Black on the Mat

Liberation Through Yoga

In the final episode of season one, hosts Danielle and Saisha chat about  the profound connections between Juneteenth and the practice of yoga. They explore how yoga serves as a powerful tool for personal liberation and reflection, especially within the Black community. The episode features heartfelt discussions on how yoga aids in emotional processing, bodily awareness, and finding inner strength. They also reflect on their favorite moments and significant episodes from the season, and share exciting plans for season two and upcoming retreats.
 
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com
 

Mindfulness Practices for Busy Black Lives

In this enlightening episode of Black on the Mat, hosts Danielle and Saisha sit down with Timothy, a mindfulness coach. Listen in as they discuss the true essence of mindfulness—being present without judgment—and how it can be a transformative practice for busy Black lives. They explore the challenges Black men face within societal filters and how mindfulness can open doors to new perspectives and choices. Timothy also debunks the myth that mindfulness requires copious amounts of time, introducing practical and quick mindfulness practices to help you manage stress and find clarity in the chaos of daily life. Stay tuned until the end as Timothy guides us through a brief, but powerful mindfulness exercise.
Timothy Lewis Bio
Timothy is a certified mindfulness coach and educator at heart with over 15 years of dynamic experience honoring unique individuality and nurturing innate curiosity. An avid researcher of epigenetics, human psychology, and the new human biology, he allows a love for learning and growth to fuel his zest for life. Timothy is a 200-h certified yoga teacher with training in the foundations of Yin and trauma-sensitive yoga. Timothy teaches an Everyday Mindfulness & Meditation course, works with individuals and groups looking to explore how mindfulness can neutralize effects of stress and modern living, and offers embodied movement classes including yoga and capoeira. Timothy enjoys training and teaching, travel, and exploring the contrast of being deeply drawn to nature while embracing the hustle and bustle of New York City
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com
 

Yoga Therapy Demystified

In this episode of Black on the Mat, Danielle Washington shares her journey from yoga teacher to yoga therapist, shedding light on the transformative power of yoga therapy. She discusses the profound difference between yoga classes and yoga therapy sessions and how yoga therapy is tailored to meet the unique physical, mental, and emotional needs of each individual. Danielle highlights the rigorous certification process and how yoga therapy can help manage conditions like cancer, addiction, burnout, anxiety, and chronic pain, providing a holistic approach that complements medical treatment. She emphasizes the importance of looking at the whole person rather than just symptoms. Tune in to discover how yoga therapy can be a powerful complement to medical treatment and a path to deeper self-care and empowerment.
Don't miss Danielle's upcoming retreat in November, where you can experience an immersive weekend of yoga therapy, drawing from her extensive knowledge of Kundalini yoga, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and other holistic practices. For more details about the retreat or to book a yoga therapy session, sign up for updates at hellawellwithdanielle.com or contact Danielle directly via email or Instagram.
Book a Yoga Therapy 15-min Consultation Call: https://calendly.com/hellawellwithdanielle/yoga-therapy-consultation
Travel is My Therapy Journal on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Travel-My-Therapy-Self-Care-Journal/dp/B08C9D73ZY
 
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com
 
 

Finding Your Voice on the Mat: From Student to Yoga Teacher

We sat down with Kat, a new yoga teacher, to discuss her journey from student to teacher. Kat shares how she initially started practicing yoga to spend time with friends but eventually found a deep love for the practice. She opens up about her experiences feeling unseen in yoga spaces and how she was inspired to become a teacher. Kat reflects on a shocking moment from her first class and yoga’s impact on her personal growth. Join the hosts as we discuss the rewarding, challenging, and transformative aspects of being a yoga teacher.
Kat Lee's Bio
Kat Lee is a passionate Bay Area yoga instructor and entrepreneur. Certified by Yoga to the People and Lotusland Yoga SF, she views yoga as a love letter to the body, emphasizing inclusivity. As a plus-size Black autistic woman, Kat advocates for underrepresented communities and creates welcoming spaces for all. She specializes in gentle flow vinyasa, yin yoga, and playful classes. Kat is launching LightofMine, a business focused on creative expression through play, mindfulness, and movement for youth and those young of heart. 
IG: @kathleezzzy and @lightofmineyoga
https://bio.site/kathleezzzy
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com
 

How Online Yoga is Changing the Game

Online Yoga has opened up a world of possibilities for practicing in your own individual way. In today’s episode, we discuss everything from the practicalities of setting up your home practice area, using everyday items like towels and books as props, to the vast benefits of incorporating online yoga into your routine. We explore how online yoga offers flexibility, accessibility, and the freedom to tailor your practice to your specific needs, whether you're managing stress or focusing on physical health. We share some ideas on how to make the most of virtual classes, choose the right sessions for your goals, and even how to bring a piece of the studio atmosphere into your home. 
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com

Overcoming Self-Doubt in Your Yoga Practice

Imposter syndrome on the yoga mat is more common than you think. In today’s episode, Saisha and Danielle discuss the feelings of inadequacy that many of us experience when stepping onto the yoga mat. They share their personal journeys and struggles with imposter syndrome in the world of yoga, where it can often feel like you're not enough or don't quite belong. This episode unpacks the challenges and insecurities many have faced starting out as beginners, seasoned yoga practitioners, and even as instructors. They explore how these feelings can act as barriers to embracing the practice fully, and how overcoming them through self-compassion can lead to profound personal growth and healing.
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com

To Guru or Not to Guru: Essential Guidance or Misplaced Trust?

Whether you've ever felt torn between different yoga styles or pondered the hierarchical dynamics of spiritual mentorship, this episode offers fresh perspectives on the role of a guru in contemporary yoga practice. The hosts tackle challenging questions about cult-like behaviors in yoga communities, the ethical pitfalls of blind allegiance, and the potential financial motivations of modern-day gurus. More importantly, they discuss the empowering concept of the inner guru, advocating for a yoga practice that emphasizes self-awareness and internal guidance over external authority. So, do you need a guru? And is there a difference between a teacher and a guru? Tune in to find out.
We're eager to hear your thoughts too—have you ever encountered a guru, and what was that experience like? Stick around, share your stories, and let's explore these questions together here on 'Black on the Mat'.
 
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com

Transforming Relationships Through Yoga

In this enlightening episode of "Black on the Mat," where Danielle and Saisha unpack how yoga has fundamentally transformed their relationships and personal growth. From a life-changing journey in Bali to confronting and releasing toxic ties, they share their powerful stories of finding self-love, respect, and clarity through authentic yoga practices. Yoga has been pivotal in reshaping how they show up in life. This conversation is not just about yoga—it’s about evolving into one's true self, improving relationship dynamics, and empowering oneself to navigate life's challenges.
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com

Yoga and Self-Care: Crafting Your Individual Journey

Yoga is much more than a physical practice; it’s a crucial act of self-preservation in a society that often glorifies the grind over genuine well-being. Danielle shares her own transformative experiences with yoga, highlighting it as a sanctuary from stress and a life not solely focused on survival. Saisha, with her insightful approach, warns against the pitfalls of engaging in self-care simply because it’s trendy. She encourages listeners to find personal meaning in their practices. Together, they discuss how yoga isn't about maintaining a pose for time, but rather about mindfulness, personalized care, and letting go of the ego and time constraints that often block our paths to self-care. This episode is about breaking down barriers, fostering self-motivation, and embracing yoga as a powerful tool for self-care through embodying mantras, utilizing breathwork, and allowing oneself to fully experience and process emotions. Join us as we unravel these rich insights and remind you, our listeners, to pour from a full cup.
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com

Weed and Yoga: Elevating Your Practice

For those intrigued by the intersection of cannabis and yoga, this episode is a must-listen! Our distinguished guest, Jennette Haynes, shares her insightful journey towards integrating cannabis into yoga to enhance both mental and spiritual well-being. Jennette opens up about using cannabis to alleviate anxiety and how it led her to a more profound, connected state of meditation. Throughout this episode, we explore the historical and spiritual connections between cannabis and yoga, aiming to clear up myths and promote a more thoughtful approach to their combined use. We also tackle the ethical and legal considerations involved in this innovative practice. Listeners will discover a rich discussion that serves as a testament to the evolving realms of wellness and spirituality. This episode is not just informative but a reflection of the transformative effects of merging these ancient traditions. Join us on 'Black on the Mat,' with Jennette Haynes, for an enlightening conversation that promises to inspire and inform.
Jennette Hayes Bio:
Jennette Haynes is a 200 Hour Certified Yoga with 30 hours of Yoga Anatomy Training. In 2022 she started focusing her training more on mobility and sports recovery adding stretch therapy to her list of modalities. This has opened up numerous opportunities to work with professional sports teams, with different PT clinics in the New York City area, and take on private clients as well. She currently teaches weekly classes in Downtown Newark, NJ at I'm So Yoga. Her main goal is to create more knowledge around the importance of regular movement that will be beneficial long term for her clients. To follow Jennette's journey and get more information on how you can start your yoga journey follow her Instagram @jay_sportstherapy.
Resources:
Event-Hi: https://eventhi.io/
Jennette's classes: https://linktr.ee/Yogijsoapbabe
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Black on the Mat Podcast: https://linktr.ee/blackonthemat 
Instagram:  @ blackonthemat_ :https://www.instagram.com/blackonthemat_/ 
@hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.instagram.com/hellawellwithdanielle/ 
@thickthighyoga : https://www.instagram.com/thickthighyoga/ 
Tiktok: blackonthemat : https://www.tiktok.com/@black.on.the.mat?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
Hellawellwithdanielle : https://www.tiktok.com/@hellawellwithdanielle?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc 
 Thickthighyoga : https://www.tiktok.com/@thickthighyoga 
Twitter: hellawelldani : https://twitter.com/hellawelldani 
Thickthighyoga: https://twitter.com/thickthighyoga 
Youtube: @BlackOnTheMat / @HellaWellWithDanielle / @ThickThighYoga 
For business and sponsorship opportunities please contact BlackOnTheMat@gmail.com