The Wadadlivity Lifestyle
for those who still like to read…
here’s a collection of blogs covering travel, food, yoga philosophy, mental health and holistic care, all through an Afro-Caribbean lens.
Mellow Meds Artist Spotlight - ANNI
Musician and artist, Anni returns to the Humble & Free Farm for the 4.20 Edition of Mellow Meds. Anni is a guest favourite and we got caught up on what she’s been up to since her last performance.
Musician and artist, Anni returns to the Humble & Free Farm for the 4.20 Edition of Mellow Meds.
Anni is a guest favourite and we got caught up on what she’s been up to since her last performance on the farm.
The 420 Edition of Mellow Meds will mark your THIRD appearance as the featured artist. What keeps you coming back to the event?
“The energy and connection. Something in my spirit resonates deeply with the experience of Mellow Meds. Ever since I was first approached to be a part of the experience, it was just something that was really special to me. It has definitely been one of the most cherish-able collaborations that I have been a part of thus far as an artist.“
We noticed your name change from @AnnieTheVoice to @ItJustAnni_. Can you tell us more about your identity as an artist?
“The name change from AnnieTheVoice to just “Anni.” represented to me, the removal of borders or the breaking down of the box that I was putting myself into. “Anni.” is an artist in every single way. It’s my existence. My identity is a reminder to never stop existing as an artist or as a work of art in progress. I am a poet, musician, visual artist, thespian, writer and a creator in every form just simply condensed into one identifying word, “Anni.”.”
Can you share a bit about what you’ve been working on recently?
“Recently I have just been exploring. These explorations have lead me to thinking deeper, gaining perspective, developing my identity and erasing this line that we often develop as artist where there has to be a clear distinction between Anni. as an artist and Annia as a person. I have been working on allowing myself to exist as just one being. I have been focusing heavily on the lyrical impact of my songs; developing my lyricism and exploring ways that my art can most authentically be the documentation of my journey through this existential plane.”
You know we believe in word | sound | power . What’s one goal you’re speaking into existence this year?
“This goal is just so broad, but letting my heart guide my creativity and walking with intention. I don’t quite believe in the concept of time constraints such as “this year”. I believe divine timing is unmeasurable. By this I mean, of course it is my goal to release more music and to produce more art and definitely have more loved filled collaborations in the near future, but ultimately my goal is to approach every experience and opportunity with an open heart and to just allow things to flow as they should and as they are destined to.”
Finally, where can fans find your music online?
“Currently, Instagram is the only place that you can find me @itsjustanni_ . While I still have my online presence in the works, I would definitely encourage you to be on the look out for my availability on other social media platforms as well as my music on major streaming platforms.”
General tickets for Mellow Meds are running low, so secure your spot today. We can’t wait to see you on April 20, for an evening good food, good people and lots of giveaways!
The Beach is Just the Beginning for Jervez Lee
Jervez Lee is a drone enthusiast turned professional videographer and marketing manager. The stunning aerial footage you see on Wadadlivity is filmed and edited by Jervez.
Jervez Lee is a drone enthusiast turned professional videographer and marketing manager. The stunning aerial footage you see on the Wadadlivity home page is filmed and edited by Jervez.
Jervez has managed to capture the imagination and hearts of viewers around the world. His unique brand of wanderlust offers a fresh take on Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector. With some of his videos garnering over 10 million views, it’s safe to say he knows what he’s doing.
The perfect beach day in Barbuda.
The self-taught maven attributes his drone flying skills to YouTube University and a childhood playing video games. Before he immersed himself in filming, he simply practiced flying, taking his drone along on hikes and trips to the beach.
YouTube also opened his eyes to potential careers in real estate and travel. A content creator he followed described being flown out by hotels to capture drone footage for their marketing campaigns.
Jervez is far from being an overnight success. It took two and a half years to gain his first 10k followers. “Reels weren’t that important. [Instagram] was about pictures and family moments. The algorithm wasn’t geared towards growth and branding.”
Through an exceptional work ethic and a genuine passion for honing his craft, his audience size exploded to 10 times that. He posted new content every single day of 2022. A video of Sting Ray City cemented his place in the elusive algorithm.
Epic views of the final race day of Antigua Sailing Week 2023.
Jervez is fast approaching the 250k follower mark on Instagram and shows no signs of slowing down. “Every time I go to the beach I see something different. I look at it from a different perspective so it’s never boring to me.” He’s built a name for himself amongst local resorts and tour operators, but he isn’t limiting himself to our twin island shores. “I want to travel the world and put my skills to use for large hotels.”
We think the future looks sunny for Jervez. Follow him on Instagram via @jervezlee._.
No Easy Road
When I rebuilt the Wadadlivity website, I decided to get rid of the recipes and blog and focus strictly on in-person events and the soon to be launched virtual studio. But the closer I got to the launch date, the more I found myself questioning the decision.
featuring a photo series by Zea Wiltshire
When I rebuilt the Wadadlivity website, I decided to get rid of the recipes and blog and focus strictly on in-person events and the soon to be launched virtual studio. But the closer I got to the launch date, the more I found myself questioning the decision. Wadadlivity started as a blog and although the business has evolved, it’s important for me to stay true to my roots.
I’ve been running this website since 2016 and it’s been no easy road. To be honest, I almost abandoned the idea before starting. My boyfriend at the time (whom I later married) had been diagnosed with a rare cancer that completely altered the trajectory of our lives. I was ready to shelf Wadadlivity and almost everything else, but he encouraged me to see my idea through. If you remember the early recipes and YouTube videos, thanks for sticking with me.
My life has changed dramatically in the past seven years and Wadadlivity has changed alongside me. Readership was growing steadily and I settled into a groove of creating and publishing content. With the simultaneous arrival of my son and decline in my husband’s health, everything else was put on an indefinite pause. After his death, I sank into the deepest depression of my life.
I may not look it, but every single day since then has been a struggle. The depth of grief is almost impossible to understand unless you’ve lived it. I don’t think the pain and sadness will ever leave, but I’m finding healthier ways to cope with the loss.
I wasn’t sure what to do with myself or Wadadlivity in the months following his death. Although I was no longer creating content, Instagram and Facebook followers would still send messages and tag Wadadlivity in their posts. I am so grateful to everyone who inquired about classes, shared photos of recipes they tried, or purchased merchandise.
Social media can be quite overwhelming, so I’ve been focusing more on in-person classes and events. It’s been beautiful to connect in the real world and see the positive changes folks are making. After a much needed hiatus, I’m slowly making my way back to social media.
Wadadlivity has taken on an identity of its own and I’m proud of the work I’ve put in to get to this point. We can never be certain of what the future holds, but I’m embracing it with arms wide open.
To see more of Zea’s photography, visit www.zeawiltshire.com.
The Next Generation of Rastafari in Wadadli
The Ras Freeman tour offered by Humble and Free Wadadli is so much more than ganja and ital stew. Take an up close look at Antigua’s colonial past and learn about Rastafari.
The Ras Freeman tour offered by Humble and Free Wadadli is so much more than ganja and ital stew. Take an up close look at Antigua’s colonial past and learn about Rastafari. I highly recommend for locals and tourists alike.
Video via Wadadlivity on Instragram. Music by Huge Andrew.
What Are Mudras & Why Are They Used in Yoga?
Mudras can be observed in ancient cultures and religions around the world - from Egyptian hieroglyphics, to Hinduism, Buddism, Taosim and Christianity. In Sanskrit, the word ‘mudra’ is translated as seal, gesture, or mark.
IMPORTANT: The information in this post should not be taken as medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, please consult a medical professional.
Imagine someone meditating. What do their hands look like? Chances are, you pictured the fingertips of their thumb and index fingers pressed together. This is known as a mudra.
Mudras can be observed in ancient cultures and religions around the world - from Egyptian hieroglyphics, to Hinduism, Buddism, Taosim and Christianity. In Sanskrit, the word ‘mudra’ is translated as seal, gesture, or mark. Yoga mudras are symbolic gestures often practiced with the hands and fingers. They facilitate the flow of energy and promote deeper meditation.
Each finger represents a different element and the way the fingers are connected in a mudra indicates where we want to direct our energy.
The thumb represents fire and the universal soul or consciousness
The index finger represents air and the individual soul
The middle finger represents space and the ego
The ring finger represents earth and illusion
The little finger represents water and karma
When these five elements are balanced, we keep energy flowing through our body and create strong inward connections. When the elements are unbalanced, we experience physical and emotional dis-ease. Mudras are an important part of Ayurvedic philosophy and may be used to help treat physical ailments.*
Click on the images below to learn about some popular mudras and their benefits. When practicing a mudra, your fingers do not need to be perfectly straight and you do not need to apply excessive pressure. Gently make contact using your fingertips, relax and try to maintain a consistent connection for the duration of the posture.
Meditation can be challenging, but using mudras may help to focus your attention. Gyan mudra is probably my favourite mudra for meditation because of its calming effect. Mudras can also be incorporated into yoga asana (body postures) to enhance the benefits of a pose. I love using Kali mudra in standing postures like Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I) and tadasana (mountain pose). The next time you meditate or practice asana, try a mudra and see whether you notice any difference.
4 Ways to Use Aloe Vera (besides hair gel)
When I had locs, I would use organic aloe vera instead of alcohol based hair gel to style my hair. Aloe vera has been used in the pharmaceutical industry for centuries and it has an astounding number of medicinal, cosmetic and household applications.
Cut aloe vera leaves and a jar of aloe vera gel mixed with coconut water
When I had locs, I would use organic aloe vera instead of alcohol based hair gel to style my hair. Aloe vera has been used in the pharmaceutical industry for centuries and it has an astounding number of medicinal, cosmetic and household applications.
Aloe vera is just one of over 500 species of flowering succulents in the aloë genus. Aloe is native to Africa, but several species have become naturalized across the world. Antigua is quite dry compared to other Caribbean islands, so aloe vera plants are popular in home gardens.
If you cut an aloe vera leaf you’ll notice the green skin, a thin layer of yellowish liquid called the latex and the translucent gel in the middle. The latex has a bitter taste and I distinctly remember my mom coating my thumbs with it in an attempt to get me to stop sucking my fingers. Dreadful as that tasted, it barely slowed me down.
Here are four practical uses of aloe vera that you may not have heard of:
NATURAL PRESERVATIVE
Applying a layer of aloe vera gel to the outside of fresh produce will help it last longer in the refrigerator. This is a natural and inexpensive alternative to chemical preservatives.
SUNBURN REMEDY
Regardless of your opinion on SPF, we can all agree that sunburn sucks. Applying aloe vera after prolonged sun exposure can soothe skin and may help to prevent peeling associated with sunburn.*
LAXATIVE
Aloe vera leaf innards - particularly the latex and gel - are rich in plant mucilage that may alleviate digestive tract inflammation. Taking 1-2 tablespoons of aloe vera juice containing latex may ease constipation.*
LOWER BLOOD SUGAR
Research suggests that drinking aloe vera gel may lower fasting blood glucose levels. It’s important to note that consuming too much can cause your blood sugar to drop dangerously low, especially if you’re already on medication.
* None of the information in this post should be considered as medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, seek the guidance of a medical professional.
Why is Incense Used in Yoga?
When you close your eyes and imagine a yoga class, one or more of the following objects may come to mind: mats, blocks, blankets, incense. But why is incense used in yoga?
When you close your eyes and imagine a yoga class, one or more of the following objects may come to mind: mats, blocks, blankets, incense. But why is incense used in yoga?
Stick of incense in a wooden holder
My first memory of incense was at church. I remember watching the server stride up the center aisle, slowly swinging the censer from side to side, thin streams of grey-white smoke swirling in the air. Depending on where we sat, the incense could be a nuisance, but for the most part I enjoyed watching the shapes the smoke made as it floated up into the rafters.
Burning incense is an important part of Anglican mass, but the ritual is not exclusive to Christianity. Many other religions and cultures burn incense to purify a space before a ceremony or as a form of healing*.
Types of Incense
Incense is typically made from a combination of wood, oils and resins and comes in a wide variety of scents. Other materials are added to control combustion and facilitate a smooth, slow burn. Incense sticks are probably the most popular form of incense. Since incense sticks tend to have milder aromatic release, some people choose to burn multiple sticks at once. Incense cones are also common, but they burn faster than incense sticks and the fragrance tends to dissipate more quickly.
Incense grains (aka resin) are the original form of incense - made by combining natural gums, plants and waxes. To burn incense grains you will need a censer or some other metal or clay burner and coals. Burning incense grains over coals is more ceremonial and generates a stronger aroma and more smoke than sticks or cones.
In terms of fragrances, frankincense is my favorite, but sandalwood, opium and jasmine are nice too. Each fragrance has its own vibe and benefits. For example, frankincense supports protection, purification and spiritual awareness and may serve as an antidepressant*.
How & When to Use Incense
Burning incense is fairly common in yoga and meditation classes. It is used to cleanse the room before the session and depending on the fragrance, it may help students to focus or relax. Incense smoke contains particulate matter, so it’s important to know whether students have asthma, allergies or other sensitivities. Even if there aren’t any health concerns, it doesn’t guarantee your students will enjoy incense during their class.
Ideally, incense should be burned in a well ventilated room 30 minutes before the class begins. When done in this way, you can purify the air and add a subtle fragrance without exposing students to smoke.
Tip: Essential oil diffusers are a convenient alternative to burning incense. You still have to be mindful of allergies, but it’s generally safer for persons with respiratory issues.
*As always, please consult a licensed medical professional before attempting anything you see on this website. The information in this article does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional if you are concerned about your health.
What is Ital?
If you live in the Caribbean or spend time amongst members of the Rastafarian community, you’ve probably heard the phrase “Ital is vital”, but what is ital? Ital food isn’t just plant based food; it’s plant based food in its purest form.
If you live in the Caribbean or spend time amongst members of the Rastafarian community, you’ve probably heard the phrase “Ital is vital”, but what is ital?
A few weeks ago, someone sent me a message on Instagram requesting a recipe for “ital”. I was a little confused by the request because to me, ital is a philosophy that encompasses a variety of ingredients and dishes, not one specific recipe. This got me thinking that my interpretation of ital may not be the consensus. I decided to ask a few friends - specifically those with close ties to the Rastafarian community - “What is ital?”
Below is a selection of the responses I received. Please note that responses have been edited for clarity and conciseness. In some instances, the identities of the interviewees have been kept anonymous.
What is Ital?
KIYODE ERASTO, Recording Artist
Vital - throw away the ‘v’ and you get ‘ital’ [chuckles] so it’s food that is vital. Vital for what? Vital for your mind, your body, your soul. It’s food that is wholesome, you know. Wholesome food cannot be processed and contaminated with chemicals. Wholesome food is basically natural, organic plants. Plant food that is good for you in terms of medicine. That’s why we say, ‘Let your food be your medicine and your medicine your food.’ So when we say ital we basically mean raw plants, no kind of flesh, no poultry or milk. If there’s milk, it must be plant milk such as coconut or almond. Cooking ital is a culture invented by the Rastaman, but it’s nothing new. It’s the way of creation. Our ancient ancestors lived that way. We are herbivores so that means in the first culture we were eating plants and we strayed away from that due to slavery and other people bringing their culture upon us.
People nowadays will say they’re vegan. Everything is vegan, vegan, vegan. The Rastaman and the Italist will say ‘ital is higher than vegan’ because ital is strictly plants - raw lakka dat. No kinda mix up nuttin. With vegan however, you have your soyannaise [soy based mayoannaise], your tu-no [tuna substitute], and other products which they say are plant based, but it goes through some kind of process or mix up. Ital is not about that. Ital is raw, strict, natural, hardcore. It’s medicinal plants for your body, mind and soul.
MESERETE UZONDU, Visual and Performing Artist
To me, ital means pure, natural plant based food made with coconut milk, if you have it. Fresh coconut milk, not boxed or canned milk. There’s no meat and no dead fish.
T.U., Engineer
What is ital to me? I would say ital is any food that is prepared without meat for sure and no preservatives. There was a time when people said that ital shouldn’t contain salt, so that could be another restriction. But ital is no flesh, no preservatives and depending on your interpretation, no salt.
JAHEALI, Yoga Instructor
Ital is vital! Vital foods containing all your minerals, enzymes and vitamins. It is primarily cooked over a live fire, not a gas stove. It can be cooked over a wood fire or with coals. It usually has no salt and no packaged seasoning, so mostly your seasonings will consist of scallion, onion, thyme, hot peppers, season peppers, celery, cilantro, parsley, tarragon and other fresh seasonings from your garden. And it is vegan food, cooked sometimes with freshly squeezed coconut milk. There is no dairy, no egg, no cheese, no animal products whatsoever. The only animal is the one making it. That’s what ital is to me.
JERMAINE JONAS, CHEF
To me, ital means food that is 100% unprocessed with no added salts, sugars, meat or diary products. Ital food was made popular by early Rastafarians. It was a rejection of the euro centric foods that were consumed by African descendants in the West Indies. It’s believed that ital food has a higher vibration than processed foods and meat. This belief has roots in every form of religion, from Judaism to Christianity.
One of the early Rastafarian leaders, Leonard Howell, advocated for the ital way of living in the belief that it would give more livity or life. Ital food is usually cooked in pots made of clay, using fresh coconut milk. For most Rastafarians it’s a cultural experience where the food is served in a calabash and eaten with spoons and forks made from coconut shell.
The Bottom Line
The word ital holds strong symbolic meaning for Rastafarians. Ital food isn’t just plant based food; it’s plant based food in its purest form. Eating ital is not a trend. It is a conscious decision to take care of your body and mind from the inside. According to me, “Ital is an organic, unprocessed, plant based meal prepared in a way that preserves the natural integrity of the ingredients and provides healing for those who consume it.”
