An activist, M.C., artist, and the first-ever hip-hop ambassador to the U.S. State Department, Toni Blackman—who runs hip-hop meditation workshops—describes her passion-driven role as being “more of a mindfulness educator, and less of a meditation leader.” Ahead of a series of sessions she’s launching in November for Hip-Hop History Month, the musical polymath shares a playlist of her favorite tracks that help center her. “I was totally unaware of how much music was inside of my head and heart. Some of these songs I play on repeat every once in a while,” says Blackman, who also spoke with us on Ep. 55 of At a Distance earlier this year. “In between tears and mourning and political frustrations, I am enjoying my journey!”

“Stay Diligent,” BREIS

“Tune Up,” Soul Inscribed

“Got Chapter 11,” Self Suffice

“The Formula,” Solé

“G.O.D. (Gaining One’s Definition),” Common featuring CeeLo Green

“Wake Up,” Chris-n-Teeb

“Shepherds,” Uncle Baye

“Keep Ya Head Up,” 2Pac

“Trigger Protection Mantra,” Jhené Aiko

“Forever,” Sa-Roc

“I Invite Ease & Joy,” Geminelle featuring Deadwildin’

“Affirmations for Energy & Productivity,” Zii

“Strength Courage & Wisdom,” India.Arie

“Jujutronic,” Jezekiah

“Put in the Work,” Stic

“Yin Yang Self-Meditation,” Charlotte Adigéry

“Kill the Noise,” RZA

“Drink Water,” Stic

“Lucumi Song (Canto para Eleggua),” Carlos Mena

“Breathe Meditation No. 4,” Carlos Mena featuring Evelyn

“Believe Slide (Dance Meditation),” Toni Blackman, Natasha Daya, The Detroit Experiment

“On & On,” Erykah Badu

“I Am Here,” Ayanna Gregory & Jabari Exum

“Liberation,” OutKast, CeeLo Green