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The Health Science Podcast | Episode 056. | November 30, 2023
056: Cancer, Yoga, and the Power of Plant-Based Eating with Tabay Atkins
056: Cancer, Yoga, and the Power of Plant-Based Eating with Tabay Atkins

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In the realm of compassionate living, Tabay Atkins stands out as a beacon of inspiration. At a young age, Tabay embarked on a journey deeply rooted in yoga, veganism, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. From his beginnings as a yoga enthusiast to becoming the youngest certified yoga teacher at the age of 10, Tabay’s story is a testament to the transformative power of holistic living.

A Yoga Journey Ignited by Compassion

Tabay’s connection to yoga took root at a pivotal moment in his life. His mother’s battle with stage three non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer became the catalyst for their exploration into alternative healing modalities. Introduced to yoga through a serendipitous encounter with a yoga teacher during his mother’s recovery, Tabay witnessed firsthand the remarkable healing potential of this ancient practice.

From observing his mother’s physical and emotional rejuvenation during a 200-hour Vinyasa yoga teacher training to his own certification at the age of 10, Tabay’s commitment to yoga became a lifelong passion. Vinyasa, a flow-based yoga style, became his preferred method, emphasizing the synergy between breath and movement.

The Vegan Awakening

While yoga became a cornerstone of Tabay’s life, his journey towards veganism unfolded in parallel. Initially motivated by health considerations, the decision to adopt a plant-based lifestyle took root after a screening of the documentary “What the Health.” The film served as a catalyst, providing the education needed to solidify the shift towards veganism.

Tabay’s transition to veganism wasn’t just a personal choice but a mission to share the benefits of this lifestyle with others. Recognizing the interconnectedness of yoga and veganism, Tabay seamlessly integrated both into his teachings and lifestyle.

Nurturing Health and Inspiring Change

At the age of 16, Tabay expanded his influence by opening a vegan food truck. This venture, Tabay’s Mindful Kitchen, became a mobile hub for sharing delicious vegan meals and spreading awareness about plant-based living. By participating in events, festivals, and private catering, Tabay has created a platform to showcase that veganism isn’t a sacrifice but a flavorful and nourishing choice.

Tabay’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond his culinary endeavors. He channels the proceeds from his yoga classes and food truck towards organizations that support cancer patients, a cause close to his heart. Organizations like SavingSophie.org and the Jesse Reese Foundation receive Tabay’s generous donations, providing direct assistance to children and teens battling cancer.

Inspiring the Next Generation

As a young influencer, Tabay recognizes the importance of reaching out to the younger generation. Through yoga and veganism, he strives to inspire children and teenagers to adopt a compassionate and mindful lifestyle. Tabay’s efforts extend to parents, aiming to shift long-held beliefs about nutrition and encourage healthier, plant-based choices for the whole family.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Tabay Atkins envisions a future where compassion, health, and mindfulness are integral parts of our collective consciousness. By intertwining the principles of yoga and veganism, he aspires to create a ripple effect, fostering positive change in individuals and communities alike.

In a world where the choices we make impact not only our well-being but the planet and its inhabitants, Tabay Atkins stands as a guide, inviting us all to embrace a lifestyle that nourishes the body, mind, and soul.

Learn more about Tabay at:   www.TabayAtkins.com

IG:                                             @tabayatkins

Episode Highlights

[01:45]             Tabay’s health journey began at the age of seven when his mother was
                           diagnosed with cancer.            

[05:30]             Life shows Tabay’s mother what is in her future.

[07:30]             Tabay’s Vinyasa certification at 10 years old.

[14:00]             One claim to fame… first kid’s yoga studio in Orange County

[16:30]             The culinary side of Tabay’s vegan journey.

[24:00]             Tabay’s Mindful Kitchen Restaurant on wheels.

[27:30]             From yoga classes to corporate events, to Vegfests and more.

[32:30]             The future of children, the environment and health.

[35:30]             Compassion in action through donations to worthy causes.

[39:30]             Let your passion guide you.

About Tabay Atkins

Tabay Atkins, the youngest 500-hour certified yoga teacher globally, embarked on his transformative journey into yoga at the age of 7, inspired by his mother’s triumph over cancer. By 10, he achieved a remarkable milestone as the youngest 200-hour vinyasa certified yoga teacher. Now 18, Tabay holds over 10 specialty yoga certificates, including Yoga4Cancer and Aerial Yoga.

His certifications include the foundational 200 and 300 Hour Vinyasa, specialized courses like Yoga4Cancer, Kids Yoga for Autism Spectrum, and the unique Circus Yoga Rings 1 and 2. Tabay is also certified in Level 1, 50 Hour Rainbow Kids Yoga, Teen/Tween Yoga, Aerial Yoga, and Restorative Yoga, demonstrating his versatility in teaching various yoga disciplines.

Beyond yoga, Tabay has delved into the healing practice of Reiki, progressing to become a Reiki Master Teacher with certifications in both Level 1, 2 and 3. Complementing his commitment to holistic well-being, he is also certified in Plant-Based Nutrition and Plant-Based Cooking, aligning with his vegan lifestyle and culinary pursuits. Each certification is a testament to Tabay’s multifaceted expertise, contributing to his role as a distinguished yoga teacher, chef, and advocate for a mindful, compassionate lifestyle.

His passion extends beyond yoga; Tabay is a certified chef and advocates for plant-based nutrition, reflecting in his vegan lifestyle. He shares his culinary skills through in-person and online classes and recently launched Tabay’s Mindful Kitchen, a vegan food truck in Orange County, California.

Tabay’s impact is global, teaching at various venues, from schools to retreats, and supporting cancer patients through donations of time and resources. His achievements include TV and radio appearances, collaborations with Deepak Chopra, and gracing the cover of Yoga Journal Magazine.

Beyond his pursuits, Tabay indulges in photography, music, rare coin collecting, and exploration of national parks. His dreams encompass spreading yoga and veganism worldwide, writing a cookbook, and inspiring others. Tabay lives by the mantra, “Think Good Thoughts, Speak Kind Words, Feel Love, Be Love, and Give Love,” embodying positivity and kindness in every facet of his extraordinary life.

About Dr. Frank Sabatino

As a recognized authority on the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, Dr. Frank Sabatino has cared for and inspired thousands of people for over 40 years. Dr. Sabatino has a PhD in cell biology and neuroendocrinology and has done extensive landmark research on calorie restriction, stress, and aging. He currently is on staff at the TrueNorth Health Foundation in Santa Rosa, CA, and serves as the Director of Health Education at the NHA.

Dr. Sabatino’s passion and life’s work include raising awareness about the benefits of whole-food, plant-exclusive nutrition (without added salt, oil, or sugar), health rejuvenation and stress management.

About NHA

The National Health Association (NHA), founded in 1948, is a nonprofit organization that promotes the benefits of a plant-based diet. The Association provides educational materials, educational events, and services to thousands of people around the world.

The mission of the National Health Association is to educate and empower individuals to understand that health results from healthful living. The NHA recognizes the integration of all aspects of health: personal, environmental, and social.

The NHA also provides travel experiences around the globe through the NHA Plant-Based Travel and cruise division.

More information: https://www.healthscience.org/

Scholarships

A unique benefit of the NHA Conference is the selection of two medical students who receive a full scholarship to the conference.

Contact Wanda Huberman for more information on how to apply for the scholarship.  [email protected]

NHA membership

For a very nominal investment, you can enjoy incredible benefits of the NHA membership.

Members of the NHA enjoy a subscription to the award-winning quarterly health journal, Health Science, access to the “Members Only” section of the NHA Website (which contains all 43 years of back issues of the magazine),  the ability to download for free many classic out of print eBooks on the history of the Natural Hygiene Movement, including Fasting Can Save Your Life and The Greatest Health Discovery, discounts on books, and early notice of the NHA events.

Only $35 a year for basic membership within the United States.  https://www.healthscience.org/join-renew/

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