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<h3>I had the pleasure of meeting Nairobi Vision at Altea, where I coach cycling.</h3>We crossed paths during a moment when I was deep in research on breathwork courses—because let’s be honest, the power of the breath is undeniable. And the best part? It’s free. We own our breath. It’s ours to use, to heal, to reconnect.Nairobi’s presence was magnetic. Her stance, energy, and dedication to her practice were instantly inspiring. She doesn’t just talk about wellness—she lives it. As a Registered Clinical Herbalist (RH) with the Ontario Herbalists Association, a Certified Breathwork Facilitator, and the founder of Elemental Notes, she brings a rich tapestry of knowledge to the holistic health space. Her work draws from Afro-Caribbean herbalism, Ayurvedic medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Western herbalism, blending ancestral wisdom with modern insight.<figure id="figure-bdriynbeh8mfqzw2re"><img id="bdriynbeh8mfqzw2re" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/31RWh0YOV0ZLxJ2cXQZPz0dbPD2QU5Nd2UCsMi7AjuaZYOlQFOPJgtBV9h1tOkPp.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 45% 0%;" data-corners="small" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="45%" data-positionY="0%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Through Elemental Notes, Nairobi offers seminars, workshops, specialized herbal formulations, webinars, and breathwork coaching across Canada. Her mission? Advancing health equity through education. She’s partnered with institutions like the University of Toronto Scarborough and Sheridan College to deliver transformative wellness experiences. And she does all this while balancing her role as a mother—embodying the harmony between personal and professional life that she hopes to inspire in others.I invite you to join me in our enlightening discussion as it pertains to the power of the breath.Anouk Malavoy: Hi Nairobi, thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. &nbsp;I am excited to learn and grow from this conversation. &nbsp;My first question for you is if someone only has five minutes a day, how would you suggest they use it to reconnect?Nairobi: If it’s in the morning, use those five minutes to create a realistic and optimal plan for your day. Be intentional—make sure “you” time is part of that plan. Strategic planning helps us move forward consciously and shifts us out of survival mode. If it’s in the evening, reflect. Ask yourself: What did I do today? How did it go? What can I improve for tomorrow? Reflection stimulates conscious growth. &nbsp; Anouk: What’s one book, quote, or teacher that’s deeply influenced your path?Nairobi: Book: You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay Quote: “Who has time? But then if we do not ever take time, how can we ever have time?” — The Merovingian Teacher: Dr. Sebi &nbsp; Anouk: How do you see the intersection of modern wellness and ancestral wisdom evolving?Nairobi: It’s already here—and it’s deepening. Traditions like Traditional Chinese Medicine have long woven ancestral wisdom into modern frameworks. What’s changing is the intentional preservation and reintegration. The next generation has more tools, tech, and platforms than ever. I see this evolution continuing through clinical practice, health tech, and sustainable innovation. The key is honoring the origins—evolving with reverence and creating holistic, inclusive approaches to wellness. &nbsp; Anouk: What inspired your journey into herbalism and breathwork? Nairobi: I’ve studied Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, Afro-Caribbean herbalism, and Western materia medica. The more I learn, the more fluid my understanding of healing becomes. It opens doors I didn’t know existed. &nbsp; Anouk: It seems like your personal and professional lives are deeply intertwined. How do you see that connection? Nairobi: There’s no separation. I use the same herbs and breathwork in my daily life that I offer to others. It’s about being real with yourself and choosing consciously—not just reacting. &nbsp; Anouk: What does growth look like for you as a breathwork facilitator and herbalist? Nairobi: It’s about helping people realize they have the power to choose. We often wait for crisis to change. But we can choose differently—starting with something as simple as how we breathe. &nbsp; Anouk: For someone facing burnout, what’s a gentle first step? Nairobi: Start with the breath. Before you even get out of bed, inhale through your nose for five seconds, exhale for five. That’s called “perfect breath.” It resets your system and brings you back to yourself. &nbsp; Anouk: What drew you to breathwork in the first place? Nairobi: I lost over 50 pounds through breathwork, diet, and sauna. I didn’t work out—breathing was the workout. It changed my body, my mind, and my life. That’s when I understood its power. &nbsp; Anouk: For someone overwhelmed by change, how can they begin? Nairobi: Start with one thing. Write a note to yourself. Ask a friend to check in. Put a reminder on your mirror. You own your breath—no one can take that from you. Use it with intention. &nbsp; Anouk: What are your personal ingredients for happiness? Nairobi: Laughter. Love. Communication. Eating and drinking with intention. Daily detox. Sleep. Conscious breath. Meditation. Movement. Life is about growth—stagnancy is the opposite of living. &nbsp; Anouk: Do you have a mantra or mindset you live by? Nairobi: A few: “Drink water and mind my business.” “Stand strong in my strength and my power.” And from Inception: “You have to learn to dream a little bigger, darling.” &nbsp; Anouk: What are two or three breath practices people can start today? Nairobi: Try perfect breath—five to six seconds in and out through the nose. Do it in the morning, at night, or during stress. Even three minutes can shift your state. &nbsp; Anouk: And for those interested in working with you? Nairobi: Start by emailing me. You can also explore our website or social media. Whether you know what you need or not, just reach out. We’ll take it from there. &nbsp; Anouk: What’s the one thing you hope people remember from this conversation? Nairobi: Your body is your most valuable asset. You have free will—it’s your birthright. A small change today can ripple into lasting transformation in the days to come. &nbsp; Anouk: Lastly, what are your personal ingredients for happiness? Nairobi: Laughter. Love. Communication. Eating and drinking with intention. Daily detox. Sleep. Conscious breath. Meditation. Movement. Life is about growth—stagnancy is the opposite of living. Anouk: Thank you for sharing this space with me.

Reconnection, Breathwork & Ancestral Wisdom: A Conversation with Nairobi

<h3>The way I met Carmelinda DiManno was through a girlfriend who couldn't stop raving about this exceptional yoga instructor in Toronto.</h3>At the time, I was writing for "Health is Hott," so my curiosity was piqued, and I reached out to meet Carmelinda to see what all the buzz was about. The moment I met her, I understood. She enters a room with the perfect blend of confidence, love, peace, and creativity. You can feel that she genuinely lives the lifestyle she preaches.Not only is Carmelinda DiManno an incredible yoga instructor, but she also happens to be an amazing DJ. Known for her deep, sexy house music that gets the energy level up and inhibitions down, Carmelinda frequently spun at d|bar, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto in Yorkville, Escobar, Vertigo, Parlour Room (Toronto), Boho House, Sofia, Level 6, and Joia Beach (Miami). She has played for prestigious events like Formula One in Montreal, Electric Island, and Tmrwtday Festival. Carmelinda is also a certified Hatha and Kundalini Yoga Teacher and a Certified Transformational Coach using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). With over 10 years of experience, she helps her clients find balance using music, movement, breath, and EFT methods to stimulate energy levels, reduce stress, and increase self-confidence. Originally from Ontario, Carmelinda is now living her best life in Miami. She graciously offered us a sneak peek into some of her wellness secrets.Interview with Carmelinda DiMannoAnouk Malavoy: How do you personally define happiness, and what are three pointers you could share that are steps you have taken to reach your definition of happiness?Carmelinda DiManno: Happiness for me means living from an internal space of trust. Trust in self and life. Happiness is seeing oneself in their highest light and joy and remembering that it’s your birthright to live a life that you design and can celebrate. Health, financial security, positive attitude, and community are big pieces for me.Anouk Malavoy: What are three steps you take to reach your definition of happiness?Carmelinda DiManno:&nbsp;<ol><li>Daily Breathwork and Prayer: This sets me up for a great day! Starting my day with breathwork and prayer helps me center myself and approach the day with a positive mindset.</li><li>Practicing Deepening My Ability to Believe in Myself and My Goals and Vision: I continuously work on strengthening my belief in myself and my vision. This practice helps me stay focused and motivated.</li><li>Being Kind to Other People: Kindness is a powerful tool. When you are kind to others, it often gets reflected back at you, creating a positive and supportive environment.</li></ol>Anouk Malavoy: As a yoga instructor, what do you believe to be the most transformative aspect of practicing yoga for the modern-day individual?Carmelinda DiManno: For me, it's the way in which yoga calls us to be still with ourselves. I think it's challenging for people with emotion, stress, and a lot of thoughts to find comfort simply being in their bodies. Yoga is a good segue to getting people into a place of stillness while still having some anchor in the movement and fine-tuning alignment. It helps to quiet the mind because it gives you an anchor.Anouk Malavoy: I want to represent people who are more of my personality type, you know, type A, who move very fast. There have been moments when I'm still, but my mind is still racing. Am I still yet? Am I relaxed? I struggle with what you're describing in terms of being still and comfortable with it. What pointers can you share with people like me to get started? Are there daily practices to prepare the mind to be more open to that stillness?Carmelinda DiManno: I understand and can relate. This is why I love yoga. When we consider that the expectation is not to be without thought or to be absolutely in a place of inner peace, but rather that every bit of relaxation supports the nervous system progressively, it becomes more accessible. It's not expected to happen right away. You may have a class where you feel stillness and peace, and then the next class your mind is stirring. The expectation is not to be rid of that completely, but yoga progressively supports the nervous system in becoming more neutral and relaxed over time. This experience of deeper calm, quiet, and inner peace becomes more accessible.Anouk Malavoy: What advice would you give to someone looking to add more stillness and balance to their life? If you were to walk them through the first three months of a transformation that includes yoga, what components would you integrate?Carmelinda DiManno: Be gentle with yourself and your expectations. When making conscious choices to improve your well-being, whether it's the state of your mind or physical health, the subconscious mind understands that you've made that choice to support yourself. There will be a response to your intention as you make the devotion to it. Honor yourself for showing up and see that commitment and consistency prove effective. Start with accessible goals, like twice a week, and gradually increase. Encourage yourself and pay attention to what works for you physically, like hydration and food intake before practice.Anouk Malavoy: When looking for a yoga instructor, what key components should one look for?Carmelinda DiManno: Look for a class that's more foundations-based, like Hatha or All levels. Be open-minded and try different styles and teachers. Gauge preferences through experience, whether they focus on spirituality or anatomy. The teacher's energy will complement you and make you want to come more or less. It's important to find what resonates with you.Anouk Malavoy: Switching gears, talk to me about your journey in becoming a DJ. What drew you to it initially, and how has your journey transformed?Carmelinda DiManno: I was a nightclub promoter and loved the electronic underground scene in Toronto. After leaving the industry, I studied to become a yoga instructor. During a stressful time, I needed another outlet and decided to learn DJing. I put a message on Facebook and got connected to someone who taught me. My relationships in the nightclub industry helped me start playing professionally soon after.Anouk Malavoy: How do you bridge your passions for yoga and DJing?Carmelinda DiManno: They already come together in my Wellness events, where music is a component. The responsibility to hold space and tune into energy is the same in both environments. I started events like Soul Revival and prana parties, aiming to bring them back to life with DJs of all levels playing at Wellness-based events.Anouk Malavoy: How can your practices support women through different stages of their evolution?Carmelinda DiManno: Yoga helps women see they are more than their physical bodies. It fosters a strong relationship with the deeper part of us, making the reflection in the mirror brighter. Music and creative expression, like DJing, can support women in exploring their creativity and finding joy.Anouk Malavoy: What advice would you give to a young woman facing resistance in following her passion?Carmelinda DiManno: Find what lights you up and work diligently at seeing yourself in that light, past all obstacles and societal standards. Have a strong vision and make a devotion to it. Explore ways to work on limiting beliefs and understand that life is meant for us to live and love.Anouk Malavoy: If you could DJ anywhere in the world, any event, what would it be?Carmelinda DiManno: Festivals like Coachella, BPM, Miami Music Week Ultra, and venues like Space. I love big energy and brilliant events.Anouk Malavoy: What events do you have coming up?Carmelinda DiManno: I'm playing in Toronto the weekend of Easter at Myth. In Miami, I have a Sunday brunch at Level 6 in Coconut Grove, which is joyful and soulful. I also have pop-up events in different venues. Check my Instagram for updates. I am also DJing a festival in Ontario in August. It’s August 23 and it’s called the Sunflower festival. Music, art, and wellness.Anouk Malavoy: What's your Instagram handle?Carmelinda DiManno: It's my name, @CarmelindaDiManno.Anouk Malavoy: What are words you live by?Carmelinda DiManno: "I am the creator of my reality." God wants for me what I want for myself. I replace fearful thoughts with a miracle, which is a shift in perspective.Anouk Malavoy: Thank you for sharing this space. It's an honor.Carmelinda DiManno: Thank you, Anouk. You're wonderful and inspiring.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@carmelindadimanno3773" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://www.youtube.com/@carmelindadimanno3773">Carmelinda DiManno's YouTube Channel</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/carmelindadimanno/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/carmelindadimanno/">Carmelinda DiManno's Instagram</a>

Mixing Beats and Breath: Carmelinda DiManno's Unique Path

Event moderation is crucial for a successful event. Here's a closer look at the key factors that contribute to effective event moderation:Clear CommunicationEnsuring all messages are conveyed effectively and preventing misunderstandings is paramount. Clear communication helps keep everyone on the same page, minimizing confusion and maximizing understanding. As a moderator, it's my job to articulate points clearly and concisely, ensuring that both speakers and the audience grasp the key messages.EngagementKeeping the audience and speakers engaged throughout the event is essential for its success. Engagement can be achieved through interactive sessions, thought-provoking questions, and dynamic discussions. By actively involving participants, I ensure that the event remains lively and interesting, holding the audience's attention from start to finish.Smooth FlowMaintaining a seamless progression of the event, adhering to the agenda and timeline, is crucial. A well-moderated event flows naturally from one segment to the next without unnecessary interruptions or delays. This ensures that the event stays on track and respects the time of both speakers and attendees.Conflict ResolutionAddressing and resolving any conflicts or disruptions promptly and diplomatically is a key skill for a moderator. Conflict can arise in any event, but handling it with tact and diplomacy ensures that it doesn't derail the proceedings. I am prepared to manage conflicts efficiently, ensuring a positive atmosphere is maintained.Balanced ParticipationEncouraging and managing equal participation from all speakers and attendees ensures that diverse perspectives are heard. It's important to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their views. I strive to balance participation, ensuring that no single voice dominates the discussion.Content ExpertiseDemonstrating a deep understanding of the event’s topic allows me to guide discussions meaningfully. Being knowledgeable about the subject matter helps in asking insightful questions, providing valuable input, and steering the conversation in a productive direction. This expertise adds depth and relevance to the event.Audience InteractionFacilitating productive interactions between the audience and speakers enhances the overall experience. By encouraging questions, moderating Q&amp;A sessions, and fostering dialogue, I ensure that the audience feels involved and valued. This interaction bridges the gap between speakers and attendees, creating a more connected event.Technical ProficiencyManaging technical aspects smoothly, such as audio-visual equipment and virtual platforms, is essential for a modern event. Technical issues can disrupt the flow and distract participants. I am adept at handling technical setups, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that the focus remains on the content.Feedback CollectionGathering and addressing feedback to continuously improve the event experience is important for growth. Feedback provides insights into what worked well and what could be improved. I actively seek feedback from participants and use it to enhance future events, ensuring a better experience each time.ProfessionalismMaintaining a professional demeanor to enhance the event's credibility and impact is non-negotiable. Professionalism instills confidence in the audience and speakers, setting a positive tone for the event. I approach each event with the highest level of professionalism, contributing to its success and reputation.ConclusionExperience the difference that expert moderation can make. Let’s work together to elevate your event to new heights! With these key factors in place, I am committed to delivering an exceptional event experience that leaves a lasting impression.

The Art of Event Moderation: Key Factors for Success

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In the relentless whirlwind of modern business, where every tick of the clock echoes with deadlines, meetings, and unyielding expectations, leaders find themselves at the very eye of the storm. Striving to steer the ship amidst tumultuous seas, the quest for stability and clarity often leads to overlooking one of the most powerful tools at our disposal—the transformative power of breathwork.It wasn't until I found myself gasping for air under the weight of my responsibilities that I discovered the profound simplicity of intentional breathing. This underappreciated ally, hidden in plain sight, held the key to not just surviving the leadership battlefield but thriving on it.The journey began with a single breath. Amidst the cacophony of ringing phones and flickering screens, I paused—a deliberate, deep inhale followed by a slow, measured exhale. This act, so basic yet so lost in the daily grind, was my first step towards reclaiming my inner calm.Breathwork, I learned, is not merely about filling the lungs with air; it is a gateway to unparalleled mental clarity and emotional resilience. By engaging in deep, intentional breathing practices, I was tapping into my parasympathetic nervous system, whispering to my body a comforting "all is well," allowing peace to overshadow chaos.This newfound serenity was not just a personal oasis. It became the cornerstone of my leadership. With each breath, I cultivated the ability to stand firm, not as an unmovable rock, but as a beacon of calm and clarity amidst the storm. Decision-making transformed from reactive snaps to thoughtful contemplations, born from a mind unclouded by the haze of stress.Moreover, the practice of breathwork unveiled its role as a powerful conduit for releasing the pent-up tensions that often besiege leaders. Each exhale was a release of not just carbon dioxide but of the burdens that I had unknowingly shackled to my psyche. This cleansing process granted me not only mental space but an emotional expansiveness to face leadership challenges with grace and resilience.My embrace of breathwork reshaped my understanding of effective leadership. It taught me that the essence of leading with strength lies not in stoicism but in the poise and presence one can bring to each moment. By channeling the power of my breath, I was no longer merely surviving the rigors of leadership but flourishing within them.The practice of mindful breathing, though simple, is profoundly impactful. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful tools are not the loudest but the quietest. In the breath lies the potential to transform stress into serenity, reactivity into mindfulness, and challenge into opportunity.As leaders, we often search for complex solutions to our challenges, yet sometimes, the answer is as close as our next breath. In prioritizing breathwork, we empower ourselves to lead not just with our minds but with our souls, making every decision, every action, and every moment infused with calm, clarity, and intention, regardless of the storms we may face.The journey continues with each inhale and exhale, a testament to the profound power of breathwork in leadership—a beacon of calm, a source of strength, and a path to transformative leadership.

The Transformative Journey of Breath work

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In the rapidly shifting sands of today's business world, leadership is not a static endeavor but a journey of continuous evolution and adaptation. The importance of skill enhancement in crafting a resilient and effective leadership profile cannot be overstated. As we navigate through an era where change is the only assured aspect of business, the deliberate focus on honing one's abilities emerges as a pivotal strategy for not just surviving but thriving in uncertainty.Navigating the tide of constant change demands more than a steadfast resolve; it requires an arsenal of continually refined skills. The scope of these skills is vast and varied—encompassing the nuanced art of communication, the depth of emotional intelligence, and the intricacies of technological adeptness. The pursuit of these competencies is not merely an academic exercise but a practical necessity. In mastering these realms, leaders ensure their capability to confront challenges head-on and harness emerging opportunities with foresight and agility.However, the value of skill enhancement extends beyond the individual. At its core, leadership is about influence and impact—qualities that ripple outward, touching teams and entire organizations. Investing in personal development is, by extension, a commitment to uplifting those you lead. It's a process that fosters a culture of resilience, nurtures innovation, and emboldens every team member to explore the limits of their potential.Effective leaders are visionaries who perceive skill enhancement as an investment rather than an expense. They understand that the landscape of business is perpetually morphing, and standing still equates to falling behind. By dedicating themselves to continuous learning, leaders not only maintain their relevance but also become beacons of inspiration. They set a standard for excellence that invigorates their teams, promoting a collective drive towards mastery and innovation.Moreover, embracing a mindset of continuous improvement signals a profound respect for the dynamic nature of leadership. It acknowledges that the path to excellence is unending and that there are always new horizons to explore, challenges to meet, and skills to acquire. This mindset transforms the workplace, creating an environment where growth is celebrated, and adaptability is woven into the fabric of organizational culture.The journey towards becoming a strong leader is punctuated by an unwavering commitment to skill enhancement. It is a testament to the belief that our ability to lead effectively hinges on our willingness to evolve continually. By championing the cause of personal and professional growth, leaders not only pave the way for their own success but also elevate those around them, steering their teams and organizations towards a future marked by excellence and innovation.In conclusion, the quest for leadership growth is an ongoing adventure—one that demands diligence, curiosity, and an insatiable appetite for learning. The leaders who embrace this journey, committing to the enhancement of their skills, are the ones who will define the future of business. They are the architects of progress, the champions of change, and the true beacons of inspiration in a world that awaits the mark of their legacy.

Why Leaders Must Continually Enhance Their Skills

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Building strong, efficient teams seem to be a challenging task in this modern professional environment. As a leadership expert and management consultant, I'd like to share my insights into how to master this task. I firmly believe that creating an environment where collaborative effort, shared vision, and mutual respect are at the forefront can significantly enhance the performance of any team.The Blueprint for High-Performance TeamsFor any manager wanting to create a high-performance team, it isn't merely about assembling a group of top-tier talents. It's about fostering an environment that drives collective effort towards a shared vision, underpinned by mutual respect. I stand by these strategies for creating such an environment:Embrace Diversity and Inclusion In my experience, diversity in a team is crucial. However, it stretches far beyond just aspects of compliance. Diversity should encompass various experiences, perspectives, and skills. By doing so, we can cultivate a richer, dynamic workspace. This enhanced environment can boost problem-solving abilities and enable your team to adapt to new challenges smoothly.Foster Open Communication Clear and straightforward communication is a critical pillar. Encouraging honest feedback and active listening, and facilitating the fearless expression of ideas without judgment, leads to swift conflict resolution. This kind of transparent communication strengthens team cohesion, laying a strong foundation for a high-performance team.Set Clear Goals and Expectations I've always found that having a shared vision can propel a team towards peak performance. Setting clear, achievable goals ensure every team member aligns with the organization's broader objectives. Having clarified expectations right from the beginning engenders a sense of purpose and direction among team members.Invest in Development Recognizing and nurturing the potential in each team member is a hallmark of great managers. By implementing continuous learning opportunities and ensuring access to training and workshops, we can empower our team members to broaden their skill sets and adapt to evolving industry trends.Cultivate a Positive Work Culture Another aspect I emphasize is the building of a positive work culture. Celebrating milestones, regardless of their size, boosts team morale and motivation levels. A culture that encourages resilience, innovation, and views failure as a stepping stone toward learning and growth, creates an environment where high-performance teams can thrive.Practice Agile Leadership In today's ever-evolving business landscape, agile leadership is indispensable. Being a leader requires flexibility and the ability to be responsive to inevitable changes. This approach allows our teams to pivot rapidly in response to new information or external pressures.Lead by Example In my view, leadership is as much about setting standards for your team as it is about delegating tasks. When managers practice what they preach by embodying integrity, accountability, and commitment, they set an example for their teams to emulate— consequently creating a high-performance team.Wrapping Up Creating a high-performance team requires strategic planning, patience, a deep understanding of team dynamics, and more than anything, effort. These strategies, like advocating diversity, promoting open communication, setting clear objectives, investing in team development, fostering a positive work culture, practicing agile leadership, and most importantly, lead by example serves as guiding pillars.For those aiming to enhance their management skills or elevate their teams to new heights, embracing these principles can create an environment where high-performance teams not only exist but thrive. By adopting these strategies, we can unleash the full potential of our teams, thereby steering our organizations towards operational excellence and groundbreaking accomplishments.

Blog

Reconnection, Breathwork & Ancestral Wisdom: A Conversati...

Mixing Beats and Breath: Carmelinda DiManno's Unique Path

The Art of Event Moderation: Key Factors for Success

The Transformative Journey of Breath work

Why Leaders Must Continually Enhance Their Skills

Secrets to Building High-Performance Teams