We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kiyona Miah. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Kiyona, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day include prayer and gratitude, opening my curtains to let the sun in, making my bed, movement (walking, yoga, weightlifting), drinking water, and checking emails.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Kiyona Miah and I am the co-founder of Black Yogis of South Florida (BYSF). Black Yogis of South Florida was founded by me and Jasmine when we recognized that there was not a central space to find Black yoga teachers and classes in South Florida. We started as a meetup group and the organization has quickly grown to a community organization that has provided free and low cost yoga sessions to thousands of people of all ages. What makes this collective special is the energy that our classes bring. We pride ourselves of cultivating a welcoming and inviting environment where people can grow together and connect. Many of our attendees are new to yoga and we are honored to create a safe space for their wellness journey.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My Grandmother taught me the most about work. As the oldest daughter of 15 children, she was a leader and hard worker from an early age. Some of the lessons that she instilled in me include the importance of not only being on time but being early. This approach has served me well throughout my career because it shows respects for the time of the people who I serve, provides space for mishaps such as traffic, and shows reliability. She also taught me conflict resolution skills, leadership strategies, and how to navigate spaces where you may be the minority.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
Years ago, I had a difficult time showing emotion. I thought that if I always kept a “poker face” on then I would be protected. I viewed tears as weakness and sometimes felt uncomfortable with hugs. In addition, I felt uncomfortable and awkward when others expressed their emotions. The more I traveled on my yoga journey, the more I learned about the power in my tears. My yoga mat served as a place where I could release emotions that were beginning to take residence in my body. The more I became comfortable with holding space for my emotions, the more comfortable I became with holding space for others.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lies that the yoga industry tells itself is that the practice is universally inclusive. As a person who practiced yoga for a decade before becoming a yoga teacher, I recall so many experiences where I felt left behind or invisible. While the industry has made improvements, micro-aggressions, biases, and exclusion are still present. If teachers, studio owners, and corporations are unwilling to leave their bubble, get a little uncomfortable, and view the practice from a different lens, they do their students and community a disservice.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I am most at peace when I am at the beach. There is something about the sound of the ocean, the expansive sky, and salty air that calm my nervous system like no other place can. I am so grateful that I get to do what I love (teach yoga) at a place I love (the beach) every week.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kiy2shanti.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackyogisofsouthflorida
