Enjoy photos from our sessions

bhmspring2024summitandexpo.vfairs.com/Join Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou at the Black Health Matters Summit by popular demand, coming to D.C. Have your breathing and wholistic health checked, and experience her staged presentation, The Many Ways to Breathe. Also on -line;. Registration is FREE. https://bhmspring2024summitandexpo.vfairs.com/

Join Baba Hanif, True Brothers &Sisters, PreciousMotherLove and Sekou Ayo Handy-Kendi, as They Change Minds and Lives Using Our Own AI [Akaishic Intelligence] on March 23rd the Eve of Palm Sunday and the Easter Holy Week...
As We Tap into the Full Moon in Libra, the Spring Equinox Plus the Sacred and Divine Cosmic Energies...

Enjoy Master Level Instructions and Curated Activities Which include:
*Drumming * Fire Ceremony
*Tai Chi Science and Demo *The Gateway Meditation *Breathology Techniques *Seated Exercise *Energy Healers *Healer/Vendor Marketplace
And a *Silent Auction Where
Our Wonderful Sponsors have donated things like Event Tickets, Wellness Services, Artwork, Autographed Collectibles and other such beautiful Gifts and Offerings to Help us Raise Funds for True Brothers and Sisters (TBS) a Youth Mentor Organization providing, Physical , intellectual, spiritual, and hands-on Entrepreneurship mentoring...

Arrive Early, Bring Lawn Chairs and Yoga Mats, Drums or instruments, Take Notes...and Be Ready for a Spiritual, Physical and Mental Change toward Living Your Best Life Now.

See You There***
March 23rd 430 pm to 830pm

1311 Opus Avenue
Capital Hieghts MD

Sponsored by:
Positive Energy Works, True Brothers & Sisters, Love+Art=Wellness

Sponsorship Available Donations Accepted

End of Year Healing Advance
SPECIAL FOR TRANSCENDENCE BREATHWORK
During this high time of celebrations, How are You? Announcing an end of year Healing Advance to take your healing to next level in the new year. Transcendence breath work 45 minute sessions are equal to 3 years of talk therapy and relaxation. For this 3 session special pay in advance. Only $350. Save $100 off regular price of $450 or $150 per session. Pay now and schedule by end of Jan 2024. We can discuss dates and time of appt at your home and requirements. Take this time for your healing during the Winter Solstice and days of SAD (seasonal affected disorder).
Call or text Ayo Handy Kendi, the Breath Sekou to make healing your priority for a hapi and healthy holiday season. Contact 202 667-2577 or text 202 424 8962. To arrange payments before Dec 21 and receive treatments by Jan 30, 2024.
Peace on earth truly begins with YOU.
scroll down to see description of TRANSCEDENCE BREATHWORK BELOW

VIRTUAL FULL MOON GATHERING FOR BLACK lOVE
"BREATHING SOLUTIONS TO INCREASE LOVE IN BLACK FAMILIES"
featuring 20 Presentations - Breathologist, Breathworkers, Martial Artists, Yoginis, Meditators, and Many other presentations that focus on the "breath and it's healing power for love"

Schedule : Subject to Change

12: Noon - 12:30; Doors to zoom room open - Welcome, Breath connection, Libations, The Jiggle, a Breath Embodiment with Sekou Mama Ayo Handy-Kendi, a 50+ years breath practitioner, certified breathologist.

12:30 -1:00: Eliza Cooper, Certified Breathologist, founder, Live Holistically Balanced -
"Breathing Love & Kindness"

1:00 - 1:20 p.m: . Paulette Jones Bell Imaan - Breathing 4 a Stress-free, Violence Free Community. Sky Breath Meditation
1:20 - 1:30    Transistion - On-Line Auction

1;30- 1: 50            4 Part Breath, Sound Healing by Andrea
1:50 - 2:00
+
2:00 - 2:30             "Meditation Using Diaphramatic Breath to Promote Critical Thinking and Reduce Stress" by Lona Alias, Spiritual Life Coach, WPFW Radio Host, Spirit of Jazz, Certified Breathologist, Personal Trainer, ACE,

2:30- 2:50              Art of Self Pleasure by Sekou Ayo Handy-Kendi
2:50 - 3:00              Transistion: Embodiment Movement

3:00 - 3:20               KanuLove Video The Jabang 5th Wedding Anniversary Video - Self-care & Love
                                     On-Line Auction

3:20 - 3:00 p.m:
3:00-    3:20                Transistion: On-line Auction, Poetry Reading

3:20 - 3: 50
3:50 - 4:00                Poetry by Lydia Elizabeth

4:00 - 4: 30              Kalimasada - an ancient system of inner energy cultivation from Indonesia, for self-healing, love & self-defense by Tauhidi Saladin, a 30 year's practitioner

4:30 - 5:00              Gateway Meditation by Precious Mother Love El, The Sacred Arts Curator and Bolt Meditation by High Priest Ashep Herser Neter El. Changing lives and improving the Love in Your Life.

5:00 - 5:30              Yoga for Children & Elders by Jakuta Turner-Dunmore, Yoga Teachers & Nicole Chamberlain, [email protected]

5:30- 6: 00              The Many Ways to Breathe & Relearn How to Breathe with visualization by Sekou Ayo Handy-Kendi

zoom link for Saturday's program

Ayo Handy-Kendi is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Black Love Movement Month (BLMM) events
        Feb 24, 2024 11:00 AM Zoom Room Opens for Participants: Program Starts at 12 noon . Ends 6 p.m. EST
Participants, please arrive on zoom 15 mins before scheduled time.

Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system.

Daily: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZIqd--pqjMoE9BvSa75SiQMNITOFtDqq2OB/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGuqTssG9CdshCDRpwAB4igM-vwiFxBj_p_iizkVHVgazLbGMt2HZRrNMnB

Join Zoom Meeting by Pre-registering:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86706148294?pwd=b0xEK1lTa2F1enFScGc1aktKU0VIdz09

Meeting ID: 867 0614 8294

Passcode: BlackLove

One tap mobile
+13017158592,,86706148294#,,,,*176831391# US (Washington DC)
+13092053325,,86706148294#,,,,*176831391# US

---

Dial by your location
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Meeting ID: 867 0614 8294
Passcode: 176831391

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcn7UPjIt6

EXPERIENCE THE "re-play" of the 2021 Black Love Conference, Book Fair & 28th Black Love Relationship Ceremony with a host of guests, self-help knowledge, healing fun and lots of love. featuring inspirational songstress, Rickie Byars, and the healing power of the Ritual of Reconciliation featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder of Black Love Day.
Tube Channel. Part I of 4

THE TENETS OF BLACK LOVE DAY ARE TO BE PRACTICED EVERYDAY
Love for the Creator, for Self, for the Black Family, the Black Community and the Black Diaspora

PHYSICAL COPIES: of the 2023/2024 Kwanzaa Calendar/Directory and Resource Guide are free and now available at many Black owned establishments, including: Union Temple Baptist Church, Manor Park Barber Shop, The Guild International, Secrets of Nature, Blue Nile Botanicals, Browns Market, Sankofa Bookstore and Cafe, Senbeb Cafe, Lee's Flowers, Asli Pure Boutique, Gallery Africa, Lanham Dental, Mansa Kunda Restaurant, Vicino Restaurante Italiano, Everlasting Life, and BZB's Holidays Gift & Art Show.

DIGITAL KWANZAA CALENDAR & RESOURCE GUIDE
https://www.canva.com/design/DAF0qOJXPGA/iOTZeYA8n6pBJKMoIPfd9Q/view?utm_content=DAF0qOJXPGA&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=viewer

SEKOU MAMA AYO KWANZAA APPEARANCE SCHEDULE
(PLEASE REFER TO THE KWANZAA CALENDAR FOR FURTHER INFORMATION , other events)

Umoja (Unity): Tuesday, Dec. 26: Anacostia Museum, Smithsonian Institute: Preregister: , but all slots filled, yet, first come, first fit in): Mama Ayo Story Performance, Candle-lighting Ceremony,

Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) Thursday, Dec. 28: HoodSmart & Ateya Productions in partnership with We Act Radio, Busboys and Poets and AYA’s Willing Workers. Dancing/Drumming, D.C. Artist, panel discussion moderated by D. J. Flava of WKYS.

MAMA AYO will vend “Centered in Truth” items which are her Kwanzaa DVD'S & Cd', Hero and Shero Art Prints, her hand-crafted jewelry and Magnificent 7 Handwhipped Shea,, as well will offer Breath Adjustments
625 Monroe Street, N.E. , W.D.C., (street and garage parking available) 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Centered in Truth

Nia (Purpose) Saturday, Dec. 30th: Annual Nia Night Celebration by Official UNIA-ACL Woodson Baneker Jackson Bey Division 330. Sekou Mama Ayo will open with Libations, candle-lighting ceremony, children’s arts, performances by Malcolm X African Dancers and Drummers, Solist Foluke, Raheem Rastam, Karamu fest and much more. 1816 12Street, N.W., W.D.C. 202 529-3635

kWANZAA CALENDAR: https://www.canva.com/design/DAF0qOJXPGA/iOTZeYA8n6pBJKMoIPfd9Q/view?utm_content=DAF0qOJXPGA&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=viewer

tHE WINTER SOLSTICE ENABLES US TO BRING UP OUR INTENTIONS, USE A JOURNAL OR WRITING PAD, A CANDLE TO LIGHT, DRINKING WATER, WEAR LOOSE CLOTHING, YOGA MATS OR PILLOWS AND BE PREPARED TO BE CHARGED AND CHANGED on DECEMBER 21 @ 10:27 P.M. , eST , then continue to capture the energy thru Dec. 25 and beyond.

Breathe Positive Love Circles are back with Master Classes that offer breathology/breathwork sessions, sound healing, movement and life-coaching around themes for stress and trauma release, mental health and healing racism. Nov. 17 (DATE CHANGED) in honor of Veterans Day we will breathe thru PTSD.
( SEE DETAILS ON SPECIAL TO SUBSCRIBERS, FREE TO FIRST 10 RESPONDERS INVITE IN THE BREATHE AWAY BLOG)

Nov. 26 we will breathe thru VETERANS domestic violence/grief.
Ask for waivers, pay what you can or offer $33 love donations by re-registering at:

Nov 18, 19 & 20, 2023
WITH RETREAT FOCUS ON THE PLANTING YOUR SEEDS OF INTENTION FOR THE WINTER SEASON IN THESE INTENSE TIMES.
GAIN 2 CERTIFICATIONS IN A 3 DAY VIRTUAL TRAINING WEEKEND TO:
RE-LEARN HOW TO BREATHE PRACTITIONER, Level 1
& OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGIST CERTIFICATION, Level 2

EMAIL: [email protected] or call 202-667-2577.
www.PositivEnergyWorks.com

last call - Nov. 15th for 2023 Course
Learn and Gain 2 Certifications in one weekend and become a Certified Optimum lIfe Breathologist (O.L.B.). OR Take Level 1 Course and change your life by the way that you BREATHE, with Relearn How to Breathe, Level 1, Practitioner Training, now the Pre-requisite for O.L.B. Certification.
Click below for all details

CHANGE YOUR LIFE CHANGE YOUR BREATH..
BREATHE BETTER - LIVE BETTER IN 2023
jOIN OVER 200+ PRACTITIONERS WHO HAVE TAKEN THIS COURSE

Click to Learn More About Women Breathe Away Trauma & Re-awaken to Self Love

WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA- REAWAKEN TO SELF LOVE – is an O.L.B. signature training, 6 hour, inter-active on-line course that gives "strong" Women, the tools of empowerment to heal trauma /abuse/drama to reconnect to their own balance, self-care and self-love.   It is based on the premise that "you must feel it, to heal it".

Using the Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B.) system of breath techniques and transformative practices as developed by Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, you will use her 50+ years of breathing, counseling and wholistic experience to reawaken from surviving to become a thriver.   She is a “thriver” of child sexual abuse, domestic violence, homelessness, addictions and the death of her son, who found that breath techniques helped her cope and overcome these adversities to become the   founder of Black Love Day, and founder of PositivEnergyWorks, impacting the lives of millions,

The On-Line Breathshop with live audience participation in a Zoom meeting format will encourage you to participate in the transformative sessions, journal, move and release the wounds of trauma/abuse.   Bring along a Sitter as a trusted friend, or engage in these self-care practices in privacy at your own pace. We will help you breathe into a sacred space with live sacred sounds, recorded music, drumming, visualizations, embodied movements, toning, and meditative silencing.

Course includes:
Transcendence Breathwork to release stored trauma and repressed emotions,
O.L.B. breathing techniques to cope with triggers, and encourage forgiveness/grief release;
Visualizations to rejuvenate with new inspiration to recharge up your life.
Learn how trauma impacts depression and how to heal.;
Learn coping mechanisms to bust the stress and depression.
Experience art of self-pleasure and self-love techniques
Life-Coaching and meditative writing for self-inquiry to re-awaken self-love, self-care and trust again.

Early - bird Special: $200; Late registration: $250. See our Reduced or No Waiver Request below.

Limited to 6 people for optimum personal support.

WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA
RE-AWAKEN TO SELF-lOVE

Breathe Thru the Art of Self-Pleasure
CAN NOW BE CUSTOMIZED AS A PERSONAL MASTER CLASS FOR YOU, A COUPLE, OR YOUR SMALL GROUP

FOR MORE INFO CLICK Below

I Ayo Handy-Kendi, WAS inspired to be among the 65+ WORLD CLASS presenters for the Expanded States of Consciousness World Summit Healing & Transformational Power of Expanded States of Consciousness

USE Sekou Ayo 's Affiliate Link to credit her , USING THE DIFFERENT LINK/PROCESS TO PURCHASE A LIFETIME ACCESS TO ALL OF THE VIDEO PRESENTATION?
Beginning on May 19, the final day of the Summit, you can access your Expanded States of Consciousness World Summit Lifetime Access here.

So, POSITIVENERGY WORKS FAMILY: if you missed this event, you can still support ME and PositivEnergyWorks. Use my link in purchasing your lifetime access of ALL OF THE VIDEOS, INCLUDING MY PRESENTATION to credit me.

https://fleetmaull.krtra.com/t/Uzb95tZvsHlF
I
with my deepest breath, Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou

Share Ayo's affiliate link:
https://youtu.be/iWAVsKq_E-g

https://www.soulgoddesslife.com/?utm_campaign=3c0b6f7d-edac-4e26-8bb6-fc5034c986da&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail&utm_content=5942e689-4eb5-4402-873b-0bff8852accf&configurationId=cc0454af-f91f-4202-a37d-a394af92cf94&actionId=c5b78edc-3658-0f68-3e64-eb13ae83b28d&cid=d898f0b0-a047-4ecf-afa8-24993c8cf6f1

HEAR AYO HANDY-KENDI STORY OF "FEELING FREE" DESPITE MANY PERSONAL ADVERSITIES
on OCTOBER 11, 2023
Get the details:   HEAR AYO HANDY-KENDI STORY OF "FEELING FREE" DESPITE MANY PERSONAL ADVERSITIES
on OCTOBER 11, 2023
Get the details:   https://www.soulgoddesslife.com/

Share my affiliate:
https://youtu.be/iWAVsKq_E-g

https://www.soulgoddesslife.com/?utm_campaign=3c0b6f7d-edac-4e26-8bb6-fc5034c986da&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail&utm_content=5942e689-4eb5-4402-873b-0bff8852accf&configurationId=cc0454af-f91f-4202-a37d-a394af92cf94&actionId=c5b78edc-3658-0f68-3e64-eb13ae83b28d&cid=d898f0b0-a047-4ecf-afa8-24993c8cf6f1

I want to personally welcome and honor you for taking the first step towards your unique personal expansion by signing up for the Finally Feel Free event.

I am also SUPER excited to also have your valued presence in our Soul Freedom community.

I can’t wait to stand with you in your journey as your grow, glow and expand into the next version of YOU.

So here’s how the event will run

We start on the 20th of September and the event runs until the 12th of October

For the next 23 days, you will receive two emails each day, each featuring different topics, speakers, and, of course, two free gifts every day!

Over the course of 23 days, consciously 🌱carve out sacred space to create pockets of time for self-reflection and introspection.

This is a space where, together, we tap into a collective energy that's palpable, rejuvenating, and empowering.

As you watch the accompanying video, I invite you not just to listen but to immerse yourself fully in the experience.

Our event orbits around paradigm shifts in three profound pillars:

Health as the foundation of your life experience.

Relationships - emphasizing that as beings, we thrive on connection, and these connections improve the quality of our lives.

Spirituality as the backbone of your earthly experience, guiding your navigation through the 3D.

This isn't just an abstract concept; these pillars form the very essence of our search for freedom and profound growth.

This is your invitation to truly be with yourself, to honor your journey, and to deeply connect with your innermost desires and dreams.

It’s finally time to unlock your highest timelines and embark on a journey of quantum self-discovery, multi dimensional healing, and warrior empowerment.

I am so blessed to have you with us, and I can’t wait to see the incredible transformations you will achieve.

I honor the light in you, with so much love.   Aiswarya
All videos will be released at4.00pm + 4.30pm GMT
11am EST + 11.30am EST
8am PT + 8.30am PT
For 72 hours
Get the details:   https://www.soulgoddesslife.com/

I am so excited about this festival. Join me this Friday, Sept 29 @ 6 p.m. as th eWorld Cultural Festival kicks off an amazing international festival . I.mon the main stage at 4th street, n.W. near the Capitol. See the link to learn about the 3 day weekend of 150 performances, meditations, activities for children, transportation and more: https://wcf.artofliving.org/?event_date=2023-09-29

Be clear in taking part in Sekou Ayo Handy-Kendi's, river presentation, in which we will be opening our sub-conscious portals with a powerful breath experience to allow the Ancestors to mourn and release their intergenerational pain, which will lighten our present pain. Bring to the water images of your Ancestors, to walk with you.
Also, bring extra water for the entire day, light snacks, wear best walking shoes. Pace yourself and slow down as you feel the Spirit as you will feel moved.

Celebrate love & life at the BLACKS & BLUES MOTHER'S DAY Concert, Reception and Birthday tribute to Freedome Nsoroma Lee-El this Sunday, May 14th, 5- 8 p.m, Joe's Movement Emporium, 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mt. Rainier, Md. 20712. Stories, music, dance, song, special guests &YOU Purchase advanced tickets

Text 202-276-0000 or email
[email protected]

SEKOU AYO HANDY-KENDI will offer in the America's Schedule a World Breathing Day session call "Breathing Peace to Heal the Divides" from 17:10 - 17:40 (EST: then will "Breathe Together Annual Traditional Closing with Ayo and Rabie Hayek, and the music of ELTUC. from 17:40 - 17:50 (

The European Schedule Paragraph begins 11:00 CEST time.

GET THE SCHEDULE ABOVE AND CELEBRATE WITH IBF AND IN YOUR OWN WAY. PEACE BEGINS WITH ME.

RIGHT TO LEFT: Dr. Winston Kokayi Patterson, Certified Acupuncturist & Acupuncture Detox. specialist, founder of the ADS Collective, African Wholistic Health Association (AWHA) and lead healer for Dr. Mutulu Shakur, found of the Acupuncture Detox Modality, gained recognition in curing addictions, disease & mental health, arrested for 40 years, now returning home in 2023 on medical conditions. Dr. Kokayi will speak to the effectiveness of wholistic treatments for "sage-ing" . Also speak to his birthday party, April 15th and fundraisier for Dr. Shakur medical treatments.

Dr. Matulu Shakur changed the face of wholistic practice and has sacrificed because OF it. He needs our support now. Donate to the Party with a Purpose and see his movie "Dope is Death" on U-tube.

Blanca Maria Mueller Lagunez. , IBF (International Breathwork Foundation) Representative of World Breathing Day, 2023, will share the good-news of this annual event and it's importance for BIOC 's Sage-ing baby boomer

Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou (master teacher) will offer a relaxation moment and tips on managing spring allergies

Call for presenters, loveologists, creatives, sponsors, tech support, scheduler, promotional and marketing specialists. We are creating a team for up-coming BLACK LOVE DAY ANNIVERSARY event and African American Holiday Association (AAHA) Relaunch.
email: Mama Ayo Handy-kend @ [email protected]

BOOK
Earth Love Tune-UP Crew (ELTUC)
for Breathe & Sound Experiences

30th Anniversary of Black Love Day, Feb. 13th (BLD), the 3rd BLD Virtual Summit & Official BLD Relationship Ceremony, Feb. 11–13 from 12 Noon, EST to 9 p.m. BLD, since 1993 is 4th A.A. "wholyday" to help us transform thru love to increase peace, stop violence, alternative to V-Day, started in D.C. gone global. Summit offers 30 presentations f

2023 Theme: Black Love Heals 355 focusing on Black Mental Health AND Moratorium on all violence on Feb. 13th to honor Tyre Nichols and others who died due to police brutality.

Details/Summit registration: www.AfricanAmericanHolidays.org

GET ALL THE DETAILS OF BLACK LOVE DAY, FEB. 13 AND 30TH ANNIVERSARY EVENTS & BLACK LOVE MOVEMENT MONTH

SUMMIT program @ www.AfricanAmericanHolidays.org
There you will also see an Eventbrite link to REGISTER FOR THE 3RD VIRTUAL SUMMIT IN CELEBRATION OF 30 YEARS OF BLACK LOVE DAY, Program schedule and other information about Black Love Day
or go directly to the Evenibrite link here: https://bit.ly/BlackLoveDay30

P.E.W. IN PARTNERSHIP WITH AFRICAN AMERICAN HOLIDAY ASSOCIATION (AAHA) CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF BLACK LOVE DAY, FEB. 13TH.
See up-coming events

Eliza Cooper is one of the founding members of the Black Love Coalition, now expanding Black Love Day, Feb. 13th to a Black Love Movement Month (BLMM). Please join her TONIGHT, to learn more on how to celebrate Black Love Day and make your "Love in Action Plan" for Black Love Day, 365. Endorsed and supported by Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder, BLD

Dear Supporters of PositivEnergyWorks,

During these times of intense and rapid change, it’s so helpful to know how to tap into tools within you to stay emotionally grounded and in control of your bodily systems.

By using both potent ancient and leading-edge breathwork and breathology practices, you can quickly move into a more relaxed state, where you’re likely to feel calm, empowered, centered, present, and in touch with your inner voice.

During the Shift Network’s upcoming Breathwork Summit, you’ll discover the next generation of breathwork practices for lasting resilience and healing…
… and explore the power of full-spectrum breathwork, ranging from a number of ancient Indigenous traditions to the latest science-backed techniques.
You’ll learn what constitutes “safe” breathwork practice, who’s qualified to offer breathwork professionally, and how ethical practice is monitored in this burgeoning and diverse field.

You’ll also uncover the history — and the science — behind these profound practices, and will have time allotted to actually experience them with the guidance of expert breathwork practitioners.

The various techniques that will be presented are easy to learn and non-invasive, and you can use them at home for free. Like a dedicated healer, the breath is always available to you — accessing it doesn’t require fancy equipment or physical prowess.

That’s why I’m thrilled to invite you to join this convergence of leading breathwork guides, practitioners, researchers, and teachers who will equip you with best-practice methods…to become a masterful breather, accumulate greater emotional resilience, and be better prepared to face any challenge.
Free Online Event
Breathwork Summit
January 9–13, 2023
RSVP here for the Breathwork Summit — at no charge: https://shiftnetwork.infusionsoft.com/go/bws23a20807/a20807
I’m honored to be among more than 40 of today’s highly sought-after breathwork experts and teachers — including Anthony Abbagnano, Ashanna Solaris & Dana Dharma Devi, Dr. Dan Siegel, Ayo Handy-Kendi, Ela Manga, Stephen Porges, Giten Tonkov, Isik Tlabar, Kathleen Booker, Katie Hendricks, Shamir Chadha Singh, Zee Clark, and many other luminaries.
This free online gathering is co-hosted by Steph Magenta, the co-founder of Integrative Breath, and Niraj Niak, the founder of SOMA Breath, plus guest host Jessica Dibb, co-director of the Global Professional Breathwork Alliance.
Prepare to be transformed.

Breathe with Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou and with a host of other BREATHWORKERS in the SHIFT NETWORKS' 4TH BREATHWORK SUMMIT, JANUARY 9 - 13, 2023
RSVP here for the Breathwork Summit — at no charge: https://shiftnetwork.infusionsoft.com/go/bws23a20807/a20807

Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou will meet you ON-LINE to share with you the " Power of the Breath"

DONATIONS of $25 to 50 will PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING ON-GOING SUPPORT ;

(1) Rental payment of Orphanage Home;

(2) Water, food, clothing and shoes

(3) Schooling materials, uniforms and tuition

(4) Medical support

Funds are needed immediately to ensure that the orphanage doors remain open in this community and can expand to become an anchor of emotional support for others in need of trauma relief, as Daniel uses his "breathology" training in this new location.

SUSTAINING DONATIONS OF $25- 50 PER MONTH WILL HELP SUSTAIN the HEALTH AND WELL BEING OF THESE CHILDREN. PLEDGES OF SUSTAINING DONATIONS OF ANY AMOUNT, ARE ALWAYS WELCOME..

WHAT YOUR SUPPORT CREATES:

Diaspora people know the trauma of war, poverty, displacement, losing their family members and community disruption and can relate to supporting this young man's kind-hearted efforts.

Liberia is still crawling out of the ravages of war, health crises, administrative chaos and public health institutional derailment. Your donation can offer an escape from such limitations, just like our small donations helped Daniel complete college and now he is "giving back".

We ask you to help expand the possibilities of our humanitarian effort to heal the trauma in Liberia, an African-American sister country. A well-maintained orphanage where children are educated, emotionally healed through breathology, nurtured and loved, can contribute to creating leaders who can help rebuild Liberia.

Please contribute to this vision. We sincerely thank you in advance for your donations. To ensure that funds will be properly disbursed, Daniel has asked his parents, John and I to continue to help him manage his orphanage for it's greatest success.

UP-DATED NEED FOR ON-GOING SUPPORT:

In 2019, COVID hit Liberia, and just like other parts of the world, there is a need to expand the orphanage, as Daniel sees more children in the streets, in need of a loving home.

In September, 2020 Daniel had to make an emergency move from Gran Bassa County to Liberia's capitol city of Monrovia, after he and the children were robbed at knife-point by bandits. The bandits entered their unsecured compound and took the children's clothes and their last food and we figured that it was a "set-up". We speculated that the bandits would come back.

The children were further traumatized and terrified, so we drained our account to provide travel expenses for Daniel and his 6 children; relocation expenses for a household; and a security deposit and rent for a gated, secure home compound.

Daniel did get a part-time job, but COVID is rising rapidly, as well as Malaria in Liberia, so all activities have been shut down and mass lock-downs are in effect.

In September, 2021, we helped Daniel and his Children move to Nimba County, as the capitol city Monrovia, has proven dangerously unsafe, with people dying in the streets from poverty, malnourishment, joblessness and government mis-management.

In Nimba County, the children will become self-sufficient due to expanded opportunities to raise their own food through farming and will have all the room they need to Breathe to reduce their trauma, as well as attend a near-by school..

OUR STORY:

DANIEL’S CHILDREN, A Healing Orphanage is the vision of Daniel Titus Gbassagee is a native-born Liberian, who began in 2007 assisting orphans in Liberia because he felt the pain of losing both his parents at age 8, killed in front of him during the bloody 14 year civil war in Liberia. .. My husband John and I, Ayo Handy-Kendi, met Daniel in 2012, when we traveled to Liberia to share "Breathology" to 400 traumatized teachers who had experienced the unrest.

Daniel as our Liberian tour guide traveled and shared his goals, visions and passion for creating an orphanage in Liberia due to his empathy with orphans and because of the critical need.. Before we departed the 23-year-old Daniel, asked us to be his parents, and we agreed. We have been blessed to support Daniel through many adversities, accidents and Malaria bouts, and very thankful that we were able help him complete college, majoring in public administration. Now, we want that same education for the children at our Daniel’s center BECAUSE A MIND IS A TERRIBLE THING TO WASTE.

Liberia went from war to Malaria “waves”, to the Ebola crises n which Daniel's sister, a nurse, died helping others and today COVID”. ”.. Daniel took in his Sister’s0. 4 children, which was the beginning of his orphanage in Liberia.

DANIEL'S CHILDREN, the name we gave to his caring efforts, has now expanded to 12 orphans . Currently, they live off of the agriculture of the land and meager support., from sponsors like ourselves.

THE NEED FOR ORPHAN CARE INCREASES:

In 2019, COVID hit Liberia, and just like other parts of the world, Daniel saw more children in the streets, in need of a loving home. As the orphanage has moved from Gran Bassa County to Liberia's capitol city of Monrovia and now in September 2021, to Counta City, nimba Coounty,, we feel, NOW the children can “breathe” better in the new location, with more space, farm-land and a school within walking distance.

YOUR DONATION TODAY CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. . Donations are being accepted on our GO FUND ME PAGE or CAN BE MADE TO PAYPAL: [email protected] or CASH APP: $AyoHandyKendi

FOZA Maternal Mental Wellness Podcast - Breathology

Welcome to this episode of the Friends of Zayne Adams, (FOZA) Podcast for Maternal Mental Wellness. We are bringing awareness to stop the stigma, the suicides, the silence and the suffering that can accompany postpartum depression and other maternal mental health issues.
HEAR THIS VITAL PROGRAM WITH LINK BELOW

BREATHE POSITIVE LOVE CIRCLES
REGISTER HERE FOR BREATHE POSITIVE LOVE CIRCLE

You are invited to a Zoom meeting/gathering. moved to:
Tues, June 28, 2022
7 p.m. EST Live

Eastern Time (US and Canada) . CHECK TIME CONVERTERS FOR YOUR LOCALITY

Register in advance for this meeting as space is limited:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAtdumvqD4tGNzymRIX5ufvN2EO4dyqtf__

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Comm-unity & Growth thru the power of the breath.....

SPECIAL OFFER TO ATTENDEES OF THE Crones, Hags & Elder Wise Women of Power Summit 2022.
SAVE 15% OFF YOUR SLIDING FEE REGISTRATION FOR THE BREATHE THRU THE ART OF SELF PLEASURE
Reclaim and Celebrate the Powerful Contributions of Elder Wise Women to Global Healing. September 21-30
https://www.positivenergyworks.com/up-coming-events.html

SPECIAL OFFER TO ATTENDEES OF THE Crones, Hags & Elder Wise Women of Power Summit 2022.
SAVE 15% OFF YOUR SLIDING FEE REGISTRATION
Reclaim and Celebrate the Powerful Contributions of Elder Wise Women to Global Healing.
September 21-30
Register at
https://www.positivenergyworks.com/current-on-line-services-menu.html

September 21-30
https://www.fullcirclewomen.com/opdi

FEATURING AYO HANDY-kENDI - topic: BREATHE THRU THE ART OF SELF-PLEASURE.
PURCHASE YOUR SUMMIT PACKAGE OF ALL OF THE PRESENTATIONS.

and if you saw Ayo's presentation, gO below for OUR SPECIAL OFFER TO THE ATTENDEES OF THE SUMMIT

Crones, Hags & Elder Wise Women of Power Summit 2022
Reclaim and Celebrate the Powerful Contributions of Elder Wise Women to Global Healing.
September 21-30
https://www.fullcirclewomen.com/opdi

FEATURING AYO HANDY-kENDI - topic: BREATHE THRU THE ART OF SELF-PLEASURE
gO TO THE bOTTOM TO SEE OUR SPECIAL OFFER TO THE ATTENDEES OF THE SUMMIT

Imagine a world where women of all ages are fully valued and the Sacred Feminine is fully embraced! Instead of the craziness we have now, imagine how different our world would be.

Wouldn't it be so amazing?
It would be a world where our wisdom as elder women is valued and celebrated!
Our post-menopausal life would be acknowledged as our power years, just as they are in many ancient indigenous cultures.
I don't know about you but I feel this time is coming and I want to be part of it. I am ready to connect with other sisters to rise up and make our much-needed contributions to healing and making the world a better place - for everyone, including all of nature.

That's why I'd love for you to join me in this new, unique online summit where we are coming together in sacred circle to reclaim, celebrate and honor the power of the elder wise women.
Free Online Event

PRAYERWORKS EVENT
Sponsored by Freedome Enterprises Worldwide (FEW)
https://few.black/
Sat, Sept. 24 1 - 4 p.m
Freedom Square - Capital Heights Blvd & Davey Street

This event is about opening up to all the incredible possibilities that are available to you ...
... it's about real, honest connection and community with other people who feel and think like you do ...
... it's about reclaiming our power, including reclaiming the words that have tried to separate and denigrate us, words like "Crone", "Hag" and even "Grandmother"!
... it's about breathing into All That Is/the Sacred Feminine/Goddess/Great Spirit and expressing yourself as you are truly meant to be ...
... and about being part of new conversations about how to reclaim our wisdom years as a powerful period of our lives and come together so we can co-create a different future.

Just click here to join the online event. ( https://www.fullcirclewomen.com/opdi )

There's no cost.

We're going to get passionate about topics like these:

Discover how leading wise women are navigating the global upheavals with love and strength and reclaiming the power of the Crone/Elder.

Deepen your connection to your own wisdom so you can help more people in your own life and work.

Discover how to go even deeper in your personal healing journey through herbal wisdom, ancient stories and archetypes, challenging the dominant paradigms, shamanic healing, the Sacred Feminine, listening to your body, Celtic wisdom, working with nature, exploring new forms of leadership for your own life, menopausal initiations into power, astrological understanding and ancient, indigenous prophecies, and so much more!

Connect with soul-sisters and strengthen your commitment to living powerfully in soul-alignment.

Learn how to embrace a fuller, more authentic life in your Wise Woman years and help in global healing, despite the stresses and chaos of this crazy world!

And so much more!

Women everywhere - just like you - are answering the call to courageously come together to reclaim and celebrate the powerful contributions we continue to make to global healing - as post-menopausal women in the rich time of our wisdom years ...
... so you can deepen your own healing, navigate the current crises and changes that are happening now with grace and love and contribute to creating a deeply changed future for everyone.

Register now for this event (no charge) ( https://www.fullcirclewomen.com/opdi )

This event is about opening up to all the incredible possibilities that are available to you ...
... it's about real, honest connection and community with other people who feel and think like you do ...
... it's about reclaiming our power, including reclaiming the words that have tried to separate and denigrate us, words like "Crone", "Hag" and even "Grandmother"!

... it's about breathing into All That Is/the Sacred Feminine/Goddess/Great Spirit and expressing yourself as you are truly meant to be ...

... and about being part of new conversations about how to reclaim our wisdom years as a powerful period of our lives and come together so we can co-create a different future.

Just click here to join the online event. ( https://www.fullcirclewomen.com/opdi )

Register now for this event (no charge). ( https://www.fullcirclewomen.com/opdi )

Here's what people have said about previous summits:
"For me: the most inspiring summit I listened to ever, every day another women with wisdom, skills and gifts, I’m thrilled and touched deeply into my interplanetary soul."
Ellen, Hamburg
" I'm excited to share this with you and I know you are going to love it! " Ayo Handy-Kendi

P.S. Whatever your age and whatever terms you most like and dislike (e.g lots of people don't like the words "Crone" or "Hag", and are more comfortable with "wisdom years") your voice in the conversation is needed right now. Your experience, your wisdom, your presence and your commitment to deep healing is vital to help heal the world and co-create a future where our children's children's children can flourish!

Join me and register now. ( https://www.fullcirclewomen.com/opdi )

2ND BREATH MASTERY FREEDOM FESTIVAL

HTTPS://BIT.LY/jUNETEENTHThis Juneteenth, 2022 you are invited to the
BREATH MASTERY FREEDOM WORKSHOP
June 12, 2022
A virtual Juneteenth pre-celebration connecting the historical culture, the power of breath & BIPOC's continued quest for freedom "living while black" today!
fEATURING:
Poetry by Sumayah
Creating Energy through the Power of the Breath
by Akmal Muwwakkil, Acupuncturist, Naturapath, Energy Healer
and
"AYO HANDY-kENDI, the Breath Sekou
Healing through Stress & Trauma - demonstrating the power of breath from 1865 to 2022
REGISTER:
https://bit.lv/juneteenthbreathefreedom

Subscription Offer SUBSCRIBE HERE TODAY and for a limited time only, get Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou's video, "RELEARN HOW TO BREATHE".

@Take part in the first of a series of Breathe Mastery Workshops, Festival events and opportunities to learn from many masters of the Breath in the BIPOC community. We start as a pre-juneteenth celebration connecting the dots of our 1865 national day of emancipation with today's continued need to heal the ancestral memory of enslavement and oppression that shows up today in violence, and self-love challenges to our spiritual, mental and physical health..
EVENT POSTPONED
BREATH MASTE ERY FREEDOM FESTIVAL

Give to Daniel's Orphanage - a Healing Space thru USN and at the same time, USN crowd-funding can help your cause.
Do you need money for a project, your cause, your business or charity, life expenses, your dreams? Cooperative Economics Starts With You! Easy Crowdfunding program helps you and helps your supporters with infinity wealth and residual income. While GO FUND ME CAMPAIGNS raise a designated amount of money, USN FUNDS MANY with, legacy building wealth because as you give to a cause, you can fund-raise for your own cause too.
No limitations like "GO Fund Me nor high fees. Please take a look.

See for yourself what "cooperative economics" can do for YOU and YOUR COMMUNITY CAMPAIGN!!!

Contact Ayo Handy-Kendi so she can support you in your crowd-funding campaign with USN. With cooperative economics, we all can feel joy and happiness, which we all deserve

Join The United Success Network Zoom Public Meeting Invited by Ayo Handy Kendi on Mondays and Thurdays @ 8:55 pm to 9:30 EST.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6334781262?pwd=bUVhWWpidG9WcEJER2tQaTZOc0ptdz09

Meeting ID: 633 478 1262
Passcode: 637915

LET ME KNOW YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE USN INTRO MEETING, BY RSVP TO 202-667-2577 OR EMAIL [email protected]

HELP US IN DONATING FOR DANIEL'S CHILDREN, A HEALING ORPHANAGE AND YOUR OWN CAUSE
OUR USN GOAL IS TO RAISE $1200 TO ENROLL OUR CHILDREN INTO THE 2nd SEMESTER OF SCHOOL, PROVIDE UNIFORMS SCHOOL SUPPLIES, AND LIVING SUPPORT.

let me know if you request a private overview. USN is not what you think it is; but it is an unique program and financial lifeline that has worked for over 5 years helping countless! IT HAS WORKED FOR ME.

Look into the social media platform and the crowd-funding life-line of UNITED SUCCESS NETWORK and help us reach our goal and yours.

www.unitedsuccessnetwork.com

COME WITH YOUR BLACK LOVE AND A SMILE!
YOU ARE INVITED to the
40th DAY ASCENSION CEREMONY for
JOHN PAUL DAVIES III
Sunrise: March 13, 1951 - Sunset: April 10, 2022
In-Person, Outdoor Ceremony (Rain or Shine)
Ayo & John’s Home - The PositivEnergy Center
1311 Opus Avenue, Capitol Heights, MD 20743
Saturday May 21, 2022
Gather by 3:00 p.m. DRUM CIRCLE STARTS @ 3:30
PROGRAM FROM 4 - 6 pm EST.
including:
healing services, spiritual leaders, testimonies, poetry & song

Please bring lawn chairs, bells, drums, other instruments, prayers and
WEAR MASKS, PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCE & DRESS CASUALLY
LIGHT REFRESHMENTS SERVED

PARKING ON THE STREET (Metro Access drop off in front of driveway)
ADDITIONAL PARKING AT OAK CREST PLAYGROUND (1 block away. Turn @ Marlboro Pike and Capitol Heights Blvd. Walk Heath Street, turn onto Opus Avenue)

If you want to share a testimony or story, contact: Maria Hemphill: 202-705-1290
or email [email protected]

Ceremony is also Available Via Zoom
ZOOM LINK TO JOIN THE GATHERING:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2068972155...
Meeting ID: 206 897 2155
Passcode: JD
ONE TAP MOBILE: Dial by your location
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
MOBILE MEETING ID: 206 897 2155
MOBILE PASSCODE: 780503
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kiSpX56md

If unfamiliar with Zoom, contact us for pre-assistance: Donna Thomas: 202-352-0076

SEND LOVE DONATIONS OF SUPPORT:
Cash App: $AyoHandyKendi
Zelle: Rosa E. Clary
PayPal: [email protected]

OR CONSIDER PURCHASING A DOWLOAD OF OUR MUSIC
https://www.weebly.com/editor/main.php#/

Zoom HOMEGOING CELEBRATION of Sat, May 7, 2022 is being edited and will be shown on UTUBE asap. This memorial honored this amazing man and included John’s music, videos, stories, pictures and testimonies from his family, friends and a community who loved and knew him. It will include a Memorial booklet download.

Blessings. With a heavy heart but with my positivEnergy determination, I announce the passing of my best friend, partner and husband, John P. Davies III, who took his last breath on Sunday, April 10, 2022. I.m. told that transitioning during the Islamic Holy Month of Ramadan is a blessing, and I.m. also told that taking your last breath with your loved one, is in Indigenous traditions, considered an honor to the witness and a "good death" for the person crossing over. Well, John was blessed in both those ways and more in "moving forward" and going home". We make this announcement with the community we shared so much with. We ask that you continue to lift us both up in prayer, and honor him by attending his Memorial Celebrations. Further, onsider purchasing his music in our product section, as a lasting memory of him, while you relax your mind and breathe. John was very proud of the work we did together, for our PositivEnergy community and in creating a "breath movement". Please continue to breathe deeply, fully and consciously, which will make for a more joyful world - a goal he was deeply committed to.
For information on jOHN'S Memorial Programs or how to help the charitable work of PositivEnergyWorks, go to link at Up Coming Events

The THEME for World Breathing Day, APRIL 11, 2022 is: “Inspiring Solutions” WBD, April 11 annually invites everyone to remember, experience and celebrate the healing and unifying power of breath. Conscious Breathing offers a simple, yet powerful tool to create positive change in the world.
Sponsored by International Breathwork Foundation (IBF)

IBF Global Celebration of Breath @ 12 noon. Join in the "Breath Wave" for 2- 20 mins. wherever you are and join in 3 main areas via internet
https://ibfbreathwork.org/member_event/global-celebration-of-breath/

See IBF EVENTS CALENDAR OF WORLD BREATHING DAY ACTIVITIES
Worldwide Calendar of Events:
https://ibfbreathwork.org/wbd2022-events/

LOCAL WBD EVENT SPONSORED BY:
Community Health and Environment Committee (CHEC), hosted by Councilwoman Elaine Williams & Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, IBF & CHEC Member

FOR WBD Come to
A FLASH-MOB 2 BREATHE & DANCE
Open mike on "Using our Breath for Inspiring Ideas to change the world & our community". Email if you want to speak. Ideas will be sent to the U.N.
6 - 7 P.M. EST
MEET-UP @ Capitol Heights Square
Faye Street & Capitol Heights Blvd.
Under the Tree near the Metro Station
[email protected]
202-667-2577

On March 8, International Women's Day we celebrate the amazing accomplishments of women around the world, that despite all of their challenges, still make their lives and those around them WORK. This years' International Women’s Day theme is #BreakTheBias Check the article https://thehoneycombers.com/singapore/international-womens-day-singapore-break-the-bias/#thehoneycombers.com/singapore/international-womens-day-singapore-break-the-bias/# for 8 ways to heal our own biases as women and what men can do also. Celebrate the power of women, because they are our Mothers, Sisters, Aunts, Counsins, our Wives and Friends. See the history of International Women's Day, that then became Women's History Month at
Wellness Article/Video of the Month

BLACK LOVE IS SELF LOVE & SELF CARE
This year's theme for Black History Month is Black Health and Wellness, as outlined by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), stewards of the annual Black History Month (BHM). As PositivEnergyWorks is always focused on the health and wellness of People of African Descent. We align with ASALH in celebrating this 200 year BHM anniversary as the challenges of mental health and wellness have been super-challenged by 3 years of covid pandemic illnesses, death, grief, fear and isolation along with economic hardships, racial and political tensions and a chaotic world filled with uncertainty. Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the visionary who saw the need to establish a time when Black People could celebrate themselves and their accomplishments, In this month, we also celebrate Black Love Day with it's 5 Black Love Tenets, a value system and opportunity for self-love and self care. BLD, as a more cultural and spiritual alternative to Valentine's Day aligns us with our historical Black Ancestors who made a way using Black Love to find joy, resilience and some inner peace, in the troubled waters of our history and again, today.

CLICK THE LINK TO: WHY CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH & ASALH'S Virtual Wellness Festival?
https://asalh.org/about-us/about-black-history-month/

BLACK HISTORY MONTH PROGRAM -Black Health and Wellness: Healing from the Trauma of the Many Pandemics"

This Sunday, February 27, 2022, from 5-7 pm. EST. via YouTube: Adaci Ancestors

Please tune in!!!! This will be a healing experience for adults and children of all ages. Let’s raise our vibrations and begin our healing process "

20 plus Healers, with AYO HANDY-KENDI, The Breath Sekou, founder, O.L.B. and Black Love Day will present a video that engages the audience to breathe using Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B.) techniques as a solution /healing modality to the traumas of our past and present.
TENDAI
[email protected]
Cell- 910-237-1497
home 910-425-0256

This BOOK FAIR and AUTHORS FORUM offers a wide range of genres from: Spirituality to Meditation, Architecture to Nutrition, History to Psychology, Eugenics to Novels, Memoirs to Mental and Physical Health and Healing to tributes to the Education Ancestors. We have it all at The 5th Annual Know Thyself Book Fair and Authors Forum. Including Ayo Handy-Kendi, Author of the Black Love Book and founder, Black Love Day and the 5 Tenets of Black Love .
Libations -Nana Malaya Rucker, Ancestorial Altar Explanation – Paula Coleman (Video), Ayo Handy-Kendi , Anthony “Tony” Browder, Ivy Hylton, Melvin Mitchell, Akmal Muwwakkil, Sankofa Bookstore and Café, C.R. Gibbs, Sabrina Johnson, Shantella Sherman, Everyone’s Place, E. Faye Williams, Nubia Kai, Meliek and Mehkhy Delaney, Richard Campbell, Sam Collins, Raymond Dugue (Video)
and Baba Oduno Tarik

THE WOODSON-BANNEKER-JACKSON-BEY “ORIGINAL” UNIA-ACL DIVISION #330
KNOW THYSELF 5th ANNUAL BOOK FAIR AND AUTHORS FORUM
Saturday, February 26, 2022
11:00am to 8:00pm

PRESENTED via ZOOM
MEETING ID: 883 6919 2155 PASS CODE: 592261
REMINDER TO PRESENTERS

One God, One Aim, One Destiny Race First
Co-Chairpersons of the UNIA-ACL Division #330 Education Committee

Laureen Butler – (202)841-2242 ljsbutler@gmail.com
Charles Butler – (202)317-1616 cbutler1950@gmail.com

Release difficult emotions, calm your nervous system & receive expansive new energies in the new year

The Shift Network's 3rd Breathwork Summit 2022, reveals the science, art, and power of full-spectrum breathing across a number of traditions and techniques. You’ll learn the history and science behind these practices, with time allotted to actually perform them under the guidance of experienced breathwork pioneers and practitioners.
Free Online Event
Breathwork Summit
February 7–11, 2022

I’m honored to be among more than 40 of today’s highly sought-after breathwork experts and teachers — including Richard Rudd, Rollin McCraty, PhD, Ayo Handy-Kendi, Professor Stephen W. Porges, Dr. Ela Manga, Giten Tonkov, Kathleen Booker, Dr. Katie Hendricks, Niraj Naik, and many other luminaries.
We’ll be sharing dynamic breathwork practices to help transmute trauma… awaken love and prosperity… energize your brain… and connect you with higher frequencies, helping you experience life as a more unified being.
This groundbreaking Breathwork Summit will reveal the science, art, and power of full-spectrum breathing across a number of traditions and techniques. You’ll learn the history and science behind these practices, with time allotted to actually perform them under the guidance of experienced breathwork pioneers and practitioners.

Black Love Day programs/ceremonies/events around the Globe

Akoma Days: Saint Louis. Contact: Johnson Lancaster <[email protected]>;

Official Black Love Day Greeting Card: Sala Damali* <[email protected]>;

Capitol Heights, Maryland, ClubHouse Sponsored Event, Fri, Feb. 11: Council Woman Elaine Williams [email protected]

Akoma Days Celebrations: Contact: Montsho & Nwasha <[email protected]>;

Minority Report TV <[email protected]>; Minority Report Live Stream on Thursday, Feb. 10th

Richmond, Virginia contact: [email protected] <[email protected]>;

Storyteller, Cultural Perform - Culture Queen <[email protected]>;

6th Black Love Day Celebration hosted by Live Holistically Balanced , Sat, Feb. 12, in collaboration with African American Holiday Association (AAHA) featuring founders Eliza Cooper and Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder, Black Love Day <[email protected]>;

Derek Hall <[email protected]>;

Pan Afrikan Leaders Series (PALS) Interview, Friday, Feb. 11 @ 9 a.m. EST Dr.Kevin Washington <[email protected]>; and Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder, Black Love Day

Black lOve [email protected] <[email protected]>;

9th Annual Atlanta Black lOve Event hosted by Baba Wekesa O. Madzimoyo <[email protected]>;

Daku Akasha <[email protected]>;

Annual Black Love Day activities at Roots Activity Learning Center c/o Dr. Bernida Thompson <[email protected]>

CLICK THE BEEBODI TALKS PODCAST AT YOUR LEISURE
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4b2apxyig5dY1uE0Rx3ZrH?si=BBYb9PoNQOqTE3SAVNQFFQ&dl_branch=1&nd=1

A BLACK LOVE DAY CALL TO ACTION TO COME TOGETHER IN THE NAME OF LOVE

to all Black Love Day Producers, Black Love Programmers, and Organizers/Interested Persons Who Want to Create a Black Love Day Event, Activity or Product

Nya Akoma is the greeting for Black Love Day, Feb. 13th. It means "be patient, get a heart and return to love" with the symbol of the Akoma (the heart) represented as the day's symbol. The Akoma is an Adinkra symbol of Ghanaian origin.

As the founder of Black Love Day (BLD) and the founder of the African American Holiday Association (AAHA) the organization that stewards BLD, I have been inspired to encourage all the Black Love Day organizers, event programmers, product developers and interested participants, to work together in 2022, collectively, under the concept "of unity in diversity" to build momentum for the 30th anniversary of Black Love Day, Feb. 13, in 2023.

BLACK LOVE DAY (BLD) is the 4th oldest commemorative African-American holiday (or wholyday) of observance, celebration, reconciliation, atonement and the demonstration of love, showing at least, 5 specific acts (Tenets) in 24 hours. The Tenets are: Love for the Creator, for Self, for Family, for the Black Community and the Race. Whites show "love in action" for Black people and inspect their own racial attitudes and behavior.

I, Ayo Handy-Kendi, the founder of Black Love Day, and the steward of this day through my non-profit AAHA was inspired by the Creator, while meditating, to create this concept in 1993. I am also the Author of the "Black Love Book, the definitive guide to the wholyday and anthology of Black Love". I.m so grateful for the growth of BLD, way beyond my imagination, however, I received a Spiritual message to put out a CALL TO ACTION TO COME TOGETHER IN THE NAME OF LOVE

BECAUSE OUR COMMUNITY NEEDS SO MUCH LOVE AND SUPPORT NOW, IN 2022, We really want to show solidarity and unity in our community, by promoting a collective calendar of ALL Black Love Day programs and activities. I.m. certain that through Ujima -collective work and responsibility- BLD efforts will build upon each other and we will make an even greater impact, at a time when Black Love is critical during these challenging times.

We have all of the 29th Official Black Love Day, 2022 themes, FLYER activities and press releases on the website, African American Holiday Association. The 29th year theme is "Finding Spiritual Joy Thru Black Love".

IF you PLAN TO HOST A BLACK LOVE DAY EVENT, please submit your announcement for our AAHA / BLD Collective Calendar, by January 27, 2022. A format for submission of your calendar announcement is as follows:

SUGGESTED FORMAT OF YOUR CALENDAR SUBMISSION (FOR UNIFORMITY)

NAME OF YOUR EVENT/ACTIVITY:

DATE OF YOUR CURRENT EVENT/ACTIVITY:

WHERE ACTIVITY LOCATED OR VIRTUAL:

2-3 LINE DESCRIPTION OF YOUR CURRENT EVENT/ACTIVITY:

CONTACT INFORMATION, I.E. name of event provider, website and telephone contacts

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HOSTED A BLACK LOVE EVENT/ACTIVITY:

1 LINE VISION STATEMENT OR GOAL OF YOUR "WHY" (DESIRE) TO RAISE THE VIBRATION OF BLACK LOVE by your event/activity:

IN SUMMARY:

Please EMAIL us your submission, asap, as we had hoped to have the calendar out by Dr. Martin Luther Kings Jr's Birthday , however, health challenges prevented me from furthering this agreed upon calendar compilation. If possible, now send in your submission by january 27, 2022 , in order to add your the listing of calendar events and activities to our AAHA website and to be mentioned in our promotional campaign. Also share this information to others who may be interested in participating in this collaborative calendar.

If you would like more information, please contact AAHA at 202-667-2577 during the hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you have already sent in your submission, we give thanks.

Let's show and share our Love together, in unity in diversity, as our community really needs us WORKING TOGETHER TO EXPAND BLACK LOVE TO OUR FAMILIES, COMMUNITIES AND THE RACE, IN ORDER ELEVATE EACH INDIVIDUAL EFFORTS OF SERVING OUR COMMUNITY, RETURNING IT TO Its ORIGINAL GREATNESS.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO CONNECTING WITH YOU AND SERVING THE DIASPORA WITH BLACK LOVE.

In the Spirit of the Akoma, Sekou Mama Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder, Black Love Day, founder, African American Holiday Association. (AAHA)
African American Holiday Association

Sit back and watch the premiere "re-play" of the 2021 Black Love Conference, Book Fair & 28th Black Love Relationship Ceremony with a host of guests, self-help knowledge, healing demonstrations, fun and closing us out with inspirational songstress, Rickie Byars, and the healing power of the Ritual of Reconciliation featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder of Black Love Day.

Premiering on Ayo Handy-Kendi YouTube Channel. Part I of 4 Links:
https://youtu.be/Rc2iWQjHx5c

Kwanzaa Calendar Link of Virtual Events in and around the D.M.V. compiled by The United Black Community (UBC) : https://www.canva.com/design/DAExYDY68eE/th3L1pEQkNpNka4htlzEzA/view?utm_content=DAExYDY68eE&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink

HABARI GANI - What's the News? HERE'S THE KWANZAA CALENDAR

2022 - THE YEAR TO EXPAND
Dec 21 is the longest day and shortest night and is celebrated as the Winter Solstice. Many of the year end wholydays were evolved from the ancient celebration of change of the seasons and the reduced light - a time considered for going within, reflection and the harvesting of crops for the long winter ahead. What do you want to gather for your winter hybernation? What seeds do you want to plant to be harvested at Springtime"? What way can you do to make your life easier, and to breathe easier through life". ?
We must Breathe Better to Live Better. There is power and PositivEnergy in the breath.
Let us help you re-gain your power. Breathe Better to live better.
MERI CHRISTMAS, HAPI KWANZAA, BLESSED NU YEAR

Motherland's Gold Moringa
https://www.buyblackmovement.com/Store/Products/Details/index.cfm?Product_ID=12212

Open your life NOW to the 100% natural plant source of 92 nutrients, that is Morniga. However, you use it, you will feel a benefit, quickly.

Motherland's Gold, Owner states: "We provide top of the line nutritional products for the Black community, through the Black Business Network (BBN) featuring the best nutrition available on planet earth: 100% pure, top quality Moringa Oliefera.".

SEKOU AYO ENDORSEMENT
"i.ve taken Moringa leaf for close to 20 years from many sources, However, this particular source, from Motherland's Gold, has proven itself for the last 5 years to be superior. You can smell it's freshness when you open the protective packaging. We use the powder in soup, smoothies, salads, and take the capsules on the run. We also love the moringa leaf tea and I.m excited about the new teas." I love this company, the product and that I.m supporting my community".

And Moringa is so nutritious, that if we had to live off of limited food, the 92+ nutrients could sustain life. I.m stocking up on the powder leaf".

CHECK OUT ALL of Motherland's Gold Moringa products, along with the many other products of the BBN PositivEnergyWorks (PEW) is an Affiliate of BBN . Your purchase helps support our work. Membership to BBN is free and you can affiliate with us and the BBN to earn and support.

MORINGA PRODUCT VIDEO
https://www.buyblackmovement.com/Store/Products/Details/index.cfm?Product_ID=12212

BBN as an Affiliate of PE.W
https://www.positivenergyworks.com/affiliate-opportunities.html

JOIN BBN TO ORDER: Referred by Ayo Handy-Kendi [email protected]
https://www.buyblackmovement.com/Join/

THANK YOU ANCESTORS, MUD MAN AND BROTHER OKERA RAS,
Stewards of International Breath Day supporting founder, Baba Paa-UR and Ayo Handy-Kendi

VETERANS DAY -NOVEMBER 11, 2020
HERE'S SOME BETTER WAYS TO HONOR OUR VETERANS &
UNDERSTAND THIS DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

click here;

https://www.almanac.com/veterans-day?trk_msg=U12FUTJT7R9KD7SEQH5CNM3GVG&trk_contact=0FGVJ9GI0BDUDTJ88PKI9QP00C&trk_sid=5CP0DM6VU6BPAQJKO9GO5MV3V0&utm_source=Listrak&utm_medium=Email&utm_term=Veterans+Day+2020+(read+more)&utm_campaign=Companion+Daily

2021 INTERNATIONAL BREATH DAY, Monday, Nov. 22

Every November 22nd, STOP AND BREATHE AND CELEBRATE OUR COMMON CONNECTION TO THE BREATH OF LIFE.

THEME THIS YEAR: "WE BREATHE FOR THOSE WHO CANNOT"

7.A.M. EST (Check your international time to be in alignment)
Guided Breath Experience with AYO HANDY-KENDI, THE BREATH SEKOU, FOUNDER O.L.B. & BLACK LOVE DAY.

7 P.M.EST (Check your international time to be in alignment)
Guided Breath Experience with Ayo Handy-Kendi, The Breath Sekou

INTERNATIONAL BREATH DAY, NOVEMBER, 22

Celebrate 'International Breath Day' on November 22nd. The 2021 theme is “Breathe for those who Can NOT.
Annually on November 22nd, express your gratitude for the sacred 'Breath of Life' and take part in 2 powerful global guided breathing exercises at 7 a.m. in the morning and 7 p.m. in the evening.. Come together where-ever you are, one breath at a time, to breathe in love, peace and unity in our diversity, especially BIPOC’s to cleanse negative energy, calm our lives along with the energy of the planet for our greater good, to comfort each other during these times, and to grieve for those whose breath has been taken.

HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL BREATH DAY, NOV. 22.
International Breath Day, November, 22, was created by Baaba Pa-ur, in 2005, by founder of the Soul Sweat which offered group healing sweat baths, purifications and breathing techniques in New York, and Pennsylvania. Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breathe Sekou, founder of PositivEnergyWorks, became aware of IBD in 2009 through her relationship with Brother Okera RAS, an early supporter of IBD and collaborated with Baaba Pa-ur to advance the IBD, yearly since supporting it.

Brother Okera is an Ancestor now, and this year, in his honor, PositivEnergyWorks, continues the legacy by advocating that on November 22, the world honors “the sacred breath of life”, instead of take it for granted.

HOW TO CELEBRATE IBD, NOV. 22
On this day, we encourage the world to place awareness to the African Proverb, that “everything that has life, has breath”. The Breath- one common denominator – this essential life force – can increase our life’s capacity or diminish it. Better breathing, better life and consciousness;   Limited breath - limits consciousness and restricts the quality of cellular activity, eventually creating ill-health and shortened lives..

On November 22nd, pay attention to every breath you take, and every breath you don’t take. Be mindful this day about your choices and how each choice, impacts your breathing – thereby impacting your life.
Happy breathing this day! Breathe Better – Live Better™…

Ayo Handy-Kendi, The Breath Sekou, founder Optimum Life Breathology™
www.PositivEnergyWorks.com
Ayo Handy-Kendi, with the permission of the founder, Baaba Paur, whose health is ailing, continues to promote International Breath Day.

BREATHE AND CONNECT HERE ON ZOOM : Ayo Handy-Kendi is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: 2021 International Breath Day, Nov. 22, 2021

Time: 7 A.M. EST    and 7 P.M. EST

Description: On November, 22, you are invited to come together to honor the "sacred" breath of life, combining humanities' collective energy to breathe in love, peace, and unity in our diversity, especially BIPOC's (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) at 7.am and 7 p.m. EST. Please check out your local time and zone for the ceremonial breathing alignment at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Join the zoom room 5-10 mins. prior to harmoniously start the ceremony exactly at the indicated times and stay for the talk-back

If you miss the alignment, continue to stay connected to yourself and others, by honoring your breath all day on Nov. 22. This year's theme: "Breathe for those Who Can Not"

Join Zoom Meeting BY COMPUTER OR PHONE:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83741252928?pwd=Z0lxS0Q3cUk5eW9jWE5xaWR1NjlVZz09

Meeting ID: 837 4125 2928

Passcode: 764952

One tap mobile
+13017158592,,83741252928#,,,,*764952# US (Washington DC)
+13126266799,,83741252928#,,,,*764952# US (Chicago)

Dial by your location
        +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
        +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
        +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
        +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
        +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
        +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
Meeting ID: 837 4125 2928

Happy breathing this day! Breathe Better – Live Better™…

WORLD VIDEO 2020 - WHERE IS THE LOVE BY BEP

Greetings Beloved,
We want to thank you for tuning in, participating and co-creating on this sacred journey. You have been an amazing contributor to this virtual community and we are looking forward to continuing to build this powerful relationship with you.
DAYS & TIME:
Every Sunday, Tuesday, & Thursday from 7am - 8:30am EST
Every Monday & Wednesday 7am - 7:30am EST
LOCATION:
LIVE On Zoom and streaming through Facebook & YouTube.
(LINK WILL BE PROVIDED IN CONFIRMATION EMAIL AFTER REGISTRATION)

Love Offerings!
Each session is FREE of charge. NOTE: Participants are encouraged to give a love offering to facilitators after each session, if they feel moved to do so.
NOTE: If you would like to send love offerings to facilitators after the each session, please feel free to send them here:
PayPal: SpiritofAWomanSOW
Zelle: [email protected]
________________________________
  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Tuesday, November 9th - "Breathe Away Holiday Stress for Real Peace on Earth”
Facilitated By: Ayo Handy-Kendi
. Holidays are promoted as special, family time, filled with "merriment", yet many people around the year-end holidays, find they are not so "merry" - filled with pressures, guilt, depressed, and filled with grief missing loved ones. In the early '80's, Ayo Handy-Kendi, identified behaviors that she coined as, "holiday stress syndrome" and spoke about the disconnection many feel, especially POC's, to the holiday period from Halloween (Oct.31) to New Years (Jan.1). Learn these 4 factors that create "holiday stress syndrome" and how to manage them for real peace on earth.
Come Early and On-Time as, we will breathe and visualize how you can make your holidays a time that is "joyful" for YOU and then discuss, why you might be feeling holiday stress, like many others and what you can do.

Wednesday, November 10th - "#WUETribe: Stories of Ascension"
Facilitated By: Shawnee Benton Gibson
Hey Wake Up Everybody Family! For over 450 days, we have had the pleasure of witnessing, showing up, speaking up, turning up and LIVING UP to our individual and collective commitments to mind, body and spirit transformation. We are an amazing community and this journey has just begun. In preparation for our 2nd anniversary in March 2022, we are planning to co-create a Wake Up Everybody (WUE) Anthology which is a book that will capture the authentic voices, stories and experiences of this community. During this session 30 minute session, Coach Shawnee Benton Gibson will begin the process of “mining” the stories that are part of the journey of the #WUETribe. Sooooooo, bring a pen, some paper and your MEMORIES to the space.

Share Your Memories Here!

Thursday, November 11th - "Self Love: Staying Above The Fray"
Facilitated By: Sheryl Glenn

What do you do to prepare yourself as the seasons change? How do you find and maintain your inner peace place during the months of the decline in sunlight? Are you returning to it easier with each season? Or is your inner peace place a faraway location to get back to? Let’s take a closer look at our tool chests and examine our practices.

  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Register Today for APower-Full Day of Healing & Transformation
Join Us for the VIRTUAL 7th Annual Mother Wit Conference

We invite you to join us on Saturday, October 30th, 2021, for this FREE event as the community gathers in VIRTUAL space from 9:30am to 4:00pm EST to engage in sharing, learning, releasing and healing at the 7th Annual Mother Wit Conference: "Reproductive Legacies: Birthing Wisdom From Across The Ages".

Experience inspirational panelists, workshops and presentations, as well as a Power-FULL keynote address from Dr. Joia Crear-Perry, Founder and President of the National Birth Equity Collaborative, which will co-create a powerful virtual space for community healing. Enjoy our signature, "Red Tent" Healing Space the night before on Friday, October 29th from 7:00pm - 9:00pm EST and again from 8:45am-9:30am EST on the morning of the conference to support mind, body, spirit release and restoration for women, men and families.
________________________________
In recent years, there has been a resurgence and a reconceptualization of rituals, traditions and practices that honor the power of the womb and the beauty of birthing. Birthing people from all walks of life have recognized the importance of returning to their roots and the need to give voice to the holistic aspects of conception, pregnancy and childbirth. This reawakening to the ways of our ancestors, is providing a gateway for Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) to have safe, culturally aligned and inclusive birthing experiences.

Whether they are doing home births, yoni steams, blessing ways or standing, kneeling or squatting while giving birth, BIPOC people across America have been restoring balance and order to their lives by creating sacred spaces, ceremonies and birthing plans that act as a bridge between the past, the present and the future.

During this year's Mother Wit Conference, we will “go back and fetch” the traditions and experiences of rites of passage that were stripped of BIPOC birth people and their communities. We will name and re-energize the traditional birthing practices of our ancestors to ensure that BIPOC have the final say about how, when and where their babies are brought into the world.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER________________________________

Conference attendees will be invited to co-operatively, compassionately and collectively share and explore how women and men navigate the mental, emotional and spiritual impact of infertility, pregnancy, infant loss and postpartum depression/psychosis. If you or someone you know may have been directly or indirectly impacted by infertility, miscarriage, pre-term labor, stillbirth, maternal morbidity, mortality and/or infant loss, we invite you to join us!
________________________________

EVENT & REGISTRATION INFORMATION

DATE: Saturday, October 30th, 2021

TIME: 9:30am to 4:00pm EST.

GENERAL ADMISSION:
This is a FREE event. Donations are welcome!

DONATE TODAY!

LOCATION: Zoom link will be provided upon registration.

NOTE: Please attend the conference from the Zoom app, not the web browser. Please be sure to download the most up-to-date version of Zoom on your device(s) to ensure the best experience.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER _______________________________________________

Event Schedule
Red Tent - Pre-Conference Covering 8:45AM - 9:30AM

Opening Ritual /Land Acknowledgment / Ancestral Call

Akwaaba To The Village (Welcome )

A Special Message from Dr. Joia Crear-Perry

Panel #1:"Birthing Wisdom Across the Ages"

Honorary Birth Workers

Workshop Offerings - @ 12 Noon to 1:05. Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou will facilitate a "Birthing BreathShop". We will inter-actively, explore 3 Breath Techniques for before birth to de-stress and create more oxygen for mother and child, breathing during labor; breathing for that final push and breathing after birth to support post-partum emotions. Breathing transformative tools will also be recommended to increase oxygenation for a more energized and healthy delivery.

Panel #2: "Youth Panel"

Playback Theater Performance

Closing Ritual

Red Tent - Post-Conference Covering_______________________________________________

  We Look Forward to Having You!

OUR STORY:

Daniel Titus Gbassagee is a native-born Liberian, who began in 2007 assisting orphans in Liberia. My husband John Davies 3 and myself, Ayo Handy-Kendi, aka Rosa Clary, met Daniel when we traveled to Liberia to share "Breathology" to traumatized teachers who had experienced the 14 year civil war in Liberia. Daniel was one of our tour guides, and as we traveled in a tight van around Liberia, he shared his goals, visions and aspirations of creating an orphanage center in Liberia, because he felt the pain of losing both his parents at age 8, killed in front of him during the bloody civil unrest and he empathized with other orphans.

SEE HISTORY OF LIBERIA: ttps://www.thoughtco.com/brief-history-of-liberia-4019127

We taught Daniel and over 400 teachers my modality "Breathology" which is the "art and science of breath awareness, the mechanics of breathing and the application of breath techniques to advance Spirit, Mind and Body which is excellent for trauma release and stress management. On the day before our departure, a teary eyed 23 year-old Daniel, asked us to be his parents and we agreed.

Despite our limited income as retirees who supplement our income through our breathology/wholistic health services, we, as his parents, have helped support Daniel complete college with a major in public administration; helped with medical expenses for Malaria bouts and injuries he sustained by a hit and run, motorcycle accident, and attempted to fund-raise for him to create an entrepreneur water project. We have helped him move 3 times, relocating him and the children he continues to take in.

When the Ebola crises hit Liberia, Daniel's sister, a nurse, died helping others, and Daniel took in her 4 children, which was the beginning of his vision for an orphanage in Liberia.

DANIEL'S CHILDREN, the name we gave to his caring efforts, has now expanded to 8 children whereby he has housed several orphans living off of the streets and orphans, whose mother recently died from COVID.

Currently, they live off of the agriculture of the land and our meager support.

SEE BELOW

CLICK ON THE DOWNLOAD BUTTON BELOW FOR COMPLETE PRE-REGISTRATION CHECKLIST OF INSTRUCTIONS AND APPLICATION to include the following FORMS & INFORMATION:

Breathology Certification Course Outline
Checklist for Coursework
Pre-Registration Form
Fees and Payment
(Note the "Early Bird" SAVINGS )
Participation Release Statement
Video Release Agreement

if you can not down- load Registration Materials feel free to Call and Request MAILING OF THE APPLICATION, EMAILING OR FAXING APPLICATION

6 Ways to Make COURSE PAYMENTS

1. PAYMENTS made by PAYPAL CREDIT CARD must include 3% CREDIT CARD FEE. Make at:

www.PayPal.com logging in
[email protected]

2. OR make Credit Card payment DIRECTLY over the phone : 202-667-2577,

3. Send payment by Cash App send to cash tag; $AyoHandyKendi
Include with registration fee a Cash App fee of $2.75% of payment

4. Payments of check or money order can be made payable to
PositiEnergyWorks,
Mail to the PositivEnergy Center
1311 Opus Avenue,
Capitol Heights, Maryland 20743

5. Pay by Zelle to Rosa E. Clary

6. Installment Payment Plan must be completed by date of course

WAIVER REQUEST OR REDUCED FEES REQUEST

Download Certification 2 Day In-Person Course

IWAKE UP EVERYBODY Series - SUNDAY, SEPT 19, 2021 7 a.m. Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou facilitating "The Power of the Breath to IGNITE PositivEnergy" 90 MIN BREATHSHOP
Come ready to breathe, move, shake, release and visualize Your higher vibrations for this full moon equinox. Sekou Ayo facilitating Relearn How to Breathe tm breath checking technique will help you feel your breath pattern, then coaches your adjustment to optimize your breath to optimize your life and positivEnergy.
How to Prepare for this class:

Rest well the night before and drink extra water;
Think of your intention that you want to see harvested in the months to come. Write it down if possible;
Join in early. Have water and tissue near-by;
Wear loose, breathable clothing; no spandex or polyesters;
Be prepared to be moved spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically, in this life-changing class.
MAKE SURE YOU REGISTER FOR THE CLASS ;

order to ensure that we reach more people and increase those powerful outcomes, we are requesting that ALL JOIN the Wake Up Everybody Community Facebook page, and spread the word by promoting the series within your networks.

Session Registration Link: bit.ly/wakeupmovement

All of the “Wake Up Everybody” Zoom Sessions scheduled on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays will begin at 7am and will be conducted for a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 1.5 hours. Zoom sessions scheduled on Mondays and Wednesdays will also begin at 7am and are conducted for 30 minutes. NOTE: Depending on the content, participation and flow, some sessions may extend 5 to 10 minutes longer than the scheduled time.

In Solidarity, The Wake Up Everybody Leadership Team

GLOBAL HARVEST FESTIVAL
"Raising Our Planetary Vibration"
SATURDAY, SEPT 18 FROM 12 P.M. - 3 P.M. EST

FEATURING
BREATH & SOUND EQUINOX VISUALIZATION BY
AYO HANDY-KENDI, THE BREATH SEKOU with
EARTH LOVE TUNE UP CREW (ELTUC), JOHN DAVIES 3 on DRUMS.

LIBATIONS, BREATHOLOGY: AYO HANDY-KEND I~ HEALING ARTISTS: MANIFEST RA ~ MUSICAL ARTISTS: MIKUA RAI ~ GLOBAL HEALING MEDICATION FROM FEATURED ARTISTS & HEALERS AROUND THE WORLD

FREE PLEASE REGISTER @
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/global-harvest-festival-raising-our-planetary-vibration-tickets-169705837729?keep_tld=1

The Inspiration Festival is a global 24 hour event to celebrate Breathwork. It is held twice a year in Spring and Autumn.

World leaders in Breathwork share their wisdom and Breathing Space Facilitators lead life changing workshops in an event like no other.
In this group we have regular updates about the Festival, interview snippets and of course conversations about Breathwork.

We would love you to interact and ask questions, but please no promotion of events.

More information and tickets for the Festival on
https://www.makesomebreathingspace.com/inspiration-festival

THE INSPIRATION FESTIVAL featuring a host of Breathworkers, BEGINS with Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou,
FRIDAY, Sept. 17 @ 7 p.m EST.

ASTHO Event featuring panelist:
Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou

The Way Forward: Sustaining and Amplifying Tobacco Cessation

Participation Details
September 9, 2021

2-4 p.m. ET

With FDA moving forward to ban menthol cigarettes and all flavors in cigars, now is an opportune time to strategize on smoking cessation through coordinated partnerships. Because tobacco addiction often runs parallel to coping with stress, it is important to discuss the intersection of cessation with new policy implications, as well as opportunities for healthy stress management. ASTHO will host a panel of experts to discuss opportunities and strategies for framing cessation messages in the wake of the menthol ban, the importance of integrating cessation strategies into behavioral health and substance misuse treatment facilities, and alternative stress coping mechanisms for individuals looking to quit smoking.
If you have a question you would like to see the panel address, please make sure you submit it when your register.

TagsWebinar
Participation Details Online registration for this event is now open.

Add to Outlook

Ayo Handy-Kendi facilitates "the Power of the Breath " Presentation to the MASTER MIND READERS GROUP for their Healthy Wednesdays, Wed, July 28 from 8 to 9 p.m. EST. Open to the Public and bring your health questions on breathing to "breathe better, live better". Call Stan Anderson, founder, Master Mind Readers, 917 968-0507

Today, jULY 27 @ 2- 3 P.M. esT, Learn Alternatives to COVID VACCINATION AND NATURAL WAYS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou. Hosted by COVID TIME-OUT on Zoom. D.C. Recovery Task Force. Get. details at 202-916-5592.

BREATHE AWAY BLOG by Ayo Handy-Kendi
last month we celebrated Juneteenth and now in July, the 4th of what I call "U-LIE". I learned this term from Rev. Ishakmusa Barashango from reading his books "Afrikan People and European Holidays: A Mental Genocide, Book 1 &11.
While the child in me just loves "fireworks", I yearly check in on my hypocrisy as I reflect on the true meaning of "freedom" and "independence". What are we really celebrating as millions of dollars go up in smoke? Many would say, "the freedom this country gained in 1776 in the Revolutionary War, but as Frederick Douglas said, "what to the slave is your 4th of July".

Yes, we all want freedom, but what is it really? The desire for "freedom" is perhaps the reason that we live our lives seeking this . So, is freedom a state of being....of achieving, living, loving and moving about, with ease. Is freedom, contentment, where I.m. moving without the strict and un-just limitations that box you in with restrictions. i looked and found this picture of John and I and I could see "freedom" in our contentment of that moment we took this picture. We had just performed at a Black History program and we felt "free" in the way it worked and I can see joy all over our faces and posture. Continued Breathe Away Blog

Stay connected:
Md. Parks & Planning has many virtual events and is opening up it's centers on July 12.. See their calendar. for assistance in scheduling an event contact;
Contact Us: Customer Service Help Desk Email Customer Service
Physical Address: 6600 Kenilworth Avenue, Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301-699-2255: TTY: 301-699-2544

Laughter Yoga - Virtual - 31534-411A

Add To Cart 31534-411A Laughter Yoga - Virtual 07/13/2021 -07/13/2021

TO SIGN UP:: Contact: Vanecia Davis, Program Specialist Phone: 301-449-0491; TTY 301-699-2544
Camp Springs Senior Activity Center, 6420 Allentown Road , Camp Springs, MD 20748

July 13, 2021 @11 - 12 Noon
FREE EVENT
It's a PlayShop -Laughter Yoga O.L.B. - Virtual - #31534- 411A with Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher & Leader

Laughter Yoga - O.L.B. style promotes the use of breathing activities in-between laughter exercises as a way to relax the body and mind. It boosts the immune system as well as exercises the diaphragm and abdominal muscles.

Join us for a morning of fun and relaxation. Breathing tips and Live music.

PositivEnergyWorks' primary offerings are:

Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B.) - Experience the "power of the breath" thru 15 applied breathology techniques and practices in Ayo;s system called Optimum Life Breathology (OLB). You will learn how to use breath techniques as tools for daily life, stress management and trauma reduction;
Relearn how to Breathe, is Ayo's first signature training modular which is a life-changing technique as the best foundation of life, health, work and longevity. Change your breath, change your life. Master your every-day breathing to master your life everyday.
Transcendence Breathwork - O.L.B. introduces Ayo's other, signature work Transcendence Breathwork (TB). O.L.B./ TB uses a connected breath and other transformative practices, for deep emotional release and quick transformation as breath accesses the sub-conscious of Spirit, Mind and Body. A 45 minute session has been compared to 2 1/2 years of talk therapy.
Sound Healing -Tune-up music to tune you "up" to tune you "in" to your highest vibration and frequencies, to advance your state of "being"
Laughter Yoga - O.L.B also introduces Laughter as a Breath Technique. Play, Breathe and Laugh along allowing this "best medicine" to bolster happiness and immunity.
Movement - Circulate critical oxygen and detox the body

Relaxation - Experience calm and stay calm with stress management practices and stress busters. Relaxed minds are productive minds. Breathology is minute to minute Yoga!
Life Coaching - Find your soul's purpose and be who you really are
Cultural Compentency - Know thyself to love ones' self and stay conscious with culturally sensitive services, programming and special events

Racial/Diversity/Gender Healing -Clear cellular memory to resolve tensions using O.L.B. practices.
Oxygen Enriched/Natural Products - O.L.B trains us in maximizing oxygen for best alkalinity for health and wellness. All natural products for an enriched life.

FATHER'S DAY SPECIAL - ENTIRE MONTH OF JUNE - SAVE 10 TO 20% OFF ON COURSES, SERVICES & PRODUCTS AS ANNOUNCED.
Pay Regular prices now, GET REBATE. OR PAY NOW, enjoy the savings and take sessions later.

Quarantine Resources

LINK TO Relax and Unwind

Capitol Height, Md is considered a food desert, but the residents are doing something about it. Come out, socially distance style, and celebrate the opening of a community garden, produce delivery,, the development of a food co-op and relax with breathology & yoga, as we welcome the spring. Spring into action and join us. Sponsored by CHEC.

PLANNING A VIRTUAL EVENT
SCHEDULING FOR 2021/22?
COULD YOU OR YOUR GROUP BENEFIT FROM REDUCED STRESS & TRAUMA?
The 2020 year focus will be "Reparations: Time to Heal the Trauma, Repair the Damage" & "Racism's Impact on the Health of Black People"

PositivEnergyWorks offers:

OUR NEWEST STORY PERFORMANCES
MAMA AYO HANDY-KENDI, The Breath Sekou, aka, Mama Ayo, the Storyteller, combines culture, history and wellness and makes them come alive with dramatic re-enactments, song, Negro Spirituals, breathology for emotional clearing with "talk-backs" to connect the dots to today's movements for equality or a diversity/healing training.

"Freedom Songs" follows a women's journey of enslavement and freedom and through her lens we view D.C. Emancipation Day, Juneteenth, Maryland Emancipation Day or customed to other emancipation days;

"Stolen" an all NEW, story performance which shares the story of 1619 through the lens of a captive women from Angola, who arrives with "20 or odd negroes", as the first Africans put into bondage in Virginia, over 400 years ago this anniversary year. Talk back or workshop focuses on the lingering consequences of slavery.

BREATH CIRCLES FOR RACIAL/DIVERSITY/GENDER HEALING is a full day training in 7 steps primarily with Transcendence Breathwork (TB) to release subconscious memory, to "wake-up" the root cellular trauma of racism, prejudice, oppression or any woundedness in need of healing with exercises of self-examination and meditative writing; TB includes breathology, cartharting movements, sacred sound, drumming, visualization/activations and more

WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA, RE-AWAKEN TO SELF-LOVE

CONSTANT FAVORITES
"POWER OF THE BREATH" is offered as a presentation, talk/demos or keynote, which exhibits several Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B) breath techniques, i.e. Sekou Ayo Handy-Kendi's signature, "Relearn How to Breathe" technique, the foundation of O.L.B., De-stress Breathing and the "Ha" breath, along with the awareness of better breathing; fun stress busters; sound healing; mindfulness; relaxation; and movement. Custom-designed for your unique group or for college students, seniors or organizations, we provide the perfect demonstration of how to breathe better to live better with applied breathology techniques for spirit, mind and body.

"It's a PLAYSHOP" offers a relaxation/destressing and wellnes session of aerobic exercises, fun, play, creativity, better breathing, moving and connecting. Stimulates imagination, creativity, team building, better breathing, many health benefits, exercise and fun.

"BREATH STORYTELLING" is a great way of teaching children the importance of breath which helps them be more empathetic to children with Asthma. Also, supports them in Asthma maintenance, health prevention and conflict resolution using the "power of the breath".

"BREATH & SOUND EXPERIENCES " provides relaxation and grounding as, sacred sound for ambience and backgrounds; Or vibrational healing with vocal toning for trauma, stress coping and for greater expression. Guided Breath visualizations/activations can direct contemplation, higher consciousness and motivation.

RITUAL OF RECONCILIATION as a ceremony of conflict resolution, forgiveness, atonement and Breath Visualization/Activation.

PositivEnergyWorks WITH YOU AND YOUR BUDGET.
Contact us, for questions and inquiries on our O.L.B. Services and Programs.

Let us custom design a program of services after we discuss your program goals. 202-667-2577 or [email protected]
(follow -up with a phone call to alert us of your call)

ARE PEOPLE BEING PUT ON VENTILATORS TOO SOON? CAN VENTILATORS CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE LUNGS?

Ventilators pump oxygen under pressure directly into the lungs via a tube inserted down the throat.
Pushing pressurised oxygen into the organs can cause them to become extremely inflamed.
They become irritated which triggers an aggressive immune response, resulting in the inflammation.
Very high levels of oxygen is also harmful because it increases free radical formation, leading to damaged membranes, proteins, and cell structures in the lungs.

Doctors normally circumvent this by making sure to keep pressure levels low and only administer as much oxygen is necessary to keep the organs supplied.

But, in patients who already have severely damaged and inflamed lungs, they can worsen the problem.
Inflammation can cause fluid from nearby blood vessels to leak into the tiny air sacs in the lungs, making breathing and getting oxygen to organs increasingly difficult.

see link below for more info
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8204459/Are-doctors-HARMING-coronavirus-patients-putting-ventilators-early.html

Pestilences Among Obstacles Endured By Black Women of Suffrage Movement
Stacy M. Brown Women's Suffrage Movement Pestilences Among Obstacles Endured By Black Women of Suffrage Movement
By Stacy M. Brown

EXCERPT FROM THE WASHINGTON INFORMER. Please Subscribe to D.C.'s Premiere Local Newspaper

This is part of an ongoing Washington Informer series about the Women’s Suffrage Movement and an initiative that includes Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes that will use the lens of history, the fabric of art and culture and the venue of the public square to shine a light into dark places, equipping all with a compass to chart the way forward. The initiative lives in the institutional home of the Washington Informer Charities.

The coronavirus pandemic comes on the heels of the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment that gave women in America the right to vote — fitting, since the women’s suffrage movement began by having to not only overcome opposition but pestilences.

One such disease was the typhus epidemic that hit the U.S. hard. That disease claimed 20,000 lives between 1847 and 1852.
By 1920, suffragists had to also deal with the Encephalitis lethargica pandemic, which killed 1.5 million people worldwide, and just two years before the ratification of the 19th Amendment, the Spanish flu wreaked havoc on the world, causing an estimated 100 million deaths between 1918 and 1920.

For suffragists, pestilences were just another obstacle, particularly for Black women. Women such as Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Maria W. Stewart, Henrietta Purvis, Harriet Forten Purvis, Sarah Redmond and Mary Ann Shadd Cary endured racism, sexism and, like the rest of the world, the onslaught of deadly viruses.

Yet they remained committed to fighting for women’s rights, and during the antebellum period, each was actively involved in advocating for women’s rights and suffrage.

According to an essay written by Sharon Harley for the National Park Service, following the 1848 women’s rights convention in Seneca Falls, New York, prominent free Black women abolitionists and suffragists attended, spoke, and assumed leadership positions at multiple women’s rights gatherings throughout the 1850s and 1860s.

In 1851, former slave Sojourner Truth delivered her famous “Ain’t I a Woman” speech at the national women’s rights convention in Akron, Ohio. Sarah Remond and her brother Charles won wide acclaim for their pro-woman suffrage speeches at the 1858 National Woman’s Rights Convention in New York City.

“Like white suffragists, African American women linked suffrage to a multitude of political and economic issues to further their cause and engaged in multiple strategies to secure women’s political and voting rights within and outside the organized suffrage movement,” Harley wrote. “At the same time, they combatted anti-Black discrimination in the southern United States and within the predominantly white national woman suffrage organizations.”

As preparations to observe the ratification of the 19th century likely will stall because of the coronavirus, many may note the various pestilences, disease and other obstacles that faced all in the original suffrage movement.

“Historians are relatively silent about the relationship between state-level women’s suffrage laws and local hygiene campaigns,” Grant Miller wrote for the U.S. National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health.Check out the new feature
on our website!

Please visit our Black Experience Channel at:
http://washingtoninformer.com/news/black-experience

Like The Washington Informer on Facebook!

Avaaz presents- INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2021
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A WOMEN DURING COVID 19,
www.facebook.com/watch/?v=4417794834904004

Dear friends,

What does it feel like to be a woman during Covid-19? It’s realizing the pandemic could set us back 25 years!

But we can help stop the clock rolling back. Two years ago, our video on International Women's Day reached over 7 million views -- helping mobilize Europeans to get out the vote.

Today, as world leaders decide where to spend Covid-19 recovery money, let's demand they invest in women and girls!

Share this video everywhere and make the call go super viral:

Or use this link:
https://secure.avaaz.org/IWD2021

History tells us that a global crisis can put the concerns of women on the backburner. Let this video show leaders -- we won’t let that happen. Not this time. We will fight for gender equality -- today, tomorrow, and forever!

With hope and determination,

Sarah, Fey, Nell, Nax, Luis and the whole Avaaz team

Avaaz is a 65-million-person global campaign network that works to ensure that the views and values of the world's people shape global decision-making. ("Avaaz" means "voice" or "song" in many languages.) Avaaz members live in every nation of the world; our team is spread across 18 countries on 6 continents and operates in 17 languages. Learn about some of Avaaz's biggest campaigns here, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

You became a member of the Avaaz movement and started receiving these emails when you signed "PAKISTAN FLOODS: STAND WITH THE PEOPLE!" on 2010-08-22 using the email address [email protected].
To ensure that Avaaz messages reach your inbox, please add [email protected] to your address book. To change your email address, language settings, or other personal information, contact us, or simply go here

WOMAN'S HISTORY MONTH INSPIRATION

YWCA USA action
On this International Women's Day, YWCA USA celebrates the achievements of women and girls around the world and reaffirms our commitment to gender equity. Throughout the day we've seen messages calling for the advancement of gender equity and lifting up issues that matter most to women.

Now, we need your help in demanding a more equitable world for all. Join us by urging Congress to protect survivors and end gender-based violence:

Action #1: Tell Congress to Pass the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2021
This week, the U.S. House of Representatives will introduce the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2021! VAWA is critical, lifesaving legislation that maintains safety protections important to all survivors, particularly women of color and other marginalized communities. This bill also makes modest, but vital, improvements to provide the resources critical to supporting all survivors and their needs. Join us by telling your Members of Congress to cosponsor and pass the bipartisan VAWA!
Action #2: Tell Congress We Need a VOCA FIX
Today also marks the introduction of the VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Act (VOCA Fix) - an urgently needed solution to fund services for survivors of gender based violence. The Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) is the largest source of federal funding for domestic and sexual violence services in the country, aiding countless families and assisting service providers in providing life changing services and support. Unfortunately, drastic VOCA funding cuts are leaving providers without the financial resources to meet needs in their communities. Tell Congress, it's time to appropriate additional funding and enact the necessary fixes to ensure the long term stability for survivors! Pass the Sustain the Crime Victims Act today!

By uniting our voices in this call to action - especially during International Women's Day - we can shine a spotlight on gender-based violence and advance YWCA's mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

Join us in taking action today! Sincerely,--Pam Yuen

Ms. Sarah's Wedding Dress

Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou is also reknown as Mama Ayo, the Storyteller. Take a women's history journey with her one woman story-performance that shares an enslaved women's determination to marry before her community and wear the wedding dress that her white mistress makes for her as they both rebel against the times.
Re-broadcast from the Smithsonian's Take it Easy Thursdays, NOW

POSITIVENERGY WEDNESDAY'S SPECIAL RE-PLAY
WITH TALK BACK & VISUALIZATION SESSION

March 24 from 12 NOON - 1:30 P.M.
See LINK BELOW

How to Recover From Covid-19 at HomeRest and fluids are essential, but not always enough. Here are some more things you can do to feel better.

Credit...Mjrodafotografia/Getty Images
By Maggie Astor

May 27, 2020

Getting infected with Covid-19 is a frightening, isolating experience. But as more people endure it, the community of survivors is growing — and with them comes better guidance.
My husband and I got sick from the coronavirus in late March. We had so-called mild cases, meaning only that we weren’t hospitalized: In fact, we were sicker than we had ever been. Because we could breathe fine, we knew we weren’t supposed to go to the hospital. But what were we supposed to do?

The standard advice — rest, fluids and fever reducers — was and is essential, but at times it felt inadequate to the severity of the illness.

As we recovered, I spoke with many friends, colleagues and internet strangers going through similar ordeals. Here is some collective wisdom on how to manage noncritical cases of Covid-19.

When to get help

First, of course, you need to be confident that your illness can be managed at home. Most cases of Covid-19 can be. But if you develop any symptoms on this list, including trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, an inability to wake or stay awake and/or bluish lips or face, seek emergency care.

Some people will have relatively mild symptoms at first and then become more seriously ill. These patients are likely to develop shortness of breath four to eight days after their first symptoms, and “that’s really where people should start paying attention,” said Dr. Pieter Cohen, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School and an internist at the Cambridge Health Alliance who was co-author of an article about the progression of Covid-19 symptoms.

If the shortness of breath worsens from day to day, Dr. Cohen said, that’s a sign to call your doctor. Less commonly, patients with low oxygen levels may experience dizziness or lightheadedness instead of shortness of breath, so keep an eye out for that too.
Otherwise, read on.

What you’ll need

If you’re reading this while healthy, buy basic supplies now, including a thermometer, acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and rehydration drinks like Pedialyte.

A pulse oximeter can sometimes be helpful, both in flagging severe illness and in reassuring you of the opposite, my colleague Dana Goldstein says: If you feel short of breath but your oxygen level is normal, you may be able to avoid the hospital. (You should still contact your doctor.)

If you’re sick and don’t have supplies, see if a friend can pick them up for you, or if a grocery store or bodega will deliver. (Tip well!) Either way, avoid contact: Whether it’s a friend or a delivery person, have the bag left outside your door, and don’t open the door until the delivery person is gone.

Prescriptions can help

Over-the-counter drugs may not be enough. In particular, the coughing and nausea caused by Covid-19 can be severe enough to warrant prescription medication.

For my husband and me, benzonatate (for the cough) and promethazine (for the nausea) were lifesavers. Some colleagues were prescribed codeine-based cough medicine or Zofran. If you feel you might need them, ask your doctor about medications sooner rather than later. Don’t wait until you’re doubled over coughing or can’t keep anything down.
If you don’t have a primary care doctor, some urgent care clinics offer virtual appointments, and some pharmacies offer prescription delivery.

Ease your breathing

Dry air can exacerbate some symptoms such as coughing and chest tightness. If you have a humidifier, use it. If not, a hot shower works.

Several readers reported that they felt better when they lay on their stomach. A woman in Britain whose partner was sick for several weeks told me that a particular breathing exercise helped him:

You take a deep breath, hold it for 5 seconds and release. Do that 5 times, then on the 6th time on the release, cough hard. Do that cycle twice, then lie on your front and take slightly deeper breaths for 10 minutes. Try to do it a couple of times a day. SEE BOX BREATH INFO in article by Dr. Philippa Wheble below.
In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe an albuterol inhaler to reduce your cough and ease your breathing.

Monitor your symptoms

As soon as you get sick, start a detailed log. Every time you take your temperature — do it several times a day, at consistent times — log it. Every time you take a pill, log it. Every time you eat or drink, log it. If one symptom resolves or a new one develops, log it.

As my colleague Eliza Shapiro noted in a Twitter thread worth reading in full, this creates a detailed record to take along if you end up needing medical attention. It also helps you stay on top of your care.
Can I take more cough medicine yet? How long have I had this fever? Is it a little lower than it was yesterday? You won’t be able to keep these things straight while shivering in bed, but a spreadsheet can.

Mental health matters

Having Covid-19 is intensely stressful. It’s not unusual to feel depressed or anxious, or to have panic attacks. Don’t be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about your mental health — it’s just as important as your physical health.
Derek Norman, a news assistant at The Times, says that in the worst moments of his illness, when he felt short of breath and panicky, he would sit upright, focus on breathing steadily and picture a vivid memory.
I’d close my eyes and picture the exact details of a scene I had once experienced, and I’d completely immerse myself in that memory. Something like sitting at an outdoor cafe in Morocco. I’d try to recall the sounds of street life and the dry desert air on my skin, or the smell of the spices, hookah and exhaust swirling in the air. Very, very specific details that I look back fondly on. I’d continue to slowly breathe through it.

Tim Herrera, our Smarter Living editor, emphasized fresh air. That can be hard to come by safely when you’re contagious, but even if you live in a crowded area with no private outdoor space, it can help to open a window.

It’s also OK to not be OK. You don’t have to handle this “well,” whatever that means. You just have to get through each day. So go ahead and cry, binge Netflix, do a jigsaw puzzle, reread the entire “Animorphs” series — whatever gets you through the day.

Don’t expect a linear recoverySome people have mild symptoms for the first few days and then suddenly get sicker. Some have fevers that go up and down repeatedly. Some are sick for two weeks straight, then have a few symptom-free days, then relapse. Some have lingering symptoms for months.

This is both maddening and very common. Give yourself as much time to rest as your job and financial situation will allow. For me and for several colleagues, that meant nearly three weeks of sick time.

Since tweeting about my experience last month, I’ve received many emails from people in the “this will never end” phase. I share the same screenshot with all of them: a text I sent to a friend on April 5.

“Why do I even bother giving good news when it’s only going to last a few hours?” I wrote. “I’m just so tired of this. I don’t know how to keep dealing with it.” Every day, more people will hit that wall — and every day, more people will find their way past it. They will feel alone, but they won’t be.

Sarah Maslin Nir contributed reporting.
Maggie Astor is a political reporter based in New York. Previously, she was a general assignment reporter and a copy editor for The Times and a reporter for The Record in New Jersey. @MaggieAstor

A version of this article appears in print on May 29, 2020, Section A, Page 4 of the New York edition with the headline: How to Get Through Covid-19 at Home. Order Reprints | Today’s Paper | Subscribe

Racism Causes Life-Threatening Conditions for Black Men Every Day

Shervin Assari
The National Interest, June 2, 2020, 12:00 AM EDT

High-profile police shootings and deaths of black men in custody – or even while out jogging – bring cries of racism across the country. The May 25 death of George Floyd by a white police officer in Minneapolis and the shooting death of Ahmaud Arbery in Brunswick, Georgia on Feb. 23, 2020 by a white father and son have resulted in outrage and protests in cities across the U.S.
But, as a public health researcher who studies the effects of racism on the health of black men, I have found that the life-and-death effects of racism in the U.S. go far beyond police shootings. I also have found that, while racism harms many groups of people, black men are paying the highest cost.

As a result of racism, and associated poverty and injustice, life expectancy at birth of black men is 71.9 years, far bellow white women (81.2), black women (78.5), and white men (76.4). These are mainly because of black men’s higher risk of dying from several types of cancer, stroke, HIV, and homicide.“ Despite overall declining numbers of homicide in the U.S., homicide remains the number one cause of death for black males 10 to 24.

My research and that of many others strongly links these deaths and poor physical and mental health outcomes in general to racism. For black men in the U.S., racism is a daily experience that harms their health and leads to chronic disease and poor health. About 66% of blacks report high levels of day-to-day racial discrimination.

One example is being turned down for a job (as opposed to being treated differently on the job. On average, each black youth faces one major discriminatory experience each year. Discrimination is a major risk factor for health problems across the board, as shown by reviews.

There are also blocked opportunities for black men and other types of discrimination that are less frequent but very consequential, also called major discriminatory events. Combined, these discriminatory experiences make living harder and shorter for black men than for other race by gender groups. While discrimination is known to be a risk factor for premature death, heart disease, depression, and suicide, we know black men experience discrimination more than other groups, including black women.

As an associate professor of family medicine at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, a historically black medical school, I study how racism affects racial and ethnic minority people, particularly black men. My studies have shown that discrimination and racism are root causes of depression, anxiety, substance use and suicide, as well as poor physical health.
Education does not save black men

In a recent study, I found that sense of mastery, which refers to people’s ability to take control of their life, could reduce psychological distress for black women. For black men, however, high levels of mastery were not enough to reduce psychological distress.

In another study, I compared black men and black women for the effect of their educational attainment on their depressive symptoms and psychological distress. I analyzed data of 3,570 black adults (2,299 females and 1,271 males) and found that education protects black men less than it protects black women from depressive symptoms and psychological distress. That means black men are at risk of depressive symptoms and psychological distress at all levels of educational attainment. That is, their success is not enough to reduce their depression and distress.

As all these studies have used nationally representative data. Thus, the results are generalizable to the U.S. people. They all show a pattern called diminished returns of economic and non-economic resources for black men. Although they are also seen for other race by gender groups, they are most pronounced for black men. As a result of these diminished returns, black men who have high levels of aspirations and motivation to get to the top of society still get sick, feel unhealthy and die early.
In other words, as long as U.S. unfairly treats black men, their very same resource would fail to protect them, so they show systemically poor outcomes, regardless of their status in the society.

Again, these are not limited to, but worst for, black men.

Racism in health care
Even the U.S. health care system treats black men worse than black women. This includes receiving a lower quality of health care compared to whites, and even black women. Such discrimination deteriorates their ability to manage their disease, so they develop worse outcomes and get sicker.

One of my papers shows that white men have a specific role in this. My work shows that anti-black bias is highest in white men than white women. This is very concerning because white men have the highest level of power in law, politics, police and many other institutions in the U.S. These all mean that odds are not in favor of black men.

Recent shootings of black men, either by police, or others, also shows that black men are specifically targeted by white men, the group which also is in charge of law and order. These all are examples of how social structures and biases cause poor health among black men.

Money doesn’t improve health for black men
Several of my studies have documented high risk of depression in black men and boys of high socioeconomic status. These studies shows higher, instead of lower, risk of depression as a result of socioeconomic mobility in the US.

One explanation for this is that they pay a very high price for their ticket to the top of the society. This journey also opens their eyes to the real inequalities that exist in the U.S. society.

In another study among black boys, high income increased the risk of depression, suggesting that high-income black boys are more, not less, depressed than low-income black boys. In yet another study of mine, 25 years’ follow-up of American adults showed that high education actually increases depressive symptoms of black men over time. I did not see this pattern in white men, white women or even black women.

In another study, I found that white men gain most life expectancy from their employment. The gain was smaller but still considerable for white women and black women. Black men, however, died earlier, regardless of their employment.
Thus, in today’s U.S., racism is a root cause of poor health of black men. Given the societal structure, personal assets and ambitions such as advanced education, income and employment do not insulate black men from the racism of the American society they live in. In fact, these assets increase the likelihood of black men to be discriminated.

Many studies have shown that racism, discrimination, prejudice and related environmental stressors have a more prominent role in causing anxiety, depression, substance use, and poor physical health of black men than black women.
Questions we should ask ourselves as a society

I end up this conversation with a few questions for my fellow Americans. How on earth can social mobility make the lives of white Americans easier, but not for black men? Why should social status increase rather than decrease black men’s exposure and vulnerability to discrimination? Why, for whites, does discrimination vanish if people attain high levels of success, but for black men, discrimination increases as they move up the social ladder? Why does success increase discriminatory experiences of black men?

Racism, however, is bad for everyone’s health, not just black men. It is just bad in a different way. Everyone dies sooner in a racist community. This is partially because societal inequalities increase people’ vulnerablities, even the most privileged ones, as a I explained in another piece.

[Get the best of The Conversation, every weekend. Sign up for our weekly newsletter.]

Shervin Assari is an Associate Professor of Family Medicine at the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Image: Reuters
Read the original article. The Daily Beast

GET THE ENTIRE BACK STORY ON FREDERICK DOUGLAS' MOST TIMELY SPEECH. READ THE ENTIRE DOCUMENT IF YOU HAVE NEVER READ IT BEFORE. THIS 1852 SPEECH SOUNDS LIKE TODAY.
https://www.nbcnews.com/think/opinion/what-american-slave-your-4th-july-frederick-douglass-1852-speech-ncna888736

ENTIRE SPEECH
https://www.thenation.com/article/archive/what-slave-fourth-july-frederick-douglass/

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST OF DAY 5 OF THIS SPEECH
BY AfroEconomics with JB Bryan
https://www.facebook.com/AfroEconomics/videos/297000071436259/?v=297000071436259

Press Contact: Monique McDougal
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The Black Community Gets a new, Innovative Online Platform:
A Beacon to Support Black Unity, Healing, and Solutions

Dr. Mawiyah Kambon

Therapists
Now there is an innovative new platform where Black people get to engage in culturally-rooted, interactive activities, self-guided healing programs, expert-led webinars, and insightful quizzes. BlackTherapyCentral.com (BTC) is a digital platform bringing a novel approach to mental wellness in Black communities. It is the only online therapy platform that is African-centered and designed for the Black experience. On BTC users and African-centered Black therapists and wellness professionals can connect in a variety of ways through programs in-person sessions, or secure virtual consultations.

BTC is at the forefront of a new awakening in Black mental health, leading millions of Black people to embrace therapy and its role in overall wellness. "We carry within us generations of our people, our ancestors.... Other people's therapy is not for us but, African-centered therapy encourages that spirit-Self within you, to guide you personally and us collectively," stated Dr. Mawiyah Kambon, BlackTherapyCentral.com co-founder.

Black therapists and wellness professionals from around the U.S. launched BTC in October 2019. The African-centered mental health service quickly engaged thousands beginning in April. BTC promotes wellness through free membership access to stress relief programs, an active directory of vetted, licensed therapists, and engages the global Black community through a dynamic brand of healing support. BTC galvanized global healing solutions when its therapists recently sprang into action to host the Global Black Community Online Townhall Meeting: Unity, Healing and Solutions for COVID-19 and Beyond. The successful event had 1900+ participants and panelists from 37 countries addressing issues about health, economics, politics, and more.

"We are in this fight, but it is not just a physical one to stay healthy from COVID-19...psychological warfare is part of this," said BTC advisor and member, Dr. Jamila Codrington, NY-based, licensed psychologist. "We want to be able to reclaim our self-determination." As a solution, BTC immediately rolled out the 10-Day Healing Journey. This free online program is a multi-sensory Black healing experience created with unique culturally themed affirmations, offline activities, guided meditations, curated visuals, and music selections.

As a result, hundreds have shared the overwhelmingly positive impact the Journey has had on their lives. "I didn't know Black therapy is so different. This has been so good, I got my whole family involved, parents, siblings, children, everybody," shared Journey participant, Damon from New York. With the program's progressive approach, it is hard to believe there used to be a stigma attached to getting therapy.
July is Black Mental Health Awareness Month. Because that fact is little-known, BTC is springing to action again to spread the word. BTC will ramp up to provide support against the onslaught of global challenges affecting Black people.

"The ongoing global racism and genocide against the Black community has traumatized us whether we consciously feel it or not... We created Black Therapy Central to call our people together to heal ourselves and ultimately heal the world," stated Dr. Kambon.

BTC welcomes new therapists to get involved and join the platform to connect with people seeking therapy. Individuals who want to engage can also visit: www.blacktherapycentral.com
###
Black Therapy Central (BTC) is an online platform that provides a variety of Black culturally-rooted interactive activities, webinars, self-guided healing programs, and quizzes. A group of Afrikan-centered psychologists launched it because they believe that Black people deserve safe spaces to heal from collective trauma and damaging personal experiences. Visit: blacktherapycentral.com

Garvey’s Whirlwind; Watts’ and Ferguson’s Fire: Signs and Obligations of Our Times By Dr. Maulana KarengaAugust 21, 2020Dr. Maulana Karenga, Marcus Garvey Share You Are Here: Home » Commentaries/Opinions » Dr. Maulana Karenga » Garvey’s Whirlwind; Watts’ and Ferguson’s Fire: Signs and Obligations of Our Times

By Dr. Maulana Karenga --

Part 1: In our awesome and exacting history in this country, the month of August is a time of remembering and recommitment to prophesies, promises and practices of whirlwind and fire. Indeed, it is good to remember and reflect deeply on the fact that, as a people, we were born, baptized and built up in the transformative waters, whirlwinds and fires of righteous and relentless struggle for liberation and inclusive good in the world. It has been a historic, heavy and ceaseless striving to free ourselves, be ourselves and create conditions for us and all to live lives of dignity, decency, development and flourishing. And now in this time of the pandemic COVID-19 and the ongoing pandemic and pathology of oppression, of police violence and vicious systemic racism, we find ourselves pushed against another wall and defiantly pushing back in countless ways. Indeed, even when we do not realize it, we are the whirlwind and fire, the ongoing source and instructive symbol of critical transformative struggles in this country and the world.
It is our honored ancestor, the Hon. Marcus Garvey, founder of the largest and most far-reaching movement in our history as African people in this country, who gave us the sign and obligations of the whirlwind. And it is the Watts Revolt, the Ferguson Revolt and all the revolts in our history which preceded them that gave us the sign and obligation of fire. Garvey had said he would fight for African redemption and liberation until his death and afterwards return “in the whirlwind and storm” with other ancestors to continue the struggle and win the unfinished fight for freedom. And thus, the message and meaning of embracing and becoming the whirlwind is key to our understanding and honoring Garvey’s legacy.

Likewise, the revolts in Watts and Ferguson and all our revolts from the Holocaust of enslavement onward were pushed forward by the symbol and unmistakable message and meaning of fire, the fires of freedom and resistance. And thus, I want us to understand these images and meanings of whirlwind and fire as transformative forces. I want us to see the whirlwind as a stirring and rising of our people, a strong and sweeping wind against the evil, unjust and oppressive and as the thunderous roar and force of our people lifting themselves up in righteous anger and self-assertion in the interests of African liberation, human good and the well-being of the world. And I want us to perceive fire as a cleansing force, a testing and tempering force. Also, as Malcolm taught, we are to see fire as a symbol and sign of revolutionary change. Revolution, he said, is like a forest fire, burning and removing the dead wood and rot and allowing new growth and possibilities to emerge.

Moreover, I want to argue that Garvey’s return depends on us and that we are and must be the whirlwind of return as he prophesized and promised. And we are the fires of revolt and resistance, not only of Watts and Ferguson, but of and for all our ancestors who prophesied and promised freedom, if we dare to struggle and dare to win. In this way, they return in us, those freedom warriors who taught us dignity-affirming, life-enhancing and liberating ways to live our lives, do our work and wage our struggles.

Again, rightly understanding ourselves, we are the whirlwind and cleansing fire of our ancestors. When the Yoruba ancestors named their children babatunde, father has returned, and iyatunde, mother has returned; it was a sign that they saw and felt their father’s and mother’s return in their child. And it could be the grandparents or great grandparents going further back in history, in a word, our ancestors who they believed were returning.

Today at this and all other critical junctions in our history of struggle, we are called on to be babatunde and iyatunde – our forefathers and foremothers – in a word, our ancestors returned. And in this month of the Hon. Marcus Garvey, we must invite him back in the sacred ceremony the Zulus call ukubuyisa, bringing our ancestors back home. It is a sacred ceremony of remembrance and rejoicing, of raising up one among us who lifted up the light that lasts, our spiritual and moral principles, and taught us dignity-affirming, life-enhancing and world transforming and preserving ways to walk, live and relate in the world.
In a real and meaningful sense, we are all babatunde and iyatunde at our best, embodying the best of our forefathers and foremothers, doing so in thought, emotion, speech and practice of good in and for the world. This is the meaning of the Kemetic Maatian declaration which reaffirms our remembering and honoring them and committing ourselves to carry on their legacy. It says that they will always be for us “a glorious spirit in heaven and a continuing power on earth. They shall be counted and honored among the ancestors. Their name shall endure as a monument. And what they’ve done on earth shall never perish or pass away.”

Garvey taught us we must know and honor our history. It is, he taught, “too important to be left in alien hands.” Furthermore, he taught “history is the landmark by which we are directed in the true course of life.” Indeed, he taught that our history tells us of our potential based on our past achievements and assertions of excellence in the world. For he said, “What humans have done, humans can do.”

In addition, Garvey tells us we must also study, analyze and know the conditions of our lives in order to change them. He tells us we are living in the most dangerous and difficult times ever, for we live in a world, not only of domination, deprivation and degradation, but also a world of deep and pervasive deception. He says, “We are face to face with (conditions) in a civilization that is competing with itself for its own destruction, a civilization that cannot last because it has no spiritual foundation; a civilization that is vicious, crafty, dishonest, immoral, irreligious and corrupt.” Indeed, then as now, it is a world system dominated by racists, colonialists, imperialists and genocidists whose gods are weapons, power and profit.

Garvey believed this world system of greed, viciousness and violence against us, others and the earth itself, will fall and forfeit its future on the altar of self-destructive practices. But he believed also its timely end will be achieved by our righteous, relentless and victorious struggle against the hypocrisy and hellish character of the system. And thus, as whirlwind and fire, we cannot let it stand, cannot immorally concede, compromise and simply seek a comfortable place in oppression. Indeed, he says, “We who are endeavoring to get freedom must be radical,” for the conditions of our oppression and the requirements to end it demand nothing less.

Moreover, Garvey understood that our sacred mission of liberating Africa and Africans everywhere was a world-encompassing task, which is authentically pan-Africanist and vitally human. For he knew that Africa and Africans can’t be truly free in an unfree world. That is why he said, “The whole world is my province until Africa is free.” In a word, then as our foremother, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune would teach, “Our task is to remake the world. It is nothing less than this.” Indeed, it is the ultimate solution to both African and human liberation.

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: It's Voting Rights Month! From September 1st - October 6th, the anniversary of Fannie Lou Hamer's birthday, we're educating about voting rights and encouraging voter registration, early voting, poll worker recruitment, and ensuring everyone who's intending to vote by mail if they're not in a state that automatically mails you a ballot must request your ballot no later than September 22nd.

We will send out a special Transformer newsletter with ALL the videos, including workshops, from our week of August Voter Justice Week of Activities. This will include the August 3rd TeleTown Hall; the National Summit and all its workshops and the August 6th programming and march; the publicly available August 2020 Gen Z and Millennial Votes Matter Leadership Training videos; and, a lot more!

To see these videos before anyone else, subscribe to our YouTube channel or Follow us on Facebook:
Click here and subscribe to us on YouTube. Our channel is about to become a lot more active and we don't want you to miss a thing!Like the Transformative Justice Coalition on Facebook. Don't forget to put "See First" so you don't miss a thing! We post frequently!
Join the #VoterInfo #OurMarchToVote
VOTING RIGHTS MONTH
Twitter Town Hall Storm

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM Eastern Time
Friday, September 4th
We are back with weekly Twitter Storm Town Halls, every Friday at 3:00 PM!

Today we are educating about the importance of Voting Rights Month, September 1st - October 6th: What is it and how do you get involved?
For those not on social media, you can participate by forwarding this to your networks and by reading the information starting on page 2 and talking about it with 3 people.
To Retweet/Share or to see past social media events:
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To Tweet out the premade tweets and graphics yourself:

The resources available by clicking the button below are for your social media teams, or for individuals who would like to send out the tweets themselves, including instructions on how to participate from any social media platform.
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BREATHE AND COPE THRU THE DIVIDES, THE ELECTION AND AFTERMATH

50 year+ Organizer and Breathologist , founder of Black Love Day Launches a Love in-Action Call for 100 Leaders to Breathe in a New Solution to Heal the Divides as White Supremacy Elevated as Domestic Terrorism and Election Chaos Threatened

by Rashida Thomas, publicist for Ayo Handy-Kendi     For Immediate Release

As protests swirled again at the end of October after questionable deaths of 2 Black Men, hundreds are back in the streets demanding justice. But protests over the fatal death of 27-year-old Walter Wallace Jr.in Philadelphia and Karon Hylton, 20 in Washington, D.C. turned violent almost immediately. Granted, people are beyond anger, some taking out their frustrations by looting but burning, rioting and actual violence, may be the result of hate infiltrating peaceful protests turning them violent, according to the September Threat Assessment report of Homeland Security..

While Trump calls the peace protestors “thugs” he knows they are anarchist, anti – government and organized white supremacist groups, known by the FBI. This report further documented that Trumps’ 4 years of polarizing rhetoric and behavior had spiked white supremacist memberships by 55% and had stroked and emboldened nation-wide racial incidents involving the police. It concluded, white supremacy as the #1 U.S.A. “domestic violence threat”

With the Nov 3rd election here, there are calls for white supremacist actions that could rip this country apart, no matter who wins. People fear intimidation and race wars but are gearing up.

Ayo Handy-Kendi , a native Washingtonian, internationally reknown as the Breath Sekou and the founder of Black Love Day, has 50+ years of social justice organizing and breathology experience on the front-line with solutions for pro-peace and anti-violence. She saw the “reckoning of racism/white supremacy coming for years. So after the May protests, in the wake of the police state execution of George Floyd, she became re- inspired in seeing the outpouring of youth and diversity, and redesigned and relaunched an on-line, solution --BREATH CIRCLES FOR RACE, DIVERSITY AND GENDER HEALING™

Now, she is CALLING for 100 courageous people “put love in action to take the 3 day intensive course and certify as one of the first BREATH CIRCLE LEADERS;

Experience this 7-step practice and group model of diversity and de-escalation training

Take personal responsibility to put love in action to reconcile hate with simple, yet transformative tools and breathology;

Unpack systemic racism and unconscious biases using the deep sub-conscious for shifts of the heart and mind;

Move from anger, rage, pain to peace; quilt, shame, privilege to empathy, separation to tolerance; connection and peace;

Gain strength through release, truth and reconciliation;

Become a committed activist or ally working the steps for critical self care to heal themselves of race trauma.then share the steps within families and communities for a domino mass impact;

The 100 LEADERS LAUNCH” is scheduled for November 6-8 and December 4- 6, 2020.  New courses are tentatively scheduled for the 3rd weekends of 2021.

Handy-Kendi's unique, solution-based system of breath techniques and transformative practices, called Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B). includes her signature techniques, Transcendence Breathwork™ and Relearn How to Breathe™.  She has breathed with millions over the media and certified over 165 persons in O.L.B..

While writing her 2004 Applied Breathology Book, she studied how breath techniques unlock the repressed memory of childhood emotional and sexual abuse. This finding enabled her to heal her adult depression and addictive behaviors. She later realized that the key to healing racism and altering un-conscious biases is the same process open and release our earliest stored programing of intolerant attitudes and behaviors taught to us, as well as heal the repressed race-based trauma/stress held in the sub-conscious mind and cellular memory which reactivates more trauma. She has since championed the principle that in order to heal, you must feel, and that the traditional dialogue method of diversity training only scratches the surface.

Through THE CIRCLES, she intends on creating a paradigm shift in diversity work, advancing us beyond what has been the traditional dialogues and exercises, to thoroughly heal the deep wounds of racism and inequality and race-based trauma, open the tourniquet of our unconscious biases allowing us tremendous growth in empathy, tolerance and acceptance of our differences.

At this critical time, as we organize for justice and peace proclaiming black lives matter, white supremacist are organizing for separation of the races, to keep their privileged way of life, as they know it. So, as the world seems to be pulling apart during this moment of reckonings around systemic racism, unconscious biases, privilege, inequality, police brutality, economic, gender, LGBT and immigrant rights,– now it’s time to reckon with white supremacy, also..

Handy-Kendi feels hope that her call to action, 100 Leaders Launch, will enlist “foot soldiers” to her “Breath Movement” willing to take personal responsibility to breathe a new solution into a centuries old issue – racism and inequality are a sickness we can cure...  Step up authentically and step into Breath Circles for Race, Diversity and Gender Healing to not only protest the system but to change it.”.  Help reconnect humanity with the one thing we have in common - the breath and use the "power of the breath" to transform our divisions into unified power.

For information on “THE CIRCLE”, course registrations, presentation/talk bookings or media interviews, contact: Rashida Thomas, publicist for Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou.     202-667-2577,

MEDIA: TEXT: 202-424-8962. www.PositivEnergyWorks.com

A BREATH CIRCLE FOR RACE, DIVERSITY & GENDER HEALING
https://youtu.be/utqdEtqqBnw

Transcendence BreathworkTMfor YOU to BREATHE THRU ELECTION STRESS
https://youtu.be/OOjodfEkdBo

An Example of O.LB'sTranscendence Breathwor, foundational modality in Breath Circles for Race, Diversity & Gender Healing.
https://youtu.be/6r8JNxzKhuY

The PositivEnergy Center  1311 Opus Avenue   Capitol Heights Md 20743 www.PositivEnergyWorks.com    [email protected]     202-667-2577

AS BIDEN SPEAKS HOPE AND POSSIBILITES, TRUMP FANS HATE WHILE A HEALING SOLUTION TO BREATHE THRU A DIVIDED NATION IS LAUNCHED
By Rashida Thomas, publicist for Ayo Handy-Kendi

For Immediate Release

Last weeks’ election in the U.S.A. proved what many already knew-- the United States of America is not united at all. President Elect Biden’s speech after the election results were called, enabled many to exhale their concerns of facing 4 more years of Trumps’ fanning division, hate, chaos and white supremacy/nationalism. Biden’s inspired calls for “unity” may encourage his supporters, but the reality is that inspiration will not erase the disgruntled Trump supporters who reflect this Nation’s past history and present reality of separation around the issues of racialization, diversity, gender, class, economics, religion, politics, ideology and superiority, etc..

“We see conditioned responses as well as unlogic among Americans, who were taught to believe in and behave towards their “groups” own self-interest in opposition of finding “common ground” for all to prosper and live their best life despite differences”, stated Ayo Handy-Kendi , a native Washingtonian, internationally reknown as the Breath Sekou, founder of Black Love Day, who has 50+ years of social justice organizing and breathology experience on the front-line with solutions for pro-peace and anti-violence. “Now, watching the election aftermath with calls for “unity”, Handy-Kendi, “instead knows that this is not enough to change hearts and minds of those who advocate “Trumpism” impeding reconciliation, harmony and unity in our diversity’”.

Instead, she is calling for 100 courageous people to “put love in action and take personal responsibility” to learn a new solution and practice, called BREATH CIRCLES TO HEAL THE DIVIDES”tm. On December 4, 5, 6, 2020 and January 15, 15, 17, 2021, her health service, PositivEnergyWorks, is promoting a 100 LEADERS LAUNCH with a 3 day intensive course to certify “Breath Circle Leaders”. She affirms that her redesigned, virtual 7 step wholistic, model of diversity training, de-escalation and relationship building, will transform and re-connect the antagonizing divisions in this country and the world.

In this course, you will learn how to:
Take personal responsibility to put love in action to reconcile hate with simple, transformative tools, wholistic approaches, breathology and breathwork;
Learn to unpack systemic racism and unconscious biases using the deep sub-conscious for shifts of the heart and mind; Connect the dots of these “divides” with many others, i.e. ageism;
Gain emotional strength and authenticity through release, truth and reconciliation work;
Transform behavior that deepens the “divides’ - anger, rage, fear to inner peace, tolerance and reconciliation; Release quilt, privilege, stereotypes for empathy, acceptance, common ground,
Become a committed activist or ally working the steps for critical self care to heal one-self of race based or inequality stress/trauma then commit to sharing THE CIRCLE process within families and communities for a domino mass impact of healing;

Handy-Kendi's BREATH CIRCLES TO HEAL THE DIVIDES, formerly called Breath Circles for Race, Diversity & Gender Healing, is her signature practice developed in 2004. It is part of her unique, solution-based system of breath techniques and transformative, wholistic practices, called Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B). O.L.B. includes her other signature techniques and practices, Transcendence Breathwork™; Relearn How to Breathe™, The Ritual of Reconciliation” and “It’s a Playshop” tm. She has breathed with millions over the media and certified over 165 persons in O.L.B in 7 states and exposing the practices in 8 countries.

While writing her 2004 Applied Breathology Book, she studied how breath techniques had unlocked her subconscious mind of the repressed memory of childhood emotional and sexual abuse . This finding enabled her to heal her adult depression and addictive behaviors. She realized that the key to healing racism, altering un-conscious biases, expanding limited beliefs and shrinking divisiveness, is to go to the root of our earliest teachings from pre-birth to age 7, where our sub-conscious is programmed towards intolerant attitudes and behaviors. She also studied how race or inequality-based trauma/stress held in the sub-conscious mind and cellular memory reactivates more trauma that can be passed on for generations. She has championed the principle that in order “to heal, you must feel, and that breath shifts us quickly.

Through THE CIRCLES, she intends on creating a paradigm shift in diversity work, advancing us beyond what has been the traditional dialogues and exercises, to thoroughly heal the deep wounds of racism and inequality, open the tourniquet of our unconscious biases and race-based trauma, allowing us tremendous growth in empathy, tolerance and acceptance of our differences.

At this critical time, as many organize for justice and peace proclaiming black lives matter, white supremacist and Trumpism supporters are organizing for separation of the races, to keep their privileged way of life, as they know it. As the world seems to be pulling apart during this 2020 year of reckonings”, Handy-Kendi feels hope that her call to love in action, 100 Leaders Launch, will enlist “foot soldiers” to her “Breath Movement” willing to breathe a new solution into unresolved, centuries old issues. Step up authentically into Breath Circles to Heal the Divides to help reconnect humanity with the one thing we have in common - the breath and use the "power of the breath" to transform our divisions into unified power.

For information on “THE CIRCLE”, course registrations, presentation/talk bookings or media interviews, contact: Rashida Thomas, publicist for Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou.     202-667-2577,

MEDIA: TEXT: 202-424-8962. www.PositivEnergyWorks.com ###
A BREATH CIRCLE FOR RACE, DIVERSITY & GENDER HEALING https://youtu.be/utqdEtqqBnw

An Example of O.LB'sTranscendence Breathwork, foundational modality in Breath Circles to Heal the Divides       https://youtu.be/6r8JNxzKhuY

LeShelle A. Smith, founder, Minority Report

- 3 min read

How to Support Black-Owned Businesses for Black Love Day

My favorite holiday falls on February 13th and that holiday is, drum roll pleeeeaaaase...

BLACK LOVE DAY

From the moment I discovered Black Love Day and met Ayo Handy-Kendi, the creator of the holiday, I have been applying the tenets to my life. This profound holiday focuses on 24 hours of love in action practicing Love for the Creator, Love for yourself, Love for your family, Love your community, Love for the Black Race.

Click here for a how-to guide for those interested in observing
Black Love Day today and every day!
Supporting Black-Owned Businesses is another way you can celebrate Black Love Day. Below you will see exactly "why you should" and "how you can".

Why You Should Support Black-Owned Businesses on Black Love DayThere are 365 days in a year and if buying Black is a lifestyle, then you are already ahead of the game. But, if you are behind the curve and you are not buying black regularly (at least on a weekly basis), then Black Love Day is the perfect day to replace a known name brand with a Black brand.

Choosing to spend your Black dollars with a Black-owned Business on Black Love Day is an effective way to practice all 5 of the tenets. It is truly a blessing to be a blessing and when you buy Black, you are in essence blessing a business with your support. You are helping to create jobs that contribute to the local economy, positively impacting your community. This is the time to be intentional about supporting Black businesses and other institutions like banks, HBCUs, non-profits, and community organizations.

How You Can Support Black-Owned Businesses on Black Love DayI'm going to start you off with the obvious - subscribe to my newsletter and YouTube channel! I never want you to miss an interview with a Black entrepreneur or an honest product review from a Black-owned Brand.

GOOGLE. Google "Black-owned", "Black businesses", or "Black businesses near me" and watch the information be delivered to you. PRO TIP: The more your use Google to search for "Black-owned Businesses", the more advertisements for Black-owned Businesses will begin to appear on social media and in more Google ads placed on the websites you visit most.

I always refer people to their local African American Chamber of Commerce. Most major cities have chambers for Black entrepreneurs to network with one another. On a national level, there is the National Black Chamber of Commerce and US Black Chambers, Inc. I follow both on social media as well as the one located in my hometown.

There are various apps, directories, and online marketplaces committed to providing you with access to thousands of Black-owned businesses providing both products and services. Here is a short list:

Instagram is such an excellent tool for finding start-ups and smaller, independent Black-owned shops to support. A simple hashtag search using #SupportBlackBusiness, #BlackOwned, or #BuyBlack will yield numerous results. Use the bookmark IG provides to save items you see and may want to buy later.
Create the change you want to see by practicing Group Economics rooted in love, Black Love this Black Love Day and every day. Tap the video below for an inspiring message from me to you for Black Love Day.
Need more resources like this to help you Buy Black? Sign up for the Daily Black Business Newsletter here so you never have to miss a blog post, interview, or an honest product review. Get Minority Report news and a few coupons delivered directly to your inbox!

3 Meditations to Get You in the Holiday Spirit
https://chopra.com/articles/3-meditations-to-get-you-in-the-holiday-spirit?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_content=Chopra+Living+201208&utm_campaign=Newsletter2020128

Why People of Color Must Harness Holidays in Their Own Way for Their Own Health, Especially in this COVID TIME

By Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder of Black Love Day, Feb. 13, founder, Optimum Life Breathology, founder/CEO, PositivEnergyWorks

This years' holidays, starting already with the Day of Thanks, traditionally called Thanksgiving, and now moving into Christmas, Kwanzaa and the New Year's, are already proving to be different due to the COVID pandemic . The traditions of getting together with family around a family meal; buying and sharing gifts; watching our health and our loved ones; and just resolving the feelings of un-certainty and for many - grief- as many have lost, loved ones - all are going to make 2020's year end celebrations different.

Since 1989, I have been blessed to offer holiday stress management and holiday wellness support, through workshops, lectures, storytelling and consultations at schools, workplaces and community-based organizations, at sliding fees through my organization, the African American Holiday Association (AAHA) and then morphed AAHA into my business, PositivEnergyWorks.

People of Color (POC's) have always had to find their own culturally sensitive way of managing their own cultural identity during the end of year holidays, because most were born in Europe and do not totally speak to our cultural roots. POC's have had to assimilate, accept what has been given to them, and then carve out our own traditions. We have often merged our cultural traditions and rituals with those imposed upon us, and from this synthesis , we then celebrate. Kwanzaa is a perfect example.

This year, 2020, then is perhaps not much different, but yet it is. The COVID pandemic has hit communities of color harder. Disproportionally, more POC have lost their lives and have become ill with the virus. We've lost our livelyhoods, homes and businesses while still being on the front line helping others.

This year, we must look at cultural sensitivity in the diverse ways in which people celebrate, and cultural competency particularly at the workplace and in the schools, acknowledging that the diverse way that we celebrate enables us to learn more about others, have greater appreciation for culture, and encourages us to have patience, compassion and more awareness of our similar interests – our “unity in diversity”. This allows us have real peace on earth and less stress, by allowing others their grace to be themselves. The U.S.A. is not all Christian nor of European descent, yet most of the year-end holidays (and actually almost all of the U.S.A.’s major holidays) have their roots in Christianity, and/or European pagan rituals

I was reminded of my many years of attempting to help the world community understand this reality, as a way of bringing us all to peace and sanity during days in the U.S.A. that we call “holidays”.

There is a direct link between emotional health, cultural sensitivity and holidays. We must recognize the importance of harnessing holidays for people of color in particular, who are already marginalized dealing with critical issues of immigration rights; access to health, jobs and good nourishment. Impoverished and working class folk are already living with more sickness and dying sooner than other communities showing disproportionate issues of Obesity, High Blood Pressure (HBP), Cancer, Stroke, Diabetes, Heart Attacks, Breast Cancer, HIV-AIDS, as well as over-whelmed with public health challenges, such as Black/Brown on Black/Brown homicide, domestic violence, unemployment, underemployment and racism.

I.ve found that during every holiday, many of these challenges spiked and I saw the common factors that contributed to “people of color” issues of just living, let alone their living during holidays. This year, we must be especially careful of our life-styles.

In 1980, I introduced the concept of “holiday stress syndrome”. I defined holiday stress syndrome as “seasonal periods of out of balanced behavior, gross consumerism, people pleasing, over-indulgence and cultural/spiritual mis-identification. This simply means that people go a little crazy during holidays- over stressing, over spending to please oneself or others, over partaking and not self-caring as much in the whirl-wind of parties, gatherings and shopping. Sometimes people actually lose touch with their own cultural and spiritual self-acceptance and identification, i.e, a black person celebrating St Patricks day.

Since ‘89’, more research has documented how stressful holidays are and how stress increases during every holiday because of this holiday stress syndrome. Today’s statistics show an even more alarming spike in holiday social and public health concerns, such as depression, suicide, relationship violence, work-place absenteeism, over-eating, over drinking, and substance abuse during holiday seasonal periods.

Our middle-class family gatherings for Christmas were complete with the traditional foods, gift-giving and gatherings of distant cousins and relatives coming to our house. These earlier recollections of holidays were that of my large family coming together to laugh, dance, eat sugar cookies and stay up really late. I also remember watching my Dad falling asleep after taking his “little taste” at the dinner table and later he would re-awaken much nastier and out of sorts. Such earlier roots of happy holiday gatherings, were recreated in my own family gatherings, once I started celebrating the African American holiday, Kwanzaa in 1971 with my husband and later our children.

It became apparent to me, that in our African American communities’ love for social gatherings, picnics, family reunions, church suppers, etc, it was a cultural re-creation of our African roots. Africans, historically, have been ceremonial people who have used communal gatherings as a time for spiritual edification, rituals and socializing. In the African context, such gatherings signified unity of the tribe and the family, and in this unity, it was considered an expression of love.

Today, as a displaced people, whose culture was disrupted, we still hold the cellular memory of our African concepts, evidenced by the outpouring of social gatherings, and special occasions that abound in our community, especially in the summer and how much love evolved rapidly for Kwanzaa, Black Love Day and other cultural holidays.

African Americans and other people of color, must embrace our special occasions to better reconnect with our family for self-care and to empower our communities to take hold of our own health, cultural and spiritual needs so that we can continue to celebrate ourselves. As we celebrate ourselves, we must not only survive and persevere, as we have proven in the past as the original civilization that we can, but that we must thrive in these modern, stressful times, as a healthy, whole people, armed with the knowledge that we can make choices to live with quality lives, with good health, as our greatest wealth all year round.

SO HOW CAN PEOPLE OF COLOR MAKE HOLIDAYS STRESS-LESS ESPECIALLY IN 2020?

This year, be ready to adjust and create new traditions. Be creative to alter the family gatherings, so if you can't physically get together, get together on Zoom or over the phone. Be open to playing games, music and party ON-LINE. Find gratitude in what you can do, and don't despair over the restrictions that COVID presents to our life-styles.
Be true to yourself – define yourself, your beliefs, your culture and if it different than the society you live in, don’t shrink, but live your life and be yourself – celebrate your differences, don’t assimilate. If you decide to celebrate in the traditions of this country, still feel good about mixing in your own traditions; Be proud of your traditions and rituals; decorate your home to reflect them; and challenge the “holiday committees” at the job or at school, to display the many symbols of holiday celebrations from around the world.
Also, “stand up” for truth and justice by researching the historical roots of holidays, which have created oppression of Native and Indigenous cultures, as well as others, and make every effort to be real and authentic about these truths by not exploiting the myths, falsehoods, and stereo-types;
If you do decide to “go all out” this year, still don’t “over-do it” based on “outer-directed’ motivations and commercialism. Create a budget for spending and gift-giving; be organized in your shopping, work and hanging out balance; Make a list of things to purchase, that are priority to you and no one else;
Don’t try to change a habit during the holidays, a major stressor destined for failure. Just relax and try to change a habit, after these high-energy days are over;
More than ever before, watch what you drink and eat. Many sugar-laden foods eaten during holidays will spike your blood pressure as well as strain your nerves. Remember that alcohol has high sugar content, while drinking at the “desert” table;
If you are not so merry as the commercials and Christmas movies encourage us to be, it’s also a wonderful time to turn off the t.v. and listen to music, turn on your own movies, get outside, make things to give away, volunteer to help someone less fortunate or just be still. There is peace and power in acceptance of one’s true feelings.
With many dealing with grief, and If you are feeling really despondent, grief stricken, or very depressed and have not found a way to shake off such feelings, please, don’t struggle alone. Reach out for help to hotlines, ministers, friends and relatives. Contact P.E.W., as we are trained as good listeners and have knowledge of stress management and cultural competency.
Don’t attempt to cope with your empty feelings by self-medicating, repressing and avoiding. Emotions are real and really come back, so consider addressing them now when they come up. Write down feelings in a journal or on paper. Stop and reflect …breathe, shake off any negative thoughts that come up, take another deep breath and another. See the negative thoughts as if they are in a bubble. Breathe that bubble right out of you into the air and beyond. Thoughts are energy that can be transformed when we deal with them and not suppress them. We have to “get to them to get through” them.
Last, recognize that every uncomfortable moment of any day or any holiday, will pass. Do your best to lighten up and make every moment of your life an opportunity to celebrate yourself. You can cope if you are flexible, and allow yourself to flow, in the way that fits you. Holidays are NOT one size fits all, and this year, 2020, are perseverance is something that we can all celebrate, along with gratitude that we have made it through another year.

9 Facts About Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

ARTICLE
Why this Winter Solstice is such a Powerful time for Reflection & Divine Intervention
https://www.elephantjournal.com/2020/12/the-divine-intervention-of-a-once-in-an-800-year-event-the-great-conjunction-the-solstice/?fbclid=IwAR3w3JOtG3qpxt0KcDNQ7bcNRul7kljZIbzBpeX3tVHBHxs8m8ljFG9E4xc

SMITHSONIAN BLACK HISTORY EVENT FEATURING
MAMA AYO, THE BREATH SEKOU & STORYTELLER in a RACIAL HEALING STORY PERFORMANCE

NEW: Why We Need Black Love Now Video

Help You Laugh and Release During These Time
Black Love Day for Healing
Feeling Anxious - Could Be the Way you are Breathing?

LEARN ALL ABOUT WHAT TO DO, WHAT TO WEAR,
HOW TO DEMONSTRATE Black LOVE FOR 24 HOURS.

Attend Black Love Virtual Conference/ Children’s Book Fair

Gather with love for free
10 a.m. to 7 p.m EST.
to offer tools, solutions, resources, demos, inspiration and inner-attainment as best practices of Black Love showcasing 40 presenters, healers, authors, and community / spiritual leaders.
Co-sponsored by UNIA/ACL DIVISION 300

The Black Love Day 28th Relationship Ceremony
from 7 to 9 p.m
will transforms relationship pain in
the Ritual of Reconciliation;
expand love thru Breathology;
performance by Rickie Byars and Ayo Handy-Kendi,
founders’ message
on the 2021 theme,
“Healing the Wounds That Divide - Re-uniting Our Strengths Thru Black Love."

Get the details - Register FREE @ Eventbrite
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-love-day-28th

INTERVIEWS OF BLACK LOVE DAY & AYO
AFRICA 400 from 2 - 3 p..Est, Wednesday, Feb. 10

RODNEY GRIMES SHOW WEDNESDAY @ 6:30 Feb. 10 FACEBOOK LIVE

WPFW 89.3 FM - AYEZE SABABOR, HOST,

"YOU MUST LEARN" SHOW
Thursday, Feb. 11@ 6 p.m. Est.

Africa 400
FEB 10TH, features guest: AYO HANDY-KENDI,
FOUNDER OF BLACK LOVE DAY, FEB. 13 @ 2 P.M.

You are invited to the
Virtual Black Love Day Conference
When: Feb 13, 2021 08:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Register in advance for this
Black Love Day Event
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvc-ytrDMsG9XvWceRl3kU6b37zaeSJ9AF

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email
containing information about joining the meeting.

How to Manage Grief During the Holidays

Dr. Ally
It’s a few days before Thanksgiving, and you reach for your phone to talk to your Dad. Your heart sinks into your stomach, and your mouth goes dry. You realize he’s gone. How can the holidays ever be the same without him? This wasn’t my exact experience this holiday, but as I leaned over to my husband to ask where his father was eating and if he needed a flight to California, my stomach dropped. We had just lost him months before.

Courtesy of Dr. Ally/

Even as a mental health expert, I have to learn how to navigate personal feelings of loss and grief. Let’s be honest, grief can hit you hard, particularly during the holidays. It’s a time when it seems like everyone is in the spirit and spending time with loved ones dancing in the snow and drinking hot cider. It can leave those suffering loss feeling depleted and alone in a sea of celebration.

This may be why depressive episodes and suicide attempts appear to spike during this time of year.
The spike may be due to many factors including feelings of isolation, stress, and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Seasonal Affective Disorder is similar to depression but arises during the winter months and is worsened by dark, dreary days where we aren’t able to absorb enough vitamin D. Mayoclinic.org describes it as “starting in the fall and lasting through winter.”

Credit: Citizen TV KenyaHoliday grief is not exclusively for those who have lost people to death. There are many other types of losses that, when preceding the holidays, can have drastic effects on our moods and outlooks. Things like the loss of a job, the loss of a serious relationship, or even arguments among family members can result in isolation.

Humans need one another on a biological and neurological level. Our ancestors had to live in groups. Because our soft skin, hairlessness, and lack of claws make us ill-equipped to live alone, we had to cluster for warmth and protection. Let’s be honest, very few of us could build our own home, but most of us probably live in one. Few of us can farm, but most of us have access to food. This is why social interactions are so significant for humans. We have even developed brain regions dedicated to making sure we understand the feelings of others so we can be empathetic enough to stay in the group. They are called mirror neurons and live in our frontal lobes. Socialization is literally a life or death issue for humanity. So, when we lose one of these connections either to some type of termination or death, to an extent, our sense of survival is at risk.
This article probably won’t eradicate your grief, because grief is a process and unfortunately must be experienced, but I hope to comfort those of you grieving and educate those of you that love, cherish, and support the bereaved.
Do’s and Don’ts to Manage Your Grief During the Holidays Do’s Create new traditions

Credit: MonkeyBusinessImages/GettyImagesOur holidays reflect our lives in that they are typically very patterned. We have the same box of decorations, we go to the same houses, eat the same foods, and see the same people. So when our holiday pattern is thrown into chaos by a loss, it can be reassuring to develop a new pattern altogether. This pattern can include the person we lost, or not, but choose one that highlights positivity. This can be things like setting a seat for your loved one at the table, having pictures of them in the kitchen, releasing a balloon, or having everyone talk about their favorite memories of the recently departed. It’s ultimately up to you and your family. But integrating a new tradition can help you focus on the beautiful parts of your loved one’s life.

Make a scheduleThe holidays can get very busy and generally overwhelming even if you haven’t suffered a loss. Anyone who has lost someone knows how physically exhausting mourning can be, and the last thing you need is too many things on your plate. Making a schedule can help you plan for your holiday season and ultimately figure out what you can and can’t do. We can’t do it all. Focus on the events that feature positive people that you know will be uplifting and things that ultimately recharge your batteries. You don’t have to attend everything but need the social interaction for balance.

Ask for helpThere is no shame in asking people to help you. This may mean that you don’t make your famous pound cake this year, but that’s fine. Outsourcing some of the more difficult aspects of the holidays in a year when you just can’t is fine. If the people around you are truly supportive, then they will understand. It also goes without saying that you may need to schedule a few extra therapy sessions during the holidays as there are additional pressures. Don’t worry, your therapist is ready, make the appointments.
Help others There is no shortage of need in the world. Sometimes it can be constructive to help other people in need around you. Volunteering your time at a homeless shelter, food kitchen, children center, or animal shelter can give you a boost during the holiday season. Engaging in charitable acts will undoubtedly help others, but it also helps you in the long run. It helps us realize that we aren’t alone in suffering and that there are systematic and sometimes tiny steps that can help us and others get back on our feet.

Don’tsDon’t ignore your feelingsIn all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be really easy to ignore your sadness and muscle through. Ultimately, this isn’t helpful because your emotions are always there and will be there after you’ve ignored them. So set aside time to deal with negative feelings but have a plan. Cry, mourn, but have an out. This out could be a supportive person you could talk to if things get too heavy, an activity you know always makes you feel better, or a movie or song that always lifts your spirit. Some people are afraid to cry or mourn because of the fear that the tears will never end, but I assure you they do.

Courtesy of Pexels.comDon’t neglect the basicsYou’re busy taking care of holiday things like gifts and food. But you can’t forget to take care of your body. Get enough sleep, eat balanced meals, and exercise. Our bodies rely on schedules and regularity and the holidays can throw all of our programs off. You may be in another time zone, eating different food, or engaging in less activity than regular. Work to keep your patterns as intact as possible because you will need the consistency.
Don’t compare yourself to othersEveryone processes loss in different ways. Don’t attempt to look at someone else and assume that they are coping better than you are. 1. You don’t really know how other people cope. They are human, so they are probably experiencing as many ups and downs as you are. 2. The healing process isn’t linear, so you never know where anyone is in their journey. 3. We all have bad days. It’s ok.

I cried writing this article thinking of all of my loved ones that I would never be able to celebrate with again. I also laughed a lot silently thinking of all the inside jokes and utterly ridiculous moments. I got contemplative during this article thinking of all of their collective advice. They are never truly gone because their lessons, legacies, and traits live on in you.
This article is dedicated to my grandfather Joseph T. Powell, my father-in-law Lacy H. White, my childhood friend Tamara Phillips, and my college roommate Tenisha Brewer. I love and miss you all immensely.

Tags: Death, Dr. Ally, Grief, Holiday Grief, Holidays, Loss, Managing Grief

A Simple Gratitude Practice to Bring to Your Thanksgiving Dinner Table

By: Mary Morrissey
Updated: November 22, 2016

It’s sometimes easy to forget that Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey and pumpkin pie.
Thanksgiving is about reflecting on and appreciating all of the good things that we have in our lives.
Many people will sit around their Thanksgiving dinner table and share something that they feel grateful for, and this is a wonderful way to set the tone for a heartfelt gathering.
But instead of just sharing one thing that you’re grateful for, although you could do that…
Here’s a simple practice that will help you bring another dimension of gratitude to your Thanksgiving tableEveryone that gathers at your table brings something unique to it.
And so, instead of sharing something you’re grateful for, how about appreciating someone that you’re grateful for? While sitting at your table, I invite you to share with your guests, “Let’s share something we’re grateful for about the person to our left. I’ll start!”
Then, you initiate the first gratitude. Turn to the person on your left and share something that you appreciate about this person.
Even if this person is a stranger that someone else has brought, and this is the first time you’ve met them, think of something you appreciate about what little you know or have seen of them so far.
For example: they may have a nice smile, a warm demeanor or seem very willing to help out with setting the table, and you really appreciate that about them!
Once you’re finished, that person then turns to the person on their left to share a gratitude, and then so on and so on.
Some of what is shared will be deep and profound, some of it may be more superficial and funny, this is all ok!
The intention is to tune yourself to the frequency of gratitude and appreciation, and to speak that gratitude out loud.
Why is this important?Research that was done at Pennsylvania State University on the difference between thinking gratitude and speaking gratitude.
Researchers found there’s a number of physical benefits that come out of speaking and living from gratitude, including improved blood pressure and immune system.
Now ideally, we want to live from and speak from gratitude on a regular, consistent basis – but Thanksgiving is a day when we can really practice speaking gratitude in a whole new way.
As each person moves around the table, sharing something they appreciate about the person on their left, before the circle is complete, everyone will have shifted into a vibration gratitude.
This will make for a more heartfelt and fulfilling gathering for all!

Years ago, my husband decided to speak some gratitudeMy husband, Joe, grew up in a singing family. His entire family regularly sang together.
Joe later grew up to become a gifted professional singer, a career he loves with all of his heart and soul.
One year, on a particular holiday, Joe’s family was supposed to sing at the church they went to. The church was filled to the brim with 300 people.
As a little seven year old boy, Joe had never sung in public before. He was very, very nervous.
When the moment came that he and his family went on stage and were supposed to start singing, Joe opened his mouth, and no sound came out!
He was terrified and embarrassed, and thought about running off the stage to hide.
He looked into the audience, and sitting there near the front was a woman named Mrs. Bryant, the mother of his big brother’s friend.
Mrs. Bryant looked right into Joe’s eyes and just smiled this great big smileSeeing this put Joe at ease. He was able to take a breath, and then, he could sing!
Many, many decades later, Joe found himself thinking about Mrs. Bryant.
He thought, “You know, if Mrs. Bryant hadn’t smiled at me that day when I was a child, I would have been so afraid, I wouldn’t have been able to sing. I would have been ashamed. I might never have given myself permission to become a singer and had the life that I’ve had.”
So my husband wrote Mrs. Bryant a thank you letter decades after that smile and said, “When I was a seven years old, you gave warmth and the confidence that I could take a breath and I could sing.”
Joe went on to tell her how much that moment had shaped his life, and said, “Thank you for my singing career.”
Years later, when Joe and I were standing together at his father’s funeral, Mrs. Bryant’s son approached us.
Joe said to him, “You know, I wrote your mother a letter about five years ago.”
Mrs. Bryant’s son said, “Not only did you write a letter to her, she kept it in her wallet. She read that letter many, many times herself and often, she would bring it out at meals and share that letter with all of us about the power of saying how grateful you are for someone.”
I know that hearing this made Joe feel good, and we know that it made Mrs. Bryant feel good, too.
Here’s the truth: You and I can express our gratitude We can choose in any given moment not just to think grateful thoughts, but also to express those thoughts out loud to others. Download my FREE: Stronger Than Circumstances eBook and learn this simple gratitude practice and how to OVERCOME limitations and not just at Thanksgiving, but every day of our lives.
GET ACCESS NOW
Now, here’s a question for you…
What’s one person in your life that you feel grateful for? Go ahead and share this with me in the comments below.
You don’t have to name the person – you can just say “my daughter,” or “my brother,” or “my husband” if you prefer.
But I invite you to share something that they bring into your life that you’re grateful for. I’d love to hear from you!
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0 sharesAbout Mary MorrisseyMary Morrissey is widely considered the world’s foremost expert on “dream-building,” having invested the last 40 years into studying the art and science of transforming dreams into results. Mary has also written two best-selling books, addressed the United Nations three times, co-convened three week-long meetings with His Holiness The Dalai Lama, and met with President Nelson Mandela in South Africa. Through her books, live events and programs, Mary has helped empower millions of people worldwide to achieve new heights of meaning, purpose, aliveness and authentic success.
Learn More About Mary Morrissey

https://www.arkrepublic.com/2020/12/18/asantewaa-gail-harris-an-og-of-food-justice/www.arkrepublic.com/2020/12/18/asantewaa-gail-harris-an-og-of-food-justice/

OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGY CERTIFICATION

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Laughter Yoga - Virtual - #31534 with Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher
July 13, 2021 @10:30-11:30
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Laughter Yoga promotes the use of breathing activities in-between laughter exercises as a way to relax the body and mind. It boosts the immune system as well as exercises the diaphragm and abdominal muscles.

Join us for a morning of fun and relaxation. Breathing tips and Live music.

Add to cart Activity Description Dates Times Meet Days Locations Ages Price Status Add To Cart 31534-111A Laughter Yoga - Virtual 1/12/2021 10:30 am -11:30 am Tu Virtual Online Programming 60-150 $0.00/$0.00 Item Details Available Add To Cart 31534-111B Laughter Yoga - Virtual 01/12/2021 -01/12/2021 10:30 am -11:30 am Tu Virtual Online Programming 60-150 $0.00/$0.00 Item Details TO SIGN UP:: Contact: Vanecia Davis, Program Specialist Phone: 301-449-0491; TTY 301-699-2544
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The Shift Network’s Breathwork Summit
Exhale. Inhale.
2020 was quite a year…
… and it’s time to go from holding your breath to breathing fully again.
Are you ready to release the worry and shock you’ve been holding for so long — and revitalize your body and mind? As 2021 begins, you have a new opportunity to support your nervous system, unwind, reset, and settle into a calmer baseline.
During this 4-day online gathering of soulful breathwork professionals and dedicated practitioners, we’ll move from collective gasp… to deep diaphragmatic breathing again.
Together we can lay the groundwork to heal and to thrive.
The Shift Network’s returning and much-loved Breathwork Summit reveals the science, art, and power of full-spectrum breathing… as our extraordinary speakers share simple, yet deep breathwork practices to move you from stress, stagnation, and depletion into easeful states infused with vitality, alertness, and greater joy in life.
Gain enhanced breathing techniques to calm down and “groom” your nervous system so you’re less reactive to people and circumstances.
Featuring more than 30 of today’s highly sought-after breathwork experts and teachers — including Dan Brule, Ayo Handy-Kendi, Matt Kudish, Abiola Abrams, Masami Covey, Jessica Dibb, Aki Hirata-Baker, Jim Morningstar, and many other luminaries.
They’ll share numerous simple breathwork practices to move you from stress, anxiety, fatigue, or depletion into easeful states infused with vitality and relaxed alertness.
This groundbreaking Breathwork Summit will reveal the science, art, and power of full-spectrum breathing. I hope you’ll participate in this online gathering presented by The Shift Network and hosted by Kathleen Booker, the “Jedi of Calm.”
Prepare to be transformed!

Join us for the Breathwork Summit, January 11-14, 2021
RSVP at no charge here: https://shiftnetwork.infusionsoft.com/go/bws21a20807/a20807

"BREATH CIRCLES TO HEAL THE DIVIDES"
Seeking
First 100 Registrants for this Leadership Training Course !
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2021 SCHEDULE
March 6 / 7 April 24/25 June 26/27
Aug 28/29 Oct 23/24 Dec 18/19

The 2020/2021 Kwanzaa Calendar & Resource Guide is out!!!
Produced by the DC Kwanzaa Planning Committee which is made up of members from both UBC and LCPAN.   Baba Imamu Kuumba and Crystal Jackson, UNIA, represented Division 330 in weekly Kwanzaa Planning Meetings from 9/1/20-12/15/20. Special thanks to Baba Imamu Kuumba for your direction and support!   It's been a wonderful privilege to collaborate with like-minded organizations and business. Please enjoy the digital 2020/2021 Kwanzaa Calendar & Resource Guide
Please find the link to the online animated digital calendar here
https://www.canva.com/design/DAEPmPsfpgw/rkwmN6gvc-_p5hiU2zkSKQ/view?utm_content=DAEPmPsfpgw&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink
A .pdf version is available if you're not able to access the online digital version. Additionally, we will print and distribute this calendar.
Please contact [email protected] if you'd like a physical copy.
This Calendar and Resource Guide provides information on the Kwanzaa events happening throughout the city during Kwanzaa for the 2020-2021 Kwanzaa Season.   It also includes Tributes to our Ancestors that made transition over the past 12-month period on page 2 and the Back Cover (page 24), including the Honorable Marcus Garvey, Jr.
We find ourselves in unusual circumstances with this pandemic. Nevertheless, we have found innovative ways to stay connected and continue our fine work. We were able to do this by quickly adapting to Virtual Meeting technology. The Editorial "A Global Community in a Virtual World" on page 3 touches on this point a bit more.
The Kwanzaa Guide clearly defines "What is Kwanzaa?" (page 4) and "What to Do and When to Do It" (page 5).
The "Kwanzaa Events Calendar 2020/2021" covers pages 6 and 7. Here's a link to the initial DC Kwanzaa Planning Committee Promo Video: https://youtu.be/1f_Au7BbulQ
KWANZAA 2020 Promo
KWANZAA 2020 Promotion video for the Kwanzaa 2020/2021 Virtual Celebrations organized by the DC Citywide Kwanzaa Planning committee
We are reminded of the importance of "The Nguzo Saba - African Proverbs - Wise Sayings" on page 8.
UBC provides a list of events on page 9 - "2021 UBC's Call to Action Forums."
LCPAN provides a list of events on page 10 - "LCPAN Community Calendar of Major Events for 2021."
A list of the "Leadership Council for Pan-African Nationalism (LCPAN) Member Organizations can be found on page 11.
Pages 12 and 13 display the traditional collage and a 2021 Calendar for reference. It is also is the beginning of the Ads section.
Pages 14-23 display Ads from various organizations and businesses that placed them with the DC Kwanzaa Planning Committee.

Purchase P.E.W./AAHA Kwanzaa videos and Relaxation c'd's in our MARKETPLACE

Last KWANZAA EVENT in the D.M.V United Black Community
other events

BREATH SUMMIT 2,
THE BREATH FESTIVAL
P.E.W. FUNDRAISER FOR DANIEL'S CHILDREN, an orphanage & healing space in Liberia

Zoom Meeting ID: 825 5737 2441 Passcode: VDH1WA

Celebrating the old with the new. Introducing our Christmas and Kwanzaa Tree

4" 22" diameter Artificial Canadian Fir Tree
Custom –made in the colors of Red , Black.and Green, the Liberation colors.

Supply is limited . Cost $ 25.00 Will be delivered in the close in D.M.V area with $3 delivery charge

Mailing includes Shipping Cost.

Adinkra Symbols, Kwanzaa book and African Safari Sheets are NOT INCLUDED with the tree. Just showing the possibilities of this tree that can be displayed 365 days of the year to remind us of the principles.

The 6 piece King and Queen African Safari sheets are for sale represents the fabric of 9 countries in Africa. King size set is $50.00 fits a California King size which is larger than average.
Queen Size is $40. Set includes flat sheet, fitted sheet and 4 pillow cases.

Imported from Elizabeth Arden .

Contact: Deitra Greene: 202-999-5273

Must WATCH video/Kemetic Karest Mas Celebration: Spiritual PRESENCE vs Material Christmas 'presents' by Dr Nteri Nelson
https://youtu.be/z8OCuBcU2Fc

Greetings Family,
How can we save the financial nest egg and celebrate with family during economic hard times? Shopping for material presents vs. cultivating Spiritual PRESENCE can even be costly to our health in the midst of a Covid 19 pandemic.
Why is Kemetic Karest mas Celebration & Education: Spiritual PRESENCE vs Material Christmas 'Presents' by Dr Nteri Nelson, so important a Family event at this time of year of the Winter Solstice?
Like Kwanzaa, this research and ritual enactment reclaims the African Origins of Ancient Kemetic/Egyptian Wisdom and restores the symbols, sacredness and celebration of Resurrection.

Dr. Nteri is the author of: KEMETIC KAREST MAS CELEBRATION, a step by step guide book for Restoration and Resurrection.

(Digital PDF) https://gumroad.com/l/WRgWJ
(Paperback) https://gumroad.com/l/YfgEh

● The Kemetic Karest mas Celebration & Education is not to be confused with the Christmas Celebration.
●Like Kwanzaa demonstrates an Afrikan Celebration, this book demonstrates the practice of a Kemetically Conscious Karest mas Celebration by our Afrikan Ancestors of the Nile Valley, Kemet, the land of the Blacks, later called Egypt by the Greeks.
●In this reconstruction of a Kemetic Karest mas Celebration & Education our first step is to pull back the veil that has been thrown upon our Afrikan Spirituality.

Dr Nteri Nelson is co-founder of the ACADEMY OF KEMETIC EDUCATION & WELLNESS, Inc., Boston, Ma., African Origins of the Ancient/Egyptian Wisdom - A Model of African Centered Education and is available for class, lectures & book orders by contacting
:
https://gumroad.com/drnterinelson/follow

KWANZAA EVENTS

ALL NEW VIDEO
"Kwanzaa D.C., the Beginnings" featuring
MASTER DRUMMER BABA NGOMA
"Give the Gift of Culture "

The Original KWANZAA TREE

RELAXATION CD'S to UNWIND THIS HOLIDAY

MORINGA FOR BEST IMMUNITY
YOUNG LIVING OILS FOR LUNG HEALTH

Last KWANZAA EVENT in the D.M.V United Black Community
other events

BREATH SUMMIT 2,
THE BREATH FESTIVAL
P.E.W. FUNDRAISER FOR DANIEL'S CHILDREN, an orphanage & healing space in Liberia

VIRTUAL LAUGHTER YOGA CLASS - Jan, 2021
ANNOUNCING: BLACK LOVE DAY, FEB. 13TH, 2021, CONFERENCE & 28TH RELATIONSHIP CEREMONY
DETAILS OF ALL EVENTS AT LINK:

Click To Go To Breathe Away Blog

African Wholistic Health Association (AWHA) CHI & ADS Collective presents

KUUMBA 2020 COLLECTIVE SHARING FOR COLLECTIVE HEALING

Thursday, Dec. 31 @ 5 - 8:45 p.m.
KUUMBA NIGHT CELEBRATION with African Wholistic Health Association (AWHA): On Zoom I.D. 825-5737-2441 Pass Word: VDH1WA.
More details in The 2020/2021 Kwanzaa Calendar & Resource Guide and flyer to the left.

Learn how to make this up-coming year the best of health with:
Dr. Kokayi Patterson, Dr. Yew; Dr. Gerald Douglas, Shekhem Tepraim Sa, Chef Heru, Saddiki, the Master Drummer

Mama Ayo, the Storyteller & Breath Sekou facilitates Candle-lighting Ceremony

SPECIAL GUEST:
Dr. Alim Muhammad speaking on "Creatively Bringing Healing to the Community"

INNER-ATTAINMENT BY: Ayana Gregory - Yuma Bellomee dancers & drummers --
Baba Bilal Sunni Ali --Jabari Exum - MuMu Fresh -- Ka'ba Soul Singer

contact Dr. Kokayi #202-412-4880
Aiyashe N'jeri #240-839-2098
Chef Heru #202-491-2645

https://www.apollotheater.org/event/kwanzaa-celebration-2020/?spMailingID=6439886&spUserID=MjA3ODgxMzczMjg5S0&spJobID=1160741396&spReportId=MTE2MDc0MTM5NgS2

Apollo Theater Presents
KWANZAA CELEBRATION: Regeneration Night
Sunday, Dec 27 at 7:00pm ET - A Virtual Experience
Featuring:
Abdel R. Salaam’s Forces of Nature Dance Theatre
With Special Guests:
Mumu Fresh, Marc Bamuthi Joseph, Harlem Children's Zone and others
Hosted by: Imhotep Gary Byrd

The tradition of Kwanzaa at the Apollo continues in 2020 on the Apollo Digital Stage! Since 2006, the Apollo Theater has celebrated Kwanzaa, bringing families and communities together from all of New York’s five boroughs. This year we have witnessed unprecedented disruption - a deadly pandemic, social unrest, economic tumult, an exhaustive presidential race and uncertainty around every corner. This digital gathering to celebrate culture, tradition, ritual and community in New York and around the country is more important than ever. Join us on December 27th and exhale.

CHECK OUT Free benJamin'S song "Nguzo Saba 365" which debuted on WPFW 89.3 fm on House of Soul with Brotha DJ Lance Reynolds and Kulcha Shak with Bruh Ras Ziah Ayubu DjzeeLion and Sistar Kim Yvette Ayubu Bey. She says, "Big ups to Herb White for helping make this thang happen. "thank y'all so much for the LOVE "

Kwanzaa is not just a holiday, Nguzo Saba 365. Please click on image to check it out and stay tuned for the official release, Peace and Love Family. Feel Free to share wide!!!
https://youtu.be/Qh-WFTCFwTE

PLEASE SHARE: CLICK THE LINK FOR
KWANZAA VIRTUAL EVENTS, 2020
spread the news- D.C. Kwanzaa has gone virtual
KWANZAA 2020 Promo
KWANZAA 2020 Promo
https://youtu.be/1f_Au7BbulQ

PositivEnergyWorks /African American Holiday Association (AAHA) will feature AYO HANDY-KENDI aka Mama Ayo the Storyteller at the following Kwanzaa events in 2020. All events are VIRTUAL

Wed, Dec. 23 @ 3 - 5:00 p.m. EST. POSITIVENERGY WEDNESDAYS - A PRE-KWANZAA EVENT

A Pre-Kwanzaa Event featuring discussion on the health values of Kwanzaa for the Spirit, Mind and Body by Mama Ayo, with Solstice Meditation/Visualization with your Intentions. 4 - 5 p.m. EST for the 2nd half of PositivEnergyWednesdays. A Pre-Kwanzaa showing of the classic "How A Family Celebrates Kwanzaa" which aired on D.C.T.V. for years, to introduce "everything you ever wanted to know about Kwanzaa" demonstrated by Mama Ayo's family. Chat lines open for your questions. 5- 7 p.m. Repeat.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82157257974 Meeting ID: 821 5725 7974 or FaceBook Live

Sat, Dec. 26, 12 Noon - 2 p.m

First Day of KWANZAA, 51ST ANNUAL VIRTUAL KWANZAA CHILDREN'S PARTY with fun and culture for entire family. Immediately following from 2 - 3:30 p.m., the showing of the VIDEO: Keepers of the Culture: Kwanzaa D.C.- the Beginning, with Mama Ayo interviewing the early D.C. pioneers of Kwanzaa, before the Kwanzaa Calendar and city-wide activities. On Zoom I.D. 825-5737-2441 Pass Word: VDH1WA.   More details in The 2020/2021 Kwanzaa Calendar & Resource Guide

Wed, Dec. 30 @ 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. EST,
POSITIVENERGY WEDNESDAYS- KWANZAA- HEALTHY FAMILY NIA SPECIAL : Mama Ayo offers a family destress session and Kwanzaa Songs with sing-along.    "How A Family Celebrates Kwanzaa" VIDEO which showed on D.C.T.V. for years, to introduce "everything you ever wanted to know about Kwanzaa" demonstrated by Mama Ayo's family;   VIDEO; "Keepers of the Culture: Kwanzaa D.C.- the Beginning", featuring Baba Ngoma, the Master Drummer, Sister Ama Ansante, Mama Nia Kuumba and Baba Lumumba;    VIDEO: "Mama Ayo's Kwanzaa Story":   Her classic story performance that shares Kwanzaa's history, cultural names of the Nguzo Saba, the 7 principles and Kwanzaa songs;   VIDEO: "A Home-Coming", shares Mama Ayo's trip to Benin, West Africa to a dynamic African dance troupe. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82157257974 Meeting ID: 821 5725 7974

Wed, Dec. 30 @ 6 p.m.
KWANZAA NIA NIGHT CELEBRATION with UNIA-ACL DIVISION. VIRTUAL and In-person, Bus Boys & Poets. Presentation featurs Ayo Handy-Kendi aka Mama Ayo, the Storyteller & Breath Sekou officiating Libations, and much more. On Zoom I.D. 825-5737-2441 Pass Word: VDH1WA More details in The 2020/2021 Kwanzaa Calendar & Resource Guide

Thursday, Dec. 31 @ 5 - 8:45 p.m.
KUUMBA NIGHT CELEBRATION with African Wholistic Health Association (AWHA): On Zoom I.D. 825-5737-2441 Pass Word: VDH1WA.   More details in The 2020/2021 Kwanzaa Calendar & Resource Guide

Photo by John Davies 3 : Under the Moon and Over the Sun

DEC 29 - 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Special PositivEnergy Wednesdays focuses on NiA- Have a Healthy Purpose for Your Family with de-stressings, cultural videos, Kwanzaa sing-alongs.

BREATHE In a NEW AGE
This year's Winter Solstice and Planetary Conjunction Ushers in a BIG SHIFT!
You can still catch the energy - Dec. 19 - 25

The Great Saturn Jupiter Conjunction 2020 on the Winter Solstice! Powerful Changes in Humanity Now!
This is a time of Reflection and Expansion.

LAUGH & CARTHART to change the MOOD of these Times and to Cope with the Holidays

10 BREATHING EXERCISES TO HELP YOU STAY CALM

COLB members (Certified Optimum Life Breathologist)
Click Here For 2 Day OLB Special

The Compassionate Friends
District of Columbia Chapter’s
Annual Worldwide Candle Lighting Service
Sunday, December 13, 2020
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
FEATURING AYO HANDY-KENDI, the Breath Sekou with Breath & Sound

BY ZOOM

The Compassionate Friends Worldwide Candle Lighting Service unites family and friends around the globe by lighting candles for one hour to honor the memory of the sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, and grandchildren gone too soon.

As candles are lit at 7:00 p.m. local time, hundreds of thousands will commemorate and honor the lives of all loved ones gone too soon. The Worldwide Candle Lighting gives bereaved families everywhere the opportunity to come together to remember their love ones, “that their light may always shine!”

At 7:00 p.m. the names of our loved ones will be read. When you hear your loved ones name read you are invited to share their picture and light a candle in their memory.

We are asking you to RSVP by Friday, December 11, 2020 with your name and the name/names of the loved one/ones that you are lighting a candle for.

[email protected]
(202) 288-0510
Beverly Hill is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: TCF -DC 2020 Candle LIGHTING
Time: Dec 13, 2020 05:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81480870255

Meeting ID: 814 8087 0255
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Why We Are Changing Our Focus

by Ayo Handy-Kendi

Our Ancestors Who HELPED shape International Breath Day with founder, Baaba Pa-ur - Pictured here are Brother Mudman and Brother Okera Ras. Asante Sana for your contribution to the world

I will honor our breathing as the sacred connection between Spirit, Mind and Body. Today, I will not take my breath for granted but will show gratitude for this life-force that connects me with all other life forms - plants, animals, our clothing, the air and the soil. An African proverbs says, "Everything that has life, has breath".

Today, I will breathe for those who cannot, for many who are struggling to breathe or holding their breath in stress. Today, I will breathe deeply, fully and consciously, aware of every breath I take and every breath that I don't, being sensitive to breath's ebb, flow, shifts and holds. Today, I will breathe for myself for self care. Today, I will send my breath as vibrational energy to my family, my community, my world.

Today, I breathe to be in harmony and to harmonize with the planet and beyond. Today, I breathe as millions do, 20,000 estimated times a day, and I will connect each breathe, as a common bond to our common shared humanity. Today, I will talk less and breathe more, to be more loving, caring, compassionate, kind, tolerant, joyful and abundantly well.

Today, I will breathe to lesson my fears and see my immune system strengthen for my protection. Today, I breathe and affirm that if we take this World Breathing Day intentionally, then we will continue to be conscious of how breath can "wake-up" the masses.

So, Breathe... now more than ever. Pause and breathe through what-ever. Breathe on this day and beyond to make this world a better place with abundant life. What the world needs now... is to Breathe.

OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGY INFORMATION

INTERNATIONAL BREATH DAY, Nov. 22, 2020
Sekou Ayo Handy-Kendi, steward with Baba Paa-Ur, founder of IBD

INTERNATIONAL BREATH DAY -
NOV 22
Change I Can't Breathe to I Must Breathe
Created by Baaba PaUr, founder, Soul Sweat and stewarded by Okera Ras and Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, founder, Optimum Life Breathology and Black Love Day, Feb. 13th.
Give gratitude Nov. 22, for the SACRED BREATH of LIFE. "Breath is life and everything that has life has Breath" On this day, don't take your breath for granted. Honor it, as you honor life. Be mindful of every breath you take, and be sensitive of every breath you don't take. Their are lessons of profound wisdom in both. Join the world community at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and stop a moment to honor your breath.
Join in P.E.W.'s SPECIAL INTERNATIONAL BREATH DAY
BREATHSHOP ON-LINE AT 7 A.M EST AND 7 p.m.

Registration for
COLB 2 Day Certification Refresher
Nov. 28-29, 2020

COLB members (Certified Optimum Life Breathologist)
Click Here For 2Day OLB Special

COLB 2 Day Certification Refresher
Nov. 28-29, 2020

VETERANS DAY - NOVEMBER 11, 2020
HONORING OUR VETERANS BETTER
HELPING THEM MANAGE POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Join in a world-wide gathering wherever you are aligning your time zones with 7 a.m. Eastern Stand Time and 7 p.m. EST to breathe a collective INHALE of new energy to persevere despite the hate and polarizing times; Covid grief over the many lives' lost; health care workers overwhelmed; health inequities, racial injustice; lives lost to police brutality and violence of any kind; election and political blues; economic holding our breath fears; climate erupting as mother-earth roars; and what-ever else we need to EXHALE. We may not be able to control all that is going on in our world, but we can control our breathing. More critical than ever, to "breathe better to live better".
We must breathe to survive and breathe efficiently to THRIVE

CONNECT WITH AYO HANDY-KENDI, THE BREATH SEKOU, FOUNDER OF O.L.B. and steward to
BABA PA-UR , founder of International Breath Day
Breathe for THOSE WHO CAN'T

7 a.m EST for a LIVE GUIDED BREATHING EXPERIENTIAL

7 p.m. EST Video "RE-LEARN HOW TO BREATHE"

A WHOLISTIC MODEL FOR TRAINING LEADERS IN A NEW
3-Day, Intensive Course, Process and Practice for Leadership Training in a Truth and Reconciliation 7 Step Model for Unpacking & Healing Racial, Diversity & Gender Inequality

REGISTRATION & PAYMENT FORMS BELOW

CURRICULUM FOR BREATH CIRCLES FOR RACIAL, DIVERSITY & GENDER HEALING

SUBJECT TO BE CHANGED.

9: a.m Day One

Start: Libations – an African ritual of prayer and honoring the Ancestors.

9:15 – 10 a.m. CIRCLE ONE – GETTING COMFORTABLE
: Welcome from Host. Circle Members each greet each other, say their names or can add a prayer or affirmation to start.
Housekeeping agreements for the course
Course overview and objective by Host.

10 a.m. – 10: 30: Introduction Exercises:
Breath Stress Busters – Yawning, Stretching, Jiggling, Shaking

10: 30- 11:00 – GETTING TO KNOW YOU
Up/ Downs – an easy, interactive way to get to know a little about the diversity make-up of the Circle Members in attendance;
11:00 – 12:00 Identify key terms including diversity, inclusion, belonging, equity, bias, prejudice, discrimination, oppression, intra- and inter-racial, inter-sectionalty, color-ism, white supremacy, racism, white privilege, myscogeny, homo-phobia,
breathology and breathwork, meditation, mindfulness, sub-conscious and un-conscious bias, ancestral, cultural and collective memory, generational trauma

12: 00 – 1:30 p.m. CIRCLE TWO - EXPERIENCING THE TOOLS OF HEALING AND TRANSFORMATION to RECONCILE THE DIVIDES

Cartharting release techniques – screaming, singing, toning, humming, laughing, jibberish, journaling, moving, playing music, art,

Breathology/Breathwork – Optimum Life Breathology practices to include: Relearne How to Breathe; De-Stress Breath; Conscious Connected Breath; Transcendence Breathwork

Silencing/ Mindfulness/ Checking in with our Breath – how to stay in present moment consciousness and how to go within for meditation

1:30- 2:30 p.m.CIRCLE THREE- RELEASE THE PAIN OF INEQUALITY ANDHOW TO HOLD ANOTHER’S
Theater of the Oppressed offers a collective group “role-playing”of a moment of our personal or group pain, rage, sorrow, anger, hurt over an experience of injustice, inequality, or oppression with the goal to :

decrease denial of these issues and increase tolerance, empathy;
Experience using the transformative tools to encourage the release of withheld emotions and process feelings.

2:30 – 3 p.m.Integration of experience.Group bonding ritual.

Chat Room Available until all feel comfortable, or for those who desire to connect with each other.

Homework assignment, Day 1.:Practice Silencing with slow breathing and awareness of the moment.Have pen and journal near-by.Hear the “heart-felt” answer to these questions below, and begin practice of“meditative writing”.Breathe slow and easy allowing the Creator, inner you to reflect thru the writing arm to thehand to reflect on to paper….allow yourself to write without pause, until you have exhausted the flow of words within your heart and soul.Keeping breathing, come back to this writing.Be ready to share your writing for Day 2 Opening Reflections.

QUESTIONS TO BECOME AWARE OF YOUR BIASES:

What did my parents and grandparents think about people who were “different than you” in anyway – race, gender, age, class, nationality, language, disabilities, “

What did my “group” or “tribe’ of people as far as I.m. aware of, think and behave with people that were not like them?

How did their thinking, attitude and behavior serve their group to their benefit? Or to their detriment?

Write down all of the stereo-types that have been passed down, and conditioned into your group

9 a.m. Day Two:
Start: Prayer, Breathe with Joy Breath

9: 30 – 10:30 CIRCLE FOUR – Becoming Conscious : Opening Reflections to Remember our“ Unconscious Biases to Break the Collective Stereo-types, Myths, and Divisions

Circle Members share, dialogue, breathe, carthart as they share their stories, speak their truths of their “group consciousness”, expressing the stereotypes, myths, using the words spoken by their group to describe the “others”, and examine the “consciousness” of their thoughts, behaviors and feelings. A real racial reckoning to end systemic racism, affecting all other forms of oppression, will come from “challenging” the old tapes that keep us conditioned in behaviors that “our generations before us didn’t address”.

10:30 – 11:30: CIRCLE FIVE – Accepting our Truths: Unpacking Systemic Racism and Inequality by Tracing its Historical Roots using a guided imagery visualization, to help us pull the scab off the wounds to get to the truth of racism and injustice’s brutal past and present day reality. This exercise engages us to step out of denial, to begin to confront guilt and shame, anger and pain; resentment and hate; separation and divisions. The visualization encourages cartharting with transformative release work to help awaken the cellular memory of race-based trauma

11:30 - 1: p.m. CIRCLE SIX: Breathe to Heal What You Don’t Feel Using Transcendence Breathwork to End Generational and Race-based Trauma”. will enable us to shift into the sub-conscious mind using Transcendence Breathwork tm, drumming, and release work to reconnect members to the past inequities for a deep and empathetic dive into healing the deep scars and woundedness of the unjust past.

1:30 p.m. Integration/Talk Back of Circle Members.

1:30 – 3:00 CIRCLE SEVEN: Experience harmony and at-one-ment. Experience“The Ritual of Reconciliation, an Atonement ceremony of forgiveness, recommitment towards repairing the damage and reunion around commonly shared goals for humanity. Circle Members will create reconciliation statements for private and public apology before the group and will commit to “Another World is Possible Declaration”

3 – 4 p.m. Integration and Circle Close.

Breathe Away Blog

HELP YOUR TEAM OR YOUR ATTENDEES TO PRODUCE BIG while YOU SAVE BIG - -

If you want your team to show

PEAK PERFORMANCE

GOOD RELATIONSHIPS and TEAM BUILDING,

HIGHER CONSCIOUSNESS for MINDFUL LEADERSHIP

CLARITY for BETTER JUDGEMENT

CALM, GROUNDED, FOCUSED ATTENTION

THEN.....

SCHEDULE RELAXATION and TRANSFORMATION

into your 2019 SCHEDULE OF TRAININGS or EVENTS. Book now and SAVE BIG ON YOUR BUDGET
for your Organization, Meeting, Conference or Family/Community Group
10% OFF of PRESENTATION DATES SCHEDULED BY DEC 30, 2018 FOR 2019+
or 20% OFF FOR ADVANCED PAYMENTS AND DEPOSITS

This discount is for a LIMITED TIME ONLY

BOOK SEKOU AYO'S FAVORITE WORKSHOPS, PRESENTATIONS OR SERVICES
for your Organization, Meeting, Conference or Family/Community Group

"it's a PlayShop"

"Power of the Breath"

"Breathe Thru Trauma, Reawaken to Self-Love"

"Breath & Sound Experiences

"Relaxation On-Site"
"It's Kwanzaa Time'

it's been scientifically proved that a more relaxed mind is a more productive mind.

Up YOUR Employees! Up YOUR Communities! Up YOUR Families!
BREATHE, RELAX, DE-STRESS, REDUCE TRAUMA
Create
JOY. GOOD HEALTH & TEAM-BUILDING
for Real PEACE ON EARTH

View DESCRIPTIONS ON:
https://www.positivenergyworks.com/services.html

OR CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TO DISCUSS YOUR NEEDS AND PRICES

price menu is listed below

202-667-2577
HERE'S OUR LATEST PROMO VIDEO

Promo Video Ayo Handy-Kendi the Breath Sekou, Unique Speaker, Trainer, Presenter

Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, a master teacher in Breath awareness and training, enjoins you to relax, dest...

POSITIVENERGYWORKS' NEW TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT OF
VIDEO, AUDIO, LIVE STREAMING AND EDITING HAS LAUNCHED AND IS NOW AVAILABLE

COMBINED SKILLS OF OVER 100+ YEARS.

CALL TO DISCUSS YOUR 2019 EVENT AND INQUIRE ABOUT ARE INTRODUCTORY RATES AVAILABLE

COURSES /SERVICES/EVENTS

PLANNING A VIRTUAL EVENT
SCHEDULING FOR 2021/22?
COULD YOU OR YOUR GROUP BENEFIT FROM REDUCED STRESS & TRAUMA?
The 2021 year focus will be " "Racism is a Sickness - it's Impact on the Health of Black People"

PositivEnergyWorks offers:
OUR NEWEST STORY PERFORMANCES WITH BREATH CIRCLES FOR RACIAL/DIVERSITY/GENDER HEALING

MAMA AYO HANDY-KENDI, The Breath Sekou, aka, Mama Ayo, the Storyteller, combines culture, history and wellness and makes them come alive with dramatic re-enactments, song, Negro Spirituals, breathology for emotional clearing with "talk-backs" to connect the dots to today's movements for equality or a diversity/healing training.

"Freedom Songs" follows a women's journey of enslavement and freedom and through her lens we view D.C. Emancipation Day, Juneteenth, Maryland Emancipation Day or customed to other emancipation days;

"Stolen" an all NEW, story performance which shares the story of 1619 through the lens of a captive women from Angola, who arrives with "20 or odd negroes", as the first Africans put into bondage in Virginia, over 400 years ago this anniversary year. Talk back or workshop focuses on the lingering consequences of slavery.

CONSTANT FAVORITES

"BREATH STORYTELLING" is a great way of teaching children the importance of breath which helps them be more empathetic to children with Asthma. Also, supports them in Asthma maintenance, health prevention and conflict resolution using the "power of the breath".

RITUAL OF RECONCILIATION as a ceremony of conflict resolution, forgiveness, atonement and Breath Visualization/Activation.

PositivEnergyWorks WITH YOU AND YOUR BUDGET.
Contact us, for questions and inquiries on our O.L.B. Services and Programs.

Let us custom design a program of services after we discuss your program goals. 202-667-2577 or [email protected]
(follow -up with a phone call to alert us of your call)

S
SEPT 26 Racial Healing LAUNCH
Sept 19, 2020= WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA -
RE-AWAKEN TO SELF LOVE Class

BOTH POSTPONED. TBA

Home Visits By Special Appointment.

Extreme Emergency Sessions -
TEXT ONLY: 202-424-8962

Request Fees and Service Descriptions by
Email: [email protected]
OR by Phone: 202-667-2577
OR Make Your Requests through:
Our Website

Book Private
Appointments
for Transcendence Breathwork ITB), BreathShops, Coaching

Introducing a New Leadership Training Model for Racial Justice & Equality
"Breath Circles for Racial, Diversity & Gender Healing" tm
developed & facilitated by Ayo Handy-Kendi, The Breath Sekou

You are invited to a Zoom Virual event for this introductory session
Why We Must Breathe Thru "the Divides"
to Reconcile "the Racism & Inequality"
& Introductory Practice Session

When: Sep 26, 2020 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Register in advance for this meeting:

us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwvde2upjosGtWLg9i3Aj20f0TJNQ1ikEJz

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Be one of the first 100 to experience a life-changing model

Then, stand-by for the first on-line course, Oct 10 & 11
Breath Circles for Racial, Diversity & Gender Healing
LEADERS TRAINING
REGISTRATION TBA

CAPITOL HEIGHTS APPRECIATION DAY HONORed SEKOU AYO HANDY-KENDI, AND 15 OTHER DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS OF THE TOWN ON CAPITOL HEIGHTS IN A PRESENTATION, ZOOM CEREMONY, last
Sat, August 29, 2020.

West African Wisdom: Adinkra Symbols & Meanings. FUNTUNFUNEFU-. DENKYEMFUNEFU. "Siamese crocodiles". symbol of democracy and unity. The Siamese crocodiles share one stomach, yet they fight over food. This popular symbol is a remind that infighting and tribalism is harmful to all who engage in it.

August is African Heritage MONTH
and Black Mental Health Month

viewing details link - Sage-ing Baby Boomers Show

Optimum life Breathology Certification On-Line
Sept 5, 6, 7. Last day, Wed, August 28 to
Register before late Fee

Photo by Nandha Kumar

CHECK OUT BREATHSHOPS, PLAYSHOPS,
TELE-HEALTH COUNSELING/COACHING
VIRTUAL PRESENTATIONS

SAMPLE - in Person
OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGY (OLB) COURSE
2 Day, 16 Hour TRAINING COURSE OUTLINE (subject to change):

ARRIVE FIRST DAY 8:00 a.m
.Check-in; Get Comfortable- Housekeeping duties

8:30 - 9 a.m.
Libations/Prayer;
Receive hand-outs;    Review of the Course;

9:00 – 10:00:
Participant Introductions; Ayo’s Story, Part 1
Breath Stress Busters

10:00 :-10:30
Definition & Benefits of Breathology; Breathwork compared; Breathology
History of Breath Awareness

10:30– 12:00:
Relearn How to Breathe™, The foundational Breath technique in OLB
Belly, aka Diagphragm Breathing-Self-analysis, Breath Adjustment Observing Practice;

12 noon – 12:30:
Light Lunch prepared by participants
                                    ( Please eat in THE SILENCE)
12:30 - 1:00:
Outdoor or Indoor Movement Exercise to Experience “Chi”
Cleansing Auric Fields & Environment with Breath

1:00 – 2 p.m:
Breath Mechanics – How Breathing Works, Video, Q & A

2:00 - 2:30
Definition of Stress
De-stress Breath aka Intervention Breath for stress management/addictions and behavior;
Alternate Nostril Breathing to balance the right and left brain;

2:30-3:00 p.m :
Breathwork techniques in Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness &
Impact on Subconscious Mind;
Conscious- connected Breath for stimulation, transformation, more

3:00 – 5:00
Ayo's Story, Part 2
Transcendence Breathwork™- Facilitated Session by Ayo Handy-Kendi, Talk-back;

5:00- 6:00
Q & A . Product Purchases.
First Day Closing Circle

SECOND DAY of OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGY TRAINING

Arrive 8:00 - 8:30 a.m.
Check-in; Get Comfortable- Housekeeping duties.

8:30: – 9:30:
Prayer;   Review of First Day, Participant Observations

9:30- 10 :30:
Meditation /Mindfulness Defined;
Breath Meditation Technique/Practice;
Walking Meditation Practice to stay in the now presence;
Rolling Breath Technique/Practice to bust Insomnia;

10:30 – 11:30:
Stimulating Breathology Techniques/Practice
4-Part Kria;
Fire-Breath;
Joy Breath;

11:30 – 12:00:
Breathology Standards;
Starting a O.L.B practice; scope of work; definition of market;

12:00 – 12:30:
Light Lunch, provided by participants

12:30 - 1:00 p.m.:
Outdoor or Indoor Exercise: Laughter Yoga Technique/ Practice;

1: 00 – 2:00 p.m:
Relearn How to Breathe Revisited - with Laying down Technique Practice;
Applied Breathology Video, Q & A

2:00 – 2:30:
Cleansing Detox Breath Technique/Practice;
Tantric Breath Technique/Practice for Sacred Sex;

2:30-3:00
Applied Breathology Techniques/Practices to Optimize Daily Living.
Breathology tools within Oxygen products;

3:00 –4:00:
Many ways Hydro-therapy; Water Drinking; Alkaline Food; Oxygen Products;
Air Quality and Purification;

Audible Breath, Sound and Movement Practices for Vibrational Energy Balancing & Oxygen Uptake :
Singing, Screaming, Humming, Drumming, Shaking;
Toning, Chanting

4:00 – 5:00
Winter solstice Breath visualization to Plant the Seeds of Your Up-coming Year
Ritual of Reconciliation

5:00- 6:00 p.m.
Q & A Summary
Certification Rites of Passage Ceremony; Group Picture taking;
Sales of Products;

Revised: 12/16/ 2019 by Sekou Ayo Handy-Kendi © 2019, All rights reserved.

Optimum Life BreathologyTM 2 Day Certification /
3 Day ON-Line
Learn To Breathe Better ... To Live Better

Optimum Life BreathologyTM Relearn How to Breathe Practitioner,
Training, Level 1 On-Line Course to Learn To Breathe Better, Live Better

FOR ON-GOING GROWTH and SUPPORT BE PART OF THE INNER CIRCLE.
Learn more at
THE BREATHE POSITIVE CIRCLE

JUNE 13, 2020 Be the first in this NEW Course !!!
RELEARN HOW TO BREATHE™ PRACTITIONER,
LEVEL 1 TRAINING
Now more than ever, re-learn how to breathe for best life, health, work & longevity!

LINK TO UP-COMING EVENTS

GETTING THAT KNEE OFF BLACK MEN'S NECK
Father's Day and Juneteenth during a Global Pandemic and Racism Up-surge

JUNETEENTH ON-LINE - WE STILL NOT FREE

FRIDAY, JUNE 19TH, 7 - 9 p.m. EST
VIDEO PRESENTATION OF Ayo Handy-Kendi & John Davies "FREEDOM SONG"

ON ZOOM & FACEBOOK LIVE

You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
When: Jun 19, 2020 7 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Register in advance for this meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUlf-uopzorGNeriG0Q1qYzjc047AzcvVlY

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the GATHERING

LINK TO SAGE-ING BABY BOOMERS SHOW

Black Love friends, Lyn Dyson and Ayo Handy-Kendi

http://blackstream.live/positivEnergy/free

HAPPY HEAVENLY MOTHER'S DAY TO ONE OF THE BEST MOM'S. I can't say I miss my Mom cause I speak to her all of the time and sometimes hear her in my voice, and see her in the mirror. Spirit never dies. I cope because I.m. always speaking to her "in spirit" and feel guided by her. These are images of John and I offering sacred sound and she joined in and played with us. We all had a "ball". that evening. We continue to play, breathe, laugh and express our PositivEnergy for our Mom, Mama Ajari Kendi, Queen Mother of Us all, Mrs. Doris A.M. Thomas. She is the epitome of "I.m every Women"

Current BSOL REPLAYS
"laughter Yoga to Build Immunity"
"Sekou Ayo's Review of CDC Preventions & Cleansing Breath Added"

Breathe Better, Live Better

BreathShops On-line LINK

MARK YOUR CALENDARs
BREATHSHOPS OnLine SERIES (BSOL)
2nd & 4th Wednesdays @ 3 - 4 p.m REPLAYs 6- 9 p.m. Est.
Next Series: May 13 and 27
MAY MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH -
Best Breathology for Covid 19, Breath techniques for Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Burn-out, more. With John, Ayo and ELTUC (Earth Love Tune Up Crew) with
Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B) , Breath and Sacred Sound

1st & 3rd Wednesday's
3 p.m. est, LIVE. REPLAYS from 6 - 9 p.m.
Sage-ing Baby Boomer Show (SBBS)
Featuring Host, Ayo Handy-Kendi- Featured Guests- Healthy activities, Info, Fun for those 50+
May 20
featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou & John Davies 3
Shout-outs to Mothers Self-Care; De-stress Care;
Telling Your COVID Story
CLICK ON LINK BELOW

Hosted by Manifest Ra, Founder of Heal Humanity and featuring guests from around the world, this Saturday 5.16.20 features AYO HANDY-KENDI and JOHN DAVIes of the Earth Love Tune Up Crew as they help us with “BREATHING DEEP FOR PLANETARY ASCENSION”.

P.E.W. cancelled it's Mother's Day Concert planned for the same day, same time as the Black Women's Day of Meditation. We affirm no inconvenience. it 's time that more of us collaborate and pull in the ranks compared to hosting events that compete. I will be a part of this audience and maybe even have some input. In the meantime, I.m. putting my feet up this weekend for a much desired "mental health break myself"

REGISTER TO THIS FREE EVENT USING THE LINK BELOW

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-womens-day-of-meditation-2020-tickets-75603270417?utm_source=Constant+Contact&utm_campaign=95c6899c54-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2020_05_07_11_20&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_75bd5f0091-95c6899c54-175055611

FOR MOTHER'S DAY & MAY MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

"RELEARN HOW TO BREATHE" intro class for best life, mental health/Covid 19 prevention, self-care
ON -LINE CLASS SCHEDULED FOR - Sat., May 9 @ 10.a.m. EST.

FREE - Your Love Donations APPRECIATED.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83719906616

Meeting ID: 837 1990 6616

OR CALL IN BY PHONE
+13017158592,,83719906616# US (Germantown)
+13126266799,,83719906616# US (Chicago)

Dial by your location
        +1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown)
        +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
        +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
        +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
        +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
        +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
Meeting ID: 837 1990 6616
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdeItIcAa3

or view on Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/BreatheBetterLiveBetter/

Winding down our National Women's History Month - I Am My Sister Poem by Jus Amanda Batts

BREATHSHOPS OnLine SERIES (BSOL)
Next Series:
April 8 & 22: Manage Stress with Laughter Yoga, pt.1 & 2"
Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B) and Sacred Sound

VIEW BSOL REPLAY ARCHIEVES on DROP DOWN MENU:

http://blackstream.live/positivEnergy/free

CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO BREATHE IN
http://blackstream.live/positivEnergy/free

HOW TO ACCESS VIEWING
Link in 5 minutes before the show

Select 'computer' or 'mobile' viewing

Click 'X' in top right corner

'Scroll' to video window

Click on 'Black Dot'

Welcome you have arrived at
BreathShops On-Line Live Stream/Replays
c/o PositivEnergyWorks.com

P.E.W. MOTHER'S DAY HEALING CONCERT
Pre - MOTHER'S DAY - MAY 9 @ 3 - 5 p.m. EST
featuring Sekou Ayo, John & Earth Love Tune Up Crew (ELTUC)
DE-STRESS MOM with Breath, Sacred Sound, Fun & Relaxation

REGISTER: You are invited to join in virtually by Zoom or call in by Zoom.

When: May 9, 2020
03:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

You MUST Register in advance for this event by clicking link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlf-ivpzMiG9PQ4zQ9TCGvcXJ_43fvuxk0

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Your LOVE DONATIONS of $10 or more help support our work OR pay if you can or what you can.
Make donations to:
Cash App: $AyoHandyKendi
or Paypal: [email protected]

African Landing Day, August 25, 2019,
inspired Mama Ayo to take her play's research deeper so she has written the inside story behind the history of 1619 focusing on the compelling story of two women,
Angela and Isabella, documented as some of the first Africans enslaved in the Virgina, British North America, in 1619.
LEARN THE HISTORY NOT BEING WRITTEN IN THE ARTICLES.

THE INSIDE DRAMA OF THE FIRST AFRICANS ENSLAVED IN VIRGINIA CAN HELP US HEAL THE DIVIDES OF TODAY.
Read the book , Present the play OR bring the workshop to your community.

NOW AS THE COUNTRY IS RE-ADDRESSING REPARATIONS question, THE TIME HAS COME AGAIN TO RIGHT THE WRONGS AND REPAIR THE DAMAGE. But, how can we heal when we repress uncomfortable, traumatic emotions and pain?

Use "Stolen" the play, as an interactive, healing tool combined with the tool of breath and sound to clear ancestral memory for forgiveness and reconciliation work.
The play is available for an event or as a presentation or workshop of diversity/gender healing.

Schedule, "STOLEN" as "the diversity/reconciliation event like none other because we must feel the pain to heal the pain to stop the divides, to increase peace" featuring Mama Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou.

Read the book, "STOLEN" to move forward and grow.

Mrs. Loretta Carter Hanes - The Reviver of D.C. Emancipation Day - We honor your legacy

Purchase Ms. Loretta Carter Hanes Video for D.C. Emancipation Day

April 16th – D.C Emancipation Day On-Line
SCHEDULE
12 Noon - 1 p.m.
Friends OF D.C.E.D.(FDCED) Program with Historical Documents by Brenda Sayles

Welcome/Libations with Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder Black Love Day, AAHa/PositivEnergyWorks
Negro National Anthem: Luci Murphy
Connection of D.C. Statehood to History: Anise Jenkins, Stand-Up for Democracy,
Historian C.R. Gibbs: Historic Over-view of D.C. Emancipation
Peter Hanes , Historian: Tribute to the legacy of his mother, Ms. Loretta Carter Hanes, Reviver of D.C. E.D
Frank Smith, Director African American Civil War Memorial: Anniversary of Granting A.A. Men the Right to Vote
Invited Remarks by: Kimberly Bassett, Secretary of the District of Columbia, Mayor Muriel Bowser, Congresswoman, Eleanor Holmes Norton

1:15 - 2:00:
HISTORICAL DOCUMENTS SLIDE SHOW BY Archivist, Brenda Sayles

2;00 - 3:00
D.C. EMANCIPATION DAY PARADE - ENCORE - Relive 2016 emancipation day parades in D. C
Henry Joseph, Video-tographer, CEO, Production Company

3:00 - 5:00
WPFW REPLAY OF STATEHOOD/ EMANCIPATION HISTORY WITH C.R. GIBBS, ANISE jENKINS,

6:00 - 700
Loretta Carter Hanes - The Reviver of D.C. Emancipation - Documentary by Ayo Handy-Kendi & John Davies 3

Click here for UP-COMING EVENTs and CLASSES

I Am My Sister Poem by Jus Amanda Batts - Video -Winding down our National Women's History Month

ARTICLES

April 16, DC EMANCIPATION DAY ON-LINE. Spread the Word..Honor the Ancestors, Advocate for Statehood, Despite the times

April 16th is D.C. Emancipation Day. This year, celebrate 158 years of the History of D.C. Compensated Emancipation and Learn About the First Freed. Gather to a virtual program of Speakers, On-line Exhibits, Encore of Past Parades, Statehood educational rebroadcast on WPFW and Film Tribute to Ms. Loretta Carter Hanes, historian & reviver of D.C.ED. 2020. Theme: 150 Anniversary of 15th Amendment for African American Men's Right to Vote.
View ON-LINE: 12 Noon – 7 p.m Thurs, April 16, 2020

REGISTER IN ADVANCE BY CLICKING THE URL BELOW:

https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJckce2urjMuGNZHGdgdIuyI8fRp6Kig9FFR

SPECIAL NOTE: Please spread the word. This idea to put DCED ON-Line came 12 DAYS ago, 'cause Mrs. Hanes and the Lord spoke to my heart and said we got to keep marching no matter what "the times are". I listened and the Friends of DCED got busy. We who believe in Freedom cannot rest despite the times. Ayo Handy-Kendi, FDCED

Sponsors: Friends of DC Emancipation Day in association with the African American Holiday Association/P.E.W., StandUp for Democracy, DC Black History Celebration Committee & WPFW-FM, 89.3

"Taking a different approach....smiling more, laughing at silly things, looking at light-hearted movies -- changing my own state of mind. Accepting where I am and making the best of it." Ayo Handy-Kendi

DC Emancipation Day On-LINE
REGISTER IN ADVANCE BY CLICKING THE URL BELOW:

https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJckce2urjMuGNZHGdgdIuyI8fRp6Kig9FFR

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email to join the celebration on-line.

If the zoom room is full, go to FACEBOOK LIVE
https://www.facebook.com/ayohandykendi

WPFW, 89.3 fm Radio for 3-5 p.m. segment

World Breath Day, April 11 -
Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou offers Laughter Yoga to Build Immune System @ 5 p.m EDT
April 11 WORLD BREATHING DAY gives us a chance to Pause...take a deep breath as this annual global event that invited everyone to remember, experience, celebrate & honor the healing and unifying power of breath. Pause.... Breathe with IBF's 24 hour Global On-line Event of expert breath training: Reconnect in the "breathing room"; Help families "breathe better" with Covid-19 emergency kit & breathing tips for learning; Relax with Laughter yoga and more. What the world needs now... Breathe and spread the word.
Register for on-line event at www.worldbreathingday.earth

April 16th – D.C Emancipation Day On-Line

This year, Celebrate the History of D.C. Compensated Emancipation and Learn About the First Freed with a virtual program of Speakers, Exhibits, Encore of Past Parades, WPFW DCED rebroadcast and Film Tribute to Ms. Loretta Carter Hanes, historian & reviver of D.C.ED. 2020.
Theme: 150 Anniversary of 15th Amendment for African American Men's Right to Vote
See Schedule REGISTER TO VIEW

D.C. Emancipation Day On-Line, April 16

WORLD BREATHING DAY, APRIL 11
Sponsored by IBF

WORLD BREATHING DAY, APRIL 11, 2020 - Hit the Pause Button and BREATHE!!

For Immediate Release: Breathing in the time of COVID-19 - We are now well-rooted in the new decade and there is no denying that it has brought with it challenges the likes of which we never thought we would ever experience. The entire world is on lockdown as a pandemic sweeps through our communities, leaving in its wake anxiety, confusion, uncertainty, fear and in some cases death.
More than ever, the world needs to hit the pause button and just BREATHE!!!
It’s safe to breathe!

On April 11th, the International Breathwork Foundation (IBF) and its global affiliates will be celebrating the 16th annual World Breathing Day, a global event that invites us to experience, and celebrate the healing and unifying power of breath, and to remember that it’s safe to breathe!

During times of crises, conscious breathing has been proven to support people in maintaining physical, mental and emotional balance, and as a result, enhancing health and preventing trauma.

On April 11th, you will learn to use your Breath to:

Increase immunity and strength;
Reduce fear and anxiety;
Feel connected with your Self, with others and with Earth;
Get healthier even if confined at home;
Heighten your ability to relax and quiet your mind;
Learn about the power of your breath

Join us:

World Breathing Day 2020 offers for the first time an interactive and experiential, 24-hour, FREE online international event via Facebook Live and Zoom (see access details below). During this event, you will be guided through many highly effective exercises and methods of breathwork by qualified, prominent and experienced breathwork practitioners using evidence-based breathing techniques.
Individuals can check on the World Breathing Day website (see below) for virtual events in their language and time-zone.
Connect with the world in the World Breathing Room on DoAsOne.org, a beautiful online space that enables you to breathe synchronously with people from around the globe.
If you have the possibility go outside or open your window and breathe. Celebrate the air getting cleaner as a result of humanity on pause. Breathe for the Earth, breathe for Life.

“Breath reduces stress, and if we reduce stress we strengthen the immune system” says Veronique Batter, past president of the IBF and present Chair of the World Breathing Day. “Breath is life! Let’s breathe for all those who are fighting for their breath right now.”
Some of the benefits of conscious breathing:

Increased immunity
Stress management
Trauma prevention and trauma release
Improved focus
Better self-regulation and management of hyper-activity
Positive impact on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being

“By breathing consciously we are creating a stance to avoid future trauma” adds Rabia Hayek, co-founder and visionary of Do As One and Omnibreath. “Be responsible but don’t be scared of the air.”

This year’s World Breathing Day theme, “BREATHE”, further reminds us that we all have unlimited and free access to this simple, natural, potent tool that heals our bodies, calms our nerves, de-stresses our minds, and creates emotional stability.
“In these times of chaos and confusion, when we don’t know where else to turn, the Breath is always there” says Marie-Therese Maurice, Founder of One Minute for Earth. “When we engage with it consciously, it quickly and easily guides us to a place of grounding, peace, connection and healing.”

On April 11th, let’s celebrate that we are alive because we BREATHE!

For further information go to: www.worldbreathingday.earth or contact IBF at: [email protected]

To participate in the free 24-hour online World Breathing Day event, sign up at: www.facebook.com/groups/worldbreathingday

To find a virtual event happening in your language and community, go to: www.worldbreathingday.earth

Post photos and videos of yourself, your friends and/or your event on Instagram and Twitter using the hashtags: #WorldBreathingDay #BreatheWBD

Please share! The more of us who consciously breathe together, the more we contribute to a better, healthier world.

Loretta Carter Hanes "Reviver of DC Emancipation Day"

$8.00

Buy Now

In this DVD Digital documentary, "Loretta Carter Hanes, an Interview with the Reviver of D.C. Emancipation Day", learn the remarkable story of how one woman's love for history and culture, lead her to the re-discovery of D.C. Emancipation Day. This historical commemoration, was revived due to Ms. Hanes' research and it became a legal holiday in the District of Columbia.

Because of her tireless research, she was interviewed by Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder/director of the African American Holiday Association (AAHA) This unique and intimate interview was filmed by John Davies 3, Ayo's husband. In this rare documentary, learn as Mrs. Hanes reveals little known "gems" of this history:

How the Nation's Capitol's first enslaved persons, 3100 men, women and children, were the first emancipated on April 16, 1862, exactly 9 months before President Abraham Lincoln, issued the emancipation Proclamation, that freed the enslaved through out the rest of the country;
How D.C. compensated the owners of the enslaved and in on record as the only compensated emancipation;
How the enslaved lived, worked and built the Nation's Capitol;
Much more. This documentary is part of AAHA's Keepers of the Culture Series"

202-667-2577 www.PositivEnergyWorks.com

,
"HOPIN' AND COPIN' TO GET BY"
Here's lots of resources to help you maintain JOY despite the times.

Queen Afua 24 hour GLOBAL EQUINOX CALL
featuring wholistic practitioners every 20 minutes

O.L.B MEDITATION /VISUALIZATION/ ACTIVATION with Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou with John Davies 3, sacred sound with ELTUC

Tuesday, April 7, 2020 @ 12:30 p.m EST.

Connect: More information TBA

Ascension Timeline/End of Coronavirus Mass Meditation
April 4th/5th 2020 @ 10:45 P.M. EST
Receive the energy of a "star-gate portal opening exactly at times listed

Join in with 1 million meditators around the world as Ayo Handy-Kendi, John Davies 3 and ELTUC Sacred Sound host a
MASS MEDITATION VIA:
blackstream.live/PositivEnergy/Free
POSITION YOURSELF @10:15 p.m. to breathe, relax and get ready to be spiritually receptive for the 10;45 moment of configuration

LEARN MORE @ We Love Mass Meditation

It is time to take action again! It is time to take the destiny of our world in our own hands! We all agree that the process of planetary liberation is taking too long, and the current timeline is not going in the best direction.

Here is our chance to collectively shift the timeline back into our optimal timeline for planetary liberation. Therefore we are using the opportunity of the massive astrological configuration of Jupiter Pluto conjunction on April 4th/5th to create a portal through which we will unify our consciousness and trigger the process that will solidify the optimal Ascension timeline for the planet.

We will be doing this meditation at 10:45 pm EDT on April 4th in New York. This equals 9:45 pm CDT in Chicago, 8:45 pm MDT in Denver and 7:45 pm PDT in Los Angeles. Europe and Asia will already have April 5th at the moment of the activation, which will be 3:45 am BST in London, 4:45 am CEST in Paris, 4:45 am EET in Cairo, 10:45 am CST in Taipei and Beijing, 11:45 am JST in Tokyo and 12:45 pm AEST in Sydney.

You can check the time of the meditation for your time zone here: https://www.timeanddate.com/worldcloc...

Instructions (suggested time for our meditation is 20 minutes), IN CASE YOU MEDITATE ON YOUR OWN:

1. Use your own technique to bring you to a relaxed state of consciousness.

2. State your intent to use this meditation as a tool to shift the planet into the most optimal timeline and as a tool to completely remove the coronavirus.

3. Visualize a pillar of brilliant white Light emanating from the Cosmic Central Sun, then being distributed to Central Suns of all galaxies in this universe. Then visualize this light entering through the Galactic Central Sun, then going through our Galaxy, then entering our Solar System and going through all beings of Light inside our Solar System and then through all beings on planet Earth and also through your body to the center of the Earth.

4. Visualize this Light transmuting all remaining coronavirus on Earth, disinfecting all infected areas on the planet, healing all patients, removing all fear associated with this epidemic and restoring stability.

5. Visualize the course of events on planet Earth shifting into the most positive timeline possible, shifting away from all epidemics, away from all wars, away from all global domination. Visualize white, pink, blue and golden Light healing all inequalities, erasing all poverty and bringing abundance to all humanity. Visualize a new grand cosmic cycle of the Age of Aquarius beginning, bringing pure Light, Love and Happiness to all beings on Earth. Victory of the Light!

Updates about the Ascension Timeline Meditation: http://2012portal.blogspot.com

BUY NOW

This video demonstrates the health of my Mom, Mrs. Doris A.M. Thomas, at age 85. A breast cancer survivor who also survived over 47 radiation/chemotherapy treatments and a re-occurrence of Cancer in her hips, she decided to take the alternative natural route, at the insistence of her daughter me, Ayo. She did Yoga and later Breathology to increase oxygenation into her cells, and other oxygenation principles, like more alkaline fruits, vegetables, and prepared them to stay healthy, by eating more uncooked choices. she became vegan, drank alkaline water, and moved.....tap dance, aerobics, tai chi, modern dance, walking, stretching....This video is a demonstration of what clean thoughts, and wholistic living can do, as my Mom was the hit of my first Breath conference.

CLICK HERE FOR "BREATHE AWAY BLOG"

BOOK AYO

CONTACT AYO HANDY-KENDI, The Breath Coach for
SOUND & BREATH EXPERIENCES
BREATHSHOPS, PLAYSHOPS, COACHING

We customize our presentations to your group, audience or objective

https://www.buyblackmovement.com/Store/Products/Details/index.cfm?Product_ID=12212

Open your life NOW to the 100% natural plant source of 92 nutrients, that is Morniga. However, you use it, you will feel a benefit, quickly.

Motherland's Gold, Owner states: "We provide top of the line nutritional products for the Black community, through the Black Business Network (BBN) featuring the best nutrition available on planet earth: 100% pure, top quality Moringa Oliefera.".

SEKOU AYO ENDORSEMENT
"i.ve taken Moringa leaf for close to 20 years from many sources, However, this particular source, from Motherland's Gold, has proven itself for the last 5 years to be superior. You can smell it's freshness when you open the protective packaging.

We use the powder in soup, smoothies, salads, and take the capsules on the run. We also love the moringa leaf tea and I.m excited about the new teas." I love this company, the product and that I.m supporting my community".

And Moringa is so nutritious, that if we had to live off of limited food, the 92+ nutrients could sustain life. I.m stocking up on the powder leaf".

CHECK OUT ALL of Motherland's Gold Moringa products, along with the many other products of the BBN PositivEnergyWorks (PEW) is an Affiliate of BBN .

Your purchase helps support our work. Membership to BBN is free and you can affiliate with us and the BBN to earn and support.

MORINGA PRODUCT VIDEO
https://www.buyblackmovement.com/Store/Products/Details/index.cfm?Product_ID=12212

BBN as an Affiliate of PE.W
https://www.positivenergyworks.com/affiliate-opportunities.html

JOIN BBN TO ORDER: Referred by Ayo Handy-Kendi [email protected]
https://www.buyblackmovement.com/Join/

TODAY ,MARCH 25 @ 5 -6 P.M. EST VIEW OR HEAR AYO HANDY-KENDI,
USE YOUR LAP TOPS OR EVEN THE PHONE

Register FREE today -- 5 DAY summit FROM March 23- 27, 2020.".

And if you choose to purchase the upgrade package, please use my referral link to credit me for my referral to this event.

Stress can literally take your breath away… On the other hand, maybe you consciously stop to take a deep breath before an important meeting, phone call, or decision… to release tension and feel a greater sense of ease and embodied presence. Breath is one of the only involuntary bodily functions we can consciously alter at any time… and it directly and powerfully affects our consciousness, physiology, and brain chemistry. Chronic stress patterns, addictive behaviors, emotional overwhelm, physical, mental, spiritual, everyday challenges like immune boosting, etc. — all these common challenges can be potently met with the gentle elixir of breath modulation…--Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou

Register FREE Breathwork Summit 2020

Breathwork Summit 2020Experience the Power of Breath to Transform Your Body, Mind & Spirit

To purchase the upgrade package use Sekou Ayo's referral link:
https://shiftnetwork.isrefer.com/go/bws20a20807/a20807/

Morniga, aka,the Miracle Tree, offers some of the best nutrition available. Moringa contains more than 90 nutrients, minerals and 46 types of antioxidants. It also contains 18 amino acids, including the eight essential ones that your body needs, can't make on its own, and must get from your food.

With all the health benefits of Moringa, it can easily be called 'the most nutritious plant on the face of the earth'. There are no side-effects of Moringa tree leaves which have been proved to date. At the same time, Moringa can be consumed by small children and adults alike."

Many claim that Moringa treats over 300 body ailments and diseases. My personal endorsement is below and more info. is on the Black Business Network with a
video that really tells the story of this amazing plant.

AFRICAN AMERICAN HOLIDAY ASSOCIATION (AAHA)
Perpetuates and preserves culture through traditional and non-traditional holidays, celebration & rituals
202-667-2577       [email protected]            www.AfricanAmericanHolidays.org
Contact: Rashida Thomas publicists, 202-667-2577; TEXT: 202-424-8962

February 1, 2019
PRESS RELEASE:

26th Black Love Day, Feb. 1th Uplifts Black Women as We All Heal, We Heal a Nation

Black Love Day, Feb. 13th, this year, 2019, is celebrating 26 years of creating solutions for better relationships within Black and White communities with this year’s 2019 theme: “Heal a Woman, Heal a Nation”. The 2019 activities that will address this theme are: The Official 26th Black Love Relationship Ceremony in the D.M.V. at Greater Beulah Baptist Church, 6056 Central Avenue, Capitol Heights, Md. 20743 from 6 – 9 p.m. and a noon-day, Global Black Love Convergence On-Line. However, it’s not “where you go” but what you “do” to demonstrate love on BLD that makes it so special as a more cultural, spiritual alternative to the commercial Valentine's Day with further goals to: increase peace, stop violence, end Black self-hatred and White supremacy racism, Black Love Day (BLD) encourages us to return to love to transform and heal all of our relationships.

BLD is the 3rd observed African-American holiday or wholyday of atonement, reconciliation, celebration and 24 hour demonstration of 5 loving acts or tenets: For The Creator, for Self, for the Black Family, the Community and for the Black Race with Whites in the 24 hours showing love in action towards Blacks and working on their own racial attitudes and behaviors-- Black Love Day gives us a rare chance, in these polarized times, to uplift and reconnect.

The “Heal a Woman, Heal a Nation” initiative focuses on the 400th Anniversary of the arrival of the first Africans to be sold into bondage in North America in 1619 at Jamestown, VA. BLD and the year’s campaign will help heal the inequalities that “Black women” have dealt with since 1619 to this day, due to the institution of slavery, the structural racism that evolved from it, and sex discrimination and oppression inflicted on women. Being at the intersection of both racism and sexism, Black women and girls, have had to rise above this double impact on Black women’s consciousness, self-esteem, self-love and self-care; their relationships with their men, their children and other women, Black and White alike; their parenting styles; the economic gaps in pay wages, housing, wealth building and up-ward mobility; the gaps in mental, emotional, behavioral health stability for the creation of quality-loving relationships and involvements in families and communities; disproportionate incarceration of Black and Brown women and girls; and disproportionate health concerns from medical institutions and the day to day stress of showing resilience from the poverty, suppression, abuse, trauma, unequal treatment, and injustices – all deeply impactful issues as the legacy of slavery.

Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder of Black Love Day, the non-profit, African American Holiday Association (AAHA) and founder/CEO of PositivEnergyWorks, a Certified Optimum Life Breathologists (C.O.L.B) is a women, who has used generational, cellular, and sub-conscious clearing techniques to heal herself as an abused women and mother of a slain son. She has also “breathed” with millions on radio, t.v., in print, on stage, and in private practice using breathology techniques and her signature Circles for Racial and Diversity Healing and Ritual of Reconciliation.

She states, “With the focus on the 400th anniversary beginning of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade and it’s resultant historical impact still lingering at the root of so many of our relationship dysfunctions today, we get to release some of the suppressed post and present-traumatic stress disorders of Black women – the anthropological mothers of civilization, who mothered White women’s babies while often their own babies were torn out of their wombs or left un-nourished; who were raped by their masters and pitted against their master’s wives and other black women- just some of the issues that need to be addressed. Let’s use this year’s BLD to do more than dialogue about this past, but to heal our present and future history”. For 26th BLD activities and love’s healing solutions go to www.AfricanAmericanHolidays.org and www.PositivEnergyWorks.com or call 202-667-2577###

60 SECOND PSA
What would happen if around the Nation and the World, for 24 hours on Black Love Day, February 13, everyone in the Black community performed at least, 5 specific acts of love – towards the Creator, for Self, for Family, for the Community and for the Black Race, and at the same time, everyone in the White community put “love in action towards Blacks and dealt with their own attitudes about race?

This is what happens on Black Love Day Feb. 13, the 3rd nationally, observed African-American holiday (wholyday) of atonement, reconciliation, celebration and 24 hour demonstration of Black Love now celebrating its 26th year. To increase peace, stop violence, end Black self-hatred and White supremacy/racism --- Black Love Day encourages us to return to love to transform and heal all of our relationships.

LOCAL/ NATIONAL AND GLOBAL BLACK LOVE activities will focus on this year’s theme: “HEAL A WOMAN, HEAL A NATION”. Return to Love to Heal All of YOUR Relationships, this BLD and beyond. For info. go to www.AfricanAmericanHolidays.org or call 202-667-2577###

AFRICAN AMERICAN HOLIDAY ASSOCIATION (AAHA)
Perpetuates and preserves culture through traditional and non-traditional holidays, celebration & rituals
202-667-2577       [email protected]            www.AfricanAmericanHolidays.org
Contact: Rashida Thomas publicists

CALENDAR OF EVENTS
2019 BLACK LOVE DAY, Feb. 13th
Demonstrate the 5 Tenants of Black Love wherever you are, because it is not where you go on Black Love Day, Feb. 13th, it is what “you do” to act in love for 24 hours.
For details: www.AfricanAmericanHolidays.org

GLOBAL:
What:            GLOBAL BLACK LOVE CONVERGENCE ON-LINE WEBCAST:
When:            Wed, Feb. 13     from 12 Noon – 12:30 P.M. (EST).
Where:           Wherever you are in the world.

Come together on-line on Black Love Day, Feb. 13th, in a cellular clearing and global visualization/activation to “Heal a Woman, Heal a Nation” facilitated by Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, founder of Black Love Day and the Ritual of Reconciliation. Featuring breath and sound by Earth Love Tune Up Crew (ELTUC).   To take part in the webcast, subscribe and follow the Link to VIEW.   www.PositivEnergyWorks.com

IN THE LOCAL D.C. METROPOLITAN AREA, home of Black Love Day
What:            26TH OFFICIAL BLACK LOVE RELATIONSHIP CEREMONY
When:             Wed, Feb. 13, Black Love Day from 6 – 9 p.m.
Where:           Greater Beulah Baptist Church
6056 Central Avenue, Capitol Heights, Md. 20743
Free / Open to the Public. Love Donations Appreciated. .

RSVP:   202-667-2577 or [email protected]

Celebrate Black Love for the first time in Maryland with a Capitol Heights Mayoral Proclamation. Experience the Ritual of Reconciliation, a profound ceremony of forgiveness, atonement and love’s healing power. Demonstrate the 5 Tenets of Black Love facilitated by Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, founder of Black Love Day and the Ritual of Reconciliation Uplift with the vibration of love with featured artists, Freedom Nsoroma EL, Master Poet, CeLillianne Greene, Open Heart Breath and Sacred Sound by ELTUC.

ON FEBRUARY 13TH, Transform with Love to Heal all of your Relationships ###

VIEW LIVE STREAMED BLD EVENTS
http://blackstream.live/positivEnergy/free Text

AFRICAN HOLISTIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION, N.Y. CHAPTER
First Annual Chapter Meet & Greet Potluck - Feb 17, 2020

featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, and many other Practitioners and Guests

Do feel free to bring other dynamic practitioners along who would be a good match for what we do. CLICK THE LINK BELOW.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-annual-chapter-meet-eat-greet-feb-17-2020-tickets-72398482811?utm_campaign=new_event_email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eb_email&utm_term=viewmyevent_button

https://www.gofundme.com/f/black-love-day-2020-reparations2heal

Support 27th Black Love Day by donating to our "gofundme" campaign

IN THE LOCAL D.C. METROPOLITAN AREA, home of Black Love Day
What:            27TH OFFICIAL BLACK LOVE RELATIONSHIP CEREMONY

When:             Thurs, Feb. 13, Black Love Day from 6 – 9 p.m.

Where:           Greater Beulah Baptist Church, 6056 Central Avenue, Capitol Heights, Md. 20743

Free / Open to the Public. Love Donations Appreciated.

RSVP:   202-667-2577 or [email protected]

Celebrate Black Love for the second time in Maryland with a Capitol Heights Mayoral Proclamation. Take part in the formal induction of the New World African Symbol, spearheaded by Counsel Woman Elaine Williams of Capitol Heights Township, the Chi (Collective Health Initiative) and Baba Melvin Deal Experience the Ritual of Reconciliation, a profound ceremony of forgiveness, atonement and love’s healing power.

Demonstrate the 5 Tenets of Black Love facilitated by Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, founder of Black Love Day and the Ritual of Reconciliation Uplift with the vibration of love with featured artists, Ka Ba, the Soul Singer and the poetry of Precious Mother Love. Open Heart Breath and Sacred Sound by ELTUC. Vending & Light refreshments..

We really need your support. Donate to the GoFundMe Campaign: https://www.gofundme.com/f/black-love-day-2020-reparations2heal?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1

What:     GLOBAL BLACK LOVE CONVERGENCE ON-LINE :

When: Thurs, Feb. 13     from 12 Noon – 12:30 P.M. (EST).

Where:           Wherever you are in the world.

Come together on-line on Black Love Day, Feb. 13th, reconcile our differences to heal the divides in a global visualization/activation to gain the mindset on this theme: ““"Reparations 2 Repair 2 Reconcile 2 Restore the LOVE". Facilitated by Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, founder of Black Love Day and the Ritual of Reconciliation. Featuring breath and sound by Earth Love Tune Up Crew (ELTUC).   To take part in the webcast, subscribe and follow the Link to VIEW.   www.PositivEnergyWorks.com

BLACK LOVE DAY - GLOBAL, NATIONAL, LOCAL ACTIVITIES
Attend 27th Black Love OFFICIAL RELATIONSHIP CEREMONY
Get the details: up-coming events
Learn more on What to Do & How to Celebrate:
www.AfricanAmericanHolidays.org

Purchuse "Women Breath Away Trauma" Class

BreathShop Master Class

"WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA -
RE-AWAKEN TO SELF-LOVE
Hands-On Master Class In the D.M.V.
Saturday, January 25, 2020 10 to 4 p.m.
Space very limited
Payment: $60 per person
WE appreciate your interests in our hands-on classes. Inquire about our sliding fee/barter participation policy for all P.E.W. services/classes, courses.
Experience Transcendence Breathwork - the 45 minute session is equal to 2 1/2 years of talk therapy; Other O.L. B techniques- Relearn How to Breathe & De-stress Breath for on-going stress management; Open Heart visualization/Meditative Writing Forgiveness Work: Ritual of Reconciliation for closure/self-love; Self-care exercises.

PRE-PARE FOR A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE OF RELEASE, GROWTH & SELF-CARE facilitated by Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Seko

PRE-REGISTER is a Most (See link below)
Join our BreathShop Master Classes that take you on the next level of personal growth, development and healing by mastering the tool of "the Breath" to experience it's Power

Our system, Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B.) trains one in learning Breathology, the art and science of Breath Awareness, Breath Mechanics and how to apply breathing techniques, practices and oxygen concepts to everyday living.

In this class, we will use several O.L.B techiques to open sub-conscious, cellular and generational memory to encourage deep healing in a small group seating and to have the tool of deep breath & de-stress breath for continued stress and emotional management..

BreathShop Master Classes will offer 1 hour -4 hour(s) long classes ON/OFF-Line, that will provide real tools to address many of today's health, wellness, mental and public health concerns.

The classes will build upon the themes of the Breath Shop's OnLine Series

People ready to master life by mastering the breath will want to CONSIDER OUR PREMIUM PACKAGES THAT TAKE YOU ON A DEEPER DISCOVERY OF HEALTH, SELF-CARE & WELLNESS. INQUIRE by contacting P.E.W. 202-667-2577

WE appreciate your interests in our hands-on classes. Inquire about our sliding fee/barter participation policy for all P.E.W. services/classes, courses.

JOIN THE BREATHE POSITIVE CIRCLE FOR FURTHER DISCOUNTS BY STAYING CONNECTED TO P.E.W

Sekou Ayo seeks to create a “breath movement” and thus has developed a course of instruction and certification called Optimum Life Breathology tm.
She has certified Optimum Life Breathologists (C.O.L.B) in 7 states - D.C., Md., Baltimore, Columbus, Ohio, Philadelphia, Pa, New York and California. and has introduced Breathology internationally in Liberia, Benin, the Canary Islands, South Africa and France.
Yearly, she offers the “Power of the Breath Tour” to expand her “breath movement”.. LOOK FOR AN OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGY CERTIFICATION COURSE IN YOUR AREA OR HOST ONE!

BSOL LINK TO BLACKSTREAM.LIVE

50TH ANNUAL KWANZAA CHILDREN'S PARTY
Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019
In recognition of the principle of UJIMA (Collective Work and Responsibility) Honoring Mama Nia Kuumba & Baba Lumumba, pioneers of D.C. Kwanzaa events.
Attend a very special, high-energy party with your children, ages 3-12. Each child must be accompanied by an adult

Sponsored by Kwanzaa Children's Party Commitee
Featuring Kuumba Arts Korner, Mama Nkechi, Baba Kaba as MC/s, Mama Ayo Handy-Kendi, storytelling, Alan Price, Violinist, Drummer/Dancing. Refreshments. Zawadi (gifts) to the Watoto (children).
Arts & Crafts 11 a.m. to 12 noon Noon to 3 p.m.
Celebration & Food/ Libations, Candle-lighting Service
THE PANORAMA ROOM, 1600 Morris Road, S.E., W.D.C., 20020. For info. call 202-390-3164 or 240-832-7203.
THIS EVENT IS FREE HOWEVER YOUR DONATIONS HELP MAKE IT HAPPEN. GIVE GENEROUSLY.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/50th-annual-kwanzaa-children039s-party

Mama Ayo, the Storyteller & Breath Sekou, will attend most events. Come out and breathe through the wholydays of Kwanzaa. Gain your health and mastery of your life, with mastery of your breathing. She will host the candlelighting service on KUUMBA night.

Kujichagulia Kwanzaa Celebration 2019!
Hosted/Sponsored by the Collective Health Initiative, Ni Dembaya African Drum and Dance Ensemble, Eye Am Whole, featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou aka Mama Ayo, the Storyteller

Friday, December 27, 2019
6 pm to 9 pm
@Greater Beulah Baptist Church
6056 Central Ave., Capitol Heights, MD 20743
Suggested $5 donation

Come celebrate Kwanzaa with us, as we share and reaffirm the principle of "Kujichagulia" (self-determination), and how we can apply it in our daily lives, to our wellness, and to strengthen our desires for our families and communities moving forward.

Program Includes:
Explanation of Kwanzaa's Meaning & Importance
Candle Lighting for the Children
Community African drumming and dancing
Kujichagulia - Money, Power, Respect, & Health
Live Performances/Demos
Vendors Marketplace

For more info:
@Docta Yew - (202) 469-0264 / [email protected]

Since 1989, I have been blessed to offer holiday stress/wellness management and holiday cultural competency through workshops, lectures, storytelling and consultations at schools, workplaces and community-based organizations, at sliding fees through my organization, the African American Holiday Association (AAHA) or through my business, PositivEnergyWorks. At Thanksgiving last year, I facilitated a workshop to support breathing and stress management but when I asked my Latin American audience about their holiday stress, I got no affirmative responses. These folks were not participating in a Washington, D. C. style, thanksgiving, as many didn’t speak English and the interpreter indicated that most were recent arrivals to the area.

Once again, I learned that during this time of the year, we must look at cultural sensitivity in the diverse ways in which people celebrate, and cultural competency particularly at the workplace and in the schools, acknowledging that the diverse way that we celebrate enables us to learn more about others, have greater appreciation for culture, and encourages us to have patience, compassion and more awareness of our similar interests – our “unity in diversity” -- which offers us real peace on earth and less stress, by allowing others their grace to be themselves. The U.S.A. is not all Christian nor of European descent, yet most of the year-end holidays (and actually almost all of the U.S.A.’s major holidays) have their roots in Christianity, and/or European pagan rituals.

Time to step out of the box. I was reminded of my many years of attempting to help the world community understand this reality, as a way of bringing us all to peace and sanity during days in the U.S.A. that we call “holidays”.

There is a direct link between emotional health, cultural sensitivity and holidays. At this workshop, I was further reminded of the importance of harnessing holidays for people of color in particular, who are already marginalized dealing with critical issues of immigration rights; access to health, housing, jobs and good nourishment. Impoverished and working class folk are already living with more sickness and dying sooner than other communities showing disproportionate issues of Obesity, High Blood Pressure (HBP), Cancer, Stroke, Diabetes, Heart Attacks, Breast Cancer, HIV-AIDS, as well as over-whelmed with public health challenges, such as Black/Brown on Black/Brown homicide, domestic violence, unemployment, underemployment and racism. As I researched, I found that during every holiday, many of these challenges spiked and I saw the common factors that contributed to “people of color” issues of just living, let alone their living during holidays.

Due to this awareness in 1980, I introduced the concept of “holiday stress syndrome” I defined holiday stress syndrome as “seasonal periods of out of balanced behavior, gross consumerism, people pleasing, over-indulgence and cultural/spiritual mis-identification. This simply means that people go a little crazy during holidays- over stressing, over spending to please oneself or others, over partaking and not self-caring as much in the whirl-wind of parties, gatherings and shopping. Sometimes people actually lose touch with their own cultural and spiritual self-acceptance and identification, i.e, a black person celebrating St Patricks day.

Since ‘89’, more research has documented how stressful holidays are and how stress increases during every holiday because of this holiday stress syndrome. Today’s statistics show an even more alarming spike in holiday social and public health concerns, such as depression, suicide, relationship violence, work-place absenteeism, over-eating, over drinking, and substance abuse during holiday seasonal periods.

Our middle-class family gatherings for Christmas were complete with the traditional foods, gift-giving and gatherings of distant cousins and relatives coming to our house. These earlier recollections of holidays were that of my large family coming together to laugh, dance, eat sugar cookies and stay up really late. I also remember watching my Dad falling asleep after taking his “little taste” at the dinner table and later he would re-awaken much nastier and out of sorts. Such earlier roots of happy holiday gatherings, were recreated in my own family gatherings, once I started celebrating the African American holiday, Kwanzaa in 1971 with my husband and later our children.

It became apparent to me, that in our African American communities’ love for social gatherings, picnics, family reunions, church suppers, etc, it was a cultural re-creation of our African roots. Africans, historically, have been ceremonial people who have used communal gatherings as a time for spiritual edification, rituals and socializing. In the African context, such gatherings signified unity of the tribe and the family, and in this unity, it was considered an expression of love.

Today, as a displaced people, whose culture was disrupted, we still hold the cellular memory of our African concepts, evidenced by the outpouring of social gatherings, and special occasions that abound in our community, especially in the summer and how much love evolved rapidly for Kwanzaa, Black Love Day and other cultural holidays.

African Americans and other people of color, must embrace our special occasions to better reconnect with our family for self-care and to empower our communities to take hold of our own health, cultural and spiritual needs so that we can continue to celebrate ourselves. As we celebrate ourselves, we must not only survive and persevere, as we have proven in the past as the original civilization that we can, but that we must thrive in these modern, stressful times, as a healthy, whole people, armed with the knowledge that we can make choices to live with quality lives, with good health, as our greatest wealth all year round.

SO HOW CAN PEOPLE OF COLOR MAKE HOLIDAYS STRESS-LESS?

Be true to yourself – define yourself, your beliefs, your culture and if it different than the society you live in, don’t shrink, but live your life and be yourself – celebrate your differences, don’t assimilate. If you decide to celebrate in the traditions of this country, still feel good about mixing in your own traditions; Be proud of your traditions and rituals; decorate your home to reflect them; and challenge the “holiday committees” at the job or at school, to display the many symbols of holiday celebrations from around the world.

Also, “stand up” for truth and justice by researching the historical roots of holidays, which have created oppression of Native and Indigenous cultures, as well as others, and make every effort to be real and authentic about these truths by not exploiting the myths, falsehoods, and stereo-types;

If you do decide to “go all out” this year, still don’t “over-do it” based on “outer-directed’ motivations and commercialism. Create a budget for spending and gift-giving; be organized in your shopping, work and hanging out balance; Make a list of things to purchase, that are priority to you and no one else;

Don’t try to change a habit during the holidays, a major stressor destined for failure. Just relax and try to change a habit, after these high-energy days are over;

Watch what you drink and eat. Many sugar-laden foods eaten during holidays will spike your blood pressure as well as strain your nerves. Remember that alcohol has high sugar content, while drinking at the “desert” table;

If you are not so merry as the commercials and Christmas movies encourage us to be, it’s also a wonderful time to turn off the t.v. and listen to music, turn on your own movies, get outside, make things to give away, volunteer to help someone less fortunate or just be still. There is peace and power in acceptance of one’s true feelings.

If you are feeling really despondent, grief stricken, or very depressed and have not found a way to shake off such feelings, please, don’t struggle alone, but reach out for help to hotlines, ministers, friends and relatives. Contact P.E.W., as we are trained as good listeners and have knowledge of stress management and cultural competency.

Don’t attempt to cope with your empty feelings by self-medicating, repressing and avoiding. Emotions are real and really come back, so consider addressing them now when they come up. Write down feelings in a journal or on paper. Stop and reflect …breathe, shake off any negative thoughts that come up, take another deep breath and another. See the negative thoughts as if they are in a bubble. Breathe that bubble right out of you into the air and beyond. Thoughts are energy that can be transformed when we deal with them and not suppress them. We have to “get to them to get through” them.

Last, recognize that every uncomfortable moment of any day or any holiday, will pass. Do your best to lighten up and make every moment of your life an opportunity to celebrate yourself.

Have a happy holiday and do it as Frank Sinatra would say, “my way”, which translates “your way”.

This image is my family, taken from the DVD front cover of "How a Family Celebrates Kwanzaa". Can you imagine this picture was taken when my grandson Rashid was about 2 and he is now 21. My how time travels. Well times are still stressful around holidays, so P.E.W. in collaboration with AAHA (African American Holiday Association) felt it was time to re-issue this DVD, which as shown to thousands on DCTV and in Kwanzaa programs in the D.M.V. After 52 years of Kwanzaa and with the level of family stress, don't you think you want to know more about Kwanzaa? Please check out the video's on our Product page.

Why People of Color Must Harness Holidays in Their Own Way for Their Own Health and Peace
By Ayo Handy-Kendi, founder of Black Love Day, Feb. 13, founder, Optimum Life Breathology, founder/CEO, PositivEnergyWorks

WINTER SOLSTICE - What to Do by Ayo Handy-Kendi & Amashatar

It is the Winter Solstice, the holiest time of year--December 21-24--when man's spirit is most receptive to receiving directions from the Will to manifest changes in behavior and the accomplishments of new goals in life…Time to Stand Still to Go Forward………Amshater Monroe, “Women of Spirit”.
SACRED OF SACREDS, HOLY OF HOLIES ... WINTER SOLSTICE IS HERE AGAIN ... REJOICE IN THE SILENCE ... BE STILL and KNOW ... BE STILL and BECOME!!!
During the Solstice the Sun "appears to" stand still, thus the name Sol (sun) - Stice (still). Though, in fact, it is the EARTH (the Mother-Womb-Heart) that is slowing on its axis to a point of STILLNESS to allow and offer Herself for the renewed penetration of LIGHT from the Sun. For a period of 4 days (usually celebrated from December 21-24) the Sun rises and sets at approximately the same time, due to Mother Earth's GREAT PAUSE.

Ra Un Nefer Amen I is a world renowned bestselling author, lecturer, spiritual teacher, health practitioner and counselor. He is the Shekhem Ur Shekhem (King of Kings) and Ashem Ur Ashemu (Chief Priest) of the Ausar Auset Society International (AASI) which he founded in Harlem, USA more than 40 years ago. During a recent class on a radio talk show Ra Un Nefer shared from his deep reservoir of wisdom and knowledge as to exactly why the Winter Solstice is so very important. Click the link below to listen to an excerpt of his presentation.

"The Winter Solstice was the most important spiritual time of the year in antiquity. The ancients went to the greatest expense to ascertaining the time of its occurrence as witnessed by the Great Pyramids of Ancient Egypt, Mexico, Stonehenge, etc. It is the time of year--December 21-24--when man's spirit is most receptive to receiving directions from the will to manifest changes in behavior and the accomplishments of new goals in life. Unlike people today who focus on the things they want in life, the ancient Egyptians focused on strengthening their divine nature which is the chief faculty that is in charge on man's behavior and life accomplishments, therefore optimizing their ability to heal, and to succeed in all endeavors.

The thirty to forty days leading up to the solstice must be devoted to meditation and purification intensives to get the most of the time."
Queen Mother Merisa Amm Amen, Ausar Auset Society and Taui Network

AS YOUR PREPARE for and enjoy the Solstice in whatever is your way (perhaps with fasting, prayer, alone time (at-one-ment), LIGHT eating, INTROspection, meditation, song and mantra, affirmations, sacred silence, dressing in white or LIGHT colors, etc) ... listen IN to see what you are being called to during this most powerful and important time. This gives new understanding to what the ole folks say, "what is done in the dark will come forth in the Light"!
To aid you in the process, we have a few other gifts to share.
If there are rituals that you usually perform prior to Ceremony (i.e. spiritual bathing, sacred Pipe, clothing, etc), by all means honor and perform them.

NOTHING IN THIS CEREMONY REQUIRES MANDATORY PARTICIPATION ~ LISTEN AND BE GUIDED BY YOUR INNER LIGHT AND INNER KNOWING!

We invite you to wear light-colored clothing or colors that reflect the sun – reds, orange yellow or orange.. Gather the following items, have them easily accessible in the Sacred Space that you have set aside for the Ceremony that we will create together

White candle
White or clear glass or small bowl of water
Flower(s) or plant
Incense or sage
1/2 cup of corn meal in small bowl
Honey, small amount for tasting
5 Eggs in a bowl
Journal

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE PRE-SOLSTICE CEREMONY

As above, so below ... as the MOTHER pauses, so too is it wise for us to do the same. Gift Yourself a conscious participatory role in this Great Dance of our Mother-Father God. Be STILL, RECEIVE your renewed penetration of LIGHT. Plant now the psychical seeds that you will to sprout in the Spring, blossom in the Summer and bear fruit in the Fall! Not only do you owe it to yourself, the Universe is depending on you, on us, to transform our Spirit and to the world.

Women of Spirit | [email protected] | http://www.womenofspiritonline.com

How Christmas Co-opted the Winter Solstice
https://bigthink.com/culture-religion/winter-solstice-and-christianity

STOLEN

CLICK HERE FOR WELLNESS ARTICLE ON PEOPLE OF COLOR & HOLIDAYS

This photo is a a flash from the past . It is the iconic front page image from "PositivEnergy Newsletter" of a group of youth and adults who were the backbone of the newsletter's, African-American Holiday Expo. This event, founded by me, Ayo Handy-Kendi, served the D.C. community and many youthpreneurs from 1982 to 2005, almost 26 years. It was indeed an effort of "self-determination" the definition of the 2nd day principle of Kwanzaa "Kujichagulia"
CONTINUED IN "BREATH AWAY BLOG".

POSITIVENERWORKS WAS ORIGINALLY POSITIVENERGY NEWSLETTER AND ALWAYS ABOUT SELF-DETERMINATION

The African American Holiday Expo front-line are shown in this photo from right to left: : Sister Njideka Olatunji holding Taariq Mohammed, my sister, Maria Hempill holding her son Victor Pettus, Ayo Handy-Kendi holding Imitiaz Mohammed, my Mom Doris A.M. Thomas holding Christopher Lee, Sister Rabia Al Nur holding Rashid Handy, my son, holding Mukhtar Raqib, Back Row: my brother Melvin Thomas, Baba Wakili Raqib, Sister Amina Lee mother of Christopher, Ifetayo White, and Valencia Mohammed, mother of Taariq, Imitiaz and Mukhtar.

Celebrating the WINTER SOLSTICE
Gives You the Chance to Determine Your Life

It is the Winter Solstice, the holiest time of year--December 21-24--when man's spirit is most receptive to receiving directions from the Will to manifest changes in behavior and the accomplishments of new goals in life…Time to Stand Still to Go Forward………Amshater Monroe, “Women of Spirit”.
SACRED OF SACREDS, HOLY OF HOLIES ... WINTER SOLSTICE IS HERE AGAIN ... REJOICE IN THE SILENCE ... BE STILL and KNOW ... BE STILL and BECOME!!! BREATHE IN YOUR LIFE and Goals.
Celebrate YOURSELF THIS WINTER SOLSTICE. What to do? See more on our Wellness page

HAVE AYO HANDY-kENDI, the Breath Sekou & Mama Ayo Storyteller to decorate your home or business, or teach YOU ABOUT THE WONDERFUL WHOLYDAYS OF KWANZAA. Her "It's Kwanzaa Time" story is fun, interactive with call & response, heart-felt, educational, timeless & has been seen around the world to countless.
Book now.

Holidays should be the time to breathe easier. In our sense of self-determination, we honor Christmas, Dec. 25 as the birth of Christ. Then, on Dec. 26 we celebrate Kwanzaa, the celebration of family, community & culture.
Learn how to celebrate the diversity of the the winter holidays. P.E.W. products of the month help us celebrate African-centered culture:
"How a Family Celebrates Kwanzaa"DVD
"Time to Celebrate" CD
AND NEW DVD Digitals:
"KEEPERS OF THE CULTURE - D.C. KWANZAA THE BEGINNINGs" HONORING MAMA NIA, BABA'S LUMUMBA & BABA NGOMA & MAMA AMA ASANTE
"A Home Coming"
"Mama Ayo - The Kwanzaa Story"

See our Marketplace for unique, products for Kwanzaa, only sold at P.E.W.

IT'S KWANZAA TIME

Kwanzaa events in the D.M.V.

HIGHLIGHTS OF UP-COMING EVENTS

WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA -
REAWAKEN TO SELF-LOVE
JANUARY 11, 2020 in
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
Get details to attend this life-changing session or pre-register
HERE ON THE SITE.
or call 202-667-2577 FOR DETAILS

You can have joy, peace and reconciliation by releasing pain from trauma.
It's time to let go.

OPTIMIZE THE BREATH TO OPTIMIZE LIFE!
Practice Breath Techniques for everyday solutions!

MARK YOUR CALENDARs for
BREATHSHOPS OnLine SERIES (BSOL)
DATE CHANGE 2nd & 4th Wednesdays
Live with Chat @ 3 p.m ESt. Replays @ 6 - 9 p.m. EST.
Next Series: December 25
Topic: Breathe & Manage Your Blood Sugar, Emotions & Stress during the Holidays, Part 2.
lEARN THE "DE-STRESS BREATH"
Topic 2: HOW TO CELEBRATE KWANZAA

OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGY COURSE
Sat, December 21/22, 2019
IN PHILADELPHIA, Pa.
CLASS CLOSED
LINK TO Register at Breathology

SAVE $50 (7 days) Prior to each certification date . Class size is limited. Don't delay, schedule today.

Optimum Life Breathology Certification REGISTRATION FORM Form

ON-LINE Certification Form

OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGY COURSE
Sat,December 21/ Sun, December22
Celebrate the Winter Solstice while Certifyiing as an O.L.B. practitioner.
IN PHILADELPHIA, Pa.
LAST 3 DAYS TO SAVE ON THE EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT
See our updated testimonies
CLICK THIS LINK TO Register at Breathology

"GRATITUDE"

Ayo breathes in life and gratitude in the Mohave Desert.. Grateful for life itself, good health, good relationships, abundance in each deeply felt breath increasing my very presence.

P.E.W. HIGHLIGHTS

Here at P.E.W. we focused this month on "Gratitude.". .
As always there is a lot of "stuff" going on in the world. But, I care to dwell in the good feeling, of "PositivEnergy", that charged up attitude that focuses on being thankful for what I have,
compared to what I don't have. And being grateful for the blessings,
be they small or large. Now, it isn't easy to be grateful when so much around you looks so bleak.

We got some serious issues going on in the world and I don't even have to name them....
Yet, we have life itself. We have the opportunity to turn our low energy,
small bank accounts, challenged health and relationships, all around.
We are alive, or let's hope that we are truly alive
with full breath flowing abundantly in our bodies, minds and spirits.

So this month we breathe in "Gratitude" and we breathe away the blues...holiday blues,
Donald Trump blues....election blues...whatever could be making you blue, blues.....
And we breathe in life. Abundant life,

Grateful for life. Gratitude for all that life has given us and all that is yet to come.
This month, In deep Gratitude,
we appreciate the Veterans who served willingly.

We give thanks to Native Americans this month
for how their Ancestry is so much a part of ALL Americans.

We honor some dearly departed who played a great significance in my life and in many communities.
And on the day we call Thanksgiving, we share a simpler message.
Be in Gratitude for what you have and breathe away any lack or limitation for what you don't.

We will help you breathe and be in gratitude so that this principle of appreciation,
this attitude of gratitude, will shift your life and expand your "positivEnergy" with each breath..

Join the Breath Movement. to breathe in gratitude.

Ayo Handy-Kendiy, the Breath Sekou

Nov. 30: WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA - REAWAKEN TO SELF-LOVE

In this "me too" climate of increased sexual assault accusations, sexual harassment, reports of child pedophilia and sex trafficking, I.ve become compelled to share the healing tools that helped me shift as a survivor of childhood sexual assault and later domestic violence, to become a "thriver".
If you are ready to let go of the triggers that loop in your thoughts or the anger, grief, shame, fear, depression, or addictions that linger as PTSD-- than this session is for you.
Trauma comes in other ways, like the death of a loved one, or the loss of a home, or an accident. Yes, even if you are stressed, let's help you Breathe Away stress. anxiety, and pain before it becomes unrelenting and puts you at risk.

Participate in "Women Breathe Away Trauma - Re-awaken to Self-Love' in S.E., Washington, D. C on Saturday, November 30 from 1 - 5 p.m.
Ayo Handy-Kendi, reknown as the Breath Sekou, is a master teacher and facilitator of 50+ years experience, and a "thriver" of child-hood sexual and emotional abuse; the murder of her teenage son; domestic violence, homelessness, addictions and depression.
She will offer tools that she has shared with millions on radio, t.v., in print, on stage, in groups and private practice, locally and internationally.

This session is the end of our year's long initiative, "Heal a Woman, Heal a Nation". We intend to record this session for on-going sharing.

WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA - REAWAKEN TO SELF-LOVEGet details to attend this life-changing session or pre-register HERE ON THE SITE. CLICK BELOW
or call 202-667-2577 FOR DETAILS
You can have joy, peace and reconciliation by releasing pain from trauma.
It's time to let go.

blackstream.live/positivenergy/free

Mama Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou bOPTIMIZE THE BREATH TO OPTIMIZE LIFE!
Practice Breath Techniques for everyday solutions!
BreathShops On-Line (BSOL) Series
6 - 9 p.m. Est
(Note new time change )
4TH Tuesday, November 26

REPLAY EVENING TONIGHT
Topic: "BREATHE IN GRATITUDE FOR LIFE
BREATHE AWAY THE BLUES" WITH ELTUC - sACRED sOUND

Topic 2: BREATHE AWAY HOLIDAY STRESS SYNDROME, pART 1 & 2

Breathe Better -Live Better

CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO BREATHE IN
BreathShops On-Line (BSOL) Series
6 - 9 p.m. Est
(Note new schedule change )
4TH Tuesday, November 26

REPLAY EVENING TONIGHT
Topic: "BREATHE IN GRATITUDE FOR LIFE
BREATHE AWAY THE BLUES"
WITH ELTUC - sACRED sOUND

Topic2: BREATHE AWAY HOLIDAY STRESS SYNDROME, pART 1 & 2

BreathShops On-Line
2nd & 4th Tuesdays Monthly

BREATHSHOPS OnLine SERIES (BSOL)
4TH TUESDAY @ from 3 - 5 p.m est.

REPLAY EVENING
"Breathe in Gratitude for life"
Breathe away Holiday Stress Syndrome, Part 1 & Part 2

November 26
6- 9 p.m. Est (Special time for this edition)

with REPLAYS 2-3 days after Broadcast

BREATH CIRCLE in the D.M.V.
at the PositivEnergy Center in Capitol Heights
Sunday, November 24, 2019   FROM 4 - 5:30

You must call, or Email to PRE-REGISTER. All details offered at Pre-registration
SPACE IS LIMITED.   OPEN TO THE PUBLIC LOVE DONATIONS APPRECIATEd

Relearn How to Breathe   De-stress Breath & Stress Busters
Live Music with Sacred Sound from Earth Love Tune Up Crew (ELTUC
Sales of Sacred Sound CD.s , Breathology books & tools & Other Oxygen -related products will be available

Call by Friday, Nov 22 to participate:    202-667-2577
or EMAIL PRIOR TO CLOSE OF BUSINESS NOV. 22: [email protected]
Leave messages with your name, telephone number and intention to attend

P.E.W. reserves the right to not accept participation, to change dates, and to not hold classes based on weather or limited participation.

Bring the children, husband, wife, sister brothers, aunts, uncles, grand parents, friends, colleagues. ”SWEET THANG” SUGAR!

LIVING THE SWEET LIFE WITH DR KOKAYI PATTERSON
DISCUSSION AND INTRODUCINING A FULL LINE OF HERBAL FORMULAS FOR A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE AND GET YOU THROUGHTHE HOLIDAYS! DISHES WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PURHASE,

TAKE SOME HOME FOR SELF AND FAMILY!

NOVEMBER 23, 2019 3PM TO 7PM
STODDERT TERRACE COMMUNITY CENTER
155 RIDGE ROAD S.E.
WDC 20019

RSVP/VENDORS WWW.CEHAW.COM or Www.CommunaleffectHerbal.Com
or
202-517-4264
“TO HEAL PEOPLE IS TO HELP HEAL THE WORLD”kp
DONATION $10 WATOTO(CHILDREN) FREE AGE????

Yoga and Meditation Can Change Your Genes, Study Says
Amanda MacMillanFor more, visit TIME Health.

Jun 16, 2017Yoga and meditation may do more than just help you feel relaxed in the moment. A new scientific review suggests that these and other mindfulness exercises can actually reverse stress-related changes in genes linked to poor health and depression.

In the new paper, published in Frontiers in Immunology, British researchers analyzed the findings from 18 previously published studies—involving a total of 846 people—on the biological effects of meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, Qi gong and Tai Chi. Together, the authors say, the studies show that these mind-body exercises appear to suppress the expression of genes and genetic pathways that promote inflammation.

Inflammation can temporarily boost the immune system, and can be protective against infection and injury, the authors write in their paper. But in today’s society, in which stress is primarily psychological, the body’s inflammatory response can become chronic and can impair both physical and mental health.

Researchers found that people who practiced these activities regularly had fewer signs of inflammation, including a decrease in their production of inflammatory proteins. This signals “the reversal of the molecular signature of the effects of chronic stress,” they wrote, which may translate to a reduced risk of inflammation-related diseases and conditions.

Environment and lifestyle can both affect which genes are turned on and off, and that can have real effects on disease risk, longevity and even which traits get passed on to future generations. Stressful events, for example, can activate the fight-or-flight response and trigger a chain reaction of stress-related changes in the body—including activating specific genes involved in making proteins that produce inflammation.

Lead author Ivana Buric, a PhD student in Coventry University’s Brain, Belief and Behaviour Lab in England, says her team was surprised to see that different types of mind-body techniques had such similar effects at the genetic level. “Sitting meditation is quite different than yoga or Tai Chi,” she said in an email, “yet all of these activities—when practiced regularly—seem to decrease the activity of genes involved in inflammation.”

This is a relatively new field of research, she adds, and it’s likely that similar benefits could be obtained from other lifestyle changes like healthy eating and exercise. There aren’t yet enough studies to know how activities like yoga compare to other types of physical activity in terms of altering gene expression.

Buric says the existing studies suggest that mind-body interventions “cause the brain to steer our DNA processes along a path which improves our well being.” She also emphasizes that inherited genes are not static and that DNA activity can depend on things people can control. “By choosing healthy habits every day, we can create a gene activity pattern that is more beneficial for our health,” she says. “Even just 15 minutes of practicing mindfulness seems to do the trick.”

While some level of anxiety is completely normal to experience, it becomes an issue when your body constantly thinks you’re in danger when you’re not, which can result in an onslaught of physical and mental alarm reactions that are extremely uncomfortable. According to AnxietyBC, one in every four adults deals with an anxiety disorder in their lifetime. Physical symptoms can include rapid heartbeat and breathing, sweating, nausea, lightheadedness, pain in the chest, and dilated pupils It’s also important to note how anxiety differs greatly from depression.
While both of these conditions affect your mental health, those with depression will feel hopeless, discouraged, and will feel unable to complete daily tasks. To the depressed mind, there’s little point in continuing on with the drone of day-to-day activities, and this is where harmful or suicidal thoughts may also start to enter the mind. If you’re anxiety-ridden, though, you’ll want to complete the tasks, but you worry about the possibility of failure or something going wrong.

This feelings can be so intense that they keep you from socializing or taking part in activities you once loved.
We should also mention anxiety is an umbrella term for a number of mental illnesses. Generalized anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorders all fall under the category of “anxiety.”

So, where do panic attacks fit in? Think of it this way — anxiety is like the big brother to panic. Those who experience panic attacks may have an underlying anxiety disorder that’s causing them. The majority of the time, anxiety refers to the disorder and panic refers to a sudden and extreme “attack” on the psyche.

You may have also heard some people use the terms panic attacks and anxiety attacks interchangeably, but there’s a core difference here as well. You can have an anxiety disorder and have an anxiety attack, or you can have an anxiety disorder and have a panic attack — but this isn’t necessarily the same.

MDJunction explains a panic attack is characterized by sudden, extreme symptoms that aren’t necessarily triggered by a series of events. These symptoms may feel as if they appear out of nowhere, and the attack usually lasts for about 10 minutes. There are times when these episodes can occur one right after the other, making the panic attack seem as if it’s lasting forever, but one bout of panic will peak within that 10 minute period.
During a panic attack, it’s common to have an accelerated heart rate, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, fears of dying, chills, and worries of completely losing control.

Anxiety attacks, on the other hand, are don’t tend to appear quite so suddenly. Cathy Frank, MD, tells ABC News an anxiety attack comes more as a reaction to a stressful situation. If you feel like you’re experiencing some of the symptoms of a panic attack and it’s after something scary or unexpected has happened, then it’s likely you’re having an episode related to anxiety. These attacks have a slower buildup, becoming more intense over time, whereas panic attacks come and go with more intensity.

Whether you’re feeling seized by unpredictable panic attacks or you feel mentally trapped and exhausted by constant worry, your mental health is more important than any deadline, house chore, or unhealthy relationship. Talk to your doctor about your options if you’re experiencing these symptoms today.

Anxiety vs. Panic Attacks: What’s the Difference?

Lauren Weiler , January 26, 2017

Anxiety and panic attacks can interfere with your everyday activities
Whether your family has a medical history of mental illness or you’ve developed constant stress related to work, anxiety can seemingly take hold of your life at the most inconvenient moments. While a stress reaction is normal in certain situations, constant feelings of tension and worry can do some serious damage to both your brain and body. Most don’t realize there are key differences between anxiety and panic attacks, and it’s important to recognize, and treat both, as separate conditions.

Knowing the difference between anxiety and panic attacks can help you accurately monitor your symptoms and help you and your doctor figure out ways to get your mental health back on track. So, it’s important to first note what anxiety is, and how it can present itself. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety is characterized by persistent feelings of overwhelming worry and tension that cannot be tamed. It’s waking up in the morning and feeling dread that persists all day, and this unrelenting anxious feeling will also interfere with how you go about your everyday life.

Ok, so maybe it’s not the best medicine—but it’s up there. The health benefits of a good, deep belly laugh can’t be ignored, so we won’t. We’ll look at them up close so you can see why laughing should be a normal part of your everyday life.
The fascinating thing about laughter is that it seems to be the opposite of stress, which causes all manner of health problems because of its reputation for suppressing the immune system. So you see, laughing every day—not just once in a blue moon—is just as important for your health as a good diet and exercise.
Your Mind, Your Hormones, Your Immune System
Ever thought about these three things working together? Dr. Lee Berk of Loma Linda University in California claims that the mind, hormones, and immune system are locked in a constant balancing act to produce your reactions to the world around you. Their communication with each other impacts many aspects of your daily life—including your mood and your ability to fend off sickness.
Consequently, this triad regulates release of stress hormones. For example, grief releases stress hormones, which in turn suppress your immune system, which opens your body to sickness. In your mind, you are thinking of the deceased person, which makes you feel sad; your hormones respond to the sadness with stress hormones; the stress hormones block the ability of the immune system to respond to germs. Whereas if you are able to laugh a few times during the funeral, laughter will halt the flow of stress hormones and calm you down for a moment. And why is that a good thing?
The Basic Health Benefits
Dr. Berk, our professor in the previous section, states that the reason laughter improves your health is because it causes “all the reciprocal, or opposite, effects of stress.” Laughter literally triggers your hormones to stop releasing cortisol, a stress hormone. It then triggers the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine and endorphins, both of which calm you down and lower your anxiety level. Since cortisol literally suppresses the immune system and contributes to weight gain, obesity, and diabetes, you can see why laughter would be an important, well, medicine.
And the benefits don’t stop there. Laughing also lowers blood pressure and improves cardiac health, actually boosts the immune system by activating T cells, and provides a quick ab workout. Once laughter turns off the flow of stress hormones, your stress level drops, and so does your heart rate. Laughing activates T cells, immune system cells that usually lie dormant, promoting immune function. And who doesn’t love the idea of working their ab muscles without going to the gym?
How We Laugh
Knowing that laughing could save you some health problems down the road, maybe it would be good to understand how laughing occurs. According to Harvard’s neuroscience institute, laughter is produced by three phases in the brain. First, we sense an incongruity (say, the punch line of a joke doesn’t fit with the joke’s setup). Then we try to solve the incongruity. In the last phase, we determine the sense of the joke and decide whether or not it’s funny. Ultimately, jokes (and other things we think are funny) work because they defy expectations. That’s why we initially laugh when someone trips—they were expected to walk normally down the sidewalk, but they unexpectedly stepped in a pothole and their steps faltered.
How to Laugh More
Now that you know you’ve got 3 phases to get to a laugh, a few tips on how to laugh more are in order. For one thing, laughing in a group is more powerful than when you’re alone. So find some funny people to hang out with, or at least bring a list of cheesy jokes to lunch at work next week. Research the kind of comedy you enjoy the most by watching different standup comics and comedy TV shows, and then save them to your DVR. You could even try subscribing to a YouTube channel with humorists who make you laugh.
There’s lots of material out there created just for the benefit of stressed out humans—why not take advantage of it? You’ll improve the health of your heart and boost your immune system while truly enjoying yourself. Laughter really is at least a helpful medicine, wouldn’t you say?

Is Laughter Really the Best Medicine?
by Linda Rundare

Black Love Day: 25 Years of Creating Solutions for Better Relationships Within Black and White Communities by
Ayo Handy-Kendi, The Breath Sekou, founder Black Love Day, Feb. 13th
2018 Theme: Clearing Cellular Memory to find Love and Peace.

Black Love Day, Feb. 13th, this year, 2018, is celebrating 25years of creating solutions for better relationships with Black and White communities.
This year, the holiday comes during a fire storm of backlash at Donald Trump’s negative rants regarding Haitians and other people of African descent, prompting Congressman John Lewis to raise the question, “Does Trumps’s racism come in his DNA?”
After years of working with “cellular memory”, founder of Black Love Day, steward of the holiday and the non-profit, African American Holiday Association (AAHA) and a professional Breathologist, says “No, the behavior of racism is not passed on genetically, but through “cellular memory”.
Over the last 50 years, especially within, the last 15 years, scientists, medical practitioners and, experts have verified that the source of symptoms of pain, anxiety, trauma, fears, as well as joy, isn’t located in your body or in your environment. The source is located in the unseen issues of your unconscious and subconscious mind, or what science calls “cellular memory.” So what is “cellular memories”? We are talking about your memories, good, bad, or indifferent , which are housed in our cellular memory as the source of all our life issues and problems.
When you heal the cellular memory, the healing permeates the root cause of feelings and behavior, thus we “deprogram” and then “reprogram” new, more healthier cellular, then behaviorial responses.
We encourage anyone, who has been seeking solutions to change the dynamics of Black intra-racial healing and White supremacy/racism, we invite you to put away the “dialogues” and go to the true source of healing – our cellular memory.

Take part in a tremendous shift of energy, with this years’ 25th Anniversary of Black Love Day.

15 Things You Should Give Up to Be a Happy Parent

By Carol Tuttle, author "The Child Whisperer"

The effects of mistakes may take a little longer to overcome if your child is older, but it's never impossible to show up as the happy, supportive parent that you are meant to be.
1. Give up "supposed to" – We were conditioned by our own early family experiences to believe that parenthood or childhood are supposed to look a certain way. But if you hold onto the way things are "supposed" to be, you may miss enjoying how they actually are. Be willing to question what you prioritize as a parent and why.

2. Give up keeping score – What does your mental score–card keep track of: which parent does more? Who's most consistent? Which mom contributes most in your child's class? Who's most involved in your home school group?

Keeping score wastes energy. Just do what you feel inspired and able to do. Don't feel obligated by others' contributions. Don't obligate them to live up to yours.

3. Give up force – As a parent, you have a responsibility to set boundaries. But if a child consistently resists a certain boundary, don't just force them to comply. Ask yourself and your child, "Why?"

Think of yourself as your child's trusted and effective guide, not their dictator. When they experience you as their guide, they're more likely to listen, which means less struggle and frustration for both of you.

4. Give up yelling – If you're not a yeller, this one isn't for you. But if you tend to yell when you're feeling upset, consider this question: has yelling strengthened your relationship with your child or not?

Yelling usually happens in anger, and it often frightens and intimidates children. It destroys trust and a child's feeling of safety. Pay attention to times and circumstances when you yell and then commit to changing those scenarios in the future.

5. Give up your need to look perfect – Hear me now: there is no such thing as a perfect parent. Embrace your imperfections. Laugh at yourself. The best parents are willing to always learn, change, and improve.

6. Give up worrying – Compulsive worrying doesn't make your child any safer. It doesn't make you any happier. And it teaches your children to live in fear. Release your worries, and cultivate gratitude for your child's safety in the present moment.

7. Give up one–size–fits–all rules – – Every child is unique. What works for one won't always work for another. Certain standard rules apply across the board (for example, everyone needs to speak respectfully). But consider the possibility that being a fair parent doesn't mean doing the exact same thing in the exact same way for every child.

8. Give up the food fight – If you demand a certain number of bites from your children, you set yourself up for struggle at the table, and you set your children up for struggles with food later in life.

Guide, direct, encourage, and prepare healthy food. Let your child voice their preferences. Focus on healthy overall patterns, rather than forcing a certain regimen at a specific meal.
9. Give up your role as events coordinator – If you feel like parenthood is a treadmill you can't keep up with, you may be taking too much responsibility for your children's time. Make plans that support your children's development, but don't map out every minute for them.

Downtime is supportive for many children. Moments of boredom allow children to take responsibility for their own time. Make resources available, and then let your children create the experience they want. You'll all be happier.

10. Give up unhealthy self–sacrifice – – As a parent, you generously give love, time, and attention. But you shouldn't give up your core self just because you're a parent. When you ignore your basic needs, you teach your children that when they grow up, they shouldn't take care of themselves.

11. Give up guilt – Parents sometimes fall into the self–sacrifice trap because they feel unnecessary guilt. Guilt can be useful if you use it to recognize where you need to make changes. But overwhelming, paralyzing guilt that makes you feel worthless as a person or parent doesn't accomplish anything. You are enough, just as you are.

12. Give up one–sided decisions – As the parent, you often have the final say. But you and your child will both be happier if it's not the only say. When it's appropriate to do so, involve your child in decisions that will affect them. By enrolling children in the decision–making process, you'll empower them to make their own good decisions in the future.

13. Give up negative messages – So many messages are repeated to children: you're too loud, you're too quiet, you ask too many questions, you're exhausting, you're demanding, you're too talkative, you should make more friends, quit moving, speak up, settle down, smile more.

Try this instead: comment on the exact same behavior in a positive way. For example, you can see the trait of, "You're too talkative," as "You really make friends easily."

14. Give up your own childhood story – What did you experience that you most want your children to avoid? Being teased at school? Lack of money? Feeling not–enough? Your fears may actually set up that same pattern to be re–created. Don't trap your children now in your fears of the past. Let them go. Create what you want, not what you don't want.

15. Give up on giving up – I've heard from parents who worry that they've damaged their child, or that they've made a mistake that will last a lifetime. I've said this many times:

It's never too late to be a better, happier parent. Whether your children are 4 or 40, they respond to genuine love from their parents. The effects of mistakes may take a little longer to overcome if your child is older, but it's never impossible to show up as the happy, supportive parent that you are meant to be. Don't give up! You have everything you need to be a good parent. OK, deep breath. It's time to let go of whatever keeps you stuck and let the happiness in!

AN “I LOVE YOU” STORY

-Anonymous essay from the Internet, edited by Ayo Handy-Kendi, for
"the Black Love Book - An anthology on Love and Guide to the "wholyday", Feb 13th - Black Love Day."

One day a woman's husband died, and on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of their
bedroom, the wife was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't anymore!
No more hugs, no more special moments to celebrate together, no more phone calls just to
chat, no more just one minute, no more I.ll see you later.

Sometimes, what we care about the most gets all used up and goes away, never to return
before we can say good-bye-- before we can say “I love you.”

So while we have it, it's best we love it and care for it and fix it when it's broken…..and heal it
when it's sick. This is true for marriage and relationships and old cars and children with bad
report cards and dogs with bad hips and aging parents and grandparents. We keep them
because they are worth it, because we are worth it. Love is a gift we give to ourselves.

Some things we keep - like a best friend who moved away or a classmate we grew up with.
There are just some things and some people that make us happy, no matter what -- people,
who we know who are special to us. And so, we keep them close, recognize their importance,
never take them for granted, never treat them so casual!

I received this story from someone who thought I was a 'keeper'! Then I sent it to the people I
think of in the same way. Now it's your turn to send this to all those people who are 'keepers'
in your life. Suppose one morning you didn.t wake up. Do all your friends know you love
them?

I was thinking...I could die today, tomorrow or next week, and I wondered if I had any wounds
needing to be healed, friendships that needed rekindling or three words…”I Love You”,
needing to be said to share our true selves and feelings……………………

Let every one of your friends and family members know you love them. Even if you think they
don't love you back, you would be amazed at what those three little words and a smile can do.

And just in case, when GOD calls me home……remember, I LOVE YA !!!

Live today to the fullest because tomorrow is not promised.

What the world needs now, is love, sweet love….

Ayo Handy Kendi, founder, Black Love Day

What to Keep in Mind Following the Recent Suicides of School Shooting Survivors and How to Breathe-thru to Get Through the Feelings
Juliette Virzi,The Mighty Mon, Mar 25 4:07 PM EDt

On Monday, news broke that Dr. Jeremy Richman, a father devoted to preventing school shootings, had died by apparent suicide. Richman was the father of 6-year-old Avielle Richman, who was among the 26 people who lost their lives in the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting. Richman was 49.

His apparent suicide was the third this past week related to school shootings. Parkland shooting survivor Sydney Aiello died on March 17, and a second, unnamed Parkland survivor died this past Saturday.
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If the past week was heavy for you, you’re not alone. Below, we’ve broken down three things to keep in mind in the wake of this difficult news.

Before we begin, we want to preface by saying if you’re struggling with your mental health because of the news, please take a step back and give yourself the space you need. If you need immediate support, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741741.

Here are three things to keep in mind following the recent suicides:
1. We need to talk about the link between trauma and suicide.

There is very little research on the impact trauma has on suicidal ideation — and even less on the impact school shooting-related trauma has on suicidal thoughts

In a study on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) risk following mass violence, researchers found that about 42 percent of study participants reported high rates of post-traumatic stress symptoms shortly after the school shooting studied. Approximately 12 percent met criteria for persistent PTSD.

This school shooting study did not measure suicidal thoughts, but in a small study on PTSD and suicidal thoughts in civilian patients, researchers found that about 38 percent of participants reported experiencing suicidal ideation and 9.6 percent had attempted suicide since the trauma they experienced.

It’s clear from the recent suicides that we need to do more to understand the link between trauma and suicidal thinking. According to Aiello’s mother, Aiello struggled with “survivor’s guilt” after the Parkland shooting and had been diagnosed with PTSD before her death.

Related: It’s Everyone’s Responsibility to Talk About Youth Suicide

On Twitter, fellow Parkland shooting survivor turned gun control activist David Hogg tweeted about the reality of what it’s like to walk through life after surviving trauma and loss. He wrote:
Stop saying ‘you’ll get over it.’ You don’t get over something that never should have happened because those that die from gun violence are stolen from us not naturally lost. Trauma and loss don’t just go away, you have to learn to live with it through getting support.

We must prioritize research that supports people struggling with suicidal thoughts in the wake of mass violence. For many survivors, the impact of trauma isn’t confined to just the event, it can linger and affect mental health for a long time after.

2. School shootings don’t just affect the people directly involved — they affect communities.

Richman’s apparent suicide reminds us that trauma can affect communities in a big way. Though Richman wasn’t a Parkland shooting survivor, as someone who lived through the death of his own daughter in a different school shooting, hearing news of the recent suicides may have been especially triggering.

Trauma after a shooting isn’t just confined to the people directly involved. Seeing mass violence in the news can affect the mental health of whole communities — and even an entire nation.

In the wake of news like this, there is often much talk about a phenomenon called “suicide contagion.” According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, suicide contagion refers to an exposure to suicide via media reports or word of mouth in one’s family or community that can result in an increase in suicide and suicidal behaviors.

There are things we can all do to support community healing in the wake of news like this. One of the most important things we can do (especially online) is avoid sharing articles that don’t follow the media guidelines for reporting responsibly on suicide. Another is adjusting our language when we talk about suicide.

Check out our suggestions below:

Avoid sharing articles that share the suicide method. Research has shown including details like this can increase the likelihood of suicide in vulnerable individuals.
Change the way you talk about suicide. Instead of saying, “committed suicide,” instead say “died by suicide.”
Encourage loved ones struggling with suicidal thoughts to seek help from a professional or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255

3. If you are thinking about suicide, you’re not alone and there is help available.
The good news is there is hope for healing. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), simply making sure victims of mass violence are aware of support and resources available to them — even if they never use them — can help.

Virginia Tech massacre survivor and Mighty contributor Lisa Hamp shared a message for anyone struggling in the aftermath of the shooting. She wrote:
To those impacted by the shooting, you may feel a rush of overwhelming feelings as you reflect on the past year and look ahead to next. Tragic flashbacks may run through your head, and it might seem impossible to get away from your emotions. Outside pressure for what you will do or how you will mark the day may be overwhelming. Pause. Breathe, and breathe again. These feelings are normal. If you wait a little longer and focus on your breathing, the uncomfortable emotions will eventually pass.
As you continue your recovery journeys, I send my thoughts, prayers and a few words of advice from a fellow survivor: Don’t compare your experiences. Make self-care a priority. Be kind to yourself. Be patient with yourself. And remember, breathe.
Lastly, if you or someone you know needs help, visit our suicide prevention resources. If you need support right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or reach the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741741.

You are never alone, even when things feel dark and out of your control. Check out these other resources to also support you:

Related: It’s Everyone’s Responsibility to Talk About Youth Suicide
Related: The Words You Don’t Get to Call Someone Who Died by Suicide

7 PRINCIPLES OF POSITIVENERGY for MOTHERS
( and everybody who wants to optimize life).

by Mama, Ayo Handy-Kendi, The Breath Sekou, CB, CTBF, CLYL/CLYT/ Reiki Master, Sound Healer,
founder, Optimum Life Breathology, CEO, PositivEnergyWorks

Mastering some simple fundamentals of health and wellness can make a critical difference in life, vitality, peak performance, energy, emotional balance, stress and weight management, injury healing, dis-ease support and living life to the fullest with purpose, inner peace and joy. We can gain understanding of wholistic living, wellness and health prevention concepts recognizing that we are the sum total of all of our parts. When we gain awareness of these basic concepts, we find that we come into an attitude of “PositivEnergy” – the ability to weather life’s many challenges with a “positive” attitude of gratitude and thinking of what we want (not what we don’t want). Where our mind goes, so does our body, so to create our own abundant health, we stay up-beat and hopeful as we practice better thinking and life-style choices.

These 7 Principles are simple to re-create with awareness and practice. Practice makes perfect. Be gentle with yourself. It took a long time to get to the place that you are – be consistent and expect Success!

Principle #1: HAVE A RELATIONSHIP WITH THAT WHICH IS HIGHER THAN YOURSELF – Some of us call this relationship “God” and there are many other names for a ”Supreme Being”. By what-ever name that you acknowledge that there is some force, realm, or identity bigger and higher than yourself, you become more conscious that “you have a co-creation role” of which your responsibility is to be intentional in your desire and put your desire into action. Out of belief comes hope, possibilities and miracles. You also stay connected to a larger universe than yourself as all humanity reminds you that you are not alone in your efforts.

Principle #2: RELEARN HOW TO BREATHE Breath is life and there is life in the breath. With better breathing we optimize the essential element of life – oxygen- which increases every metabolic function in the body at the cellular level. Breath is also the connection between the Spirit, the Mind and the Body. To no longer put ourselves at great risk, elevate on every level through the “Power of the Breath” for better life, health and work.

Principle #3: DRINK WATER – Here’s the oxygen need, now in liquid form, as the body is made up from 60- 75% (some say more) of water. Water is the second nourishment, feeding on the cellular level, provides the detoxification of the waste matter of the cells and is the chemical stimulant that turns the cells on. Better hydration reverses many dis-eases.

Principle #4: PROPER NUTRITION – Many live to eat instead of eat to live. Nutrition provides essential nourishment to the cells that offer repair, growth, stimulation and detoxification for maximum life. Better choices include raw and live food preparation; wholesome instead of depleted nourishment; greater variety of food choices; better food mixing; supplements – all aids in greater intake of oxygen, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and proper elimination.

Principle #5: MOVEMENT – The body and the mind must move. If either does not, we stagnant become stiff and the mind becomes inflexible.

Principle #6: REST/DESTRESS - The Spirit, Mind and Body must have rest, relaxation, the time for reflection. We must re-charge and not be “on” all of the time. The release of stress is critical as stress is a silent killer affecting every system.

Principle #7: DETOXIFICATION - To bring in the good we must let go of the waste and toxicity. This includes caustic chemicals, household products, skin or hair care products, foods and medicines. People and environments can be toxic, too. Try alternatives and simplify for results.

Ayo Handy-Kendi, “The Breath Sekou”, aka, Mama Ayo the Storyteller, a Breathologist and a Workshop Leader, who facilitates “relearning how-to breathe” and other breathology/transformative practice sessions; performs stories, workshops, alternative health and prevention sessions; offer all-natural nutritional products and consultations; provides stress and trauma management through a system of training for optimum life, health, cultural and diversity healing, Call 202-667-2577 or email: [email protected]

16 Simple Ways to Relieve Stress and Anxiety from Healthline

Stress and anxiety are common experiences for most people .In fact, 70% of adults in the US say they feel stress or anxiety daily. According to the American Psychological Association, men aren't as likely to report emotional and physical symptoms of stress. Evidence suggests that women manage stress better than men and are less likely to experience major depression brought on by work-related stress. Here are 16 simple ways to relieve stress and anxiety for men, and of course, women can use any of these techniques too..

1. Exercise is one of the most important things you can do to combat stress, especially for men..
It might seem contradictory, but putting physical stress on your body through exercise can relieve mental stress.
The benefits are strongest when you exercise regularly. People who exercise regularly are less likely to experience anxiety than those who don't exercise (1).
There are a few reasons behind this:

Stress hormones: Exercise lowers your body's stress hormones — such as cortisol — in the long run. It also helps release endorphins, which are chemicals that improve your mood and act as natural painkillers.
Sleep: Exercise can also improve your sleep quality, which can be negatively affected by stress and anxiety.
Confidence: When you exercise regularly, you may feel more competent and confident in your body, which in turn promotes mental wellbeing.

Try to find an exercise routine or activity you enjoy, such as walking, dancing, rock climbing or yoga.
Activities — such as walking or jogging — that involve repetitive movements of large muscle groups can be particularly stress relieving.
Summary Regular exercise can help lower stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins and improving your sleep and self-image.

2. Deep Breathing: Mental stress activates your sympathetic nervous system, signaling your body to go into "fight-or-flight" mode.
During this reaction, stress hormones are released and you experience physical symptoms such as a faster heartbeat, quicker breathing and constricted blood vessels.
Deep breathing exercises can help activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which controls the relaxation response.
There are several types of deep breathing exercises, including diaphragmatic breathing, abdominal breathing, belly breathing and paced respiration.
The goal of deep breathing is to focus your awareness on your breath, making it slower and deeper. When you breathe in deeply through your nose, your lungs fully expand and your belly rises.
This helps slow your heart rate, allowing you to feel more peaceful.
This video explains how to practice diaphragmatic breathing.
Summary Deep breathing activates the relaxation response. Multiple methods can help you learn how to breathe deeply.Consider

3. Light a Candle: Using essential oils or burning a scented candle may help reduce your feelings of stress and anxiety.
Some scents are especially soothing. Here are some of the most calming scents:

Lavender
Rose
Vetiver
Bergamot
Roman chamomile
Neroli
Frankincense
Sandalwood
Ylang ylang
Orange or orange blossom
Geranium

Using scents to treat your mood is called aromatherapy. Several studies show that aromatherapy can decrease anxiety and improve sleep (7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source).
Summary Aromatherapy can help lower anxiety and stress. Light a candle or use essential oils to benefit from calming scents.
powered by Rubicon Project

4. Reduce Your Caffeine Intake : Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, tea, chocolate and energy drinks. High doses can increase anxiety (10Trusted Source).
People have different thresholds for how much caffeine they can tolerate.
If you notice that caffeine makes you jittery or anxious, consider cutting back.
Although many studies show that coffee can be healthy in moderation, it's not for everyone. In general, five or fewer cups per day is considered a moderate amount.
Summary High quantities of caffeine can increase stress and anxiety. However, people's sensitivity to caffeine can vary greatly.

5. Write It Down: One way to handle stress is to write things down.
While recording what you're stressed about is one approach, another is jotting down what you're grateful for.
Gratitude may help relieve stress and anxiety by focusing your thoughts on what's positive in your life.
Shop for journals online.
Summary Keeping a journal can help relieve stress and anxiety, especially if you focus on the positive.

6. Chew Gum: For a super easy and quick stress reliever, try chewing a stick of gum.
One study showed that people who chewed gum had a greater sense of wellbeing and lower stress (11).
One possible explanation is that chewing gum causes brain waves similar to those of relaxed people. Another is that chewing gum promotes blood flow to your brain.
Additionally, one recent study found that stress relief was greatest when people chewed more strongly (12).
Shop for chewing gum online.
Summary According to several studies, chewing gum may help you relax. It may also promote wellbeing and reduce stress.

7. Spend Time With Friends and Family: Social support from friends and family can help you get through stressful times.
Being part of a friend network gives you a sense of belonging and self-worth, which can help you in tough times.
One study found that for women in particular, spending time with friends and children helps release oxytocin, a natural stress reliever. This effect is called "tend and befriend," and is the opposite of the fight-or-flight response (13Trusted Source).
Keep in mind that both men and women benefit from friendship.
Another study found that men and women with the fewest social connections were more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety (14Trusted Source).
Summary Having strong social ties may help you get through stressful times and lower your risk of anxiety.

8. Laugh: It's hard to feel anxious when you're laughing. It's good for your health, and there are a few ways it may help relieve stress:

Relieving your stress response.
Relieving tension by relaxing your muscles.

In the long term, laughter can also help improve your immune system and mood.
A study among people with cancer found that people in the laughter intervention group experienced more stress relief than those who were simply distracted (15Trusted Source).
Try watching a funny TV show or hanging out with friends who make you laugh.
Summary Find the humor in everyday life, spend time with funny friends or watch a comedy show to help relieve stress.

9. Learn to Say No: Not all stressors are within your control, but some are.. Take control over the parts of your life that you can change and are causing you stress.   One way to do this may be to say "no" more often..   This is especially true if you find yourself taking on more than you can handle, as juggling many responsibilities can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Being selective about what you take on — and saying no to things that will unnecessarily add to your load — can reduce your stress levels.
Summary Try not to take on more than you can handle. Saying no is one way to control your stressors.

10. Learn to Avoid Procrastination:   Another way to take control of your stress is to stay on top of your priorities and stop procrastinating.. Procrastination can lead you to act reactively, leaving you scrambling to catch up. This can cause stress, which negatively affects your health and sleep quality (16). Get in the habit of making a to-do list organized by priority. Give yourself realistic deadlines and work your way down the list.. Work on the things that need to get done today and give yourself chunks of uninterrupted time, as switching between tasks or multitasking can be stressful itself.
Summary Prioritize what needs to get done and make time for it. Staying on top of your to-do list can help ward off procrastination-related stress.

11. Take a Yoga Class :   Yoga has become a popular method of stress relief and exercise among all age groups. While yoga styles differ, most share a common goal — to join your body and mind.. Yoga primarily does this by increasing body and breath awareness.
Some studies have examined yoga's effect on mental health. Overall, research has found that yoga can enhance mood and may even be as effective as antidepressant drugs at treating depression and anxiety (17).
However, many of these studies are limited, and there are still questions about how yoga works to achieve stress reduction.
In general, the benefit of yoga for stress and anxiety seems to be related to its effect on your nervous system and stress response.
It may help lower cortisol levels, blood pressure and heart rate and increase gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that is lowered in mood disorders.
Summary Yoga is widely used for stress reduction. It may help lower stress hormone levels and blood pressure.

12. Practice Mindfulness:   Mindfulness describes practices that anchor you to the present moment. It can help combat the anxiety-inducing effects of negative thinking (18).. There are several methods for increasing mindfulness, including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, yoga and meditation.. A recent study in college students suggested that mindfulness may help increase self-esteem, which in turn lessens symptoms of anxiety and depression (18).
Summary Mindfulness practices can help lower symptoms of anxiety and depression.

13. Cuddle: Cuddling, kissing, hugging and sex can all help relieve stress (19Trusted Source, 20Trusted Source).
Positive physical contact can help release oxytocin and lower cortisol. This can help lower blood pressure and heart rate, both of which are physical symptoms of stress.
Interestingly, humans aren't the only animals who cuddle for stress relief. Chimpanzees also cuddle friends who are stressed (21).
Summary Positive touch from cuddling, hugging, kissing and sex may help lower stress by releasing oxytocin and lowering blood pressure.

14. Listen to Soothing Music: Listening to music can have a very relaxing effect on the body.. Slow-paced instrumental music can induce the relaxation response by helping lower blood pressure and heart rate as well as stress hormones. Some types of classical, Celtic, Native American and Indian music can be particularly soothing, but simply listening to the music you enjoy is effective too (22). Nature sounds can also be very calming. This is why they're often incorporated into relaxation and meditation music.
Summary Listening to music you like can be a good way to relieve stress.

15. Supplements: Several supplements promote stress and anxiety reduction. Here is a brief overview of some of the most common ones:

Lemon balm: Lemon balm is a member of the mint family that has been studied for its anti-anxiety effects (2Trusted Source).
Omega-3 fatty acids: One study showed that medical students who received omega-3 supplements experienced a 20% reduction in anxiety symptoms (3Trusted Source).
Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat stress and anxiety. Several studies suggest that it's effective (4Trusted Source).
Green tea: Green tea contains many polyphenol antioxidants which provide health benefits. It may lower stress and anxiety by increasing serotonin levels (5Trusted Source).
Valerian: Valerian root is a popular sleep aid due to its tranquilizing effect. It contains valerenic acid, which alters gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors to lower anxiety.
Kava kava: Kava kava is a psychoactive member of the pepper family. Long used as a sedative in the South Pacific, it is increasingly used in Europe and the US to treat mild stress and anxiety (6Trusted Source).

Some supplements can interact with medications or have side effects, so you may want to consult with a doctor if you have a medical condition.
Shop for ashwagandha, omega-3 supplements, green tea, and lemon balm online.
Summary Certain supplements can reduce stress and anxiety, including ashwagandha, omega-3 fatty acids, green tea and lemon balm.

16. Spend Time With Your Pet: Having a pet may help reduce stress and improve your mood.
Interacting with pets may help release oxytocin, a brain chemical that promotes a positive mood (23Trusted Source).
Having a pet may also help relieve stress by giving you purpose, keeping you active and providing companionship — all qualities that help reduce anxiety.
Summary Spending time with your pet is a relaxing, enjoyable way to reduce stress.

The Bottom Line: Although stress and anxiety may arise in your workplace and personal life, there are many simple ways to reduce the pressure you feel. These tips often involve getting your mind away from the source of stress. Exercise, mindfulness, music and physical intimacy can all work to relieve anxiety — and they will improve your overall work-life balance as well.

The ABCs of Psychological Trauma July 18, 2019 By Steve Beckow

I call the source of trauma vasanas; Linda calls them core issues; these folks call them trauma. The name doesn’t matter. But all are agreed that these are the main obstacle to our happiness.

The ABCs of Psychological Trauma
Stillness in the Storm, 07/15/20
https://stillnessinthestorm.com/2019/07/the-abcs-of-psychological-trauma/
Although psychological trauma doesn’t affect everyone in the same way, many people are forever impacted by it.
June 30th, 2019
Psychological trauma is one of those things that everyone talks about but no one really understands. You can’t classify every negative experience as traumatic, and not all traumas form consciously. A lot of people don’t even know that they’re traumatized, despite how it influences them.
The intensity of psychological trauma isn’t only related to how serious the traumatic event was. There are other factors involved, such as age, the context, their mental state at that moment, the things that happened after, etc..Psychological traumas can have life-long consequences. They require professional help. It’s not easy to overcome a trauma without a treatment tailored to your needs, no matter how hard you try on your own. We all experience different traumas and they don’t leave the same mark.
“Anxiety, nightmares, and a nervous breakdown, there’s only so many traumas a person can withstand until they take to the streets and start screaming.”
-Cate Blanchett – Blue Jasmine–
Defining Psychological Trauma In general terms, psychological trauma is an unexpected experience that causes intense emotional pain. It always involves a real, potential, or imagined threat to your life or safety. They can also include things you witness from the sidelines, even though they don’t affect you directly.

The general response to this type of situation is terror and a feeling of complete powerlessness. The initial response of most people, especially children, is emotional chaos, agitation, disorganized behavior, or paralysis.

Psychological trauma is also stored in your memory in an unusual way. The experience is so intense that your mind can’t recreate it in a faithful way. It’s like your brain is experiencing shock. It’s common for the information to get shut off and filed away in your brain.
In other words, you only remember certain parts of it and consciously forget the rest. It’s a defense mechanism you use to keep going.
The Characteristics of Psychological TraumaThe big part of trauma is that it’s unexpected, that you don’t have time to prepare for it, and that you don’t have the resources to deal with it. Basically, neither your mind nor your body are ready for it. Because it happens so suddenly, you have very little time to mentally and physically react.
The agitation it creates is so intense that you don’t know how to express what happened or accept that it happened in a way that doesn’t hurt.
But not all psychological trauma stems from real things. In some cases, the human brain can’t separate reality from imagination or perception. This means that some trauma doesn’t come from a real threat, but a subjective experience of threat.
Sigmund Freud noticed that a lot of his patients had had similar experiences. They found the situations unbearable, even though their lives and well-being weren’t exactly at risk. One popular example of this is the woman who hallucinated anytime she smelt burnt pastries.
Through psychoanalysis, Freud brought her back to a time when she worked as a housemaid. One day, she got a letter from her mother. However, the children in the house took it from her. At that same moment, the pastries she had in the oven were burning.
The Effects of This Kind of TraumaPsychological trauma has varying degrees of seriousness. The worst cases force you to organize your entire life and perception of the world around the traumatic event. For example, if you were suddenly abandoned at a young age, you may have trouble trusting other people.
People who have experienced psychological trauma tend to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which basically makes them re-live their trauma unconsciously, even though the danger has passed. The typical example is someone who was in a war and is so tormented by their memories that they can’t live a normal life.
It’s also common for people who experienced these kinds of things to suffer from anxiety and/or depression. Trauma also manifests as panic attacks. The important thing is to know that getting professional help can really make a difference.
Stillness in the Storm Editor: Why did we post this?
Psychology is the study of the nature of mind. Philosophy is the use of that mind in life. Both are critically important to gain an understanding of as they are aspects of the self. All you do and experience will pass through these gateways of being. The preceding information provides an overview of this self-knowledge, offering points to consider that people often don’t take the time to contemplate. With the choice to gain self-awareness, one can begin to see how their being works. With the wisdom of self-awareness, one has the tools to master their being and life in general, bringing order to chaos through navigating the challenges with the capacity for right action.

WHY WE MUST BREATHE THRU RACISM AND PREJUDICE
By Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, CB, CTF, CLYT/CLYL

I want to add another piece to the puzzle of racism's pain. What is happening in this country is not just what people feel now, but a pain deeper than an old scar that has never healed. Trauma is that deep pain. It lodges in the amigalya of our brain. It rears in our sub-conscious memory. It embraces a collective awareness across years and years, perhaps centuries. It comes to the surface of our conscious minds, in the way that we love ourselves, relate to each other, respect our communities and pursue our dreams with purpose.

Trauma - long-held in the memory banks of our mind, makes us physically stressed, then sick and depressed. We hold our breath from the traumatic fear and pain limiting our breath, our very life-force of critical oxygen. We suffer more than 60 or more stress-related cellular malfunctions.

Trauma is the symptom of racism, prejudice and inequality. And they all are part of a deeper system that divides the halves from the half-nots. This division goes across color lines and regional boundaries.

I work with a modality called Breathology and I.m. the founder of Optimum Life Breathology- the art and science of breath awareness, breath mechanics, and effective breath techniques that impact Spirit, Mind and Body. It helped me heal from my long-held trauma of childhood verbal, emotional and sexual abuse. I have studied the breath now for over 40 years and have facilitated this tool to help millions on radio, t.v., print and on stage. I have also worked as a community organizer and social service professional for close to that same number of years

The "Breath" changed my "lens" as a survivor of abuse, then addiction, domestic violence, the violent death of my teen-age son, and ill-health related, early deaths of my first husband -a veteran of Vietnam, his mother and father - all within a month apart from each other and ultimately homelessness from my home being stolen from greedy real-estate grabbers during probate proceedings.

From such experiences, I walk my talk as I truly know stress, trauma and systematic inequality. We have to clear the cellular memory of such trauma, so that the subconscious mind does not sabotage our conscious mind that initiates our surface actions.

Without such clearing, we speak and act one way, but we pull ourselves in a different direction, similiar to putting on brakes at the same time of accelerating a car. We get stuck going no-where. It's beyond frustrating.

I share this explanation to you, as I am reaching out to people of high awareness who desire change to ask them to help me institutionalize my training of other Breathologist so that we can help support a critical mass of people with this life-changing system. I have been blessed to certify over 100 Breathologists in 7 states, and this summer intend to increase this number triple fold.

We can not dialogue away our issues with structural racism, as they run deep and wholistic. We can, however, use the tool of the breath to change our very molecular, cellular structure to clean it up, purge it through and maintain this detoxed transformed mind now clearer to absorb new hope, peace, self-love and self-determination. This is my vision for a "breath movement" and a new world.

Depression - Not “Just the Blues”

Clinical depression is more than life’s “ups” and “downs.” Life is full of joy and pain, happiness and sorrow. It is normal to feel sad when a loved one dies, or when you are sick, going through a divorce, or having financial problems. But for some people the sadness does not go away, or keeps coming back. If your “blues” last more than a few weeks or cause you to struggle with daily life, you may be suffering from clinical depression.
Clinical depression is not a personal weakness, gracelessness or faithlessness—it is a common, yet serious, medical illness. Clinical depression is a “whole-body” illness that affects your mood, thoughts, body and behavior. Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months or years. Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people who have clinical depression.
Clinical depression can affect anyone: Anyone can experience clinical depression, regardless of race, gender, age, creed or income. Every year more than 19 million Americans suffer from some type of depressive illness. According to a Surgeon General report, African Americans are over-represented in populations that are particularly at risk for mental illness. Depression robs people of the enjoyment found in daily life and can even lead to suicide. A common myth about depression is that it is “normal” for certain people to feel depressed—older people, teenagers, new mothers, menopausal women, or those with a chronic illness. The truth is that depression is not a normal part of life for any African American, regardless of age or life situation. Unfortunately, depression has often been misdiagnosed in the African American community.
Myths about depression: The myths and stigma that surround depression create needless pain and confusion, and can keep people from getting proper treatment. The following statements reflect some common misconceptions about African Americans and depression: “Why are you depressed? If our people could make it through slavery, we can make it through anything.” “When a black woman suffers from a mental disorder, the opinion is that she is weak. And weakness in black women is intolerable.” “You should take your troubles to Jesus, not some stranger/psychiatrist.” The truth is that getting help is a sign of strength. People with depression can’t just “snap out of it.” Also, spiritual support can be an important part of healing, but the care of a qualified mental health professional is essential. And the earlier treatment begins, the more effective it can be.
What causes clinical depression? Many factors can contribute to clinical depression, including cognitive issues (e.g., negative thinking patterns); biological and genetic factors; gender (it affects more women than men); other medications; other illnesses; and situational factors. For some, a number of these factors seem to be involved, while for others a single factor can cause the illness. Often, people become depressed for no apparent reason. In an effort to cope with the emotional pain caused by depression, some people try to “self-medicate” through the abuse of alcohol or illegal drugs, which only leads to more problems.
Clinical depression is a treatable illness: The good news is that, like other illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes, clinical depression is treatable with the help of a health care professional. In fact, over 80 percent of people with depression can be treated successfully.
Symptoms of clinical depression: Due to cultural backgrounds, depression may be exhibited differently among African Americans. To help decide if you—or someone you care about—needs an evaluation for clinical depression, review the following list of symptoms. If you experience five or more for longer than two weeks, if you feel suicidal, or if the symptoms interfere with your daily routine, see your doctor, and bring this sheet with you.

A persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood, or excessive crying
Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased appetite and weight gain
Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain
Irritability, restlessness
Decreased energy, fatigue, feeling “slowed down”
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness, pessimism
Sleeping too much or too little, early-morning waking
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities, including sex
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts

Nov. 11. Honoring all Veterans who served for the country. Honoring my Father who served in World war !!, Honoring my Brother, Melvin who served in Vietnam; Honoring my first husband, Damani who served in Vietnam era.

Honoring the many friends and associates who lost their lives serving a country who has not served them well. Their lives have not been lived in vain.

THE MISSING MAN TABLE - A MEMORIAL AT FORT MONROE, VIRGINIA.
BE IN GRATITUDE FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE SUPPORTED US AND THE VETERANS WHO SERVED US.

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M-NCPPC, DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION, PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY
invites you to a series of Senior Wellness Classes & Activities that Redefine Active Aging

Tuesday, November 12 from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m
"Breath and Relaxation Techniques"
John E. Howard Senior Activity Center
4400 Shell Street, Capitol Heights, Md. 20743iques
featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou, Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher

REGISTER: 301-735-2400

This is the State of Stress in 2018

By Marilisa Racco, National Online Journalist, Global News
https://globalnews.ca/news/4138006/stress-causes-today/

It comes as no surprise that we’re stressed. One in four Canadians cite stress as the reason for leaving their job, while 73 per cent of all working adults aged 20 to 64 report at least some level of stress.
According to Statistics Canada, 23 per cent of people over the age of 15 report that most days are “quite a bit” or “extremely” stressful, and that number rises to 30 per cent among the 35 to 54 age group.
Work is the leading cause of stress among our population, followed (albeit far behind) by finances, but the addition of new modern concerns — like terrorism and the state of the environment — are adding to the load. In addition, they’re changing how we as a society look at stress and who we consider to be the most stressed among us.
Stress is no longer a white-collar affliction
The General Social Survey conducted in 2010 found that educated, white-collar professionals were more likely to report their job as the largest source of stress, 45 per cent of whom had an annual income of $100,000 or more; immigrants, visible minority groups and those without a post-secondary education were more likely to pin their stress on finances.
“Initially the message was clear: people doing important or difficult work under pressure were particularly susceptible,” Jill Kirby, a teaching fellow at the University of Sussex, wrote in The Conversation. “The Daily Mirror carried stories about the risk to students from elite universities and suggested that ‘the boss got more ‘stress disorders’ than those working under him.’”
Over time, society began to grasp just how far-reaching the hand of stress could be. As Daniel Akst wrote in the New York Times in 2004, traditionally, the media painted the most stressed population as educated, middle-class professionals who, in fact, had the luxury of making choices that would lead to less stress.
But that largely glossed over the lower classes who had more pressing issues that precluded them from de-stressing:
“Those who are paid $7 or $8 an hour don’t have health insurance and lack the skills or education to better their lot.”
Add to that life-altering events that worked to shake Westerners’ sense of security in the world, and stress was suddenly democratized.
“Events like 9/11 made terrorism global, and that transcended a lot of cultural perceptions and definitions of stress,” says Dr. Richard Amaral, a registered psychologist in Markham, Ont. “Suddenly, people of all financial and social status were now susceptible and we realized how vulnerable all of society was. That kind of awareness brought the concept of stress to the forefront for people of all races and socioeconomic status.”
But the profile of those most susceptible to stress and its negative outcomes has been further refined in recent years. Here’s what we know today.
Young people are more stressed than ever
For starters, young people are excessively stressed out these days. A study published in December in the journal Psychological Bulletin found that there was a 33 per cent spike in two types of perfectionism among college students in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K.: “self-oriented,” or having high expectations of yourself, and “other-oriented,” where they have rigorous standards for others.
In its most acute forms, the researchers say, the stress of perfectionism can lead to eating disorders, high blood pressure, depression and thoughts of suicide.
“The younger generation feels a lot more stress today than they did in the past,” says Dr. Katy Kamkar, a clinical psychologist at Toronto’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
“There are worries about being educated and not being able to find a job; concerns about cost of living and debt that’s causing them to live with their parents longer. All this translates to more stress. And we know that 70 per cent of mental health problems are onset in younger years.”
The advent of technology adds another layer to young people’s stress, experts say. For one thing, it makes them more susceptible to cyberbullying, and for another, it is affecting their ability to focus and relax.
“A lot of young people are having difficulty maintaining their attention span because they’re always looking to see what’s coming through on social media,” Amaral says.READ MORE:

Kids and stress: How to identify it and how to help them cope
“There’s research that talks about how [kids] who are constantly looking at their phones and who are being bombarded with this information are structurally changing their brain. It’s creating a background noise that prevents them from relaxing and being more mindful. And that, in turn, makes them feel stressed.”

Racialized and impoverished women are especially vulnerable
Recent research suggests that people of colour, especially mothers and their babies, are particularly vulnerable to the health hazards brought on by stress. Faculty at the University of West Florida (UWF) announced in March they would conduct an exploratory study to examine chronic stress in mothers to understand if stressors like sexism, racism, discrimination and poverty were at the root of poor health outcomes for mothers and their babies.
“Discrimination can be embodied,” Dr. Meredith Marten, an assistant professor of anthropology at UWF and a lead author of the study, tells Global News. “Experiences of chronic stress, which engage the human stress response, can lead over time to poor health outcomes, particularly cardiovascular conditions and immune suppression, among others.”
“People who experience more discrimination and encounter racism have a higher risk for negative health outcomes, in part because of the stressor of experiencing discrimination.”
Although Marten was unable to share any conclusions from her study as it’s still too early to report data, she said that concerns for “black sons and their safety as they grow older has been one issue frequently mentioned.”

A mother’s stress can affect her baby’s brain development
Researchers at Wayne State University in Detroit have found that a mother’s stress levels directly impact the brain development of babies in-utero — specifically that her stress can change the neural connectivity of her unborn baby’s brain.

Researchers used fetal imaging to examine 47 fetuses between the 30th and 37th week of gestation in women from a high-stress urban setting, many of whom reported high levels of anxiety, depression, worry and stress. They found that in the mothers who reported high stress, their fetuses showed a reduced efficiency in how their neural functional systems are organized.
This suggests that the brains of these fetuses don’t develop in a simple sequence (i.e. vision, motor), but perhaps in a more complicated system that could compromise the baby’s stress responses.
Our stress is contagious
When it comes down to it, stress is among our greatest health threats. It’s been linked to complications like high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. It can also present immune issues, higher risk of infertility and miscarriage, headaches, muscle tension or pain, anxiety and depression.

What’s worse, a small study conducted at the University of Calgary has found that stress can be contagious.

Published in the journal, Nature Neuroscience, researchers examined pairs of sibling mice, one of which was exposed to stress while the other was relaxing in a cage, and found that once reunited, the chemical stress signal was transferred to the non-stressed mouse.

READ MORE: ‘It’s a traumatic moment’: How everyday racism can impact mental, physical health
Considering what’s already known about chronic stress and its effects on the hippocampus (the learning and memory section) of the brain — that long-term stress can weaken the connection between neurons, and diminish memory and learning ability — it is noteworthy that this effect can be transferred from the stressed party to a neutral one.
“The neurons that control the brain’s response to stress showed changes in unstressed partners that were identical to those we measured in the stressed mice,” lead study author and postdoctoral scholar at the University of Calgary, Toni-Lee Sterley, said to Medical News Today.
However, there’s good news for females: researchers discovered that stressed female mice were able to reverse the negative effects of stress by hanging out with non-stressed partners. An effect that was exclusive to the females.
“If some of the effects of stress are erased through social interactions, but this benefit is limited to females, this may provide insights into how we design personalized approaches for the treatment of stress disorders in people,” Jaideep Bains, co-author and professor of physiology and pharmacology, said.
“What we can begin to think about is whether other people’s experiences or stresses may be changing us in a way that we don’t fully understand.”
© 2018 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
https://youtu.be/cTQ7CrpoGoo

Join the 140 Certified Optimum Life Breathologists in 7 states and counting. We are changing the world to breathe better to live better. Are you seeking a perfect, simple solution to enhance your spirit, mind and body? Are you a helping professional or a change agent of solutions who needs that leading edge? We offer a perfect, simple solution right under our noses - breathe better, live better, age better, think better, heal better ......You will see IMMEDIATE AND LIFE-CHANGING BENEFITS..

The Relaxation Room at the Loc's Conference, Oct 5/6, 2019. Could your conference or event benefit by creating such a healing, sacred space...Call and let's discuss your needs.

October begins the march of winter holidays,-- Halloween, Thanksgiving, the Winter Solstice, Christmas and the African-centered holy-days of Kwanzaa. While these holiday celebrations come from ancient, spiritual holydays, today, our modern day translaction have altered the meaning and the behavior that occurs during our modern holidays. This month, we will support our community in managing a concept, I was blessed to identify in the early 80's as "Holiday Stress Syndrome". . As this is also Domestic Violence Month, and this issue exacerbates during holidays, our goal at P.E.W. is to link culture with health always, so we can breathe away the stress and trauma that comes on despite the beauty and possibilities of "peace on earth and joy to the world" within.

This month, is not only Domestic Violence Month, but also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. My Mom, survived breast cancer for over 49 years, but also survived domestic violence in her over 50 years of marriage to my Dad. . I share the story of how emotions in our family affected her illness, and how the trauma of childhood sexual abuse, and trauma affected my health concerns with breast cancer.. In honor of my Mom, who passed away ironically, in the month, she loved so dearly as an American Cancer Reach to Recovery Volunteer, I share hers/ our story in our Breathe Away Blog, entitled,
"The Emotional link of Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence"..

Breath of Life - A Wellness Day Retreat for Women
In commemoration of Domestic Violence Month, experience the tools to heal the brokenness and pain as women share the tools of breathwork transformation and "the word" to heal the spirit.
Sat, October 12, 2019

8:00 AM – 1:00 PM EDT

Location: The EJM Event Center (changed location)
563 Ritchie Road
The Ritchie Plaza Center
Capitol Heights, MD 20743

Sponsored by MJM (Melissa Johnson Ministries) Global.
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO PURCHASE TICKETS.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breath-of-life-wellness-day-retreat-for-women-new-location-tickets-70614294255

IWe opened the purple-clothed door and they came pouring in - for the vibrational sound healing, the relaxed ambiance, the breath training, the unique "positivEnergy" products and higher consciousness visualizations, This weekend at the 25th Annual Loc's Conference in Philadelphia, John and I facilitated "Breath and Sound Experiences" for two days at this natural hair, wholistic health and beauty expo, This was our 7th year of participation, transforming a high-school classroom location into a healing space we call The Relaxation Room. We were so well received and embraced by attendees who have returned to this "sanctuary" of love, peace and calm, in the middle of the crowded, robust MarketPlace of the Loc's Conference. The Kuumba Family Institute, hosts of the conference, with Sister Mama Akoshua as the visionary, put together an amazing, wholistic event of unity and Black Love. If you missed it this year, put it on your calendar for next. And, if P.E.W. can bring a Relaxation Room to your next conference, give us a call: to discuss your needs. 202-667-2577 or email [email protected]

OPTIMIZE THE BREATH TO OPTIMIZE LIFE!
Practice Breath Techniques for everyday solutions!
BreathShops On-Line (BSOL)

2ND & 4TH TUESDAY @ 3 P.. M
TODAY - Tues, Oct 8, 2019
"Breathe and Manage Holiday Stress Syndrome
"Honoring Domestic Violence Month"
with Live Chat
REPLAYS
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO BREATHE IN

WOMEN BREATHE AWAY TRAUMA- REAWAKEN TO SELF LOVE – a 2 hour inter-active Master Class that gives Women the tools of empowerment to heal trauma /abuse. Using the Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B.) system of breath techniques and transformative practices as developed by Ayo Handy-Kendi, the Breath Sekou of 40” years, founder of Black Love Day, you will heal the wounds of trauma/abuse. The On-Line Class with live audience participation will bring a live-stream into your setting. We encourage you to participate in the actual sessions, journal and take notes in the workbook download. Bring along a Sitter as a trusted friend or engage in these self-care practices in your privacy at your own pace. We will help you breathe into a sacred space with live music and visualizations.

EXPERIENCE in this MASTER CLASS

Explore breathology and play as coping techniques to bust stress, relax the mind, calm the nerves;

How Breathing can impact your life, health, work and vitality as the easiest solution for quick and long-lasting change of Spirit, Mind and Body for on-going stress/trauma/life management;

Identify our “triggers” and a breathology technique to intervene and stop “thought loops”;

Learn how stored, repressed trauma impacts depression , anxiety, addictions, long term mental and physical health and how to heal;

Reconnect with self and your suppressed voice through self touch and vocal toning;

Release stuck suppressed anger, grief, pain, quilt, old tapes, ancestral memory and any other emotions from trauma/abuse in an introductory session of Transcendence Breathwork;

An advance of consciousness through a radical forgiveness exercise and reconciliation ritual to stop any disempowering violence on ourselves and others;

Keys to regain your trust, self-esteem and confidence through Meditative Writing;

A moment of “inner and outer-course” practicing the art of self-pleasure and self-love through a breath technique and transformative practices;

Rejuvenate with new energy and inspiration to recharge up your life.

COSTS & PREPARATION:
$400 for 2 hour On-LineWorkshop - LAUNCH SALE: $97.00 On-line.
Pre-register before class to receive important preparation instructions and workbook download.

Limited Space for 6 women participants at Off-line Class held at the PositivEnergy Center in Capitol Heights, Md. Participants must be willing to be filmed for later viewing and sign a release waiver.
$40 to pre-register and to receive important preparation instructions with workbook download.
INVEST IN OUR PREMIUM PACKAGES OF INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP MODULA COURSE STARTING IN THE FALL.

Come Breathe, Relax and totally De-stress as we focus on "Breathing Away Trauma while Relearning How to Breathe to Manage Everyday Life.' Chill at the RELAXATION ROOM at the 25th Annual Locks Conference featuring a hosts of practitioners, healers, merchants and of course, our own AYO HANDY-KENDI, the Breath Sekou, founder of Black Love Day, and author of the up-coming book "STOLEN". See you there.

EXPERIENCE THE RELAXATION ROOM
at the 25TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL lOCKS CONFERENCE.
John and I are honored to have been featured at this huge marketplace event for the last 6 years and this weekend, Oct 5-6th, we really want to step it up to add to the excitement. of this 25th Anniversary Celebration in Philadephia. Mama Akoshua Sabree, the visionary, the Sabree family and the entire team, demonstrate plenty 'Umoja" as they bend over frontward and backward to connect the dots that our cultural experience on the outer level with our Locs, Make-up and Clothing is a reflection of our inner awareness of good health, wellness and spiritual creative expression. Come the conference and our room glow in your crown and your consciousness. Bask in the Black Love and PositivEnergy as we will offer several Breath and Sound Experiences to reduce trauma, stress and to just relax; Expand your oxygen intake with our products and gain the awareness of the "power of the breath" to manage our lives with PositivEnergy.
See you in Philly this weekend....as The tradition Continues...

Join our BreathShop Master Classes that take you on the next level of personal growth, development and healing by mastering the tool of "the Breath" to experience it's Power Our system, Optimum Life Breathology (O.L.B.) trains one in learning Breathology, the art and science of Breath Awareness, Breath Mechanics and how to apply breathing techniques, practices and oxygen concepts to everyday living. In this class, we will use 3 of the O.L.B techiques to open sub-conscious, cellular and generational memory to encourage deep healing in a small group seating.

BreathShop Master Classes will offer 1 hour -4 hour(s) long classes OFF-Line, that will provide real tools to address many of today's health, wellness, mental and public health concerns.

The classes will build upon the themes of the Breath Shop's OnLine, 2nd & 4th Tuesdays Series

People ready to master life by mastering the breath will want to CONSIDER OUR PREMIUM PACKAGES THAT TAKE YOU ON A DEEPER DISCOVERY OF HEALTH, SELF-CARE & WELLNESS. INQUIRE by contacting P.E.W. 202-667-2577

WE appreciate in our hands-on classes. Inquire about our sliding fee/barter participation policy for all P.E.W. services/classes, courses.
JOIN THE BREATHE POSITIVE CIRCLE FOR FURTHER DISCOUNTS BY STAYING CONNECTED TO P.E.W

Shop at our MarketPlace

BREATHSHOPS ONLINE
MASTER CLASSES
WE appreciate your pay-per-fee payment(s)
COMING SOON

In Collaboration with AWHA (African Wholistic Health Association) gain mastery over your Health & Wellness

COMMUNITY BREATH CIRCLES

"STOLEN"
is the newest book, based on the play by Ayo Handy-Kendi, which has also inspired our newest presentation, "Women Breathe Away Trauma, Re-awaken to Self-Love".
Based on the story of the First African Landing in Virginia, 1619, primarily focused on the compelling story of two women, Angela and Isabella, who persevered against all odds, stolen from Angolo, stolen by pirates, their bodies stolen and their liberty, their story will help us heal the divides of today.
Coming soon - See the Marketplace for advance copy
OFFER THE PLAY OR THE WORKSHOP FOR YOUR GROUP, ORGANIZATION OR FUNDRAISER.

As we move into the Fall of 2019, we advance ourselves using the "Power of the Breath" to support our every moment. As the air changes towards cooler days, leaves drop and fall flowers abound, notice the shift also in your body, mind and spirit. Yes, the Fall Equinox is upon us, starting September 23 officially as the first day of fall, at least in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s the day the autumnal equinox arrives.when the sun is directly in line with the equator. Now, daylight hours will continue to shorten until the winter solstice arrives in December. With the equinox, comes many fall festivities many dating back centuries. With the shift of a season, it reminds us to shift, change and grow. Changing the way you breathe, can help you in this effort to shift especially if darker days affect our moods. Manage the fall seasonal changes in our bodies respiratory response, our allergies and asthma. Spiritually, connect with the ancients who honored the seasonal changing of the .sun,and embody the "Son" within us. Gain mastery over the breath to master your life to connect with the Divine power within YOU.

A calm mind is a relaxed mind. Despite the times we are in-- the stress of mass murders, economic down-turns, and arrests of sexual exploiters, it is critical to manage your mental health , your emotions, fears and depression. PositivEnergyWorks continues it's 2019 Black Love Initiative, "To Heal a Woman Heal a Nation". Attend the first on-line workshop: "Breathe Thru Depression by Addressing Your Trauma"

"STOLEN"
is the newest book, based on the play by Ayo Handy-Kendi
Get the inside story of the First African Landing in Virginia, 1619. Be inspired by the compelling story of the "20 and Odd Negroes" stolen in Angola, Central Africa, taken against their will to Old Point Comfort in the Virginia settlement of the New World.
The story of two women, Angela and Isabella, who persevered against all odds,
will help us heal the divides of today.
Coming soon - See the Marketplace for advance copy
OFFER THE PLAY OR THE WORKSHOP FOR YOUR GROUP, ORGANIZATION OR FUNDRAISER.

Sekou Ayo Handy-Kendi standing with Breathologist from countries around the world at this year's 2019 Global Inspiration Conference (GIC) where she was recognized for her breathing school of training Breathologist (Certified Optimum Life Breathologist) Now, she is heading to Belguim to facilitate a wedding, to offer storytelling and racial healing work from September 16- 22, 2019.. The Power of the Breath Tour extends from the D.M.V. around the world as the international community is growing with the healing power of better breathing and breathwork. Send her light and love on this adventure.

Contact Sekou Ayo, for her presentations,/ trainings, breathshops on-line and activities at the PositivEnergy Center in Capitol Heights Maryland.

OPTIMUM LIFE BREATHOLOGY COURSE
SAT, August 31 /SUN. Sept. 1, 2019
IN THE D.M.V. in Capitol Heights
LINK TO Register at Breathology
LAST DAY TO REGISTER, THURSDAY, AUG. 29

Click here for O.L.B Certification

WHY WE NEED A BLACK WATCH - LIVING WHILE BLACK

On March 1, a police officer in Boulder, Colorado, confronted an unidentified black man, a student at a local university, as he picked up trash in the yard of his student housing. Boulder police later said in a statement that the officer had approached the man “to determine if he was allowed to be on the property.”
In a video of the incident that went viral, the man explained that he lived and worked in the building, and showed the officer a student ID. But the officer still detained the man, saying that police needed to investigate further. When the man angrily objected to how he was being treated, the officer called for backup, saying that the man was “uncooperative and unwilling to put down a blunt object,” according to the Denver Post.
“You’re on my property with a gun in your hand, threatening to shoot me because I’m picking up trash,” the man in the video yells at an officer. The man was not, ultimately, arrested, but the officer who initiated the confrontation has been placed on paid leave as the department launches an investigation into the incident.

The case, which angered local residents, is the latest in a long line of “Living While Black” incidents that have attracted considerable news coverage. In another similar incident, a gardener had been harrassed by racial profiling by 3 while women, as he attempted to work on a client's garden. He has filed a law suite on the women, after an unnecessary arrest based on their "finger-pointing". Maybe being sued will slow down these racial profiling allegations. In the meantime....BLACK WATCH can help document your side.
https://www.vox.com/identities/2019/3/8/18256516/racial-profiling-police-detroit-lawsuit-peeples

Symbol of the Smai Twi on Egyptian hieroglyphics as representation of their awareness of the power of the breath from the organ of the lung. The center image is the trachea passing towards the heart. Learn more about this image in the "Applied Breathology Book", history of Breathology.
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Ayo Handy-Kendi is "the Breath Sekou", founder of Optimum Life Breathology, Transcendence Breathwork, Relearn How to Breathe, Breath Circles for Racial/Diversity/Gender Healing, Rituals of Reconciliation, and Earth Love Tune up Crew (ELTUC). All REGISTERED TRADEMARKS of Ayo Handy-Kendi
.
She is a Certified Optimum Life Breathologist, Laughter Yoga Teacher/Leader, Transformational Facilitator, QiCong I,II, RaSeski I, II, and Reiki Master 3,

She is the founder/CEO of PositivEnergyWorks LLC. Here she serves as a Breathologist, Life Coach, Sound Healer, Composer, Author, Playwright, Speaker, Storyteller and runs the woman-owned business incorporated since 2004, partnering with her husband, John..

She is also the Founder of Black Love Day, Feb. 13th, co-created in 1993 and the African American Holiday Association (AAHA since 1989).

She is spear-heading a Breath Movement, with this year's 2019 Theme: Heal a Woman, Heal a Nation". Current work is focusing breathology to help transform the wounds of stress and trauma around racial/diversity/gender healing towards reconciliation and self-love.

Breathe Better, Live Better because there is Power in the Breath to activate our PositivEnergy.

November, 2018
BreathShop On-Line TOPIC: "BREATHE THRU ANXIETY"
featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, The Breath Sekou

"Hopefully this demo will stop some nail-biting during any stressful moment of your life
. Let me know if it helped you.
Send in your testimonies or feedback in the "About Us" section."

THINK YOU KNOW HOW TO BREATHE?
You may laugh and say,”Of course, everyone alive knows how to breathe!” Our BreaTh is right under our noses, free and accessible to us all, yet we take it for granted, and say we all know how to breathe because we are living! Unfortun-ately, the Washington Post in an article, “How to Breathe” by Carol Krucoff, May 2, 2000, cited medical research that indicates that 9 ou t of 10 Americans are Breathing incorrectly and putting their health at great risk.

T r y this simple test. Sit or stand where you are, put one hand on your chest and the other on your belly (below the navel). Close your eyes, and breathe normally for a few seconds. What hand moved up and down as you inhaled – the hand on you r ches t or on your belly? If the answer i s your chest or the middl e or upper portions of the lungs, you are a c hest breather like most people! Y ou are NOT breathing effi ciently. Efficient breathing comes f rom a deep breath from the belly (abdomen).
To breathe from the belly, using the diaphragm on a second by second everyday basis enables you toreceive the maximum benefit of a deep Breath by increasing oxygen intake and stops putting your health in jeopardy!

You will have more energy,
improve the body’s ability to detoxify itself,
increase vitality,
help control the mind,
calm the nerves,
control anger,

release stress,

feel more joy and peace!

The BreaTh is the perfect, natural tool for growth, healing and much more! This is why we must relearn how to breathe, as we will have better life, health and empowerment.

BENEFITS OF BELLY (DEEP) BREATHING
from "Applied Breathology Book" by Ayo Handy-Kend

RELAXATION MOMENT:
Pause.....Take a deep breath now.. ....soften your stomach... relax your shoulders and attempt to not lift your shoulders or your chest.......take another.... and another .....Sigh in between...... Allow yourself to breathe.... 3-4 breaths. Stretch, and make yourself yawn. Close your eyes. Relax. Yawn more as needed. Put a smile on your face. For some of you, this will be a beginning step to "relearn how to breathe" our signature tool that we offer. Come back to this site often for ever-changing, "Relaxing Moments".

January, 2019 - BreathShop On-Line TOPIC:
"RELEARN HOW TO BREATHE"
featuring Ayo Handy-Kendi, The Breath Sekou & Freedome El

"Hopefully this intro video will start you on a new life-long, life-changing habit of deeper or "belly" breathing. Practice reminds us of what we already know
but need re-awakening."
Let us know if the video helped you.

Send in your testimonies or feedback in the "About Us" section."

Practice with "BreathShop On-Line" Videos BELOW
Email any questions or concerns to:
[email protected]
or call: 202- 667-2577

"Breathe Thru Affairs of our Past"
BLACK LOVE DAY - FEB. 13
Black History Month