Embark on a transformative exploration of holistic well-being with Dr. Imani Ma’at, a trailblazing force in the world of health and wellness. As the CEO of Sankofa Institute for Wellness, LLC, Dr. Ma’at brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for integrative approaches to health. Join Mystic Mag for an insightful interview as we delve into the foundations of her work and the profound impact it has on individuals and communities. In this conversation, we’ll uncover the principles that drive Dr. Imani Ma’at’s mission to promote wellness and healing. Dr. Ma’at’s approach transcends conventional boundaries, embracing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Prepare to be inspired as we discuss the importance of cultural competence in healthcare, the role of community in fostering well-being, and the transformative power of integrative healing modalities.
Can you share the inspiration behind the creation of the Healthy Haiku method and how it has impacted the health and wellness of individuals or communities?
I was inspired to create the Healthy Haiku Method because of learning to use Haiku as a teaching tool in a Montessori Training class that I took in the late 1980s. Fast forward I co-created a teen theater company that focused on performances regarding healthy lifestyles called Youth Educational Services (Y.E.S.) 4 Health, Inc. Our youth performed for schools, churches and just about anywhere we had youth audiences prepared to learn about issues such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS and so much more. I was Director of Y.E.S. 4 Health while holding a full-time job as a Health Scientist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) which was very time-consuming and required frequent travel. I decided to create the poetry workshop as a way of getting similar messages to youth audiences while still inspiring creativity, role play and creative expression in general. I had the method evaluated in a postdoctoral training sponsored by Tuskegee University, Morehouse School of Medicine, and University of Alabama at Birmingham. I received awards, voted on by fellow post-doctoral students and faculty for having one of the most effective programs in our class. With this validation I was motivated to write my first two books in the Healthy Haiku Series: Promoting Healthy Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors Using Haiku and Creative Expression: A Training Manual for Mentors (2008); and Healthy Haiku Poetry (2010). The Healthy Haiku Method has been used with children, teens, and adults (women’s organizations and with inmates at the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office).
The Healthy Haiku method involves combining health education with creative expression. How do you believe this unique approach enhances the learning experience and promotes healthier living?
I have received positive testimonials from the young and elderly. Here are a couple of examples. I introduced the program to youth at a local youth center of which I serve on the board (Results Kids Club). It was one Saturday afternoon and the teens (and some pre-teens) had been at the center for many hours. I could tell that they were tired. About 10 minutes into my discussion with them, one of the older girls looked at her watch and asked do you really have to leave in an hour? Why can’t you stay longer! I was shocked and we went for about 2 hours. I engage the young people and engage their participation and seek their expertise. They love it and we have held many classes since that one. They recall the topics and lessons learned as poetry is just a way to engage them to speak and learn about healthy life habits. Also, in the jail setting I have had special requests for books and information relating to lessons learned. Again, the sessions are engaging and empowering. In that setting I like to say we focused on “liberating their minds” to think things through and make better decisions so that they would not be repeat offenders. I have a fourth Healthy Haiku book that will be released in early 2024 about the experiences and lessons learned from that setting.
Your podcast “Progressively Yours Health and Wellness Podcast” is a notable initiative. How do you choose the topics and guests for your podcast to ensure it provides valuable insights to your audience?
Many of the guests on Progressively Yours Health and Wellness Podcast are individuals that we have had relationships with over the years. Others are people that we were introduced to or were recommended by people in our network. Our primary theme is health and wellness. Some of my favorite topics have been: Participating in a 30-day fruit fast; the benefits of colonic therapy; helping people to heal themselves with natural nutrition; dental care with the whole body in mind; Mindfulness and Chaka Meditation; and chess and community: developing young leaders and critical thinkers. All shows can be found at http://CEODrImani.com/podcast. Sometimes the theme overlaps with financial health and wellness. Examples of show topics are financial wellness with Infinite banking; 10K digital cards, and the new Tranzact Card.
What type of services do you offer?
I am the Co-CEO of Sankofa Institute; Co-Host of Progressively Yours Health and Wellness Podcast and Owner/Creator of the Healthy Haiku Programs and Services. Sankofa Institute offers wellness workshops for organizations and businesses that focus on the health and wellness of staff. Also, counseling, coaching, and consulting services for individuals, families and small groups. Learn more at MeetSankofa.com. Progressively Yours Health and Wellness Podcast offers one hour wellness shows streamed live on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube on Tuesday evenings 8:00 EST. We have opportunities for businesses to advertise on our show in addition to wonderful opportunities for individuals to visit with us and explain their products and services. Learn more at https://Ceodrimani.com/podcast. Healthy Haiku offers workshops to schools, youth groups and adult organizations to explore health topics which integrate the Healthy Haiku Method © into the existing lessons. We also have books for sale that describe the workshops and activities of Healthy Haiku. The books and more can be seen at https://imanimaat.wixsite.com/healthyhaiku.
What is one memorable moment or guest interview from your podcast that has left a lasting impression on you, and why?
We have had so many memorable guests and topics on the Progressively Yours Health and Wellness Podcast and it is difficult to choose however one that has had a lasting impression was one where the topic was the health benefits of Deuterium Depleted Water. As one who has researched the benefits and harms of popular waters and beverages on the market, I was fascinated to learn that there is a “rogue” hydrogen molecule that impacts the body’s immune system and contributes to poor health outcomes. Depleting the parts per million of deuterium available in water naturally, enhances the body’s immune system. I often encourage people to drink alkaline water and other clean water sources. This information was especially beneficial to me as a health educator and to our listeners who seek health and wellness information.
Wellness workshops for businesses and organizations are becoming increasingly popular. Could you share an example of a particularly successful workshop you’ve conducted and the positive outcomes it brought to the participants?
Sankofa Institute for Wellness, LLC. Holds wellness workshops for organizations and businesses with a particular interest in fostering employee wellness. One series of workshops that has been especially has been that with an organization in Atlanta called Hosea Helps, LLC. Formerly known as Hosea Feeds the Hungry, started by Civil Rights leader Hosea Williams in the early 70’s, this organization is now run by Hosea Williams’ daughter and son and Law. Elisabeth Omilami and husband Afemo Omilami, both award-winning actors have dedicated their lives to serving communities around Atlanta with food, clothing and more. Their staff are wonderful caring people who give tirelessly but who get tired in the process. Our workshops were noted as helping to empower the staff and “filling them back up.” Our activities and exercises are fun and stimulating. Simple feedback from their staff has always been positive. Elisabeth and Afemo, affectionately referred to as Mrs. and Mr. O, have also been guests on our podcast and will be our guest again on Tuesday (November 21 st ) prior to Thanksgiving – the launch of their busiest season of giving!
