))
238. Muay Thai Beyond Limits: Janelle's Path to Inclusive Fitness
Manage episode 461249471 series 2915680
“Everything you do has to start with that relationship and they have to trust you and respect you before you can even really do anything.”
-Janelle Kleftis
Welcome back to the Turmeric & Tequila Podcast! I'm your host, Kristen Olson, and today we have an inspiring episode lined up for you. Joining us is the incredible Janelle Kleftus, founder of "Muay Thai Beyond Limits," a remarkable martial arts program promoting inclusivity, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Janelle’s journey is nothing short of transformative, from her adventurous start in Thailand to becoming a beacon of hope and innovation in the neurodivergent community.
In today’s discussion, we’ll dive deep into how Janelle masterfully blends sensory activities and Muay Thai techniques to support children with autism and ADHD. We’ll explore the importance of flexibility in teaching methods, the value of community and mentorship, and the life-changing impact of her work. Plus, we’ll hear from Laura Mahoney of Lux Neuro about the power of neurofeedback therapy.
So, get ready to be inspired by tales of resilience, adaptability, and the power of human connection. Don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned until the end for some exciting updates and heartfelt testimonials. Let’s get started!
Time Stamps:
00:00 Discovered love for Muay Thai in Thailand.
05:09 Love theater, Muay Thai; shared community spirit.
08:42 Entrepreneurship: Constant learning, adapting, never-ending challenges.
11:03 Embrace uncertainty; passion may guide you.
15:44 Sports and fitness passion; celebrating unique idiosyncrasies.
19:10 Adapting teaching to individual student needs.
20:51 Martial art: discipline, respect, continual learning, connection.
25:07 Coaches are unique and impactful authority figures.
29:18 Agencies and fairs helpful for disability resources.
31:40 Pause, withhold judgment, seek to understand first.
33:50 Experience and immersion lead to teaching opportunities.
37:58 Inclusive learning environment offering personalized lessons.
40:04 Adaptive athletes embody resilience and determination.
44:38 Check out Janelle for neurodivergent community resources.
46:13 Check her out. Thanks Lux Neuro sponsors.
Janelle Kleftis:
My name is Janelle Kleftis and I am the Owner and Head Instructor of Muay Thai Beyond Limits. It has been a long-term goal of mine to combine my martial arts background with my experience working with people with disabilities to create a safe and inclusive martial arts program. I have over 17 years of childcare experience and have over 10 years of experience working with children and adults with disabilities. I started training Muay Thai in 2015 in Thailand and have since then taught Muay Thai and Kickboxing to both children and adults for over three years. My mother, an occupational therapist and wonderful human being is and always has been my inspiration. It is my goal to provide a safe and welcoming environment for my students and their support system, a place where they can feel embraced and understood. I can’t wait to share with you all the amazing benefits gained through martial arts!
Muay Thai Beyond Limits:
Focused on Making Martial Arts Accessible for People of All Abilities.
What Makes Us Unique: In our program, we offer many adaptations to our teaching style and space, including: Smaller Class Sizes, Visual and Verbal Cues, Sensory Corner, Flexibility with Attire, Dimmable Lighting, Quiet/No Music, and Sign Language.
Our Mission:
Muay Thai Beyond Limits is committed to making martial arts accessible to people with disabilities, creating an inclusive environment to bring health, fitness, and social benefits to those who desire to be a part of a martial arts family.
https://www.muaythaibeyondlimits.com/
@muaythaibeyondlimits
Connect with T&T:
IG: @TurmericTequila
Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila
Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com
Host: Kristen Olson
IG: @Madonnashero
Tik Tok: @Madonnashero
Website: www.KOAlliance.com
MORE LIKE THIS:
https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF
254 episodes
Share
