Afleveringen

  • Richard Rosen (www.m-yoga.org/richard-rosen | @richardrosenyoga)

    Adam interviews Richard Rosen, a yoga teacher and author, about his background in yoga and his book, Yoga FAQ. They discuss the evolution of yoga texts, the influence of yoga on Western psychology, and the potential for yoga to suppress emotions. They also explore the role of asana in yoga, the trend of yoga anatomy in classes, and the need for assessing students and structuring classes effectively.

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    This conversation covers various topics related to yoga, including accessibility and challenges, the importance of beginner's courses, the practice of pranayama, the significance of savasana, meditation and concentration, the relevance of Sanskrit in yoga, and influences on modern yoga. Richard Rosen shares his insights and experiences, highlighting the need for a balanced and patient approach to yoga. He also discusses his guilty pleasure of writing silly poetry and draws inspiration from various writers and books.

    Takeaways

    Yoga is more than just asana; it is a comprehensive practice encompassing philosophy, meditation, and self-discovery.

    The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, while a foundational text, can be seen as life and world-denying, and may not fully align with modern yoga practices.

    The Vedas, Upanishads, and other ancient texts provide valuable insights into the history and philosophy of yoga, but they can be challenging to read and interpret.

    The popularity of yoga has led to the evolution of different styles and approaches, and teachers need to have a solid understanding of the tradition and the needs of their students.

    Yoga anatomy can be useful for teachers, especially in therapeutic contexts, but it should not overshadow the broader aspects of yoga practice. Yoga should be accessible to all, but it is important to approach it cautiously and seek proper guidance to avoid injury or discouragement.

    Beginner's courses can provide a solid foundation for yoga practice and help new students ease into the practice gradually.

    Pranayama, the practice of breath control, can be challenging to teach and may require patience and perseverance from both the teacher and the student.

    Savasana, the relaxation pose, is an essential part of yoga practice and can help develop self-awareness and a witness consciousness.

    Meditation and concentration are integral to yoga and can be practised both on and off the mat.

    Learning Sanskrit can deepen one's understanding of yoga and its traditional texts, but it is not necessary for all practitioners.

    Various individuals and schools, including B.K.S. Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois, and Indra Devi, have had significant influences on modern yoga.

    Richard Rosen finds joy in writing silly poetry and draws inspiration from writers such as Ian Banks, Stanislaw Lem, and José Saramago.

    "Yoga doesn't affect the union, it reveals a union that pre-existed and will always exist."

    "In any meditation practice, the world should be included in the meditation."

    "I'm a little bit unhappy with flow classes."

    "We can't put it to rights here, but yeah."

    "Nobody wants to breathe."

    "There's consequences often times."

  • Adam Keen – Exploring the Modern Mysore Tradition of Ashtanga Yoga

    ( www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga)

    Adam discusses the modern Mysore tradition of Ashtanga yoga. He explores the early days of Krishnamacharya in the Mysore Palace and the emergence of a dynamic form of yoga.

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    Key Points

    · The modern Mysore tradition of Ashtanga yoga emerged with Krishnamacharya in the Mysore Palace, where a dynamic form of yoga started to take shape.

    · The Ashtanga tradition is a modern tradition that has evolved, with influences from various teachers and adaptations to suit different contexts and individuals.

    · The sequences in Ashtanga yoga are not fixed and rigid, but rather a general method that can be adapted to each individual's body and needs.

    · The emphasis on specific details and postures in the modern Ashtanga tradition is a recent innovation and not a fundamental aspect of the practice.

    · Understanding the historical roots and context of the Ashtanga tradition is important, but ultimately, the effectiveness of the practice should be judged based on individual experience and results.

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  • ( https://uni-hamburg.academia.edu/LauravonOstrowski | @yoganerds_de )

    Adam and Laura discuss the application of the Yoga Sutras to modern yoga practice. Laura's PhD focused on how the Yoga Sutras can be applied to the physical practice of Ashtanga yoga. They explore the concept of embodiment and how it relates to the classical philosophy of the Yoga Sutras. They also discuss the idea of concentration and absorption in modern practice, and how it may differ from the traditional interpretation of Patanjali's teachings.

    Laura emphasises the importance of observing the mind and finding practices that lead to heightened states of concentration. They also touch on the concept of the ego and its role in practice. The conversation explores the different perspectives on interpreting the Yoga Sutras, including the emic and etic approaches.

    "My PhD was about observing how in the 21st century Patanjali is connected to the physical practice, especially to Ashtanga yoga."

    "How do these practices get us into a state of concentration and absorption?"

    "Flow state is not what Patanjali meant with Samadhi, but maybe it can be deemed as a small Samadhi."

    "What we're doing is, I believe, ethic, is that right?"

    "We're looking from the outside."

    "We're not trying to lose the ego."

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    Key Points

    · The Yoga Sutras can be applied to modern yoga practice, but it's important to consider the context and adapt the teachings to fit our current lifestyles.

    · Observing the mind and finding practices that lead to heightened states of concentration can be valuable in modern practice.

    · The concept of the ego in yoga practice is complex and can be interpreted differently. It's important to find a balance between honouring the teachings of Patanjali and adapting them to our modern worldview.

    · The Yamas, or ethical guidelines, can be seen as contemplation points rather than strict rules to follow. It's important to reflect on how they apply to our lives and make conscious choices.

    · Reading the commentaries on the Yoga Sutras can provide a deeper understanding of the text, but it's helpful to have guidance from a teacher or someone knowledgeable in Sankhya philosophy.

    · Recognizing that the Yoga Sutras have been interpreted and adapted throughout history can provide mental clarity and a sense of relaxation when exploring their teachings. There are different perspectives on interpreting the Yoga Sutras, including the emic (within the culture) and etic (cross-cultural) approaches.

    · It is important to question and critically examine the text rather than blindly following it.

    · The concept of ego should not be eliminated, as it is necessary for engagement and living fully in the world.

    · Vivekananda played a significant role in bringing the Yoga Sutras to the modern context, but his promotion of disembodied practices should be reconsidered.

    · Curiosity is a valuable trait that allows for open-mindedness and continuous learning.

    · Taking time to simply be and do nothing can be a guilty pleasure that provides a break from the busyness of life.

  • #167 Adam Keen - The Power of Holding Space for Students (www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga )

    Adam shares advice for yoga teachers, emphasising the importance of being authentic, kind, and adaptable. He encourages teachers to create a supportive network and find a mentor to guide them on their teaching journey. Adam also discusses the need to hold space for students and allow them to have their own experiences, rather than trying to change them. He reminds teachers to stay humble, open-minded, and inspired in their practice and teaching.

    "Being kind is much more important than being right."

    "Yoga is a low entry, high qualification bar."

    "Know your blind spots and keep humble and caring."

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    Key Points

    · Be authentic to yourself as a yoga teacher.

    · Create a supportive network and find a mentor to guide you.

    · Hold space for your students and allow them to have their own experiences.

    · Stay humble, open-minded, and inspired in your practice and teaching.

  • #166 Andrea Ferretti – The Human Side of Yoga Teachers (@andreaferretti | www. jasonyoga.com/yogaland-podcast/ )

    Andrea Ferretti shares her journey into yoga, starting in the 90s and finding her passion for Ashtanga. She discusses the challenges of early yoga classes and the evolution of yoga studios, as well as her transition to working at Yoga Journal and the opportunity to study with different yoga teachers.

    Andrea shares her struggles with mental health and how yoga and meditation have been transformative for her. She also discusses the phenomenon of imposter syndrome in the yoga teaching community.

    They also touch on the purpose of yoga, the impact of yoga on mental health, navigating life as a cancer survivor, and starting the Yoga Land podcast. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of self-compassion, curiosity, and authenticity in the yoga teaching journey.

    Key Points

    · The yoga community in the 90s was small and intimate, with studios often fitting only a handful of students. · Personal insight and experience are essential in yoga practice, and teachers should encourage students to find their own path. · Yoga can be a powerful tool for mental health, providing a refuge and a sense of connection. · Imposter syndrome is common among yoga teachers, but it can be managed by acknowledging it and focusing on personal growth. · The evolution of yoga has led to a more diverse and inclusive practice, with a focus on individual needs and experiences. Coping with imposter syndrome involves acknowledging and accepting one's flaws and mistakes, rather than trying to be perfect. · The role of the yoga teacher is to have genuine interest and care for students and to provide tools for self-inquiry and turning inward. · Yoga helps individuals observe themselves and spend time looking inside, providing a sense of quiet and self-awareness. · Embracing imperfection and learning in public is essential for growth as a yoga teacher, as it allows for continuous learning and improvement. · Yoga can have a profound impact on mental health, providing tools for managing anxiety and stress. · Being a cancer survivor can change one's perspective on life and priorities, leading to a greater appreciation for what truly matters. · Starting a podcast can be a way to share conversations and teachings with a wider audience, and it can be a platform for personal growth and learning. · Nerve-wracking and difficult interviews can be valuable learning experiences, teaching resilience and adaptability.

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  • In this solo podcast episode, Adam discusses his personal journey with emotional healing through yoga practice. He emphasizes the importance of using the body to resolve and purge emotions, as emotions are stored in the body. He explains that the practice of yoga, particularly in the tantric tradition, allows for the digestion and integration of past experiences and emotions. Adam also highlights the significance of creating a ritual space for oneself, where emotions can safely arise and be processed. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of self-trust and the potential pitfalls of over-practicing and suppressing emotions.

    Key Points

    · Yoga practice can be a powerful tool for emotional healing and purging stored emotions in the body.

    · The tantric tradition of yoga emphasizes using the body to resolve and integrate past experiences and emotions.

    · Creating a ritual space for oneself allows emotions to arise and be processed in a safe and supported environment.

    · Self-trust and commitment to a daily practice can lead to a sense of integrity and personal growth.

  • 164 Tomas Zorzo – Mysore Since 1985 ( www.yogashtanga.com | @centro_yoga_ashtanga)

    Mysore in 1985 | $300 for one year | 2 students in the room | Sivananda ashram | First time seeing Ashtanga yoga | The practice was different | 10 breaths, not 5 | No jumping between sides in sitting | Each student had individual practice | One practice was 4.5 hours | The birth of the led class | Hooked on prana | Ego crisis | BNS Iyengar | Pattabhi Jois as a healer | 20 trips to Mysore | Adapting for older students | What is your reason for practice? | AG Mohan | Yoga is being in touch with your inner self

  • In this solo podcast episode, Adam discusses various aspects of teaching yoga. He shares his journey of becoming a yoga teacher and the different experiences that led him to teaching. Adam emphasizes the importance of readiness to teach and the role of enthusiasm and appreciation in sharing the practice. He also discusses the qualifications and proficiency required for teaching, highlighting the significance of care, interest, and connection with students. Adam addresses the issue of burnout and the need for self-care as a teacher. He concludes by discussing the challenges of losing students and the importance of adapting teaching methods to suit individual students.

    Key Points

    Readiness to teach comes from personal experience, enthusiasm, and appreciation for the practice. Being the best practitioner is not a qualification for teaching yoga; care, interest, and connection with students are more important. Burnout is a real concern for yoga teachers, and it is essential to take breaks and prioritize self-care. Teaching adaptations and making the practice accessible to students is crucial for their progress and engagement.

    Continued learning, exploring different perspectives, and having

  • JAMES RAFAEL (www.jamesrafael.com | @jamesyoga )

    James Rafael shares his journey from mental health and addiction to health through yoga and meditation. He emphasises the importance of embodiment and finding balance in yoga and meditation practices. James also discusses the role of trauma-informed approaches in these practices. He advocates for incorporating strength training into yoga practice and shares his daily routine.

    James addresses common concerns about strength training impacting flexibility and encourages a long-term perspective on physical well-being. In this conversation, Adam and James Rafael discuss various aspects of yoga and movement. They explore the practical applications of yoga in daily life, the techniques used in contortionism, the incorporation of different movement modalities, the relationship between embodiment and meditation, the challenges of addictive tendencies, and the importance of creating kind and compassionate spaces. James shares his journey and emphasizes the need for balance and self-awareness in one's practice.

    Key Points

    · Embodiment is a key aspect of yoga and meditation practices, allowing individuals to connect with their bodies and address deeper traumas or shame.

    · Strength training can be beneficial for yoga practitioners, helping to create balance, and stability, and prevent injuries.

    · Finding a balance between different practices, such as yoga, meditation, and strength training, is essential for overall well-being.

    · Incorporating trauma-informed approaches into yoga and meditation practices can lead to more holistic and helpful experiences.

    · Taking a long-term perspective on physical well-being and training for the body you want in the future can guide your yoga and strength training practices. Yoga can be used as a tool for feeling comfortable in one's body and living a fulfilling life.

    · Contortionism involves technique and strength and can be a valuable addition to a yoga practice.

    · Incorporating different movement modalities can enhance one's understanding and practice of yoga.

    · Embodiment and meditation are interconnected, contributing to a deeper sense of presence.

    · Maintaining balance and self-awareness is crucial in managing addictive tendencies.

    · Creating kind and compassionate spaces is essential for fostering growth and healing in yoga communities.

  • ADARSH WILLIAMS (www.ashtangayogagroningen.nl | www.smartstretch.com | @ adarshw)

    Adarsh Williams and Adam discuss various aspects of yoga practice, including its mental and physical benefits, the blending of yoga with fitness culture, and the importance of adapting the practice to individual bodies.

    They also explore the significance of consistency and enthusiasm in teaching, as well as the role of community and history in the practice of Ashtanga yoga. In this conversation, Adam and Adarsh discuss various aspects of building a Mysore program, teaching yoga to different types of students, the importance of breath, the framework of Ashtanga Yoga, and the benefits of cold exposure.

    They emphasise the need for teachers to meet students where they are and create a supportive community. They also highlight the significance of movement nutrition and breath hygiene for overall well-being. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the transformative power of tapas.

    Key Points

    · Yoga was originally intended as a mental practice and a moving meditation, rather than solely a physical exercise. · Ashtanga yoga should be approached as a mental practice with functional movement, rather than a fix for physical ailments. · Adapting the lotus work in Ashtanga to individual bodies and incorporating functional movement can make the practice more accessible and beneficial. · Consistency and enthusiasm are key in yoga practice, and being a new teacher can bring a fresh perspective and energy to the practice. · The discipline and restraint of yoga practice can lead to transformative experiences and a deeper understanding of oneself. Building a Mysore program requires meeting students where they are and creating a supportive community. · Teachers should focus on movement nutrition and breath hygiene for overall well-being. · The framework of Ashtanga Yoga provides a structure for self-connection and growth. · Cold exposure, such as ice baths, can have curative properties and promote mental and physiological well-being. · Tapas, the practice of embracing discomfort, can lead to personal transformation.
  • ADARSH WILLIAMS (www.ashtangayogagroningen.nl | www.smartstretch.com | @ adarshw)

    Adarsh Williams shares his journey into yoga and how it helped him overcome anxiety and insomnia. He started with self-taught yoga practice using library books and later transitioned to Ashtanga Yoga. Adarsh emphasizes that yoga is a tool that can be applied in various ways and does not necessarily require a spiritual context.

    He also discusses his experiences with Pattabhi Jois and Sharath Jois, highlighting their consistency and dedication to the practice. In this conversation, Adarsh Williams discusses his time with Sharath and the transition he went through after the passing of Pattabhi Joyce. He reflects on Sharath's pressure to fill his grandfather's shoes and how he has grown into his role as a teacher.

    Adarsh emphasizes the importance of tolerance and understanding in the yoga community, as well as the need for a pragmatic approach to the Ashtanga method. He shares his experience with injuries and how he incorporates functional movement into his teaching. Adarsh concludes by revealing his guilty pleasure of being a professional wrestling fan and expressing his inspiration from his yoga students.

    In this conversation, we discussed the importance of effective communication and explored various strategies to improve communication skills. We covered topics such as building trust and rapport, active listening and empathy, non-verbal communication, managing conflict, cultural sensitivity and diversity, and effective feedback.

    These themes highlight the key aspects of communication that can lead to successful interactions and relationships. By implementing the strategies discussed, individuals can enhance their communication skills and achieve better outcomes in personal and professional settings.

    Key Points

    · Yoga can be a powerful tool for managing mental health issues such as anxiety and insomnia.

    · Self-taught yoga practice can be effective, especially when combined with reading and learning from various sources.

    · Ashtanga Yoga offers a structured and efficient practice that can lead to physical and mental transformation.

    · The guru-disciple relationship in yoga can vary, and it is important to maintain a balanced perspective and not idealize the teacher. Transition and growth are natural processes in any practice or role.

    · Tolerance and understanding are essential in the yoga community.

    · A pragmatic approach to the Ashtanga method can benefit students of all levels and abilities.

    · Incorporating functional movement can help prevent injuries and enhance the practice.

    · Finding inspiration in yoga students and their dedication can motivate teachers to continue their work. Effective communication is crucial for successful interactions and relationships.

    · Building trust and rapport is essential for effective communication.

    · Active listening and empathy help in understanding others and fostering better communication.

    · Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in conveying messages.

    · Managing conflict requires effective communication and problem-solving skills.

    · Cultural sensitivity and diversity awareness are important for inclusive communication.

    · Providing constructive feedback is essential for personal and professional growth.

  • Adam Keen - Injuries in Yoga, Managing and Healing From Them (@adam_keen_ashtanga | www.keenonyoga.com )

    Adam discusses the topic of injuries in yoga and the upcoming injuries conference. He emphasizes that injuries are not the fault of the yoga practice itself, but rather the approach and individual factors. Adam encourages practitioners to adapt the practice to their own bodies and focus on the feeling in the body rather than accomplishing postures. He also shares his personal experiences with injuries and highlights the importance of rest, seeking different approaches, and strengthening the body. The episode concludes with an invitation to the injuries conference.

    Key Points

    · Injuries in yoga are often the result of individual factors and the approach to the practice, rather than the practice itself. · Adapting the practice to suit one's own body and focusing on the feeling in the body can help prevent injuries. · Injuries can be seen as opportunities for growth and learning, and seeking different approaches and opinions can be beneficial. · Resting the injured area, strengthening the body, and considering alternative therapies can aid in the healing process. · The injuries conference provides a platform for discussing and addressing yoga-related injuries and healing.

  • MC Yogi (www.mcyogi.com | @mcyogi )

    MC Yogi (Nicholas Giacomini) shares his journey from a troubled youth to becoming a renowned yoga teacher and musician. He discusses the transformative power of yoga and breath, and how it helped him find peace and purpose in life. MC Yogi also talks about his mentor, Larry Schultz, and the development of Rocket Yoga.

    He reflects on the counterculture vibe of early yoga and the cathartic nature of yoga practice. Finally, he shares his experience as a musician and the role of music in his spiritual journey. In this conversation, MC Yogi discusses the power of words and mantras in his music. He explains how he remembers his lyrics and mantras through somatic movement and neural programming. MC Yogi also shares his influences from various genres of music and the cultural influences of growing up in the Bay Area. He emphasizes connecting with the spirit and seeking the inner kingdom. MC Yogi's guilty pleasure is driving fast, and his inspiration comes from the awe-inspiring force of the breath.

    Key Points

    · Yoga can transform and bring peace and purpose to one's life.

    · The breath is a powerful tool for self-awareness and connection.

    · The counterculture vibe of early yoga created a sense of community and acceptance.

    · Music can be a powerful tool for spiritual expression and connection.

  • In this conversation, Adam discusses how to stay motivated and inspired in a yoga practice that can sometimes feel repetitive. He explores the challenges of maintaining focus and setting realistic goals, emphasizing the importance of individuality and avoiding comparison. Adam also highlights the need for self-reflection and finding meaning in one's practice. He shares personal experiences and offers practical advice for staying motivated, such as creating a consistent practice space and routine, and being flexible in approach. Adam concludes with New Year's wishes and encourages listeners to continue their yoga journey with confidence and perseverance.

    Key Points

    Maintaining motivation in a yoga practice requires setting realistic goals and avoiding comparison with others.
    Finding meaning in one's practice is essential for long-term motivation and perseverance.
    Creating a consistent practice space and routine can help in staying focused and committed.
    Building self-trust and confidence is crucial in overcoming challenges and making better choices in practice and in life.

  • BERNIE CLARK – YOGA RELATED INJURIES (www.yinyoga.com | @bernieclark7528In this episode, Bernie Clark discusses knee issues in Ashtanga yoga. He explains the anatomy of the knee joint and the role of ligaments in preventing excessive movement. Bernie shares his personal experience with knee injuries and the different approaches to healing, including surgery and non-surgical methods. (more below)

    Bernie emphasizes the importance of strengthening the knee muscles and finding a balance between flexibility and stability. Bernie also addresses the idea of symmetry in yoga practice and the need for individualized approaches based on each person's unique body.

    This conversation explores the topics of symmetry vs. balance, the cultural protocol of crossing legs, hip structure and range of motion, hip pain and lotus position, hip issues and solutions, understanding pain and discomfort, the impact on personal practice, carrying angles and individual differences, and recognising pain vs. discomfort.

    Key Points

    · Hyperextension of the knee is a natural movement and is not necessarily harmful. · Meniscus tears are more common than ACL ruptures in yoga. · The knee joint does not have a good blood supply, which makes healing difficult. · Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help support the joint and prevent injuries. · Asymmetry is natural in the body, and it is more important to focus on functionality rather than achieving perfect symmetry in yoga practice. Seek balance, not symmetry, in your practice. · Individual differences in hip structure and range of motion can affect poses like lotus position. · Various factors, including overuse and structural differences can cause hip pain. · Understanding the difference between pain and discomfort is important for practising safely. · Personalise your practice based on your body's capabilities and limitations.

    To find out more about Professor Stuart McGill and see his books and videos: https://www.backfitpro.com/

  • #155 Adam & Theresa – Keens Xmas Chat (www.keenonyoga.com | @keen_on_yoga )

    In this episode, Adam and Theresa discuss their background stories, their journey with Ashtanga practice and teaching, and their experiences before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also talk about starting an online presence and the Keen on Yoga Podcast.

    Theresa shares her experience working in corporate events and how she transitioned to running a yoga retreat centre. They discuss the benefits of teaching and practicing online, including the autonomy it gives to students.

    Overall, they emphasise the importance of adapting and finding new opportunities in challenging times. In this conversation, Adam and Theresa discuss various aspects of yoga teaching and practice. They explore the sustainability of online yoga, the benefits of online teaching for improving in-person teaching skills, and the role of Mysore in yoga practice.

    They also discuss the evolution of Ashtanga teaching and the need for flexibility and inclusivity in the approach. Adam shares his desired changes in Ashtanga teaching, emphasizing the importance of encouragement and individualization. They touch on the loneliness of teaching and express their desire for more connections and stability. Adam talks about finding inspiration for his writing and shares his gratitude for inspirational figures in yoga. They end the conversation by discussing their guilty pleasures and expressing their gratitude to the listeners.

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    Key Points

    · Online yoga offers sustainability and flexibility for practitioners, allowing them to practice at their own pace without the pressure of competition or strong adjustments from teachers. · Teaching online can improve in-person teaching skills by providing a broader perspective and allowing teachers to see different bodies and variations in practice. · Mysore style yoga has its benefits, but it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to approach teaching with inclusivity and flexibility, allowing students to progress at their own pace. · The method of Ashtanga should be focused on encouragement and individual exploration, rather than strict adherence to rules and perfecting postures. · Developing connections and finding stability in teaching and personal life are important goals for Adam and Theresa. · Adam finds inspiration for his writing through his years of teaching experience and his passion for yoga philosophy. · Mark Darby and Sharath are inspirational figures for Adam in his yoga journey. · Adam's guilty pleasure is sitting in a cafe, enjoying a croissant and black coffee while reading philosophy or yoga books. · Adam and Theresa express their gratitude to the listeners and their hopes for a positive and fulfilling new year.
  • Ellen Johannesen – Buddhism & Ashtanga Yoga ( www.ashtanganepal.com | www.onyoga.no | @ashtanganepal )

    Ellen Johannessen shares her journey from studying dance to discovering Ashtanga yoga and eventually delving into Buddhist philosophy. She explains the differences between yoga and Buddhism, emphasising the importance of compassion and wisdom in both traditions. Ellen discusses the integration of Buddhist teachings in her Ashtanga yoga practice and how it enhances the overall experience. She also reflects on her time teaching and practising in Nepal and the impact of long retreats.

    Finally, Ellen opens up about her hip replacement surgery and the recovery process. In this conversation, Ellen discusses her decision to have hip replacement surgery after years of pain and limited mobility. She shares her recovery process and her challenges in regaining her yoga practice. Ellen emphasizes the importance of adapting the practice to accommodate physical limitations and finding joy in alternative movements. She also talks about her plans for the future, including online teaching and organizing yoga adventures in Nepal.

    Key Points

    · Yoga and Buddhism share common principles of compassion, interconnectedness, and self-realisation.

    · The integration of Buddhist teachings in yoga practice can deepen one's understanding and enhance the overall experience.

    · Long retreats and intensive practices provide an opportunity for focused self-reflection and growth.

    Hip replacement surgery can be a necessary step in maintaining physical well-being and continuing a yoga practice. Hip replacement surgery can provide relief from chronic pain and improve mobility.

    Recovery from surgery requires patience and a gradual return to physical activity.

    Adapting the yoga practice to accommodate physical limitations is essential for maintaining a consistent practice.

    Exploring alternative movements and practices can bring joy and fulfilment to the yoga journey.

    Online teaching and creating a supportive community can enhance the yoga experience for practitioners.

  • In this episode, Adam discusses his journey from studying philosophy to finding solace in Ashtanga Yoga. He shares his disappointment with the philosophy department and the lack of wisdom and inspiration he found in his professors. Adam explains how Ashtanga Yoga helped him deal with negative emotions and how the practice stimulates the spine to release stored emotions. He emphasizes the importance of a yoga lifestyle and provides tips for processing and digesting negative emotions in the practice.

    Takeaways

    Ashtanga Yoga can be an effective tool for dealing with negative emotions and trauma. The practice stimulates the spine and releases stored emotions and trauma. A yoga lifestyle, including diet, sleep, and social interactions, is essential for processing and digesting emotions. Breathing and compression techniques can enhance the effectiveness of the practice in releasing emotions.

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  • Reema Datta (www.reemadatta.com | @reemayoga)

    In this conversation, Reema Datta shares her journey of discovering yoga and becoming a teacher. She discusses her background growing up in a family immersed in yoga and Ayurveda. Rima also talks about her experience with Larry Schultz and the perception of yoga appropriation.

    She emphasises the need for a holistic approach to yoga, including integrating mind practices. Rima suggests that ancient texts should be translated and made applicable to modern life to deepen the understanding of yoga.

    The conversation explores the importance of incorporating mental aspects in yoga and the need to go back to the original teachings of yoga. It discusses the role of translations in understanding yoga texts and the significance of cultural appropriation and respect in yoga.

    The meaning and pronunciation of Namaste are explored, along with the importance of respecting yoga traditions and practices. The conversation also delves into overcoming the fluctuations of the mind and the gift of yoga to humanity. It highlights the need to improve the representation of yoga and the use of yoga sequences to work with emotions.

    The conversation concludes with discussing the need for a feminine touch in yoga and the mind-body experience in yoga. The chapter ends with a reflection on inspiration and guilty pleasures.

    Highlights

    Yoga can be practised in various ways and is not limited to asana. The perception of yoga appropriation can be divisive and counterproductive. · There is a need for a holistic approach to yoga that integrates mind practices. · Ancient texts should be translated and made applicable to modern life to deepen the understanding of yoga. Incorporating mental aspects in yoga is essential to honour the original teachings of yoga. · Translations of yoga texts can greatly impact our understanding and practice of yoga. · Cultural appropriation in yoga should be approached with respect and understanding. · The meaning and pronunciation of Namaste can vary, but the intention behind it is what matters. · Respecting yoga traditions and practices includes understanding the symbolism and significance of statues and other elements. · Yoga helps overcome the fluctuations of the mind and promotes unity and connection. · Yoga is a gift to humanity and should be represented with integrity and authenticity. · Yoga sequences can be designed to work with specific emotions and promote emotional well-being. · Including more feminine perspectives in yoga can bring balance and depth to the practice. · The mind-body experience is an integral part of yoga and should not be suppressed or denied. · Honesty and authenticity are inspiring qualities in yoga and in life. · Taking time for guilty pleasures, such as watching movies and enjoying snacks, is important for self-care.

    You can find links to Reema's book, Sacred Sanskrit Words for Yoga, Chant, and Meditation and her two mantra albums on her website: www.reemadatta.com

    You can also follow her on Instagram @reemayoga

    Sources:

    Eknath Easwaran's translations of the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads are excellent. He taught at the University of California, Berkeley for decades, and was an amazing bridge between India and the West. His translations are easy to read and full of relatable stories. Roopa Pai has written The Gita for Children and The Vedas and Upanishads for Children. They are both excellent books if you'd like to share with your kids and learn with them! Even for adults, these books are a great introduction to these texts, which carry the original wisdom teachings of yoga that focus on the mind.

    You can learn more about Niguma from H.E. Kalu Rinpoche.

    Reema offers a free online community gathering on the last Sunday of each month to discuss aspects of yoga philosophy and engage in a short practice of mantra, pranayama, and meditation together. Everyone is welcome to join.

    You can register online and receive a link. She also has a few online courses that combine asana, mantra, pranayama, meditation, and philosophy. www.reemadatta.com

  • In this solo episode, Adam talks about the challenges facing yoga teachers and how he manages them.

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