Parveen Nair is a long-term yoga teacher and practitioner based in Rishikesh, India. He offers teacher trainings and programs in Rishikesh and is known for his creative and inspired yoga practice routines that incorporate pranayama and asana. Parveen’s approach to yoga is influenced by his background in dance and his deep spiritual connection to the practice.
Yoga is not about perfecting asanas, but about developing the capacity to bring quietness to the mind and recognizing one’s true nature.
The practice of centering and connecting with the body as it is, without trying to change or perfect it, is essential in yoga.
Deep sleep can serve as a reminder of one’s true nature and the peace that exists beyond the mind and body.
Templates can be helpful in guiding movement and creating an embodied yoga practice, but it is important not to copy or compare oneself to others.
Native Yoga Toddcast: A Journey of Yoga and Self-Discovery
Welcome to Native Yoga Toddcast, where we explore the world of yoga, meditation, and self-discovery. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Parveen Nair, a long-term yoga teacher and practitioner based in Rishikesh, India. Parveen shares his unique journey of finding yoga, his experiences with different styles of practice, and his evolving approach to teaching. Join us as we delve into the themes of centering, embodiment, and the true purpose of yoga.
Centering: Meeting Yourself as You Are
Parveen’s journey into yoga began in his childhood, growing up in a spiritually inclined family in Malaysia. He was introduced to the practice of kirtan, or devotional singing, which created a sense of peace and quietness in his mind. This early experience of connecting with the divine set the foundation for his later exploration of yoga.
“When we finish the practice towards the end, just like shavasana during shavasana after shavasana, there was this deep quietness. That made me curious. There was something in this quietness that felt like home.”
Parveen recognized the importance of meeting oneself as they are, without judgment or the need to change. He developed a practice of centering, where he invites his students to observe their bodies, breath, and thoughts without trying to fix or perfect anything.
“I started introducing in my classes the practice of arriving, centering. Observing where the body is at that time, how is it breathing, how is the mind thinking. Can you meet your body as it is, in acceptance of who and what you are?”
Embodiment: The Dance of Movement and Breath
Parveen’s background in dance and his training in Iyengar yoga influenced his approach to movement and asana practice. He recognized the importance of incorporating the breath and allowing the body to move in a soft and gentle manner.
“I found that the breath plays a very important role because then everything becomes very hard and tight. Any asana or any movement you’re doing, do it only if you can do it 100%. But do it only 50% and let the breath take you another 50%.”
Parveen created movement templates that allow the entire body to respond and awaken, while also giving space for individual exploration and creativity. He emphasizes the importance of not copying his movements, but rather finding one’s own unique expression within the practice.
“The medium is movement, but how do we use this movement to arrive at who you are potentially at that day? And to use that as a pathway to your peace.”
The True Purpose of Yoga: Discovering Your True Nature
Parveen challenges the notion that the purpose of yoga is to perfect the asanas or achieve physical goals. He believes that the true purpose of yoga is to develop the capacity to bring quietness to the mind and recognize one’s true nature.
“Perfection in Warrior One is not the purpose. How do you interact with Warrior One becomes spiritual, not perfecting. How do you perfect something which is constantly going through modification?”
He encourages students to shift their focus from external achievements to internal exploration, from identifying with the body and mind to recognizing the underlying canvas of awareness that supports all experiences.
“You are complete. Nothing added to you or subtracted from you is going to bring any peace because you are already peace. The purpose of yoga is to develop the capacity to bring some amount of quietness to your mind so that you can see what is your true potential, your natural potential.”
Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Parveen’s journey of yoga and self-discovery is a testament to the transformative power of the practice. Through his experiences with different styles of yoga and his own inner exploration, he has come to understand the essence of yoga as a path to recognizing one’s true nature.
As students, we are invited to meet ourselves as we are, to embrace the body and mind with acceptance and curiosity. Through embodiment and movement, we can tap into the vastness of our being and experience moments of deep peace and connection.
The true purpose of yoga is not to achieve external goals or perfect the asanas, but to develop the capacity to quiet the mind and recognize our inherent completeness. It is a journey of self-discovery, where we uncover the truth of who we are beyond the limitations of the body and mind.
As we continue on our own yoga journeys, let us remember that the practice is not about reaching a destination, but about embracing the ever-unfolding process of self-discovery and awakening. May we find inspiration in Parveen’s teachings and continue to explore the depths of our own being.
Join us next time on Native Yoga Toddcast as we continue to bring you insightful conversations with inspirational speakers in the field of yoga, meditation, and beyond. Remember to follow us on Instagram @nativeyoga and visit our website at nativeyogacenter.com for more information. Until then, may you find peace and joy on your own yoga journey.
Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇 Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST ➡️ Click here to receive link
New Student FREE Livestream Yoga Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes at Native Yoga Center. info.nativeyogacenter.com/livestream Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ➡️ Click Here to Join.
Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.
Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.
Celest Pereira, a physiotherapist and yoga teacher, discusses the importance of focusing on one main project instead of trying to juggle multiple streams of income. She emphasizes the need to prioritize and avoid spreading oneself too thin. Celest also explains the concept of functional neurology and how it can be used to evaluate and treat various physical issues. Celest also shares insights on breathing techniques, pain perception, and the power of positive self-talk.
Diversifying movement patterns is important for optimal brain mapping and overall physical well-being.
Pain is an output of the brain and can be influenced by our thoughts and beliefs.
Functional neurology can help improve movement and reduce pain by addressing the underlying neurological issues.
Introduction
In a world where self-employment and multiple streams of income are often glorified, it’s important to take a step back and reevaluate our approach. As a physiotherapist and yoga teacher, I have learned that focusing on one main project and giving it our full attention can lead to more success and fulfillment. In this thought leadership article, we will explore the power of functional neurology and mindful movement in promoting physical and mental well-being. We will delve into the concept of functional neurology, discuss the importance of diversifying our exercise routines, and examine the role of breathing techniques in optimizing our movement patterns. Through verbatim quotes from a recent podcast interview, we will gain insights into the mind of Celest Pereira, a renowned physiotherapist and yoga teacher, and explore the implications and potential impact of these themes.
Functional Neurology and the Power of the Brain
Functional neurology is a field that focuses on the relationship between the brain and the body. Celest Pereira, a physiotherapist and yoga teacher, explains that every process in our body is governed by the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. She emphasizes that the brain plays a crucial role in movement and physical well-being. Pereira shares her experience of working with clients who have various physical issues and how evaluating their nervous system online has led to positive results. She highlights the importance of looking at the body holistically and understanding that seemingly unrelated problems can manifest as pain in the body. Pereira’s approach challenges the traditional allopathic model of focusing solely on the area of pain and encourages a more comprehensive evaluation of the body.
“Every single thing that you do, think, say, every process in your body, it’s all governed from the central nervous system, everything.”
Diversifying Exercise Routines for Optimal Results
Pereira challenges the myth that having multiple streams of income is necessary for success as a self-employed professional. She shares her personal experience of trying to juggle multiple projects and realizing that it is not sustainable in the long run. Pereira explains that focusing on one main project and letting that be the main thing you work on can lead to better results. She encourages individuals to evaluate their exercise routines and diversify their training schedules. Pereira emphasizes the importance of exploring different movements and not getting stuck in a rigid routine. She uses the example of climbing and how she enjoys incorporating various activities like yoga, dancing, and weightlifting into her fitness regimen. Pereira’s approach highlights the need for individuals to find what works best for their bodies and to listen to their own needs and preferences.
“We should be working extremely hard and we should be able to pause and step away from it and think, okay, now time to get inspiration. So that when I go back to the thing, there is something left in the tank.”
The Power of Breathing Techniques and Mindful Movement
Pereira challenges the notion that the feet should always be parallel in yoga poses. She explains that while finding a neutral alignment can be useful, it is important to explore different movements and positions to allow the brain to map all the possibilities. Pereira emphasizes the importance of lunging, both in yoga and in the gym, and encourages individuals to move their feet out of parallel positions. She shares her own experience of teaching yoga and the shift to online platforms during the pandemic. Pereira highlights the benefits of connecting with people from around the world and the importance of finding inspiration and rest to maintain a sustainable practice.
“We can also shorten the time it takes to achieve things in the body by going to the neural tissue first.”
Implications and Potential Impact
The insights shared by Celest Pereira shed light on the power of functional neurology and mindful movement in promoting physical and mental well-being. By understanding the relationship between the brain and the body, individuals can optimize their movement patterns and address underlying issues that may contribute to pain or discomfort. Pereira’s approach challenges traditional notions of exercise and encourages individuals to listen to their bodies, diversify their routines, and find what works best for them. By incorporating breathing techniques and mindful movement, individuals can enhance their overall well-being and improve their physical performance.
The implications of these concepts are significant, as they offer a new perspective on how we approach movement and exercise. By focusing on the brain-body connection and understanding the role of the nervous system, individuals can make more informed choices about their fitness routines. This knowledge can empower individuals to take control of their physical health and explore new possibilities for movement and self-expression.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, the power of functional neurology and mindful movement lies in their ability to optimize physical and mental well-being. By understanding the brain-body connection and incorporating breathing techniques and mindful movement into our routines, we can enhance our overall health and performance. The insights shared by Celest Pereira highlight the importance of listening to our bodies, diversifying our exercise routines, and challenging traditional notions of movement. As we continue to explore the potential of functional neurology and mindful movement, we can expect to see a shift in how we approach fitness and well-being. By embracing these concepts, we can unlock our full potential and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇 Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST ➡️ Click here to receive link
New Student FREE Livestream Yoga Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes at Native Yoga Center. info.nativeyogacenter.com/livestream Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ➡️ Click Here to Join.
Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.
Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.
*In this thought-provoking conversation, I had the pleasure of speaking with Prashant Ramu, a dedicated yoga practitioner and teacher based in Mysore, India. Prashant shared his personal journey with yoga, the transformative power of the practice, and his vision for the future. Through his insightful words, we gain a deeper understanding of the essence of yoga and its potential impact on our lives.*## Introduction: The Power of YogaYoga is a practice that has been passed down through generations, originating from the ancient Rishis of India. It is a holistic system that encompasses physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), meditation, and ethical principles. The practice of yoga is not limited to the physical realm; it is a path towards self-realization and spiritual growth.Prashant Ramu, born and raised in a rural village near Mysore, India, was introduced to yoga at a young age. His father, inspired by his own practice and the healing benefits he experienced, taught Prashant the fundamentals of yoga. Through the practice of asanas and breath awareness, Prashant was able to overcome severe allergies and regain his health. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion for yoga and set him on a path of self-discovery and transformation.## The Healing Power of YogaPrashant’s journey with yoga began when he was just a child. Suffering from allergies and various health issues, his father turned to yoga as a means of healing. Prashant’s father, a dedicated practitioner himself, saw the potential of yoga to bring about profound changes in his son’s health. Through consistent practice and breath awareness, Prashant was able to heal completely.”Breathing is everything. So when we practice asanas, it’s not like exercise. The complete awareness of each movement, each part of the body. So it really helps to bring awareness. And the body starts understanding and it has the capacity to heal itself. So the yoga asanas help.” – Prashant RamuPrashant’s experience highlights the transformative power of yoga. By cultivating awareness and connecting with the breath, we can tap into the body’s innate healing abilities. Yoga is not just a physical practice; it is a holistic approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit.## The Role of Awareness in YogaOne of the key aspects of yoga is cultivating awareness. Prashant emphasizes the importance of being fully present in each movement and posture. By bringing our attention to the breath and the sensations in the body, we can deepen our practice and unlock its true potential.”Breathing? Breathing is everything. So when we practice asanas, it’s not like exercise. The complete awareness of each movement, each part of the body. So it really helps to bring awareness. And the body starts understanding and it has the capacity to heal itself. So the yoga asanas help.” – Prashant RamuPrashant’s words remind us that yoga is not just about physical postures; it is a practice of mindfulness and self-discovery. By cultivating awareness, we can tap into the body’s wisdom and create a deeper connection with ourselves.## The Integration of Yoga and LifeFor Prashant, yoga is not confined to the mat; it is a way of life. Growing up in a rural village, he was immersed in nature and the simplicity of daily life. This upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of living in harmony with the environment.”In the village, it’s really a gift. So it’s not like the urban area. So we have a lot of opportunity to be in nature mainly and the environment. We are always active. So it really helps to grow up. We start knowing many things, not only one thing. Yes, so we are active. It really teaches a lot of things. One who is born in a village is really a gift. It’s a gift, and one must be very lucky.” – Prashant RamuPrashant’s words remind us of the profound connection between yoga and nature. Yoga is not just a physical practice; it is a way of living in harmony with ourselves and the world around us. By embracing simplicity and cultivating awareness, we can deepen our practice and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life.## The Role of Technology in YogaIn today’s digital age, technology has become an integral part of our lives. Prashant recognizes the potential of technology to enhance the practice and reach a wider audience. Through online classes and the development of a dedicated app, he aims to make yoga more accessible to people around the world.”Online is very accessible for everyone, every part of the world. My students have been very happy to practice with me. It’s good to reach people instead of isolating in one place, and it’s easier. No need to go from point A to point B. We waste our time. So we need a small space and a laptop with some time, maybe a phone. And if you know how to use technology, as I mentioned, it’s easier.” – Prashant RamuPrashant’s embrace of technology demonstrates the adaptability of yoga in the modern world. By utilizing online platforms and creating a dedicated app, he is able to share his practice and teachings with a global audience. Technology, when used mindfully, can be a powerful tool for spreading the wisdom of yoga and connecting practitioners from all walks of life.## Conclusion: The Journey of YogaPrashant Ramu’s journey with yoga is a testament to the transformative power of the practice. From his early experiences with healing allergies to his deepening understanding of the interconnectedness of all things, Prashant embodies the essence of yoga. Through his teachings and dedication to spreading the practice, he inspires others to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and transformation.As we navigate the complexities of modern life, yoga offers a path towards balance, awareness, and inner peace. By cultivating mindfulness, embracing simplicity, and living in harmony with ourselves and the world around us, we can tap into the profound wisdom of yoga. Prashant’s words remind us that yoga is not just a physical practice; it is a way of life that has the power to transform us from the inside out.The future of yoga lies in our ability to integrate its teachings into our daily lives and share its wisdom with others. Through the use of technology and the dedication of passionate practitioners like Prashant Ramu, yoga has the potential to reach new heights and touch the lives of countless individuals around the world.So let us embark on this journey of self-discovery and transformation, guided by the timeless wisdom of yoga. As Prashant reminds us, it is through awareness, simplicity, and a deep connection with ourselves and the world that we can truly unlock the transformative power of yoga.
Exploring the Essence of Yoga: A Conversation with Prashant Ramu
In this thought-provoking conversation, I had the pleasure of speaking with Prashant Ramu, a dedicated yoga practitioner and teacher based in Mysore, India. Prashant shared his personal journey with yoga, the transformative power of the practice, and his vision for the future. Through his insightful words, we gain a deeper understanding of the essence of yoga and its potential impact on our lives.
Introduction: The Power of Yoga
Yoga is a practice that has been passed down through generations, originating from the ancient Rishis of India. It is a holistic system that encompasses physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), meditation, and ethical principles. The practice of yoga is not limited to the physical realm; it is a path towards self-realization and spiritual growth.
Prashant Ramu, born and raised in a rural village near Mysore, India, was introduced to yoga at a young age. His father, inspired by his own practice and the healing benefits he experienced, taught Prashant the fundamentals of yoga. Through the practice of asanas and breath awareness, Prashant was able to overcome severe allergies and regain his health. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion for yoga and set him on a path of self-discovery and transformation.
The Healing Power of Yoga
Prashant’s journey with yoga began when he was just a child. Suffering from allergies and various health issues, his father turned to yoga as a means of healing. Prashant’s father, a dedicated practitioner himself, saw the potential of yoga to bring about profound changes in his son’s health. Through consistent practice and breath awareness, Prashant was able to heal completely.
“Breathing is everything. So when we practice asanas, it’s not like exercise. The complete awareness of each movement, each part of the body. So it really helps to bring awareness. And the body starts understanding and it has the capacity to heal itself. So the yoga asanas help.” – Prashant Ramu
Prashant’s experience highlights the transformative power of yoga. By cultivating awareness and connecting with the breath, we can tap into the body’s innate healing abilities. Yoga is not just a physical practice; it is a holistic approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit.
The Role of Awareness in Yoga
One of the key aspects of yoga is cultivating awareness. Prashant emphasizes the importance of being fully present in each movement and posture. By bringing our attention to the breath and the sensations in the body, we can deepen our practice and unlock its true potential.
“Breathing? Breathing is everything. So when we practice asanas, it’s not like exercise. The complete awareness of each movement, each part of the body. So it really helps to bring awareness. And the body starts understanding and it has the capacity to heal itself. So the yoga asanas help.” – Prashant Ramu
Prashant’s words remind us that yoga is not just about physical postures; it is a practice of mindfulness and self-discovery. By cultivating awareness, we can tap into the body’s wisdom and create a deeper connection with ourselves.
The Integration of Yoga and Life
For Prashant, yoga is not confined to the mat; it is a way of life. Growing up in a rural village, he was immersed in nature and the simplicity of daily life. This upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of living in harmony with the environment.
“In the village, it’s really a gift. So it’s not like the urban area. So we have a lot of opportunity to be in nature mainly and the environment. We are always active. So it really helps to grow up. We start knowing many things, not only one thing. Yes, so we are active. It really teaches a lot of things. One who is born in a village is really a gift. It’s a gift, and one must be very lucky.” – Prashant Ramu
Prashant’s words remind us of the profound connection between yoga and nature. Yoga is not just a physical practice; it is a way of living in harmony with ourselves and the world around us. By embracing simplicity and cultivating awareness, we can deepen our practice and create a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
The Role of Technology in Yoga
In today’s digital age, technology has become an integral part of our lives. Prashant recognizes the potential of technology to enhance the practice and reach a wider audience. Through online classes and the development of a dedicated app, he aims to make yoga more accessible to people around the world.
“Online is very accessible for everyone, every part of the world. My students have been very happy to practice with me. It’s good to reach people instead of isolating in one place, and it’s easier. No need to go from point A to point B. We waste our time. So we need a small space and a laptop with some time, maybe a phone. And if you know how to use technology, as I mentioned, it’s easier.” – Prashant Ramu
Prashant’s embrace of technology demonstrates the adaptability of yoga in the modern world. By utilizing online platforms and creating a dedicated app, he is able to share his practice and teachings with a global audience. Technology, when used mindfully, can be a powerful tool for spreading the wisdom of yoga and connecting practitioners from all walks of life.
Conclusion: The Journey of Yoga
Prashant Ramu’s journey with yoga is a testament to the transformative power of the practice. From his early experiences with healing allergies to his deepening understanding of the interconnectedness of all things, Prashant embodies the essence of yoga. Through his teachings and dedication to spreading the practice, he inspires others to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and transformation.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, yoga offers a path towards balance, awareness, and inner peace. By cultivating mindfulness, embracing simplicity, and living in harmony with ourselves and the world around us, we can tap into the profound wisdom of yoga. Prashant’s words remind us that yoga is not just a physical practice; it is a way of life that has the power to transform us from the inside out.
The future of yoga lies in our ability to integrate its teachings into our daily lives and share its wisdom with others. Through the use of technology and the dedication of passionate practitioners like Prashant Ramu, yoga has the potential to reach new heights and touch the lives of countless individuals around the world.
So let us embark on this journey of self-discovery and transformation, guided by the timeless wisdom of yoga. As Prashant reminds us, it is through awareness, simplicity, and a deep connection with ourselves and the world that we can truly unlock the transformative power of yoga.
New Student Livestream Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes at Native Yoga Center. Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ~ Click Here to join.
I am honored to present Prashantha Ramu on this week’s episode! Prashantha is a yoga teacher living in Mysuru, India who is passionate about the power of yoga to heal and transform lives. Listen as he shares his life as a yogi and feel the positive vibrations he has to give.
Myself Prashanth from Kadavadara Gudi Village, Mysore. Working with IT corporate culture so many years I never left my love towards yoga.
Yoga is not just part of my life, it travels with me in my entire span of life in every step of My life. Yoga is introduced to me in my childhood from my father. Since then I have practiced Yoga under guidance of my father for two years. Yes, My father is my first yoga guru. Any knowledge that is introduced in childhood has special impact on life.
Since 2013 I have been practicing vinyasa yoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. After a long self practice went for TTC in Mysore, and I’ve been teaching for four years.
Today I stand in front of you all as a person who emerged different because of Yoga. Practice should never end in the yoga whether it is teacher or student, Practice is the key to the success. Believing strongly in this, I expect the same from the students. Dedicated, determined, passionate and confidence in learning and also be hardworking so the success can reach you and make you new person. Yoga has different dimensions of learning, I help you with understanding Yoga in your own way, which is my unique way of teaching Yoga. Depending on the student requirements the sequence will be built/created and will be used and can modified again based on the student learning. This methodology is very important as every human being is unique with their strength and flexibility. I’m specialised in different styles like Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Handstands, and many more different sequences in a yogic Way.
New Student Livestream Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes at Native Yoga Center. Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ~ Click Here to join.
Join my special guest, Victoria Davis, on this week’s episode of Native Yoga Toddcast. Victoria spent twenty years searching for answers, applying remedies & integrating practices, and have taken all she has learned & packaged it in a way that works. How does she know it works? Because it’s worked for her. And here’s why she knows it’ll work for you.
New Student Livestream Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes at Native Yoga Center. Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ~ Click Here to join.
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