OTHER PASSIONS

"Develop an interest in life as you see it; the people, things, literature, music - the world is so rich, simply throbbing with rich treasures, beautiful souls and interesting people. Forget yourself."

--Federico Fellini

Pitbull Advocacy

I am the proud owner of two beautiful pits. They have provided me years of stress relief, joy, happiness, companionship and protection. Since they are rescues, I'll never know exactly where they came from, but I guess it doesn't matter; they found their way to me, and I'm forever blessed they are in my life.

They are strong, yes, but so are other dogs. German Shepherds and Rottweilers, for example, can be just as fierce. I believe it's all in the way you treat the dog--hence, breed-specific laws are unfair. For all the bad press bitbulls get, there's even more love and loyalty for them from adults and children alike.

Whenever possible, I educate others on the breed's genuinely positive traits and how much my dogs have enriched my life. I also love to educate new pitbull owners on proper care for their new dog in hopes they can have the same wonderful experience I've had. This website provides great information for dog owners. The Sula Foundation is one of many great local organizations dedicated to the pit bull.

Urban Farming & Fermentation

When I moved to New Orleans in 2008, I realized I lived in a food desert. This made me realize the importance of equal food access for all, and the difference an urban farm or community garden can make.

I work at my friend's farm in the Lower 9th Ward whenever possible, a part of Supporting Urban Agriculture. Some friends I have also work with schools through the New Orleans Food & Farm Network.

Whenever the opportunity arises, I like to ferment foods (kim chi, atchara, etc.) and make my own beverages using fresh farm-picked fruits and vegetables from my friends' garden. The best part, of course, is sharing our collective efforts over a delicious meal.

Health, Inside & Out

"Health is wealth." I never realized this until I was plagued with sciatica and started my journey down the long, hard road to recovery.

I make sure I do something active every day after school, whether it's yoga, skateboarding, swimming at the Treme Center or tai chi.

The pain has been overwhelming, but I never look at it as an obstacle. Instead, I view it as a catalyst for getting back into shape and truly dedicating myself to taking care of my body--because helping and caring for others starts with oneself.

I take every opportunity possible to invite my friends to join me in yoga, an after-dinner walk or kicking the soccer ball around. That way, I am taking care of myself, while at the same time spreading my love of fitness to others.

In November 2017, I completed a 450-hour yoga teacher training under the tutelage of Swan River Yoga. I currently teach private yoga sessions, in-person and online.

Guided meditation and pranayama (breathing exercises) are also in my daily practice, effective in calming the relentless "monkey mind," as they call it in the yoga community. I am also happy to offer these to anyone who requests it.

OTHER PASSIONS

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Grow Dat Farm!
Jamal from SUA Supporting Urban Agriculture!
Teaching Kids About Compost
Grow Dat Things to Do
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