Monthly Archives: May 2024

Liz Corwin – The Power of Peace: Journey of a Navy Fighter Pilot & Yogi

Posted on by
Reply

Listen to podcast with Liz for FREE Here

In this episode, Liz Corwin, a former Navy F-18 pilot and current Navy reservist, shares her journey from being a fighter pilot to becoming a yoga teacher. She discusses the importance of authenticity in teaching yoga and offers insights on how to create a safe and inclusive environment for military members in yoga classes. Liz also talks about the transformative power of motherhood and the impact it has had on her yoga practice. She shares her favorite retreat experiences and highlights the importance of creating a container for retreats while allowing the group dynamics to shape the experience.

Visit Liz on her website: https://www.walkaboutyoga.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Authenticity is key in teaching yoga, and it is important to be true to yourself as a teacher.
  • When teaching military members, it is essential to create a safe and inclusive environment by being direct and using clear language.
  • Motherhood has brought a new perspective to Liz’s yoga practice and has made her more aware of her body and its capabilities.
  • Retreats provide an opportunity for personal growth and transformation, and it is important to create a container while allowing the group dynamics to shape the experience.
  • Supporting military families is crucial, as they also need the support and opportunities for growth and well-being.

A Glimpse Into the Life of a Yoga-Teaching Navy Pilot

The intersection of military precision and the fluidity of yoga may not be an obvious one, but Liz Corwin, a former Navy F-18 pilot and current Navy reservist turned yoga instructor, embodies this duality seamlessly. In a captivating dialogue, Liz reveals insights about her life experiences, from the adrenaline of flight school to the tranquility of yoga, her devotion to military service, and the challenges of motherhood. This deep dive uncovers the layers of Liz’s life, where she merges the structured world of aeronautics with the flexibility of yoga, reminding us that growth lies in the balance between pushing boundaries and seeking inner peace.

Key Takeaways:

  • Embodying the complementarity of military discipline and yoga’s mindfulness can lead to a profound understanding of personal and collective peace.
  • Authenticity in teaching, whether it stems from a military or civilian background, resonates deeply and creates a bridge between people of diverse experiences.
  • Navigating the identity as a protector and the quest for individual and global peace requires a complex reflection and acceptance of one’s contributions to both.

From Fighter Jets to Yoga Mats: The Intersection of Discipline and Mindfulness

Within the realms of military rigor and the patience of yoga lies an unexpected symbiosis. Liz Corwin’s evolution from a Navy F-18 pilot to a dedicated yoga teacher presents a narrative that deftly blends the high stakes of combat flights with the grounding practice of yoga. It resonates with the fundamental truth that one can inhabit multiple worlds—those of adrenaline-inducing adventures and those of reflective tranquility. Liz describes her affinity for the thrill and demands of flying jets as a former Navy pilot, a passion that’s undeniably intertwined with her presence and stillness as a yogi. As she recounts, “every cat shot was just as exciting as the first time,” illustrating that even the most thrilling experiences demand a counterbalance, one that she found in the meditative practice of yoga.

The broader implications of this blend of worlds are significant. Liz’s story exemplifies how individuals can construct a harmonious life that honors their multifaceted nature. It challenges the binary perception of rigid discipline versus fluid mindfulness, instead showcasing a sustainable model where disciplined training can coexist with—and even enhance—mindful living.

Harnessing the Power of Authentic Presence in Teaching

Throughout the conversation, the theme of authenticity emerges as a centerpiece, particularly in teaching. Whether instructing a military-focused yoga class or guiding a studio session with civilians, Liz emphasizes the importance of genuine connection. “Be authentic…your audience will recognize that,” she advises, stressing that this acknowledgment forges trust and fosters an inclusive environment. Yet, achieving this authenticity takes introspection and work, with Liz noting the necessity of feeling competent and grounded in one’s own body and teaching style before connecting authentically with others.

The discourse on authenticity in teaching extends beyond the personal. It resonates in the broader context of the educational and wellness communities, where practitioners are continually seeking ways to connect and engage with their audiences meaningfully. Liz presents authenticity not as a fixed endpoint but as an evolving quest that’s both personal and communal, offering a roadmap for teachers and leaders who aspire to leave a lasting impact.

Remerging Peace and Defense: The Dualistic Identity of a Military Yoga Instructor

One of the most poignant and complex themes discussed is Liz’s dual identity as a service member and a proponent of peace. As a reservist and a warrior for peace through the practice of yoga, Liz tackles the dichotomy head-on. The conversation explores the intrinsic human desire for peace that underlies military actions and frames this pursuit as a deeply rooted human endeavor, reflective of the same values sought through yoga. Liz’s contemplation of her role, acknowledging her initial motivations for joining the navy driven by the allure of adventure and brotherhood, reveals a nuanced understanding of the multifacited nature of military service.

This topic touches upon a universal truth about human nature and society’s need to protect while striving for tranquility. Liz’s reflection invites us to consider the role that each person plays in this balance—how we all contribute to the quest for peace, and how we navigate the complexities inherent in the desire to both defend and harmonize.

In a world increasingly fraught with conflicts and divisions, Liz embodies a message that insists peace and defense can be two sides of the same coin. Her commitment to both serves as an emblematic tribute to all those who commit to this delicate balance. Liz’s insights offer a beacon of hope that we can all learn from, teaching us that service, in its truest form, comes in many guises and is driven by an unwavering pursuit of a world where understanding and coexistence are paramount.

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. 

Practice to a New Yoga Class every day with our nativeyogaonline.com course called Today’s Community Class with code FIRSTMONTHFREE.

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.

Please email special requests and feedback to info@nativeyogacenter.com

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

Cory Sterling – Busting Myths in the Yoga Business World

Posted on by
Reply

Listen to this Toddcast with Cory for FREE here

In this enlightening episode, Todd converses with Cory Sterling, an accomplished lawyer who has carved a unique niche in the legal world by catering to those in the wellness and yoga industry. From his law firm in Mexico, Cory shares valuable insights on the intersection of law and yoga, shedding light on common misconceptions and the necessity of understanding legal ramifications for practitioners and studio owners alike.

Visit Cory on his website: https://www.consciouscounsel.ca/Home
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sRsahBZoBwQ

Key Takeaways:

  • A waiver of liability is crucial for any yoga teacher to protect themselves legally in their relationships with students.
  • Professionalism and legal knowledge are imperative in the wellness industry, just as in any other business.
  • The distinction between independent contractors and employees is complex and essential to understand for studio owners and yoga teachers alike.
  • Legal issues such as trademark registration, client service agreements, and social media disclaimers are key considerations for yoga professionals operating both in-person and online.
  • Cory’s approach to law in the wellness industry encourages other lawyers to embrace remote work while providing legal services with heart and professionalism.

Navigating the Legal Landscape of the Wellness Industry: Insights from Lawyer Cory Sterling

The wellness industry, particularly yoga and related practices, is often envisioned as an arena of tranquility, far removed from the intricacies of legal frameworks. Yet, as industry professionals like Cory Sterling emphasize, navigating the intricate legal landscape is crucial for the sustainable growth and professionalization of wellness practices. In the intersecting space between law, wellness, and entrepreneurship, Sterling, a lawyer specializing in the wellness industry, sheds light on how heart-centered professionals can safeguard their work and embrace their entrepreneurial responsibilities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The significance of legal protection: Understanding the importance of waivers, contracts, and legal advice cannot be understated in the wellness space.
  • Professionalism and heart in legal matters: The need for merging professional responsibility with personal values in providing legal services to wellness entrepreneurs.
  • The shift toward informed entrepreneurship: Emphasizing the importance of education and awareness in legal matters for forging a successful career in wellness.

Integral Legal Documents for Wellness Entrepreneurs

In the evolving terrain of yoga and wellness, the importance of securing one’s professional practice with the necessary legal documentation cannot be overstated. Sterling points out that “having a well-drafted waiver of liability is the quintessential foundational document as a yoga teacher,” emphasizing the invisible legalities inherent in the student-teacher relationship. He goes on to explain the dire consequences of not having such protections in place, including potential lawsuits and rebranding crises due to overlooked trademark issues.

In addition, Sterling asserts the need for practitioners to understand the different facets of their online presence, detailing the necessities of privacy policies, social media disclaimers, and intellectual property protection. This level of precaution extends beyond physical interactions, encapsulating the digital space where wellness services are increasingly being offered.

“Communicate expectations openly and honestly, and also accept that there are legal nuances to each relationship that you have,” Sterling advises, speaking to the necessity for clear delineation of expectations and legal relationships in the healthcare practice.

Strike a Balance Between Law and Heart

An unexpected but enlightening theme that Sterling discusses is the harmonization of legality with humanity. This challenge particularly resonates within industries driven by principles of humanity, compassion, and wellness. As Sterling reiterates, the mission of his legal practice is “to transform the way legal services are provided to heart leading entrepreneurs,” demonstrating a paradigm shift in how law professionals can align their services with the values of their clientele.

The testament to this approach is in the reception and feedback Sterling’s firm has garnered, notably for its intuitive understanding and empathy towards their clients. He narrates experiences of helping other lawyers create meaningful niches in harmony with their own interests, which further underscores the potential to infuse legal rigor with a sense of personal touch and commitment.

Encouraging Professionalism in the Wellness Industry

Another significant theme lies in establishing professionalism within the wellness community. Sterling points to the need for yoga professionals and studio owners to embrace the responsibilities that come with managing a business, urging them to seek guidance on issues such as staff contracts and employment statuses. By articulating the distinction between employees and independent contractors, he highlights the legal intricacies that can make or break a wellness endeavor.

“Most importantly, [professionalism] is fulfilling,” Sterling exclaims, highlighting how adopting a professional approach can be both beneficial and deeply satisfying for wellness entrepreneurs. The impact of this professionalization reverberates through the increasing incorporation of yoga and wellness practices in diverse sectors such as education, healthcare, and even insurance acknowledgment.

As Sterling effectively outlines, the maturation of the wellness industry will consequently require its practitioners to be well-versed and proactive in their legal obligations, augmenting their inspirational work with a solid foundation of professionalism and legally sound practices.

In weaving together these key themes, the candid dialogue with Cory Sterling affirms the essence of legality, heart, and professionalism in nurturing the wellness sector. His perspective serves as a beacon for wellness professionals to be mindful of their legal responsibilities and embrace an informed, astute approach to entrepreneurship—one which is heart-centered yet grounded in pragmatic foresight.

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. 

Practice to a New Yoga Class every day with our nativeyogaonline.com course called Today’s Community Class with code FIRSTMONTHFREE.

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.

Please email special requests and feedback to info@nativeyogacenter.com

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Dr. Michael Shea ~ Polyvagal Theory in Yoga and Meditation

Posted on by
Reply

In this episode of the Native Yoga Toddcast, host Todd welcomes back Dr. Michael Shea for a discussion on polyvagal theory in yoga and meditation. They explore the importance of the vagus nerve, an information highway that connects the brain to every organ system in the body. Dr. Shea explains how the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in our sense of safety and how trauma can impact its functioning. They delve into the concepts of top-down and bottom-up approaches in therapy and the role of yoga and meditation in regulating the nervous system. The episode highlights the significance of turning inward and finding love in the present moment as a means of healing and self-discovery.

Visit Michael on his website: https://www.sheaheart.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • The vagus nerve is a vital information highway that connects the brain to every organ system in the body, providing sensory impressions and information about our state of safety.
  • Trauma can disrupt the functioning of the vagus nerve, leading to heightened stress responses or withdrawal and numbing behaviors.
  • Yoga and meditation can help regulate the vagus nerve and promote a greater sense of safety and well-being.
  • The yamas and niyamas, ethical principles in yoga, provide a moral code that can guide our relationships with others and ourselves, supporting the turn inward and self-discovery.

The Power of Polyvagal Theory in Yoga and Meditation

Key Takeaways:

  • Polyvagal theory is based on the vagus nerve, which is an information highway that connects the brain to every organ system in the body.
  • The vagus nerve is responsible for transmitting information about the body’s state and sensations to the brain, allowing us to make conscious choices and feel safe.
  • Trauma can disrupt the vagal pathways and affect our ability to sense and respond to our body’s signals of safety.
  • Yoga and meditation can help clarify and strengthen the vagal pathways, leading to a greater sense of safety and improved well-being.

Understanding Polyvagal Theory

Polyvagal theory is a neurologically based model that focuses on the vagus nerve, which serves as an information highway between the brain and the body. The vagus nerve connects to every organ system in the body, allowing for the transmission of physiological and metabolic data to the brain. This information is crucial for our overall health and well-being.

The vagus nerve also plays a role in our ability to sense and perceive our body’s sensations. It provides us with conscious perception of information and sensations, allowing us to make choices and navigate our world more effectively. This is particularly important when it comes to our sense of safety.

The primary association of the vagus nerve is with safety. It provides the brain with information about the state of our organs and the sensations we experience in our body. This information helps us determine whether we are safe or in danger. When the vagus nerve is functioning optimally, we have a greater sense of safety and can navigate our world with confidence.

The Impact of Trauma on the Vagus Nerve

Trauma can disrupt the vagal pathways and affect our ability to sense and respond to our body’s signals of safety. There are different types of trauma, including physical abuse, developmental trauma, sexual abuse, and PTSD. Each type of trauma can have a unique impact on our vagal response.

When trauma is triggered, our body can enter a state of sympathetic arousal, characterized by an accelerated heart rate and increased stress response. However, depending on the severity of our trauma history, we may also experience a withdrawal response associated with the older part of the vagus nerve. This response can lead to a numbing out or dissociation from the world, as our body’s way of protecting itself.

Understanding our trauma response and how it affects our vagal pathways is crucial for healing and finding a sense of safety. Yoga and meditation can play a significant role in this process by helping us develop a greater awareness of our body’s sensations and providing tools to regulate our nervous system.

The Role of Yoga and Meditation in Polyvagal Theory

Yoga and meditation offer a bottom-up approach to healing and regulating the vagal pathways. By turning inward and focusing on our body’s sensations, we can develop a greater sense of safety and connection to ourselves. This somatic awareness allows us to override the stress response and activate the relaxation response associated with the vagus nerve.

The practice of yoga and meditation can help us refine our relationship with our body and breath. Through asana and pranayama, we can release unnecessary tension and develop a deeper connection to our physical and energetic bodies. This physical awareness is essential for grounding and finding a sense of safety.

Pratyahara, the withdrawal of the senses, and dharana, concentration, further support the turn inward. By withdrawing our attention from the external world and focusing on the present moment, we can cultivate a calm and peaceful state of mind. This inward focus allows us to develop an open-hearted sense of self and connection to others.

Meditation, the culmination of the yogic practice, expands our consciousness beyond the confines of the mind. It allows us to experience a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us. Through meditation, we can tap into a sense of awe and love that transcends our individual experiences.

Embracing Love and Healing

Polyvagal theory and the practice of yoga and meditation offer us a path to healing and finding a sense of safety in our lives. By understanding the impact of trauma on our vagal pathways and developing a greater awareness of our body’s sensations, we can navigate our world with more ease and resilience.

It is never too late to seek love and healing, regardless of our past experiences. The practice of yoga and meditation provides us with the tools to turn inward, cultivate self-compassion, and develop a deeper connection to ourselves and others. By embracing love and healing in the present moment, we can rewrite our narrative and create a more fulfilling and joyful life.

In conclusion, polyvagal theory and the practice of yoga and meditation offer us a powerful framework for understanding and healing trauma. By turning inward and developing a greater awareness of our body’s sensations, we can regulate our nervous system and find a sense of safety. Through the practice of yoga and meditation, we can cultivate self-compassion, expand our consciousness, and embrace love and healing in our 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. 

Practice to a New Yoga Class every day with our nativeyogaonline.com course called Today’s Community Class with code FIRSTMONTHFREE.

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.

Please email special requests and feedback to info@nativeyogacenter.com

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

Carla Patullo – How Surviving Breast Cancer Inspired Her Grammy-Winning Album

Posted on by
Reply

Listen to podcast with Carla for FREE Here

In this insightful conversation, Todd McLaughlin delves deep into the artistic journey and personal life of Grammy winner Carla Patullo. Beyond the glitz of awards, Carla’s narrative is one that traverses through the challenges of health, the catharsis of music creation, and the importance of physical and mental well-being. Listeners will find themselves drawn into an engaging discussion that reveals the profound impact of Carla’s experiences on her creative output.

Visit Carla on her website: https://www.carlapatullo.com/
Listen to Grammy Award winning “So She Howls” on Spotify 

Key Takeaways:

  • Carla Patullo shares her transformative experience with breast cancer and its influence on her Grammy-winning album “So She Howls.”
  • Music served as a therapeutic diary for Carla, helping her navigate through a tough personal period.
  • The album incorporates binaural beats to induce a relaxed and meditative state for listeners.
  • Carla takes pride in her ability to compose for a variety of musical genres and film scores, reflecting her adaptive creative process.
  • The episode touches on Carla’s personal growth and enhanced appreciation for life post breast cancer recovery.

Healing Through Harmony: Grammy Winner Carla Patullo’s Musical Journey of Triumph

Music has always been a beacon of hope and healing for many. But when it becomes a conduit for overcoming personal tragedies, its power resonates even further, touching hearts and stirring souls. In a candid conversation, Grammy Award-winning musician Carla Patullo shares her inspiring journey, detailing how her battle with cancer and the loss of her mother shaped her celebrated album “So She Howls” and her perspective on life and creativity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Overcoming Personal Struggles through Music: Carla Patullo discusses how the creation of her Grammy-winning album “So She Howls” helped her navigate through breast cancer and personal grief.
  • The Power of Binaural Beats: Patullo’s exploration of binaural beats contributed to the healing tone of her album, showcasing music’s capacity to alter states of mind.
  • The Impact of Storytelling in Compositions: As a film score composer, Patullo emphasizes the significance of storytelling in music, whether in cinema or through her own experiences.

From Personal Diary to Grammy Glory: The Genesis of ‘So She Howls’

Carla Patullo’s profound connection to her craft is evident as she speaks about “So She Howls.” Initially a personal diary of sorts, the album arose from a period of immense hardship.

“When I started this album, it was coming out of a very tough place, personally, and it was just really a diary for me. … The Grammys were like, the last thing, you know, being a musician, I’ve always dreamed of, you know, someday I’ll have a Grammy, you know, maybe. It’s one of those things that seemed so far away.”

Patullo’s genuineness in confronting her emotions results in a body of work that is as much a therapeutic release for her as it is a masterpiece for the listener. The intimacy with which she approaches music composition, making room for raw emotions and unfiltered vocals, has not only garnered critical acclaim but also provided a source of solace for many facing similar battles.

Therapeutic Tones: The Intersection of Health and Music

Another fascinating aspect of Patullo’s work is her foray into the world of binaural beats and sound therapy. The tones and frequencies used in “So She Howls” are carefully curated for their therapeutic properties.

“I was kind of exploring binaural beats … you’ll pick two different frequencies, and the difference between those frequencies, that magic number, it takes you into a state of mind that is either relaxed or more clear.”

By blending emotion with science, Patullo elevates her music to another realm, creating a soundscape that aids in meditation and relaxation. It serves as a reminder of the potent role music can play in wellness, offering an auditory sanctuary for stressed minds and troubled hearts.

The Story in Score: Film Composition and Evocative Soundscapes

Beyond her journey as a recording artist, Carla Patullo’s insights into the world of film scoring reveal the richness of storytelling through music. Her narrative-driven approach underscores the importance of enhancing on-screen tales with the right auditory elements.

“What I’m doing is just amplifying that [emotion] in areas … It’s a lot of, you know, really, like, letting yourself sink into this film and … discovering your own sound.”

Whether it’s crafting a melody to emote a character’s unspoken feelings or accentuating a cinematic moment, Patullo understands the intricacies of weaving a narrative with notes and chords. Her expertise in translating stories into sound not only showcases her versatility as a musician but also demonstrates the profound influence music has in shaping the viewer’s experience.

Synthesizing Creativity and Resilience Through Music

Carla Patullo’s narrative is one of transcending personal struggle through artistic creation. Her account spotlights the transformative power of music, emphasizing its capacity to heal, communicate, and tell stories that resonate with audiences. As both a composer and a survivor, Patullo’s poignant experiences remind us that even when facing life’s darkest challenges, the human spirit, much like music, has the inherent ability to rise, resonate, and rejuvenate.

In a world where we often search for respite from our trials, Patullo’s work emerges not only as a testament to her personal resilience and triumph over adversity but also as a universal anchor that many can cling to for comfort and strength. By sharing her story, she not only substantiates the relevancy of music in contemporary discussions of health and therapy but also champions the art of composition as a narrative device, powerful enough to influence and guide listeners through their unique life stories.

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. 

Practice to a New Yoga Class every day with our nativeyogaonline.com course called Today’s Community Class with code FIRSTMONTHFREE.

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.

Please email special requests and feedback to info@nativeyogacenter.com

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

Stacy McCarthy ~ Adapting and Thriving: Embracing Technology and Growth in Yoga

Posted on by
2

Listen to Toddcast with Stacy for FREE Here on your favorite listening platform

Todd McLaughlin interviews Stacy McCarthy, a yoga teacher and kinesiology professor. Stacy shares her journey into yoga, from her first experience in a yoga class to becoming a dedicated practitioner and teacher. She discusses the evolution of her practice and teaching style, emphasizing the importance of adapting to the needs of students and finding a balance between discipline and creativity. Stacy also touches on the impact of technology on the yoga industry and the need for consistent practice and self-reflection. Overall, she emphasizes the transformative power of yoga and the importance of finding one’s own path.

Visit Stacy on her website: https://www.yoganamastacy.com/
Follow her on IG here: https://www.instagram.com/yoga_namastacy/

Key Takeaways:

  • Stacy McCarthy’s yoga philosophy is grounded in welcoming inclusivity, encouraging practitioners to approach the mat regardless of their background.
  • Her teaching style has evolved from the strict discipline of Ashtanga to a blend that incorporates alignment, mind-body harmony, and the softer aspects of practices like Viniyoga and Iyengar.
  • The practice of yoga, according to McCarthy, is a life-long journey that yields more health and happiness when approached with consistency and authenticity.
  • Adaptability is honored as a cornerstone in Stacy’s career, illustrated by how she has embraced the technological shifts affecting yoga instruction.

Yoga has journeyed from the serene ashrams of the East to the bustling gyms of the West, evolving with each breathe and posture into a global phenomenon that transcends its ancient roots. Delving into the depths of this transformative practice, Stacy McCarthy, a seasoned yoga educator and practitioner, shares her profound insights and experiences that underscore the fundamental essence of yoga and its burgeoning influence in our contemporary world.

Key takeaways:

  • Adaptation and Growth: Yoga’s capacity to evolve with societal advancements.
  • Profundity in Practice: The significance of going beyond physical asanas to the spiritual essence of yoga.
  • Evolving Teaching Dynamics: Changing trends in learning and teaching facing yoga teachers today.

The Fluidity of Yoga Through Time

The story of yoga, as recalled by Stacy McCarthy, is one of timeless fluidity. From her initial forays in Ashtanga Yoga to embracing the holistic incorporation of various lineages, McCarthy epitomizes the progression one goes through as a student and teacher of yoga. Her narrative eloquently represents the transformative journey of yoga across decades.

Historical Context and Personal Evolution

McCarthy’s transition from competitive swimming to yoga underscores a seamless interplay of discipline and discovery. Her early commitment to the structured path of Ashtanga provided a rigorous yet rewarding foundation, an athletic harmony that eased her entry into the profound world of yoga teaching.

“…it was disciplined, and it was consistent, and it was about practice, practice, practice.”

Drawing from her extensive experience, McCarthy dives deep into her teaching philosophy, emphasizing alignment, stability, and the embodiment of practice in one’s everyday life.

Yoga as Lifelong Learning

The consistent and pervasive practice of yoga fostered by teachers like McCarthy is a testament to yoga’s longevity. Advocating a lifelong commitment to yoga, she articulates the nuanced growth one undergoes within a consistent yoga practice. Underlying her discussion is the notion that what begins with the body invariably penetrates the mind and spirit.

“…the teachings are embodied in us. Right. It’s from the inside out.”

This ethos is not just theoretical but is also practical, as demonstrated in her daily practice, comprising Asana and meditation. McCarthy personifies the idea that yoga transcends age and other life changes and showcases the numerous physical and psychological benefits it offers over time.

The Changing Landscape of Yoga Education

In the era of rapid technological advancement, Stacy McCarthy offers a glimpse into the democratization of yoga education. Navigating through the advent of digital teaching platforms, she spotlights the proliferation of yoga beyond traditional studio walls.

Navigating the Digital Transition

True to her adaptability, McCarthy has welcomed the shift to online teaching, harnessing platforms like Zoom to disseminate yoga teachings broadly. Her perspective reflects an educational approach that blends time-honored traditions with the conveniences of modern technology.

Teacher Training in the New Age

However, this digital revolution brings its own set of challenges, as observed in teacher trainings today. McCarthy notes a trend where eager learners sometimes lack the foundational commitment of daily yoga practice—a departure from the immersive dedication that once defined the yogic journey.

“…to be a yoga teacher and really thrive…you really have to kind of find those niches of what you really love and diversify within it…”

It’s not just the platform but also the content that is changing. As yogic principles like mindfulness permeate various sectors, from entrepreneurship to cryptocurrency, McCarthy herself integrates her expertise into diverse spaces, adapting ancient wisdom to modern paradigms.

Looking Ahead: The Forthcoming Book and Continual Learning

Looking ahead, McCarthy reveals upcoming ventures that mark a new era in her exploration of yoga. Rooted in the lessons she gleaned from a close, personal journey with her late parents, her upcoming book promises to delve into a deep examination of Shavasana—the pose representing the ultimate surrender and release—and its transformative power.

“…if there’s, like, one pose that’s going to transform our lives, I believe that is the pose.”

This project, testament to the profound impact of intimate, life-changing experiences, showcases the ever-evolving nature of yoga practice and philosophy. Far from confining herself to a single narrative or tradition, McCarthy’s approach embraces creativity and open-mindedness, ensuring that her insights continue to resonate deeply and authentically with contemporary yoga practitioners.

The common threads woven through the fabric of Stacy McCarthy’s journey articulate a narrative where tradition and innovation coexist. With her unwavering commitment and adaptable ethos, McCarthy reflects the boundless potential of yoga to inspire and transform lives across generations and geographies. As yoga continues to shape and be shaped by the practitioners who cherish its tenets, the doctrines of mindfulness, bodily respect, and spiritual exploration remain eternal.

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. 

Practice to a New Yoga Class every day with our nativeyogaonline.com course called Today’s Community Class with code FIRSTMONTHFREE.

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.

Please email special requests and feedback to info@nativeyogacenter.com

Support the Show.

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga 
Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin