers, and how vulnerability creates connection.  Danielle's radiant energy and authenticity will inspire listeners. We will all benefit from her insights and perspective. Beyond her gifts of wisdom, Danielle is also sharing free yoga during this time for educators.  Please see link below.

Danielle’s Offer and link https://www.thesaltyblossom.com/pages/yoga

Link to Salty Blossom https://www.thesaltyblossom.com/

Danielle Shares books that inspired her:

Dare to Lead -Brene Brown

When Things Fall Apart -Pema Chodron

The Namasteach Podcast welcomes our first guest Maria Palma.  A Massachusetts native, a Spanish teacher and department head of 18 years, a mama of two, and a social justice activist. Maria Palma shares her wisdom and insights.  In this episode, we delve into her guiding principles of education, how she supports herself and others during the COVID19 pandemic,  how she finds the balance of being a teacher and a mom, and most importantly staying present and finding joy.  This is an episode you won't want to miss!

Maria Shares:

VIVIR MI VITA Marc Anthony - Vivir Mi Vida (a great song to inspire students)

Book: The Language of Motherhood by Jen Iamele Savage (with contributors Maria Palma and Techa Smalls-Brown and others) https://www.amazon.com/Language-Motherhood-Mosaic-Beauty-Oneness/dp/B084WPXCQC/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=jen+iamele+savage&qid=1584963219&sr=8-1

Book: White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo https://www.amazon.com/White-Fragility-People-About-Racism/dp/0807047414

In this episode, Jen and Techa invite educators to explore the idea of retreating for Spring break and beyond.  Sharing ways to truly cultivate inner calm during this unprecedented time in our lives. How can we create boundaries and sanctuaries within our current reality in the midst of a pandemic. Connect with Jen and Techa at  [email protected]  let us know how you are creating space to retreat and rejuvenate during this time.

A personal retreat is a fantastic tool to recharge and set your life in a new direction or shift your focus. ... Personal retreats give you space to rejuvenate, recharge, recollect yourself and also allow you to reflect, gain new insights, relax or brainstorm innovative solutions. They feel good. Your mind, your body and your soul will thank you!

Techa invites you to join her as she teaches meditation classes at  https://www.stillsoulstudio.com/ great place to connect with amazing teachers and practitioners in virtual meditation & yoga practice.

In this episode you will experience Equanimity. Techa will lead you in a 15 minute guided meditation teaching you how to remain grounded and flexible in the midst of intense emotions. 

In this episode, Jen and Techa discuss the ways life has shifted as we face a pandemic. They discuss how in these uncertain times, we have an unprecedented opportunity to truly remember what's important.

In the introductory episode, listeners will learn the purpose of the podcast and the importance of focusing on the whole educator