We recently connected with Jnana Lewis and have shared our conversation below.
Jnana, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
Personally, overcoming challenges related to mental health issues became possible for me when I began to take accountability for the part that I played in the poor quality of my mental state. It definitely took a lot of courage to self reflect and take a good look at the, “woman in the mirror.” I had to take a step back and look within. I realized that I wasn’t happy with who I had become. My pain had consumed me, I didn’t know who I was anymore. But, I eventually found strength and determination to reclaim my life back as my own. It didn’t come easy, I had to abandon my victim mindset and face the sorrow in order to overcome it. Journaling, therapy, yoga, and meditation were very beneficial in helping me overcome my depression, anxiety, and fear. I still apply these rituals to my life today to take great care of my mental health.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m Jnana, a creative and visionary. I am currently exploring the realm of children’s yoga. I found inspiration to look into this side of yoga from my own motherhood journey. When I finally decided to pursue yoga seriously, I enrolled in my first 200 Yoga Teacher Training Program. I was 5 months pregnant at the start, by the time I graduated I was 4 months postpartum. I learned so much about myself and my body during that time. I had learned even more about the evolution of my yoga practice. It had gone from singular to doing mommy and me flows with my son. This enchanting experience led to my pivot into children’s yoga. Children’s yoga gives me freedom to pour into my innocent creative energy while also moving my body intentionally. It also gives me the opportunity to pour into our children. I get to gift them wellness, playtime, and peace. My goal is to use this gift to magnify the voices of our children. My mission is to create a space where children are seen, felt, and heard. I will cultivate a safe space where children can embrace their divine nature and authentically express themselves. I want them to feel at home when they use their voices freely, move their bodies intentionally, and awaken their powerful inner strength.
I am actively using tools I’ve acquired from my own experience to assist others on their healing journey’s with the power of yoga. I’ve revealed an improved side of yoga. This empowers my students to nurture their inner child while they foster honest connection with themselves and community. I am proud to demonstrate freedom and resilience within the work I do to facilitate yoga. I am even happier to share this among the world of children’s yoga.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, patience, resilience, and determination were the most impactful qualities in my journey. They remain relevant in my journey today. It’s important to surrender to the path that your heart desires with an open mind and heart. In order to improve on these special qualities while continuously developing your personal skills you must approach them without restriction, even when it feels uncomfortable or frightening. Nevertheless, you’ll find freedom when you have faith in yourself and step out of your comfort zones.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am looking forward to collaborating with more organizations dedicated to health and wellness, particularly for children and youth. I am currently involved in the non profit organization, Heal One World, where I teach family inclusive yoga. I’ve also partnered with Heal One World to bring yoga to other organizations committed to serving wellness to their communities such as Saban Family Clinic and Curtis R. Tucker Health Center. I’ve also united with my local community birth center, Kindred Space LA, to lead a mother’s support group and facilitate Mommy and Me yoga/meditation sessions. I aim to further expand the integration of yoga into public schools. I am available to connect via email or instagram.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melodic_yogi
- Other: melodicyogi777@gmail.com
Image Credits
Photo 1: Curtis R. Tucker Health Center- Coping With Confidence Event
Photo 2: Kindred Space LA Mom’s Group
Photos 3-4: Saban Clinic Community Family Fair
Photos 5-7: Kindred Space LA Mommy & Me Yoga
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
