Category Archives: kid’s yoga

Susi Amendola ~ The Heart-Mind Connection: How Yoga Can Improve Mental and Emotional Well-being

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Susi Amendola is a seasoned stress management specialist with over 30 years of experience, serving as a yoga therapist and passionate advocate for holistic wellness. Her extensive background includes the authorship of “The Centered Heart: Evidence-based Mind-Body Practices to Stress Less and Improve Cardiac Health,” where she merges the worlds of conventional health wisdom and yoga’s healing methodologies. 

Visit Susi on her website here: https://yourcenteredheart.com/joinnow
As a listener of this podcast use code TODDCAST and receive $100 off of the 30 days to Stress Less Challenge. 
Purchase a copy of Susi’s new book here: https://yourcenteredheart.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • The impact of traditional yoga practices on reversing heart disease and improving overall wellness.
  • The critical role of the relaxation response in managing stress and achieving restful sleep.
  • Insights into the complex interplay between our thoughts, emotions, physical health, and the environment.
  • Techniques such as visualization and meditation which empower individuals to tap into their inherent healing capabilities.

Unlocking the Power of the Heart: Proven Mind-Body Practices for Stress Management and Cardiac Health

In an insightful and deeply reflective conversation, Susi Amendola, a seasoned stress management specialist and yoga therapist with over 30 years of experience, shares her wisdom on the profound connection between mind-body practices, stress management, and cardiac health. Drawing upon her work and recent authorship, Amendola illuminates the often underappreciated power of yoga, meditation, and the centered heart in fostering healing and preventing disease.

Key Takeaways:

  • Evidence-based Yoga: There is significant research indicating the impact of yoga on reducing stress and improving heart health.
  • Personalized Practices: Yoga therapy adapts to individual needs, recognizing that not all practices suit every person, especially in managing stress and chronic conditions.
  • Power of Imagery: Through guided imagination, individuals can directly influence their health, demonstrating the profound connection between mind and healing.

The Centrality of Evidence-Based Yoga in Health

The modern embrace of yoga for its health benefits has been significantly bolstered by evidence-based research. As Susi Amendola points out, early in her career, scientific support for yoga’s effects on health was scant, particularly in Western contexts. Today, however, there is an abundance of research demonstrating its efficacy.

“It was such a joy to write this book, to actually find evidence-based information to support what we’ve been doing.”

The Omnipresence of Stress and the Yogic Antidote

An undeniable reality of modern life is the ubiquity of stress, linked to worsening health outcomes, including heart disease. Yoga emerges as a powerful antidote, providing tools to navigate life’s pressures while bolstering the body’s resilience. The evidence is clear: regular yoga practice can lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and calm the nervous system, contributing to overall heart health.

Not Just for the Heart: The Whole-Body Benefits

A further revelation from Amendola’s experience is the comprehensive nature of yoga’s benefits. While initially applied in a cardiac health program, the practices yielded improvements across the spectrum of health, touching on issues like diabetes, depression, and beyond.

“A lot of other conditions would improve when people were trying to reverse their heart disease.”

Individual Needs and the Tailoring of Therapeutic Yoga

At heart, yoga therapy is about customization to the individual. The recognition that not every practice serves each person equally is a cornerstone of Amendola’s approach to yoga therapy, particularly when managing stress or chronic illnesses.

The Importance of Adapting Yoga to the Individual

For instance, considering breathing practices for an individual with asthma might necessitate a different approach than for another without such a condition. The yoga therapist adapts, finding alternatives to avoid exacerbating stress, illustrating the nuanced understanding required in this field.

“For someone who has breathing issues, it’s probably better for them… not to focus so much right away on their breathing.”

Empowering the Self-Healers

A significant part of this approach is encouraging self-discovery and empowerment. By tapping into one’s intuition and internal wisdom, individuals may unlock their own paths to healing. Yoga, under Amendola’s philosophy, serves as a guide, not a prescription.

“I think this was a big thing to do at this point in my life to think, ‘Yeah, I think I’ll just write a book and then start traveling and doing more.’ Like it’s a whole nother profession.”

The Power of Imagery in Healing Practices

A theme that surfaced repeatedly in the conversation is the role of imagery in healing. Amendola underlines the potential of guided imagery to directly impact physical health, offering anecdotal evidence of its potency from her work in the heart health program.

Healing Through Visualizing Wellness

Participants engaging in visualizing practices experienced real physiological changes, such as the reopening of blocked arteries. This level of influence marks a divine interplay between the body’s tangible reality and the mind’s creative ability to envisage health.

“…the mind is amazing… It can do so many things in the realm of imagery that it may not be able to do otherwise.”

Imagery for Stress Reduction and Emotional Health

Beyond physical healing, Amendola suggests using imagery for navigating everyday stressors such as anxiety over flying or addressing interpersonal tensions, showcasing its vast applicability.

Seamless Integration: Combining Yoga with Modern Medicine

Amendola’s diverse experience in merging yoga therapy with traditional medicine provides a blueprint for integrating holistic and modern approaches. This creates a pathway for healing that is inclusive, evidence-based, and profoundly compassionate. The centered heart—that core of our being where emotions and health converge—is strengthened through this integrative practice, offering a hopeful vision for the future of healthcare.

“If we can make these small changes, it has a big impact in the world and with the people around us as well.”

As we reconsider our relationship with health, stress, and chronic disease, Amendola’s insights serve as a beacon, guiding us toward a future where the wisdom of ancient practices and the precision of modern medicine harmonize, centered on the powerful and radiant heart. Through her work, we are reminded of the vast potential within us to manage stress, heal our bodies, and ultimately tap into the profound depth of our own centered hearts.

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.

Native Yoga Teacher Training 2024– In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: ➡️ https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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

Laura Rodgers – Creating a Peaceful World: How Yoga and Meditation Can Foster Global Harmony

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In this episode of the Native Yoga Toddcast, Laura Rodgers joins as a special guest. Laura shares her journey with yoga and meditation, starting from her background as a dancer and how she found yoga as a pivot from dance. She discusses her initial experiences with yoga and how it evolved over time, incorporating meditation and mindfulness practices. 

She emphasizes the importance of consistency in meditation and the benefits of integrating yoga and meditation into daily life. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of listening and understanding different perspectives in today’s world.

Key Takeaways:

  • Laura’s yoga journey began as a dancer, and she found yoga to be a wonderful transition from the dance world, focusing on inner feeling and breathing.
  • Meditation became an integral part of Laura’s practice, and she explored various styles and attended retreats to deepen her understanding.
  • Silence in meditation retreats can be challenging but also provides an opportunity to observe and learn from one’s thoughts and emotions.
  • Laura emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and forgiveness in the meditation practice, allowing oneself to be human and learning from experiences.

Native Yoga Toddcast: Exploring the Power of Yoga and Meditation

Key Takeaways:

  • Yoga and meditation can be powerful tools for personal growth and self-discovery.
  • The practice of yoga can help individuals transition from a focus on external validation to an inner sense of peace and well-being.
  • Meditation can provide insights into our own minds and help us cultivate a more compassionate and loving attitude towards ourselves and others.

The Journey of Yoga and Meditation

In this episode of the Native Yoga Toddcast, Laura Rodgers, an avid yoga and meditation practitioner, shares her journey and experiences with yoga and meditation. She discusses how she discovered yoga after a career-ending injury as a dancer and how it became a transformative practice for her. Initially, Laura saw yoga as a physical practice, but over time, she delved deeper into the philosophy and different types of yoga.

Laura’s first lightbulb moment with yoga came when she realized that it offered a different approach to movement and self-expression compared to dance. Instead of focusing on external validation and performance, yoga encouraged her to turn inward and connect with her breath and body. This shift in perspective allowed her to find relaxation and inner peace.

As Laura continued her yoga practice, she also began exploring meditation. She encountered meditation and mindfulness techniques in her yoga classes and retreats, as well as during a week-long intensive program called the Hoffman Process. This experience deepened her understanding of meditation and sparked a passion for exploring different meditation practices and attending retreats.

The Power of Meditation

Meditation has become an integral part of Laura’s daily routine. She starts her day with a variety of practices, including reading, chanting, and pranayama (breathwork), before settling into her meditation practice. While she initially relied on guided meditations, she eventually transitioned to sitting in silence and exploring her own mind.

Through her meditation practice, Laura has gained insights into her own thought patterns and emotions. She has learned to welcome and be present with uncomfortable feelings and thoughts, rather than trying to banish them. This acceptance and self-compassion have allowed her to navigate challenges with more ease and openness.

Laura emphasizes the importance of consistency in meditation practice and the benefits of having a teacher or mentor to guide and support one’s journey. She also highlights the value of integrating mindfulness into daily life, not just during formal meditation sessions. By cultivating mindfulness, individuals can bring a sense of presence and awareness to their interactions and experiences throughout the day.

The Evolution of Yoga Practice

Over the years, Laura’s yoga practice has evolved and diversified. While she initially gravitated towards restorative yoga, she has since explored various styles, including vinyasa flow and Ashtanga. She appreciates the different benefits and experiences that each style offers and enjoys incorporating a variety of practices into her routine.

Laura emphasizes the importance of finding a practice that works for each individual and encourages experimentation and exploration. She believes that yoga is a personal journey and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. By listening to one’s body and honoring its needs, individuals can find a practice that supports their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Philanthropy and Giving Back

Laura is passionate about giving back and supporting causes that align with her values. She has been involved in philanthropic efforts focused on bringing yoga and meditation to underserved populations. She has supported programs that introduce meditation into schools, hospitals, and communities, with the aim of promoting well-being and healing.

In addition to her work in the field of yoga and meditation, Laura is also involved in organizations that address social justice issues. She believes in the importance of understanding different perspectives and fostering dialogue to create positive change in the world. By actively listening and seeking to understand others, she hopes to contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive society.

When it comes to current world events, Laura acknowledges the complexity and challenges of the global landscape. While she does not have a definitive answer on whether there is more or less violence in the world, she believes that there is a growing movement towards peace and healing. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and compassion in addressing conflicts and challenges.

Laura approaches current world events by being intentional about the information she consumes. She sets aside dedicated time to stay informed but avoids excessive exposure to graphic images or sensationalized news. By focusing on reliable sources and maintaining a balanced perspective, she aims to cultivate a sense of peace and understanding within herself.

Conclusion

Laura’s journey with yoga and meditation has been transformative, leading her to explore different practices and share the benefits with others. She emphasizes the importance of finding a practice that resonates with each individual and encourages mindfulness in daily life. Through her philanthropic efforts, she seeks to bring the healing power of yoga and meditation to underserved communities. As she navigates current world events, she remains committed to understanding different perspectives and fostering compassion and understanding.

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.

Native Yoga Teacher Training 2024– In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: ➡️ https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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

Meredith Fogg Liebross – Digging Deeper: The Endless Quest in Yoga Practice

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In this episode of the Native Yoga Toddcast, host Todd interviews Meredith Fogg Liebross, an Ashtanga yoga teacher based in Los Angeles. They discuss the unique path of becoming a yoga teacher and the stereotypes surrounding it. Meredith shares her experience studying with renowned teacher Annie Carpenter and the importance of finding a teacher who can pass down the wisdom of the tradition. They also touch on the challenges and joys of parenting and the constant pressure to be present in a world filled with distractions. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the deeper aspects of yoga and the journey of self-discovery.

Follow Meredith on IG at: https://www.instagram.com/meredith_fogg_liebross/?igsh=MXVraWxoamF3NmI2Yw%3D%3D

Key Takeaways:

  • Choosing to become a yoga teacher is a unique and often unconventional career choice, driven by a deep connection to the practice and a sense of dharma.
  • The role of a yoga teacher is to be a conduit of knowledge and experience, passing down the teachings and practices to the next generation.
  • Ashtanga yoga is a method that requires dedication and consistency, with the goal of achieving ego death and non-dualism.

The Joy and Challenges of Parenting: Insights from a Yoga Teacher

Introduction

Parenting is a journey filled with both joy and challenges. As a yoga teacher and mother of three, Meredith Fogg Liebross understands the unique experiences and struggles that come with raising children. In this thought leadership article, we will explore the insights shared by Meredith in a recent podcast interview. We will delve into the themes of finding balance, the role of a teacher, and the impact of technology on parenting. Through her candid reflections, Meredith offers valuable perspectives on the joys and challenges of being a parent.

Key Takeaways

  • Parenting is a journey that brings both joy and challenges, and it is important to embrace both aspects.
  • The role of a teacher in yoga and parenting is to provide guidance and support, but ultimately, the individual must find their own path.
  • The constant presence of technology and the pressure to stay connected can be overwhelming for parents, making it difficult to find moments of solitude and presence with their children.

Finding Balance: The Joy and Challenges of Parenting

Parenting is often described as a journey filled with both joy and challenges. Meredith Fogg Liebross, a yoga teacher and mother of three, understands this firsthand. She acknowledges that while parenting brings immense joy, it is not always easy. In fact, she describes parenting as a constant state of being beholden to her children, a responsibility that can be both rewarding and overwhelming.

As a parent, Meredith finds herself constantly striving to strike a balance between being present for her children and maintaining her own sense of self. She recognizes the importance of being there for her children, but also acknowledges the need for personal space and time. This delicate balance is a challenge that many parents face, and it requires constant self-reflection and adjustment.

The Role of a Teacher: Guiding and Supporting

In the world of yoga, the role of a teacher is to guide and support students on their journey. Similarly, in parenting, parents serve as teachers to their children. Meredith believes that the role of a teacher is to provide a framework and guidance, but ultimately, the individual must find their own path.

Meredith draws parallels between her role as a yoga teacher and her role as a parent. She sees herself as a conduit, passing on the wisdom and knowledge she has gained, while also allowing her children the freedom to explore and discover their own paths. This approach emphasizes the importance of individual growth and self-discovery, both in yoga and in parenting.

The Impact of Technology: Finding Solitude in a Connected World

In today’s digital age, technology plays a significant role in our lives. As parents, it can be challenging to find moments of solitude and presence with our children amidst the constant distractions and pressures of technology. Meredith acknowledges the struggle of staying connected while also being fully present for her children.

She describes the pressure to be constantly available and connected as oppressive, and she finds it difficult to keep up with the expectations of constant communication. This challenge is not unique to Meredith; many parents today struggle to find a balance between technology and quality time with their children. It is a constant battle to resist the pull of technology and create meaningful connections with our loved ones.

Conclusion

Parenting is a journey that brings both joy and challenges. As a yoga teacher and mother, Meredith Fogg Liebross offers valuable insights into the joys and struggles of parenting. She emphasizes the importance of finding balance, the role of a teacher, and the impact of technology on parenting. Through her candid reflections, Meredith reminds us that parenting is a constant learning experience, and that it is okay to embrace both the joy and the challenges that come with it.

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.

Native Yoga Teacher Training 2024– In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: ➡️ https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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.comSupport the show

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

Parveen Nair ~ Embodiment: The Dance of Movement and Breath

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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.

Connect with Parveen on Instagram @inbornmovements https://www.instagram.com/inbornmovements/?hl=en
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During this conversation Parveen speaks about:

  • 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. 

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

Native Yoga Teacher Training 2024– In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: ➡️ https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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

Celest Pereira ~ Physiotherapist and Yoga Teacher Discusses the Benefits of Functional Neurology

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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.

Visit Celest on her website: https://www.celestpereira.com/
On Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/celestpereiraphysio/
On YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/c/CelestPereiraYoga

Key Takeaways:

  • 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: 👇
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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

Prashantha Ramu – “Yoga is in the Soil and in the Air”

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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.

Visit Prashanth on his website here: https://prashanthayoga.com/
Follow him on Instagram @prashantha.yoga here: https://www.instagram.com/prashantha.yoga/?hl=en

During this conversation we speak about:

  • How he got introduced to yoga? 
  • Growing up in a rural village. 
  • Inspiration from his father. 
  • Yoga is in the soil and in the air.
  • Hi experience working in the tech world. 
  • How technical knowledge helps in teaching yoga. 
  • How technology can improve spiritual connections. 
  • Why should we practice yoga? 

You can listen to the full episode for free here: https://nativeyogacenter.buzzsprout.com

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.

Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
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Native Yoga Teacher Training – In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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.

Native Yoga website: nativeyogacenter.com
Online Yoga Class Library: nativeyogaonline.com
Thai Massage info: palmbeachthaimassage.com
Native Yoga Blog: toddasanayoga.com
Instagram: @nativeyoga
YouTube channel: Native Yoga Center

Listen to the podcast here on our Podcast website: Native Yoga Toddcast

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

Victoria Davis ~ Mental Balance for High Performing Minds

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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.

Visit Victoria on her websites: 
Personal guidance, programs, and mentorship info are here:  www.victoriadavis.co
For corporate guidance, mindset training & work with teams: www.wellspringmind.com
Costa Rica Retreat: www.mindbodyliferetreat.com
Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoriadavisyoga/

You can listen to the full episode for free here: https://nativeyogacenter.buzzsprout.com

Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link


Native Yoga Teacher Training – In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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.

Native Yoga website: nativeyogacenter.com
Online Yoga Class Library: nativeyogaonline.com
Thai Massage info: palmbeachthaimassage.com
Native Yoga Blog: toddasanayoga.com
Instagram: @nativeyoga
YouTube channel: Native Yoga Center

Listen to the podcast here on our Podcast website: Native Yoga Toddcast

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

Susy Markoe Schieffelin – Sound Healing for a Better You

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Join my special guest Susy Markoe Schieffelin for a discussion on sound baths and the healing effects they inspire. Hear Susy talk about her journey to self discovery and how she is helping others join globally in sharing positive sound vibrations.

Visit Susy on her website: https://thecoppervessel.com

Instagram: @thecoppervessel https://www.instagram.com/thecoppervessel/

Instagram: @thesoundhealersacademy https://www.instagram.com/thesoundhealersacademy/

Youtube:  @TheCopperVessel 

  • What led Susy to sound healing?
  • Her thoughts on hair loss.
  • The light that comes from within.
  • How the different bowls are associated with the chakras.
  • How to start a sound bath.
  • Dealing with emotional reactions during a sound bath.
  • Shifting the focus to developing your personal experience.
  • The difference between a sound bath and a concert.

Susy Markoe Schieffelin of The Copper Vessel is a Los Angeles-based sound healer, reiki master, Kundalini yoga teacher, and inspirational speaker who has led sound baths viewed or attended by millions of people all over the world. Susy has brought healing to employees at companies such as Google, Pandora, and Nordstrom, has played crystal bowls with notable artists including Leann Rimes and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and has been featured in publications such as WSJ, VOGUE, USA TODAY, and Los Angeles Times. Susy is known for her light-filled presence and ability to guide people towards radiant and empowered lives characterized by self-love, serenity, abundance, and joy. She is the founder of the Sound Healer’s Academy, an innovative Crystal Alchemy Sound Healing and Spiritual Business Mentorship training, serves as a self-love advocate for brands, has created custom product lines, and offers deeply restorative crystal alchemy sound bath ceremonies and healing rituals both in person and online. Learn more and follow Susy on Instagram @thecoppervessel.

You can listen to the full episode for free here: https://nativeyogacenter.buzzsprout.com

Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link


Native Yoga Teacher Training – In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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.

Native Yoga website: nativeyogacenter.com
Online Yoga Class Library: nativeyogaonline.com
Thai Massage info: palmbeachthaimassage.com
Native Yoga Blog: toddasanayoga.com
Instagram: @nativeyoga
YouTube channel: Native Yoga Center

Listen to the podcast here on our Podcast website: Native Yoga Toddcast

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

Emma Stern – Somatic Awareness in Trauma Informed Yoga Spaces

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Check out this conversation with Emma Stern. This episode is titled Somatic Awareness in Trauma Informed Yoga Spaces. Emma is deeply passionate about bringing the trauma-informed lens into active asana practices and exploring ways in which yoga philosophy and somatic awareness can support social justice work. Emma is E-RYT 500 and YACEP.

Visit Emma on her website at : https://emmasternsomatics.com/ 
Follow her on IG at : @emmasternsomatics https://www.instagram.com/emmasternsomatics/ 

Emma (she/her/hers) celebrates the potential for healing and transformation through joyous and powerful movement practices. Her yoga classes are a high energy, playful, and powerful mix of asana, dance, and Pilates inspired movements that offer creative and dynamic flow, as well as precise strength challenges, to help students develop refined movement technique and deep somatic awareness. Off the mat, Emma has a master’s in counseling psychology with a focus on somatics and works in mental health. She has been involved in numerous teacher trainings and designed trauma-informed continuing education program for the Driven Yogi. She offers regular workshops in movement technique and somatic approaches to intermediate and advanced asana; and provides trauma-informed yoga instruction in grief workshops.

Learn more about Emma’s offerings at www.emmasternsomatics.com. Emma holds a special place in her heart for her teachers and mentors Jasmine Tarkeshi, Julie Rappaport, Laura Camp, Mary Strong-Sullivan, Jane Austin, and Susanna Barkataki.

More links: yoga and trauma-informed movement education – https://emmasternsomatics.com
therapy, coaching, and trauma-informed consulting – https://metamorphosispdx.com
yoga alliance (Search her name, There’s no direct link) – https://www.yogaalliance.org/Events/Watch_Past_Events 
driven yogi trauma training – https://courses.thedrivenyogi.com/courses/traumainformedyoga

You can listen to the full episode for free here: https://nativeyogacenter.buzzsprout.com

Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link


Native Yoga Teacher Training – In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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.

Native Yoga website: nativeyogacenter.com
Online Yoga Class Library: nativeyogaonline.com
Thai Massage info: palmbeachthaimassage.com
Native Yoga Blog: toddasanayoga.com
Instagram: @nativeyoga
YouTube channel: Native Yoga Center

Listen to the podcast here on our Podcast website: Native Yoga Toddcast

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

Athena Vaughn – Surviving Trauma And Finding Recovery

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I am grateful for the opportunity to introduce you to Athena Vaughn. This episode is titled Surviving Trauma and Finding Recovery. Athena was kind and brave enough to share her story with me. I’d like to offer a trigger warning as some of the stories she shares may be challenging to hear. Her ability to speak her story with such clarity is a true gift. She believes that by sharing her experiences it can help others and I agree. 🙂

Find Athena on her Instagram at: @authenticallyathenaslc
You can also find her on her website at: https://authenticallyathenaslc.squarespace.com/

Some of the topics we discuss during this conversation are:

  • The difference is between CPTSD and PTSD. 
  • What is Kundalini yoga? 
  • The transition to a safe place. 
  • How Athena has learned to heal her traumatic experiences?
  • How to deal with trauma in yoga? 
  • Where do we draw the line between trauma and illness? 
  • Sharing her own story.  

Athena’s bio:
I am Athena Vaughn. I am a wife, mom of 3, Trauma-Informed Spiritual Mentor, Yoga Practitioner, & Yoga Instructor. Throughout my life I’ve been on a long journey of Self Enlightenment & Self Love & Healing. I’ve studied Psychology, Philosophy & Somatic Trauma Recovery. I myself, have CPTSD from a long history in my own childhood. All that I have learned & implemented in my own life made me want to give this knowledge to help others heal from their own life wounds & traumas. So they too may life their lives to the fullest. I use a blend of Therapeutic Practices, Nervous System Regulation, Polyvagel Theory, Movement, Breath-work, Somatic & Energetic Practices, Yogic Philosophies & Spiritual Practices with myself and clients.

You can listen to the full episode for free here: https://nativeyogacenter.buzzsprout.com

Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link


Native Yoga Teacher Training – In Studio and Livestream – for info delivered to your email click this link here: https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/native-yoga-teacher-training-2023/

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.

Native Yoga website: nativeyogacenter.com
Online Yoga Class Library: nativeyogaonline.com
Thai Massage info: palmbeachthaimassage.com
Native Yoga Blog: toddasanayoga.com
Instagram: @nativeyoga
YouTube channel: Native Yoga Center

Listen to the podcast here on our Podcast website: Native Yoga Toddcast

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