Last week, I had the privilege of representing Bilingual Education Institute (BEI) at Yoga Alliance’s 25th-anniversary conference in Washington, D.C., titled “More Yoga, Better World.” Yoga Alliance, a non-profit organization, sets standards and provides resources for the global yoga community. The conference's goal was to amplify the transformative power of yoga and make it accessible to everyone, regardless of location or circumstance. Through BEI’s partnership with Yoga Alliance, we are bringing these healing practices to Houston’s refugee community by offering yoga classes specifically tailored for trauma recovery.
During the conference, I focused on how BEI can continue to enhance this partnership and expand our refugee yoga program. Yoga has a profound capacity to support trauma recovery, a crucial element of our work with refugee populations. One of the most inspiring stories came from Rodrigo Souza, a Brazilian native raised in London. He initially turned to hot yoga as a detox from his party lifestyle. However, after a life-altering accident left him paralyzed from the chest down, his relationship with his body became one of frustration and pain. His physical therapist introduced him to stretches resembling yoga, which sparked his interest in yoga for paraplegics. Rodrigo shared that yoga provided the only moments where he felt at peace with his body. Today, as a physical therapist, he offers yoga to paraplegics, using his journey to inspire others.
Rodrigo’s story is a powerful reminder of the universal nature of suffering and how many people, including our refugee students, often disconnect from their bodies due to trauma, technology, or substance use. Yoga and mindfulness practices offer a way to reconnect, helping individuals heal and "come home" to themselves. These same principles are at the core of most yoga classes.
This conference provided valuable insights into how yoga can serve both our refugee students and our company's staff. I look forward to expanding our collaboration with Yoga Alliance and incorporating more yoga and mindfulness practices into our organization and community.
Wellness Begins with Nourishment
In addition to yoga and mindfulness, a balanced diet plays a critical role in overall wellness. One recipe that embodies both nutrition and simplicity is Lentil-Walnut Vegan Tacos. It’s packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats, making it a delicious and nourishing meal. I came across this recipe recently, and it’s become one of my go-to dishes.
Lentil-Walnut Vegan Tacos Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup walnuts
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 chipotle peppers (from a can)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (optional)
- 3 cups cooked lentils
- 1 can (14-ounce) fire roasted tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tomato
- 1 avocado
- 5 romaine lettuce leaves
- ¼ of a red onion
- 12 soft or hard taco shells
Directions:
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Prepare the base: Chop the walnuts, garlic, and chipotle peppers. Heat the avocado oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 2 minutes, until fragrant. Then, add the chopped walnuts and cook for another 3 minutes, allowing them to brown slightly.
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Build the flavor: Add the chipotle peppers, cooked lentils, fire-roasted tomatoes, cumin, oregano, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes so the flavors meld together.
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Prep your toppings: While the lentil-walnut mixture simmers, chop the tomato, avocado, romaine lettuce, and red onion. These fresh toppings will add brightness and texture to your tacos.
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Warm the taco shells: Preheat your oven to 300°F and gently warm the taco shells for a few minutes.
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Assemble the tacos: Once the shells are warm and the filling is ready, layer the lentil-walnut mixture into each taco shell. Top with your fresh tomato, avocado, lettuce, and onion for a vibrant, healthy meal.
This dish is perfect for anyone seeking a wholesome, plant-based option that’s packed with flavor. It’s a great way to introduce more mindful eating practices into your life—just as yoga helps reconnect you to your body, nourishing food like this can help you feel balanced and energized.
For more details on the recipe, you can check the full version at Tasting Table.
