Wadadlivity (Afro-Caribbean Wellness) W/ Stephanie Winter

This episode of the Sunbeam Chats Podcast, features, Stephanie Winter a Yoga Alliance certified instructor with E-RYT200 certification, and specialized training in Yin and Kemetic Yoga. She is the Founder of Wadadlivity which is a community of people conscious about the benefits of a plant-based diet and Yoga. 

In this conversation, we are chatting  about Yoga, plant-based eating, Afro-Caribbean wellness and lifestyle. Stephanie talks about her journey from life in Canada and a career in Tech, to her transition back to her homeland Antigua and building her Community. 

We talk about her training and certification in Yin and Kemetic Yoga, and the benefits for the body, mind and overall wellness. She discusses Kemetic Yoga; which was developed in the 1970s, and is a system of yoga inspired by Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs and practices. Which focuses on physical movements, deep breathing, and meditation to connect with one's higher intelligence and the divine. Which is quite fascinating, really. 

We discuss the perception of Yoga, which is sometimes portrayed or adopted by races other than black people. Which unfortunately makes us miss out on the benefits of this healing practice. 

Highlighting Wellness Wednesday, we talk about the need for people to take time (weekly) to care for themselves, to practice wellness and mindful living. Whatever that may look like for them.  

Stephanie, then talks about the focus of  Wadadlivity, which is the indigenous Amerindian word (WALADLI/WADADLI) name for Antigua. The intention of this Community, is to show appreciation for Afro-Caribbean culture, through the lens of food and movement. 

We discuss food and diet as an integral part of our wellness journey. She encourages us to treat our bodies better and be conscious about what we eat. As such incorporating more plant-based and vegan options in our diet, is advisable. Such as food from the land, more fruits, grains, vegetables; and farm to table eating. 

Stephaine says it is, progress over perfection. That is take your time when starting so it becomes your lifestyle and not a diet or fad. 

We also chat about how Stephanie balances work and her own personal wellness. She schedules, me-time for mental clarity, surrounds herself with friends and family and does things that she loves. For her personal self-care rituals she takes deep tissue massages, facials and indulges in manicures. 

Finally, Stephanie talks about Wadadlivity, and what's on and coming in the Community. Her advice to people who want to get on this wellness path, is to be gracious with yourself, have patience and to try different types of activity to find your place and space to flow in. Namaste

“Yoga takes you into the present moment, the only place where life exists”  -Patanjali

Wadadlivity 

Stephanie Winter is a native of the beautiful island of Antigua, where these experiences are reflected in everything she does. Wadadlivity is committed to improving physical and mental health amongst people of color. 

Their events promote local and regional plant-based cuisine, and are proud to offer an Afro-Caribbean perspective on Wellness.