Ep. 224: Dr. Kimberly T Arnold on Blending Yoga and Faith in Mental Health Advocacy

Kimberly T Arnold

Ph.D. in Public Health/Health Policy and Management

Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg

In a world where the acceptance of mental health in spiritual spaces is growing, Dr. Kimberly T Arnold has found a unique way to incorporate her love for yoga into her work within the Black Church, using it as a transformative tool for self-care and healing. Dr. Arnold's journey from a small farm town in South Carolina to becoming an integral part of the urban health landscape in Philadelphia is truly inspiring. Her story is one of resilience, mentorship, and untiring pursuit of passion that has led her to focus on addressing health disparities and creating comprehensive mental health support in churches.

Her research exposes the often-overlooked impacts of policies and social determinants of health, like racism, education, and income, on health outcomes. However, she doesn't stop at exposing these problems; she also illuminates how community engagement can serve as anchors in communities affected by these issues. The role institutions like the Black Church play cannot be understated; they provide alternative survival systems by addressing these very social determinants of health that significantly impact marginalized populations’ well-being. Dr. Arnold's blend of spirituality with her passion for yoga provides an innovative approach toward mental health advocacy within the Black church context. Her emphasis on self-care for Black women and non-binary doctoral students shows how intentional care can contribute significantly to their overall well-being during their academic journey.

The importance she places on being intentional about self-care is a lesson that resonates beyond academia; each one should imbibe as we navigate life's challenges. This episode is more than just exploring public health or mental wellness; it’s about understanding how community engagement is crucial in addressing larger socio-economic issues impacting daily lives.

Dr. Arnold's unique approach towards blending faith with physical wellness advocates for holistic well-being – something that is much needed today, where society often compartmentalizes physical wellness from spiritual well-being. Her pioneering work inspires many who seek ways to bridge gaps between different sectors – be it faith & science or academia & community outreach - to create comprehensive solutions that address broader socio-economic issues impacting our communities today.

Overall, this podcast episode illuminates Dr. Arnold’s incredible journey and opens up conversations around intersectionality within public healthcare - a topic that needs more dialogue & understanding. Tune into this episode if you are interested in public health policy or seek inspiration from someone who has transformed their passion into action towards creating better healthcare systems.

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The Cohort Sistas Podcast brings to life the stories, struggles, and successes of Black women and femmes with doctoral degrees and their lives beyond the degree. Find us on Twitter and Instagram, and don’t forget to subscribe to The Cohort Sistas Podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platform, rate the show, and leave us a quick review.