Bola Shasanmi shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Bola, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
My focus each morning is getting my daughter to school on time. This sounds straightforward but, for a variety of reasons, is not always successful!
I wake up early enough to prepare myself physically and mentally for the day ahead.
I check my calendar to see what is on my schedule. This is usually followed by a 30 minute walk listening to music that fits my mood. During this time, I commune with God. Once I get home, I dance, stretch and get ready to leave.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Bola Shasanmi. I am a blessed wife and mother of 2 beautiful daughters. My husband and I have a ministry called Shazolar that aims to encourage and support people in their journey of wellbeing and prosperity of body, soul and spirit. We conduct events, presentations, services, classes and workshops, as well as counselling, coaching and mentoring. We incorporate as much creativity to achieve this as possible.
My academic background is Physical Therapy, and I am also a certfied Fitness Instructor, Creative Minister and Life Coach.
At present I am running a series of classes called Creative Praise, at the Holy Spirit Retreat Center in Encino, CA, contributing creative material for church services and mentoring young women.
Shazolar is unique in its combination of ministering to the holistic needs of individuals in an often fun, creative and engaging manner with the underlying ethos of faith in Christ Jesus.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I believed that I did not have much to say and that my opinion was not important.
This was as a result of being the youngest child in a family that had strong cultural values linked to gender and age. The family consisted of my parents and 2 sisters. The eldest was 12 years older than me and the second was 6 years older than me. Therefore, I was seen as the young one who did not have much to contribute to the family as a whole.
As time has passed, we have all matured and changed. There is a sense of mutual respect within the family. I am confident in my views and opinions, and they are significantly regarded by my family and others. I think this is due to personal growth, that has occured with time, and my Christian worldview.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
One of the most impactful things in my life has been and still is, music. It has been a wonderful tool in uplifting and encouraging me. Participating in its production, such as singing, songwriting and playing guitar is threapeutic. And the soothing or invigorating nature of melodies and the power of a song’s lyrical content can be a spiritual experience.
Also, dancing to music is a form of expression that can bring a sense of release, freedom and joy.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
Not all smart people, but some, believe that science has all the answers. They do not acknowledge the spirit realm that does not necessarily adhere to scientific laws. This results in perspectives that do not consider the whole picture.
As a coach, I am aware that the most effective way to deal with a challenge is to locate and address the root of the issue. If you hold the opinion that there is no spiritual realm and man does not have a spiritual element, you may miss the true source of the issue. This will result in what I refer to as ‘ Trimming weeds”.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope they will say that I loved God and people. And this was reflected in how I helped them experience more of God’s love, joy and peace in their day to day living.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: bolashasanmi ; mihaela_shazolar
- Facebook: Bola Shasanmi
- Youtube: Mihaela Shazolar
- Other: E mail: [email protected]
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
