Episode Description

For episode 275, we are continuing a new series on the Metta Hour, centered on kids, in honor of Sharon’s first children’s book, Kind Karl, released on December 9th! Written with Jason Gruhl, this illustrated picture book is for 4-8 year-olds and is a children’s adaptation of Sharon’s beloved book Lovingkindness.

For this podcast series, Sharon speaks with educators, caregivers, and researchers about the ways meditation, mindfulness, and lovingkindness can impact children of all ages and the family systems that support them. For the fourth episode of the series, Sharon speaks with Ali Smith, Andres Gonzales and Atman Smith of the Holistic Life Foundation. Andy, Ali, and Atman co-founded the Holistic Life Foundation in 2001, a non-profit organization bringing yoga, meditation, and breath-work to thousands of at-risk kids in Baltimore and beyond. Outside of the Holistic Life Foundation, Ali, Atman, and Andy also teach to diverse populations worldwide, including drug treatment centers, mental crisis facilities, homeless shelters, and Yoga, Wellness, and Mindfulness Festivals. Their first book, Let Your Light Shine was published in 2022 by Penguin Random House.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BOOK

In this conversation, Sharon Atman, Andres and Ali speak about:

• The creation of the Holistic Life Foundation

• Experiencing meditation early in life

• Working in underserved communities

• Teaching with trauma awareness

• HLF Retreats and certification programs

• The importance of sharing love

• Benefits of mindfulness for kids

• Partnering with schools and education systems

• Modifying practice for younger minds

• How to champion love

• Encouraging authentic, in-person interaction

• Giving from a place of overflow

• Caring for ourselves to better care for others

Additional Resources

The episode closes with a guided practice. You can learn more about the Holistic Life Foundation’s work on their website, right here. And get a copy of the book “Let Your Light Shine” right here.

Learn more about Sharon’s brand new children’s book, Kind Karl, right here.

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