How Hip-Hop Artist JusTme Teaches Mindfulness Through Music

From YMCA Greeter to Mindfulness Rapper

Three years ago, California artist Tim Scott Jr. (now known as JusTme) was working at a YMCA when educator J.G. Larochette introduced him to mindfulness. This encounter transformed Scott into a hip-hop advocate for mindfulness for kids, using music to make meditation culturally relevant in inner-city schools.

Hip-Hop as a Mindfulness Tool

How Music Shaped JusTme's Journey

Childhood outlet: Hip-hop helped Scott process emotions after his parents' divorce
Early influences: Lyrics steered him away from gangs/drugs by exposing their realities
Authentic shift: At 15, he abandoned "street character" personas after his father's advice about integrity

The Mindfulness Connection

"Writing hip-hop became my meditation—just me, the paper, and my thoughts."

Scott discovered formal mindfulness through the Mindful Life Project, merging it with his art to create:
- Kid-friendly raps like "D.F.Y.L. (Don’t Flip Yo’ Lid)"
- A YouTube channel teaching mindfulness through music
- School programs making meditation accessible to urban youth

Breaking Stereotypes: Hip-Hop + Meditation

Addressing Misconceptions

Many assume hip-hop contradicts mindfulness, but Scott explains:
- Hip-hop is a survival tool that saved his life
- It provides perspective on real struggles
- His work reframes the genre as positive self-expression

Daily Mindfulness Practices

JusTme's routine includes:
1. Morning gratitude: Lists 3 things he's thankful for
2. Goal setting: Chooses 3 daily intentions
3. Movement: Yoga paired with hip-hop beats ("breakdancing in slow-mo")
4. Evening meditation: To decompress

Teaching Kids Mindfulness Through Rap

Engagement Strategies

Uses a capella rapping to capture attention
Creates "heartfelt connections" by being authentic
Encourages students to adapt practices (e.g., meditating with eyes open)

Real Impact

Success stories include:
- A child using breathing techniques during sibling conflicts
- Honest dialogues about trauma (e.g., a student who witnessed violence)

What’s Next for JusTme?

Completing 200-hour yoga certification
Expanding as a well-being spokesperson
Proving self-care alternatives through art and movement

"The thrill is waking up and getting to start again every 24 hours."

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Hip-Hop Meets Mindfulness: JusTme's Journey