Today we’d like to introduce you to Katrina Rahman-Stephens.
Hi Katrina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello, my name is Katrina Rahman-Stephens, but my yoga community refers to me as Katrina Nike’ (pronounced Nin-kay). I initially began my yoga journey early on during my days as an undergraduate student. However, as life began to change, so did my practice. With the journey into adulthood, establishing a career, and starting a family, my yoga practice seemingly found a backseat. Then in 2017, my youngest brother transmigrated unexpectedly. During this time, I felt my life spiraling out of control. My purpose for living meant very little to me. I had fallen into a deep dark place that left me out of touch with reality and emotionally unavailable for my family. I was confused. I didn’t fully understand why and how this could happen to my family. I then began thinking about the yoga practice I had many years ago. My dad’s awareness for meditation and stillness also came to the forefront of my mind. As a result, I found my way back to the mat…my yoga mat. In 2019, I completed my 200-hr yoga teacher training. From that experience, I learned to develop a mindfulness practice and an understanding of LIFE. It has been my mission to help others maneuver through difficult and trying obstacles with the practice of yoga and meditation.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As I reflect on my yoga journey, I must say it has not been a smooth road. I’ve come to realize there are many people who view yoga as a practice for thin flexible women of a different ethnic background than theirs. Getting people of African descent in my community to buy into the practice of yoga has been a challenge. This is understandable. Representation and education is very important. However, I am PROUD to say those that have taken a class with me, agree that yoga is something that they can do. They understand their yoga practice does not have to look like the person on the mat next to them. They began to see and understand the benefits of yoga and meditation and that’s important.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my experience, I’ve learned for a business to be successful, people need to have all five senses satisfied. Take a moment and allow your five senses to be ignited and stimulated. Think about seeing, feeling, tasting, smelling, and hearing those things that pull you into an euphoric sense of freedom. Imagine! Yep, that smile, and the flutter of your spirit is what I’ve tried to accomplish in each encounter. I’ve worked hard to perfect this notion through trial and error. However, I’m always open to adjustments based upon the type of class I’m teaching. At the end of the day, people want to feel comfortable. They want to feel welcomed, loved, and appreciated. And without a shadow of a doubt, to everyone that took a chance in allowing me, Katrina Nike’ of Alive Meditation ™ to guide you in a yoga class, I thank you. With humble appreciation and gratitude, I truly thank you.
In addition, from a business standpoint, I understand growth and learning is vital. I will forever be a student of yoga. I’m always seeking new ways to cultivate my skills. I’m currently pursuing certification in Yin Yoga and Prenatal Yoga. I’ve recently completed course training in Yoga for Athletes.
Now, outside of yoga I am a woman of many hats. As of 2022, I have been in the education field for 13 years. I’ve taught students with learning disabilities as well as the deaf and hard-of-hearing population. I must admit, I have a special love for the deaf and hard-of-hearing population. I adore American Sign Language and Deaf Culture. The love for Deaf and African Culture encouraged me to publish my first children’s book (2018) titled, “The Drum with no Sound.” The book highlights a young boy who went deaf, but overcame this obstacle with determination and the guidance of his Elder. This book has done very well and has become a part of libraries and classrooms of deaf institutions around the United States. In 2021, I published my second children’s book titled, “The Laughing Hyenas.” This book highlights bullying and the importance of making wise decisions. In June 2021, “The Laughing Hyenas” was acknowledged as being Amazon’s Number 1 Top New Releases. This was a proud moment for me.
www.katrinarahman-stephens.com
What makes you happy?
Spending quality time with my family and roller skating makes me happy. Being able to put the phones away is truly freeing. This allows the opportunity to focus on what’s important…FAMILY. I also have a green thumb. Now, I’m not a seasoned gardener, but I do enjoy tending to my garden and breathing life into my plants. I have my mom to thank for that!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alivemeditation.org
- Instagram: @alivemeditation
Image Credits
Jason Stephens of Testaments In Motion, LLC
