Tag Archives: health

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
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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
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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

Jordan Lydia Verla – Healthy Competition: From Depression to Triumph

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In this thought-provoking episode, Todd engages with yoga teacher and champion Jordan Lydia Verla, uncovering her journey from beginnings in Utah to her transformational expeditions in Seattle and beyond. This conversation shares Jordan’s story, exploring not only her personal adventures but also her deep connection to yoga’s physical and spiritual aspects.

Visit Jordan on her website: https://www.jordanlydia.com/
Follow her on IG: https://www.instagram.com/jordanlydia_yogini/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JordanLydia

Key Takeaways:

  • Jordan’s yoga journey is deeply intertwined with her personal growth and overcoming challenges, including moving cities and dealing with anxiety and depression.
  • The 84 Classic Asana series plays a significant role in Jordan’s yogic and teaching life, demonstrating the balance of strength and vulnerability in practice.
  • Jordan shares a refreshing perspective on the yoga competition, addressing the human element of competitiveness and its natural occurrence in growth and self-improvement.

Embracing the Challenge: Insights from the Yoga Journey of Jordan Lydia Verla

The pursuit of spiritual and physical wellness often leads individuals down diverse paths. For some, this may include the rigorous discipline of competitive yoga or the gentle embrace of yin practices. Jordan Lydia Verla, a dedicated yogini, educator, and healer, recently shared her profound journey in the expansive world of yoga. Through her tale, we unearth vital lessons on the synergies between competitiveness and self-acceptance, the therapeutic nature of challenging the body and mind, and the earnest quest for personal evolution.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Yin and Yang of Yoga: Jordan’s tale melds the intensity of competitive yoga with the tranquility of yin practices, illustrating a balanced pursuit of personal growth.
  • Competition as a Catalyst for Self-Discovery: Insights on how engaging in competitive yoga can serve as a means to transcend personal limits and foster a champion’s mindset.
  • Nature’s Influence on Healing: Jordan’s account of her time in Joshua Tree highlights nature’s power to facilitate deep introspection and emotional release.

The Symbiosis of Stamina and Serenity in Yoga Practice

Yoga often conjures images of serene settings and tranquil minds, yet Jordan Lydia Verla’s experience paints a picture of a journey balanced with both vigor and vulnerability. Jordan juxtaposes her intense preparation for the yoga championships with her dedication to yin yoga and yoga nidra, reflecting the concept of embracing both fiery passion and soothing stillness.

Competitive Yoga: A Quest for Inner Triumph

The world of competitive yoga, according to Jordan, is not about besting others but about surpassing personal boundaries. She describes the competitions as “…not necessarily like yoga spirituality. We’re not judging somebody more spiritual or not in that context.” Her commitment to competitive yoga, involving intense training and international competitions, showcased a blend of self-discovery, vulnerability, and unwavering resolve.

Yin Yoga and Energy Healing: The Softening of Strength

Besides her athletic feats, Jordan delves into yin yoga – a practice characterized by lengthening, introspective holds. Her approach to yin underpins her broader philosophy of embracing gentleness alongside effort. For Jordan, yin yoga is not merely about physical alignment but a path to release and realign suppressed energy. This nurturing practice, combined with her work in energy healing and tarot, signifies her investment in holistic wellness.

The Champion Mindset: Nurturing Tenacity Beyond the Mat

Jordan’s candid reflection on her victories and stumbles in yoga competitions offers visceral insights into the psyche of a committed practitioner. The competitive realm serves as an allegory for life’s broader struggles, reminding us of the importance of resilience.

Rising After the Fall: Embracing Discomfort for Growth

“If I had gotten what I wanted years ago, I wouldn’t be the type of person or the type of yogi or type of leader that I am today,” Jordan observed. She emphasizes how persistent effort, despite failures, shapes character. Acknowledging that “failure has only ever made me limitless,” Jordan sheds light on the transformative potential of embracing and learning from setbacks.

The Paradox of Competition in a Collaborative Space

She brings nuance to the concept of competition, noting that it exists in harmony with the intrinsic human tendency to push boundaries. Jordan reflects, “… you’re choosing to say, like, so what? I’m going to do it anyway.” Encouraging fellow yogis to recognize the duality of competitiveness, she promotes the crucial balance of pushing yourself while cherishing the collective energy of group practice.

Listening to Nature’s Wisdom: Jordan’s Desert Pilgrimage

Jordan unfolds the tale of her personal exodus to Joshua Tree, where isolation and barrenness catalyzed a profound metamorphosis. The desert experience was not just a backdrop but an active participant in her journey, teaching her about the dualities of harshness and kindness, solitude and community, and consumption and creation.

The Desert as a Crucible for Purification

Describing Joshua Tree, Jordan reflects, “It’s a place where you go to empty yourself.” Her narrative reveals the healing properties of nature’s vastness—a place to confront and detoxify the soul. Her visceral description of the desert landscapes paints a vivid picture where nature stands as both, a witness and a healer.

Through Nature’s Lens: A Renewed Sense of Purpose

The desert’s expansive quiet allowed her the space to listen — not just to the natural world but to her own inner dialogue. This environment fostered a reconnection with her physical and spiritual needs, leading to a refreshing clarity on her return to Seattle. Jordan encapsulates this transformation: “Everybody should live in the desert at least once in their life.“

Jordan Lydia Verla’s journey underlines a higher philosophy of persistence and acceptance that can be applied both on and off the yoga mat. Her experiences, from addressing the energetic needs through yin and quantum field healing to striving for athletic perfection, serve as a microcosm for the larger human experience. Moreover, Jordan’s narrative illustrates the essential need to confront and embrace our fears, find balance in life’s dualities, and harness the healing power of nature for personal evolution.

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

Rich Ahlers – Men’s Health Crisis: The Need for Mind-Body Connection and Self-Care

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Rich Ahlers is a multifaceted professional with over 20 years of experience in healthcare, particularly in the realms of acute care, cardiovascular neurology, and rare and genetic diseases. Rich is deeply involved with the WiseMen Project, a retreat-focused initiative aimed at optimizing men’s health through alternative and holistic methods. 

Visit the Wisemen Project website here: https://wisemen.health/
Visit Rich’s landing page here: https://vitalhabits.ck.page/bf0b5247b6

Key Takeaways:

  • Understanding neuroplasticity and neurogenesis is key to personal transformation, and both can be influenced positively through appropriate nutrition, movement, and mindfulness practices.
  • Movement, especially through activities like yoga and qigong, serves as a powerful tool for priming the brain and fostering favorable changes in mind and body.
  • Men’s health faces significant challenges in society due to cultural stigmas and resistance to seeking help, but change is attainable through individual awareness and community support.

Unlocking the Power of Mind and Body: A Deep Dive into Men’s Health and Transformation

Men’s health is a topic riddled with societal expectations and misconceptions, leading to a silent crisis. Within this nuanced space, we uncover the interplay of mind and body, the role of movement and habit formation, and the unseen epidemic facing men’s mental health. Through a profound dialogue with Rich Ahlers, co-founder of the WiseMen Project, we gain insightful perspectives on rewriting life scripts and harnessing the innate power of self-healing.

Key Takeaways:

  • Men possess the inherent capability to rewrite their health and life narratives through simple, yet profound practices.
  • Adopting regular movement, like walking, primes mental clarity and neurogenesis, influencing positive life changes.
  • Men’s mental health is a silent epidemic, but hope glimmers through community support and personal accountability.

The Integral Nature of Movement in Mental Clarity and Health

Movement is not only foundational for physical health, but it stands as a cornerstone in achieving mental clarity and well-being. For men navigating the complexities of life’s stressors, the act of walking serves as both therapy and a gateway to creative insights. Rich Ahlers outlines this practice as critical, explaining, “Go out for a 30-minute walk… Allow the thoughts to come up… after about 10-15 minutes, you will get mental clarity.”

This straightforward ritual showcases how exercise impacts neurogenesis, which in turn, opens avenues for personal growth and health improvement. The critical interdependence between thought and physicality is a theme reverberating through the conversation, resonating with its broader implications in developing resilience, combating mental health struggles, and fostering an environment conducive to change.

Rewriting the Life Script: From Childhood Grooves to Adult Revival

Our formative years shape the bedrock of our perception and response to the world. Ahlers brings to light a profound realization, “By the age of seven, we have already developed our interaction and belief systems around our place on earth.” Unearthing the origins of our deep-seated beliefs, he reminds us that our brain remains an ever-malleable muscle capable of rewiring and healing.

Diving into the implications of neuroplasticity, Ahlers encourages a proactive stance in reshaping our identities, challenging the learned helplessness that may stem from childhood experiences. His candid reflections on overcoming the label of being ‘stupid’, and later proving his prowess through academic excellence, is testament to the transformative power within everyone. The path to changing ingrained neural pathways is demonstrated to be achievable, inspiring and, above all, imperative for personal evolution.

Confronting the Silent Epidemic: Men’s Mental Health in Crisis

In a world where male stoicism often stifles vulnerability, men’s mental health emerges as a silent yet pervasive crisis. “Men are four times more likely to commit suicide,” Ahlers states, painting a stark picture of the challenges men face. This societal paradigm of masculine toughness acts as a straightjacket, impeding men’s pursuit of help and healing.

In response, initiatives like the WiseMen Project illuminate hope for societal healing by cultivating communities and a culture of open dialogue. Addressing men’s mental health is not simply about offering temporary solutions—it’s about dismantling and rebuilding the societal codes that drive men towards isolation. By advocating for shared understanding, Ahlers and his peers spearhead a movement that can redefine masculinity and foster genuine mental health breakthroughs for men.

The conversation between Todd and Rich Ahlers offers more than a snapshot of men’s health—it unfurls a map for self-led renaissance. Our takeaways are clear: the body’s movement can stimulate profound mental shifts, childhood narratives can be reshaped for growth, and the collective culture around men’s mental health is ripe for revolution. Through such enlightenment, the potential for transformation in personal and societal wellness is boundless, beckoning a future of health reclaimed and lives rejuvenated.

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

Benjamin Sears – Finding Freedom in Discipline: Balancing Structure and Autonomy in Yoga Practice

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In this enlightening episode, Benjamin Sears delves deep into his personal journey with yoga, sharing the transformative influence it has had on both his physical health and mental clarity. The conversation uncovers Benjamin’s diverse experiences with yoga styles, from Kundalini and Bikram to Dharma Mittra and Forrest yoga, and his quest for balance and freedom in his practice.

Visit Benjamin on his website: https://benjaminsears.life/
Follow him on IG: https://www.instagram.com/benjamin.sears/
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/benjaminsears

Key Takeaways:

  • Benjamin Sears found solace and healing in yoga, transitioning from debilitating back pain to deep self-awareness.
  • He discusses the importance of nuance and context in backbending, focusing on distributing movement evenly throughout the spine.
  • Benjamin emphasizes discipline in practice while acknowledging the diversity in yoga styles and its adaptability to individual needs.
  • The episode introduces the concept of “minimum effective dose” in practice, urging practitioners to consider sustainability and personal growth.

Embracing the Evolution of Yoga Practice: Insights with Benjamin Sears

The ancient practice of yoga is not static; it evolves with time, embracing modern movement science and varied personal narratives. In a stirring podcast conversation, Benjamin Sears, a respected yoga and movement educator, unlocks the essence of sustaining a yoga practice that transcends traditional boundaries and embraces change. His journey from invigorating hot yoga to eclectic global workshops highlights an intimate relationship with movement, meditation, and connecting communities through yoga.

Key Takeaways:

  • Adapting Yoga to Individual Needs: Harnessing nuanced techniques and understanding personal limitations fosters sustainable practices that resonate with each individual’s unique physical makeup.
  • Meditation as a Bedrock of Practice: Benjamin Sears underscores the potency of simple mindfulness practices amidst the abundance of meditative techniques available to practitioners today.
  • Balancing Freedom and Discipline Online: The digital age has brought yoga into homes worldwide, offering unprecedented connectivity while reminding us of the importance of disciplined, intentional practice.

Tailoring Yoga for Sustainable Practice

The intricacy of the human body demands a yoga practice that is neither one-size-fits-all nor fixed. Sears’s own struggle with spondylolisthesis illuminates the necessity for modification and personalization within one’s practice.

“…backbending is great, man. I love to backbend. It feels amazing. Do I backbend now the same way that I did when I thought that I would be enlightened if I could just get my toes to touch my head. Like, no way.”

Adapting yoga postures to accommodate and respect individual spinal health is a continuous theme in Sears’s teachings. He recommends spinal wave motions and an emphasis on mobility—segmented movement—over merely chasing the global expression of poses. His approach to backbending incorporates intentional engagement of the backside of the body and shrewd shoulder mechanics, influenced by each practitioner’s unique structure.

His perspective resonates with broader implications for yoga educators and students alike; it calls for mindful inspection of how one’s body interacts with each posture and to approach practice with a focus on “minimum effective dose”—the least one must do to maintain desired levels of physical capacity and well-being.

Meditation: The Subtlety Of Simply Sitting

In contradistinction to the physical rigor, Sears places considerable emphasis on the subtler facets of yoga—the meditative practices. The practice of Trataka, staring at a candle flame for prolonged periods, serves as a prime example of yogic techniques that enhance focus and stillness.

“…the ultimate option is to sit quietly and feel things, right. Because it’s like…some things are quite sad.”

Sears advocates for the power of simply sitting in meditation, a no-frills approach that has seen him shift away from technique-heavy practices to more mindful and minimalistic actions of being present with one’s own thoughts and sensations. This simplicity stands as a counterbalance to the increasing complexity of yoga modalities, stressing the value of grounding oneself in the fundamentals of mindfulness.

Digital Integration: A World-Wide Yoga Community

The digital transformation has undeniably altered the landscape of practicing and teaching yoga. Sears, after dabbling in face-to-face engagements worldwide, has now embraced the digital realm with his online school that nurtures a global yoga community.

“…it’s really more at the angle right now where…I just want to have a community and we practice together.”

He discusses the interplay of freedom and discipline, highlighting the digital space as a powerful avenue for connection and learning yet cautioning against its potential to engulf users in counterproductive ways. The online school he has founded widens the spectrum of connecting with yoga, allowing for flexibility in practice without losing the essence of community and shared growth.

His current approach acts as a testimonial to the necessity for guided, deep-rooted practices that are accessible through various mediums—be it in-person retreats or an online membership—with a continual emphasis on connecting across borders and creating a unified yet diverse collective of yogis.

Reflecting on the themes Sears brings forth, it becomes clear that yoga and meditation are more than just physical endeavors; they encapsulate an understanding and acceptance of one’s evolving self amidst life’s constancy and uncertainty. Whether it’s adapting backbends to prevent injury, simplifying meditation to foster presence, or using the internet to bring yoga into homes while practicing discipline, Sears’s narrative enriches the conversation about yoga in today’s era. The lesson here is clear: cherish the tools that bring self-awareness and community connection, but always wield them with a mindful touch.

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

Gil Hedley – Unveiling the Nerve Tree: A Journey into the Intricacies of the Human Body

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Gil Hedley is a dedicated anatomy professional and teacher who has dedicated his life to studying the human body through cadaver dissection. He is known for his integral approach to anatomy, focusing on the interconnectedness of the body and the importance of understanding the whole person. Gil  has been teaching anatomy workshops and dissection courses for over 25 years. He is passionate about helping people develop a deep understanding and connection with their own bodies.

Visit Gil on his website: https://www.gilhedley.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Gil Hedley’s integral approach to anatomy focuses on the interconnectedness of the body and the importance of understanding the whole person.
  • The nervous system is a complex and interconnected network that extends throughout the entire body, and it is essential for self-regulation and overall well-being.
  • By developing a deep connection with the body and understanding its intricate structures, individuals can take control of their own nervous system and cultivate a sense of empowerment.
  • Gil’s Nerve Tour aims to educate and inspire individuals in the yoga, massage, and bodywork communities to deepen their understanding of the nervous system and its role in overall health and well-being.

Navigating the Intricacies of Anatomy: Insights from Master Teacher Gil Hedley

Embarking on an intellectual voyage through the intricate landscapes of human anatomy, the enthusiasm and expertise of master teacher Gil Hedley, Ph.D., illuminate the path. With the emergence of his latest endeavor, “The Nerve Tour,” the fusion of anatomical precision and philosophical inquiry is brought to life, providing a transformational experience for learners of all backgrounds.

Key Takeaways:

  • The nervous system is an organ – an idea that redefines traditional views and underscores the interconnectedness of body tissues.
  • Engaging teaching methods and the importance of excitement in learning can empower and inspire both the teacher and the learner.
  • The dynamic between philosophical ethics and hands-on anatomical experience cultivates a holistic understanding of human nature and embodiment.

The Nerve Tree: A Living, Breathing Organ

When Gil Hedley speaks about the nervous system, he employs the formidable term “nerve tree,” infusing a palpable sense of life into what is often perceived as an abstract concept. This imagery is not only poetic but also scientifically resonant; Hedley’s work dismantles the notion of the nervous system as a mechanical schematic. Instead, he presents it as a complex, interwoven organ integrated seamlessly into the body’s fabric.

“The nervous system is a mental abstract convention… what we actually have is the human body, an embryo, differentiated into all kinds of textures and structures that remain one,” Hedley explains. His description invites listeners to envision nerves not merely as isolated pathways but as elements of a greater organism, akin to branches intertwined with leaves and flowers. This perspective shifts our understanding from compartmentalized parts to a more holistic view of the human form, a view that recognizes the inextricable link between structure and function.

The implications of this approach are vast, suggesting that any endeavor to heal, improve, or understand the human body must address it as a cohesive unit rather than a collection of separate systems. Hedley’s painstaking dissections and visual documentation of the “nerve tree” elevate the discourse around bodily connectivity, offering a road map for professionals seeking to enhance their therapeutic practices.

The Art of Embodied Teaching

Gil Hedley’s commitment to an engaging and vibrant pedagogical experience is evident in his approach. A far cry from the staid lectures that characterize many academic settings, Hedley’s style is steeped in the freedom of thought and expression that he experienced firsthand during his formative years as an educator. “When I saw the way Tom [Myers] taught, and Ron was also hysterical and engaging… I could do this. And then a rolfer also was a huge influence on me,” shares Hedley.

Through storytelling, humor, and movement, Hedley creates a learning environment synonymous with growth and community. This methodology not only imparts knowledge but also fosters an atmosphere where learners can connect deeply with the material and, consequently, with themselves. The educational journey becomes a shared adventure, engaging the cognitive and the intuitive, and ultimately facilitating a transformation that resonates beyond the confines of the traditional classroom.

The Fusion of Anatomy and Philosophy

Perhaps what sets Hedley apart most prominently is his proficiency in marrying anatomical expertise with philosophical reflection. With a Ph.D. in Theological Ethics, Hedley is not content to relay anatomical facts alone; he endeavors to explore and share the profound ethical considerations that come with a deeply embodied awareness of the human form.

“Our lives depend on it… how are we spending it, and we can spend it in a way that enhances our experience,” he asserts, questioning the quality with which we live each day. Hedley’s philosophical inquiry prompts a recognition that understanding the body in its entirety can fundamentally alter our way of being in the world. The acknowledgement of this connection equips anyone involved in bodywork with a more profound sense of purpose – it elucidates the ethic behind the anatomy.

Summing up the wisdom gleaned from Gil Hedley’s perspective offers a fresh lens through which we can view the landscape of human anatomy. The nervous system, an intricate nerve tree, beckons us to appreciate our wholeness rather than succumb to fragmentary views. In teaching, leading with excitement and communal growth facilitates deeper learning and personal transformation. Moreover, marrying the precision of anatomy with the breadth of philosophy bestows us with a richer, more meaningful approach to understanding ourselves and our embodied existence. These insights not only illuminate the path for those in the bodywork and healing professions but also invigorate the journey for all explorers of inner space, affirming that an intimate connection with our anatomy is a profound act of self-awareness and autonomy.

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@nativeyogaenter.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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Listen to podcast with Laura for FREE here

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

Raji Thron – Stories Lived Through a Lifetime of Yoga

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Special guest, Raji Thron, shares stories from his life lived in the pursuit of yoga. Raji is full of interesting tales of adventure from his birth in India that started him on the path of yoga.

During this conversation he speaks about:

  • Living in an India as a youth.
  • What was the state of yoga in Boulder in the 70”s and 80’s?
  • Making the decision to become a yogi.
  • How he met Richard Freeman?
  • Falling in love with ashtanga.
  • Guru Barometer and respect for elders.
  • Reframing the guru/ yogi dynamic.
  • The rise and fall of John Friend.

Raji is the co-owner of  Yoga Synthesis studios and Program Director of YS Teacher Trainings, which since its inception in 1999 has had hundreds of graduates who have earned certifications. He is registered with Yoga Alliance as a E-RYT 500, lead trainer and continuing education provider and certified through International Association of Yoga Therapists (CIAYT) as a Yoga therapist.

Visit Raji at his website: https://www.yogasynthesis.com
Also on his personal website: https://www.rajithron.com
Follow him on Instagram @yogasynthesis : https://www.instagram.com/yogasynthesis/?hl=en

Todd Mclaughlin

Welcome to Native Yoga Toddcast. My name is Todd McLaughlin. I have the pleasure of bringing Raji Thron to the podcast today. And Raji is the founder and co director of Yoga Synthesis in Ramsey, New Jersey, which was founded in 1999. Please visit his website, yogasynthesis.com. And you can also check out his personal website Rajithron.com.  And I had a really incredible discussion with Raji, I’m so excited for you to hear this. And he’s got a very rich and vast history of personal practice experience with yoga and the world of yoga. And I’ve heard amazing things about Raji years ago from a student that came and visited and I happened upon his website. And I thought, I wonder if this is the Raji that my friend Tim was talking about? And it is! All right. I’ll let him speak for himself here. Let’s get started. 

I’m so excited to have Raji Thron here today with me. Raji, thank you so much for joining me. How are you doing today?

Listen to the full episode for free here.

Raji Thron

I’m great. Thanks.

Todd Mclaughlin

Just to get started here, you’re in New Jersey. Is that correct?

Raji Thron

Well, actually, yeah, we live just over the border in New York. 

Todd Mclaughlin

Okay. 

Raji Thron

Rockland County. So pretty much like Northern New Jersey, it feels the same.

Todd Mclaughlin

Yeah, I bet. I bet I hear you. And you have a yoga studio called Yoga Synthesis. Right? 

Raji Thron

Yeah in Ramsey, New Jersey. 

Todd Mclaughlin

Wonderful. I feel like somewhere along the way, someone has come in to our studio and told me about you before. And I feel like I’ve heard about you over the years. The way that I found your website actually was I had purchased that an anatomy coloring book by I believe…. a woman that may have practiced or taught for you at your studio. 

Raji Thron

Yes, she was one of our main teachers for a while. 

That’s right. 

Todd Mclaughlin

And in the process of looking to see like, where she was, I found your website. When I saw your bio, and I was like, Wow, he looks really interesting. You have a really rich history of practice and teaching. So I’m excited to have this chance to ask you some questions about your yoga journey. On that note, can you give me a little bit of a historical perspective about how and when you started yoga practice?

Raji Thron

Well, I guess I should go back to I was born in India, in Chandigarh, and my father was a mathematics professor. He was teaching at the university in Punjab, which is in northern India. So we traveled there on a number of occasions. And the time I first learned yoga was when I turned 12. And we were living in San Diego at the time. 

Todd Mclaughlin

Wow. 

Raji Thron

And so then coming back to the United States, I kind of got into it and got really hooked. This is like mid 70s. 

Todd Mclaughlin

Nice. 

Raji Thron

That’s the short answer.

Todd Mclaughlin

That’s the short answer. That’s good. That paints a really cool picture. You learned yoga in India at the age of 12! What an incredible age to have such a  eyes opening experience.

Raji Thron

Exactly. 

Todd Mclaughlin

And then you find what type of yoga class or yoga teacher experience? What was that like?

Raji Thron

Well, in India, I studied with an old man. He was actually in his 80s. He was a friend or our family. And he, he passed away that year. And so it was what I would call a classical hatha yoga practice. And it was a very kind of intense time, as you might imagine, for me, coming from Boulder, Colorado, where we lived, where I grew up, when went back to there. That’s where my dad, you know, was teaching, was a professor. So basically, the teaching that I got from my teacher there was when I turned 12. By the way, his name was Yogendra Paul, which is kind of wild.

Yogendra Paul Yogananda. Paul. So he

was he was a yogi named Yoginder. Yeah. He was an older man, and he taught me just basic, hatha yoga. Let’s just say, that’s what I call a classical hatha yoga. Now, I know not everyone uses that terminology. I like to use that. Because, you know, when you have kind of the standard form that you might see in India, it’s not Ashtanga. It’s not Ashtanga vinyasa anyway. And it’s not Iyengar. And it’s just, you go to any town, any village, you’re gonna find yoga that has a certain in the way it’s kind of come to the modern world, modern yoga, modern India. It’s what I would call a classical hatha yoga.

Todd Mclaughlin

Can you paint a picture what a practice session with him would look like then? I’m guessing classical positions, such as like a triangle?

Raji Thron

Yeah. classical sense. Fluid is different from the Ashtanga sense. You’re probably familiar with that, like stepping back, going to cobra, upward dog. And then stepping into the lunge. You know that whole form? And then classical poses. Really actually, in the beginning, it was way less standing poses. And more just sitting, you know, doing forward bends, twists, and hip openers, some back bends, and inversions was covering a framework of these basic poses. But I mean, at the time, I was really young. 

Todd Mclaughlin

So did he try to impart any information regarding theory or philosophy? 

Raji Thron

Interestingly, after he passed, I was still living in India for a little while before we moved back to the United States. And so, I mean, he was less philosophically oriented. He was definitely oriented in a certain way, telling me about Mahatma Gandhi, and like Indian saints, and that sort of thing. Yeah. Then I met a younger man, whose name was Surindir who was a Sikh member in Punjab in India. Those are names of a lot of Sikhs. So, this guy was definitely a major influence on me philosophically. He was actually a cricket player at the university, you know, being in shape and he wasn’t doing so much yoga per se, but he did all kinds of exercise and we’d sit and he would talk to me about basically the reality of existence. And you know, how and you know, being 12 years old, is definitely it was a shaking up, transformational time for me, because there I was having come from, you know, being in this very, kind of like, what would you call it upper middle class kind of situation and maybe middle class, whatever you call it, professorial? Yes, University, you know, yeah. And going living in India, and the first time I ever really saw poverty, and, you know, living at a standard of living that was much lower than I was used to. Sleeping on cots with, with a concrete floor. Yeah. And just the whole, the whole thing of seeing India. I could look over the wall from where we lived. And, you know, there were shards of glass on the top of the wall, right. And on the other side was a slum. I could see it from our balcony, and I’d see these people like, basically living right there. So for me, there was this whole interesting Awakening on so many different levels, you know, to really the blessings of life. Knowing that life can be hard. Yeah. You know, and it’s like, how do we learn to relate, personally and collectively, to this, this existence, this human existence? So there’s a lot of conversation I was having with Surindir. Questions like why is this happening? Why are people living like this? You know, yeah. 

Todd Mclaughlin

So did he have an answer for you? Did he offer you any more insight? 

Raji Thron

Yeah.

It was really into how he personally had gone off to travel around India. And he was like, he was in his 20s. And he said, he left home, he traveled around India. And that’s why he was so kind of philosophically inclined. Yeah. And he is like, yeah, you know, you get out there and you see what’s going on. And it makes you realize certain things like being a wandering Sadhu, you know, yes, you go. I think this is, this is part of what yoga, you know, in a way, the essence pointing to the essence of it is to let go of all these outer trappings. Yeah, this holding on to sit really almost anything at a certain point, you know, yeah. But, I mean, we do love our creature comforts. Yeah, it’s still, it’s definitely you know, there’s a certain pointing towards, you know, austerity are asceticism. And, for me at the time, I was questions like, What are you? So then, you know, actually, as I got further along, I realized, you know, what, what the implication was, and even now, I’m still still trying to, you know, integrate. I don’t know, I’m not sure if I’m giving you the nutshell of it very clearly. But it’s, it’s, it’s really a lot of different aspects.

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

Thanks for reading this blog post from this YouTube video. Check out: 

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.

New Student FREE 30 Minute Yoga Meet & Greet ~ Are you new to Native Yoga Center and have questions that you would like us to address? Whether you are coming to In Studio, Livestream or Online Recorded Classes we offer a one time complimentary 30 minute zoom meeting to answer any questions you may have. Schedule a time that is convenient for you. Click Here

Native Yoga website: nativeyogacenter.com
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Instagram: @nativeyoga
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Listen to the podcast here on our Podcast website: Native Yoga Toddcast

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

Nat Flood – Shamana Wisdom in Bermuda

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Meet Nat Flood of Shamana Circle Studio in Bermuda. Nat is the founder and director of Shamana and she weaves her history of dance, yoga, pilates and birth doula into her teaching. During this podcast hear Nat speak about:

  • Dealing with postpartum trauma.
  • What does a tongue tie mean?
  • The Bermuda Triangle and it’s history.
  • The story behind the Shamana Circle studio space.
  • How she pivoted her business during the pandemic.
  • Pilates practice before and after birth.
  • How she turned her understanding of physical rehab work into yoga.
  • How she structures her yoga certification program.

Please check Nat out at her website: https://www.shamanacirclestudio.com
And follow her on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/shamanacircle/

Listen to the full episode for free here.

Todd McLaughlin

Welcome to Native Yoga Toddcast. I’m so excited to have you here and also to introduce you to Nat Flood. Nat is a yoga and pilates and much more than just that teacher that owns a studio in Bermuda on the island of Bermuda out in the Atlantic. She has a studio called Shamana Circle studio, and you can find her on her website, shamanacirclestudio.com, also on Instagram at @shamanacircle, and also on her personal page on Instagram at @natofshamana. Also, I do a free live webinar on YouTube every Thursday at 12pm Eastern. If you join in live, you can ask questions of which case I’m happy to answer during, and it’s recorded. So you can always check it out afterwards as well. Check in the links below for all those details. Again, remember to look for Nat at Shamanacirclestudio.com. All right, let’s get started. I’m delighted to have the opportunity to converse with Nat Flood. Nat, How are you doing today?

Nat Flood

I’m great. I’m so happy to be here and chat to you.

Thank you. 

Todd McLaughlin

This has been several months in the making because you are a new mom, or a recently, again new mom. And I know that when I reached out to you and said you can do this, but you just need a little bit of time. And so thank you so much for carving out time. I do know how busy you are and as a parent how hard it is to carve a little bit of time for ourselves. Can you tell me a little bit what it’s like being a new mom again?

Nat Flood

Yeah, my pleasure. I’m so happy to chat. Yeah, it’s amazing over and over and over again. I feel like we learned so much about ourselves over again. You know, we have maybe as a second time mom, for me, like an expectation of how things are gonna go. And of course, none of it went the way that I expected. So it’s just nice to be put in that position with new variables. I love having stuff just thrown at me and dealing with new things. So it’s been great.

Todd McLaughlin

What is an example of something that you tried to premeditate that did not go according to your plan?

Nat Flood

Yeah. So I mean, luckily for me, the second birth was so much more fluid and on the level that I wanted. I was successful, this time in my home water birth, which I’m just so grateful for, took a lot of preparation. It’s just not a done thing here in Bermuda. Not not to say that you can’t do it, but it’s not regulated, and it’s not legislated. So it’s a personal risk that we take on to do it here rather than birthing at the hospital, which is like the major option. But I did long extended breastfeeding with my first son. So we made it to about 15-16 months breastfeeding. And so I was really looking forward to the breastfeeding journey with my second and it was discovered, I kind of knew that there was a problem. He was kind of having a hard time latching on. I knew that it wasn’t right. And then we discovered a massive tongue tie issue for him decided to go ahead with revision and even with revision, he was so guarded and he would not let the dentist in there to do it. So it wasn’t successful. And I ended up pumping exclusively and bottle feeding him. And I mean he’s only nine months so luckily I have a great supply so I was able to pump in store for six months, and he’s still living off my supply. So hopefully I’ll get into a year with my with my breast milk supply. So for me that was just such a new way of thinking or like seeing motherhood you know, you especially as a business owner, it’s it was so time consuming, so body consuming.

Todd McLaughlin

Oh my gosh, I can’t even imagine. I mean, obviously, I can’t imagine being a male, but at the same time being a dad and what all goes into it. 

Nat Flood

Yeah. Oh my gosh, right. Like I remember just even if we were attempting to get a night off in the process of needing to try to have enough supplies ready to go was was a lot of a lot of extra work. A lot of extra work! Just  doing the bottle sterilizing process, oh my goodness, I never did that with my first.

Todd McLaughlin

Can you explain to me what tongue tied is? I can guess what that means. But can you further clarify? 

Nat Flood

Yeah, so he has it’s called a sub lingual, sub lingual mucosal tongue tie. I’m probably butchering that, for anyone knows a lot about tongue ties. So it’s quite deep in the back and hard to see. And so what it means is that they can’t get their tongue up to the roof of their mouth to perform that perfect latch. So anytime he would latch on to my breast, it was a couple of sucks and a release and a release, and he could not get a good flow going. So when you have your let down, you know, he had basically trained my body to be two to three ounces of a letdown. And then he would just stop feeding. And he was actually doing something similarly to a bottle. But obviously, with a bottle, it’s a whole lot easier to get the suction, the latch going. So luckily, the tongue tie reversal, what she could do, what the dentist could do, made it a lot easier with a lot less clicking on the bottle. But he was still never able to like develop that positive relationship with breastfeeding. He was very, it was it was traumatizing for him to breastfeed. Yeah. So for us, it was like, You know what? Yes, we could have potentially gone off Island and found another dentist that would have done another revision, but like, you know what? We just whatever’s best for him. And right now, this seems to be his happy place, feeding from a bottle. 

Todd McLaughlin

So yeah, so I hear you and you just use the word off island. So on that note, I want to mention that the reason that I was able to find you is I have someone who comes to our studio that she travels to Bermuda. And she just every time she comes back, she’s just raves about how beautiful Bermuda is? That the energy there is just so incredible. And she’s piqued my interest. So in the process of finding you and a yoga studio in Bermuda, I guess I’m just really excited to actually talk to someone who lives in Bermuda. Yeah, can you tell me what Bermuda is like?

Nat Flood

For me? It’s awesome. So we’re a subtropical island that’s about 700 miles off the coast of North Carolina. So we’re like right in line with North Carolina. We are kind of the halfway in between the US and, and really like the continent of Africa, like it’s on the other side, obviously. And then we have Britain above us. So we are at an overseas territory of the United Kingdom. So kind of like how Jamaica was before they went independent, essentially. And it’s beautiful. It’s a 21 square mile island. It’s a mile wide. at its widest point. If you look at a map of Bermuda, it looks like kind of, I’ve heard it described as like a hook. Or like someone said to me recently, I had a teacher, one of my best friends came and taught here for me, back in October, she’s like, it looks to me like a witch’s finger, that’s like curling in telling you to come here, like come here, that sort of thing. So it’s a really cool shape. It’s actually a volcano, we’re living on top of an inactive volcano. And so there is like, you know, it’s just kind of the island and then everything below it is inactive volcano. So we have incredible reef surf. And then we have this insane drop off point. So all of the fishermen here, they go out to the drop off, and that’s where they do their fishing. But when they go out that far, you can’t even see the island anymore. That’s how far out it is.

Todd McLaughlin

Wow. So it’s cool. It sounds amazing. I know everything I’ve heard about it. And the pics I’ve seen have from the surf culture as well just looks like this really incredible.

Nat Flood 

It is like super hush hush to a lot of people that move here and don’t know that you can surf here. And there’s like the small contingency of surfer dudes and super surfer girls that go out and they, you know, they’re watching the weather radar, like crazy to make sure that the conditions are right and they go out and they paddle and they go for it. So it’s cool. It’s like it’s starting to become a real thing. Like people are coming here to surf.

Todd McLaughlin

Nice. So yeah, so um another reason to go I’m What drew you or When did you move to Bermuda? Are you born and raised there?

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

Thanks for reading this blog post from this YouTube video. Check out: 

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.

New Student FREE 30 Minute Yoga Meet & Greet ~ Are you new to Native Yoga Center and have questions that you would like us to address? Whether you are coming to In Studio, Livestream or Online Recorded Classes we offer a one time complimentary 30 minute zoom meeting to answer any questions you may have. Schedule a time that is convenient for you. Click Here

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

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Michael Harris – Falling Down Getting UP – Overcoming Your Obstacles

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Join in listening to this wonderful conversation I had with Michael Harris.

Michael has been telling “sit on the edge of your seat stories” ever since his first show and tell in grade school – some stories will make you laugh – others are quite tragic that could bring any listener to tears. He shares in his #1 book, Falling Down Getting UP,  how starting in 1987, yoga helped heal him from several near fatal predicaments. 

Today, Michael is a popular yoga teacher with three certifications from Erich Schiffman, Integral Yoga and Bikram Yoga. In addition, he is an author, lifelong entrepreneur and co-founder of Endless Stages – a company dedicated to help motivated yogis, healers and entrepreneurs get their personal voice, message and story out to the world.

You can download a free copy of his powerful book at www.michaelbharris.com/book or purchase at https://bookshop.org/shop/michaelharris.com

You can listen to the full episode for free here.

Todd McLaughlin

We’ll just so the listeners are aware you you gave me the best surprise ever because we had scheduled to do this podcast quite a while ago. I know we worked really hard at finding a date that we could both organize to make this work. Just prior to me hitting the record button, Michael, you reminded me that you and I had met in California, at Bikram Yoga Teacher Training. You were one of the teachers that were helping teach some of the classes at the training. I didn’t even know that was you when we were scheduling this appointment. So now the fact that I’m getting a chance to speak with you I am so exited. I remember you very clearly. I loved your classes! I felt like you were a grounding force in a really wild world. You know? I’m just now getting a chance to pick your brain and find out where you are at with Bikram yoga, and what you’re doing now. So on that note, can you just start telling me and filling me in on your journey? And I guess I’ll be a little more specific. Let’s go way, way back. Can you tell me the first time you start practicing yoga? What was the first yoga class you ever got a chance to take?

Michael Harris

Absolutely. You know, the first time that I took a yoga class was 1988. Yes. Or excuse me,1987. I had vascular surgery in November of 1986. I had blocked arteries. The doctors at the time suggested that they may need to amputate my leg. I was pretty blunt to them and saying that that wasn’t gonna happen. I ended up at a place called Pritikin Longevity Center, which is in Santa Monica, but no longer there. By the ocean right down on the boardwalk pretty close to the Santa Monica Pier. When I first got there, I was walking on a cane I could walk literally about 10 feet. Cane in one hand, my other hand on the wall. Well, I could barely walk. To make a long story much shorter. The doctors that I was seeing in Portland for my vascular disease suggested that when it hurt that I should not move my body. And not to walk. The doctor at the Pritikin Center said when it hurts, keep walking. In hindsight, it was a huge spiritual wake up call to me. It was one of a number of times that I can identify over the years. But that particular one, he says get up and walk and walk through the pain. He says I just want you to go out there on the boardwalk and start walking. Initially, I was pretty scared to. I was in serious pain and was nervous because the movement seem to make me feel more pain. Yet he said, “Yes, it’s gonna hurt.” And he says, “Just keep doing what you can do.” Well, here I am. You know, 1987 that was actually March of 1987. There was a lot of women on rollerblades. And here I am. I’m a sick man. And I don’t want to be a sick man. I want to feel strong and healthy. And I had already had a lot of self esteem issues and everything else that I’ve struggled with. And so I wanted to walk tall. So within two weeks, I went from walking 10 feet to two miles, unassisted without my cane without a wall. 

TM

Wow. 

MH

And the sheer process of moving my body. Of walking, going one foot in front of the next, helped to build new blood vessels in my leg and collateral blood vessels. 

TM

Wow. 

MH

So as those new vessels were being built, in addition to that, the popliteal arteries where the primary blockages were began to heal as well. So not only was I getting the collaterals, I was also getting the popliteal artery to begin to heal. So answering your question about the first yoga class, the first yoga class was at the Pritikin Longevity Center. Now, granted, it wasn’t a very vigorous class. It was mostly for people in rehabilitation of some sort. It was really known more for weight loss. Although I wasn’t heavy, I’ve never really been heavy in my life. So losing weight wasn’t my challenge, they actually wanted me to gain weight. But there’s also a plant based facility at Pritikin Longevity Center. So they said I can eat as much food as I want. So I was walking, I started doing some yoga classes in the basement, and I was eating all the plant based food I could possibly eat.

TM

Nice. 

MH

Yeah, it was good. 

TM

Well, that’s incredible! That’s a really great story in terms of endurance and overcoming, like you said, that fear of working into the pain. Having that question like, “what do you mean…..walk more?” That whole transformation process of pushing through that. I’m curious, from taking yoga in the Pritikin environment there. What was your next step in relation to seeking other types of yoga? What was the evolution? How did it evolve from here?

MH

Yep. Well, I was living in Portland at the time, so I was just down there for the Pritikin Center. And when I went back to Portland, I started going to a yoga class at the gym. Because I was doing the gym, I was doing the treadmill. When I first started doing the treadmill, actually, was at Pritikin Center. I was going point three miles an hour.  As slow as the treadmill would move. That’s how slow I was going. And I was struggling. But I did more at the gym. And I was also walking in a park near my house as much as I could, but they had a yoga class there. And I would not call it a gym yoga, you know, however you want to perceive that to be, but it was a wonderful class. And at the end, they did candle gazing and I really liked it. When they would have me do downward dog. I would fall out of it. I couldn’t do much. But it led me to another general hatha yoga class. Diane Wilson was quite important for years. And I started taking her class. And I’m kind of jumping here ahead a little bit. I started doing Ashtanga Yoga. I saw a flyer for Yoga for Skiers. And I hadn’t skied for years because my condition and I want to get back to skiing. Somebody named Beryl Bender Birch was in Portland teaching and I thought, well, I’m gonna go to this thing and see if I can start skiing again. Well, I had what some people would call perhaps a kundalini experience and feeling the sensations in my body. Like tears flowing and just like opening up. Through this process and diving into Ashtanga I did a lot of stuff with David Swenson and a guy named Clifford. A lot of people don’t know who he was. He was one of the really early people. Nancy Gilgoff. I got a lot of time with her over in Maui. 

TM

Isn’t her place amazing? When you gotta look for the tomato sign when you’re driving up country on Maui? Everyone tells you like look for the tomato farm sign and then pull it you’ll find the house of Zen right? Is it called House of yoga and Zen or house of Zen? What a great little setup. That little wooden barn kind of yoga studio structure on that farm. Wow, studying with Nancy is like a real treat. That’s amazing. That’s cool, Michael.  I love David Swenson. I’ve never had a chance to practice with Beryl Bender Birch, but she’s a bit of a legend in the Ashtanga vinyasa world as well.

MH

Yeah. And a little bit more in synchronicity with Nancy. I don’t like staying in motels or hotels. So I was looking for a place to stay in apartment, a house something to rent. I rented this place. And you know, this guy named Gary and I called him and I said, Oh, do you know that Nancy? He says, oh, yeah, and that was about it. Didn’t say much. Well, when I got there, and it was rented apartment in his basement, do you know who Gary Kraftsow is?

TM

Oh yeah, he’s one of the famous teachers of Viniyoga. 

MH

One of his primary teachers was really close to Desikachar. I had no idea when I rented this place who it was. So here I am staying at Gary Kraftsow’s house. Also studying with Nancy. Wow. It was just like, you know, I mean, totally immersed.

TM

That’s right. When I lived on Maui for a year, and I remember seeing that he had a center in the upcountry area when I started looking into yoga. I never went but I remember his place was associated with a bodywork studio that always looked so interesting to me. That’s really cool. I can imagine that. Yeah, you’re staying with Gary, you’re getting your butt kicked with Nancy and in a good way. So at this point, I’m thinking you’ve made a pretty radical transformation from holding on to the wall walking 10 steps, if you’re hanging out with these yoga legends? Were you “back to normal” at this point? Where are you at at this phase?

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

Thanks for reading this blog post from this podcast episode. Check out: 👇
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/

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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.

New Student FREE 30 Minute Yoga Meet & Greet ~ Are you new to Native Yoga Center and have questions that you would like us to address? Whether you are coming to In Studio, Livestream or Online Recorded Classes we offer a one time complimentary 30 minute zoom meeting to answer any questions you may have. Schedule a time that is convenient for you. Click Here

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
Please share this episode with your friends, rate & review and join us next time.

Carley Smith – Yoga & Healthy Eating with the Fairy Gutmother

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I had an amazing conversation with Carley Smith about gut health during this podcast. 
Carley Smith, aka Fairy Gutmother, is a Nutritional Therapist, Certified GAPS Practitioner, and Registered Yoga Teacher. Carley became interested in health and nutrition after being diagnosed with Lyme disease and using food as medicine emphasizing gut health to help heal. 

Visit Carley’s website at fairygutmother.com You can also follow here on IG here.

During our conversation she spoke about:

  • How she was able to heal herself from Lyme disease through 
  • how she was able to learn what foods are best for her
  • how yoga has played an integral part in her healing process
  • why she is passionate about helping others
  • and so much more!

Below is a portion of the transcript from our conversation. Remember you can listen to the full episode for free here.

Todd McLaughlin

I’m so excited to have Carley Smith here with me in studio today. And Carley is a nutritional therapist, a certified GAPS practitioner and a registered yoga teacher. And she will explain what the GAPS practitioner is here in a moment. But Carley, thank you so much for coming in.

Carley Smith

Thank you so much for having me.

TM

Well, it’s a pleasure. I’ve had the chance to meet you from taking classes here. I then learned that your career is helping people with gut health and that you have a website called https://www.fairygutmother.com. Correct? And also, we can find you at the same handle on Instagram @fairygutmother. I’m guessing the other social media channels are under the same name very as well? So on that note, can you tell me what your specialty is what what you focus on when helping people?

CS

Sure. So I work with people to help them restore their health through the gut. That is through diet and lifestyle changes. I truly believe gut health is the foundation for our health. It’s where nearly the entire immune system is located. So basically helping people to optimize the health of the microbiome, putting, you know, bringing in different foods that help do that. And then supplements as well.

TM

Nice. And you’re also a registered yoga teacher. So are you currently teaching classes?

CS

I’m not currently teaching but I do weave yoga into my protocols with my clients. I think it blends very nicely in with gut health, because it’s kind of that lifestyle aspect. I tell people gut health is not just a diet, it’s a lifestyle. Stress is just as damaging on the gut as junk food. And that’s what clinical research actually says. So I love the way that yoga brings in that way to mitigate our stress levels, but also kind of gives the gut a little internal massage, helping to kind of increase that motility and just overall health of the gut.

TM

Nice. Have you always been, air quote a “health nut?” Or did you have something happen to you in life that kind of pushed you in the direction of paying extra attention to your health?

CS

Yes. So I’ve always been interested in health and nutrition and I always thought I was healthy but I ended up getting Lyme disease in 2014. Well, I’ll back up, I was probably sick for a year or two before that I finally found out and was diagnosed in 2014. But my whole experience was why I completely shifted the way that I view health and wellness. And like I said, I thought I was healthy. But after learning about gut health where nearly your entire immune system is located, and you know, I implemented a gut healing protocol. I was able to completely reverse my symptoms from Lyme. Based on just focusing on gut health completely changed my perspective on health and wellness, and what’s important and what actually is healthy as it relates to the gut.

TM

Wow, when you were diagnosed with Lyme disease, what was the treatment that was prescribed to you via the Western field?

CS

So at that time, it was mainly just antibiotics. So you go on a heavy dose of antibiotics for a prolonged period of time. And that’s basically the route I took at that time. I really wasn’t aware of any alternative therapies that are out there. So now I’m so much more aware of different modalities and treatments that are available for Lyme. But at that time, it was just straight antibiotics. And then that felt like it was doing more harm on my body than good. Because you’re obviously you’re killing the good and the bad bacteria with that. So I went off of all that medicine. And that’s when I started doing research and learning about gut health.

TM

Nice. What did you start implementing? What were some of the first things that you began to utilize in your research and study?

CS

So the first thing I did was the GAPS diet, which stands for Gut and Psychology Syndrome. And so that’s really all about healing the gut. It’s an elimination and reintroduction diet. So you’re eating a lot of nourishing foods that help to heal the gut lining, and then obviously, eventually repopulate the gut with beneficial bacteria. So you’re cutting out a lot of, obviously, any processed foods and sugar, things like that. But you’re really just focusing on bone broth, which was a huge part of my healing journey, animal meats and proteins and cooked vegetables. Foods that are going to be very easy to digest. And then as time goes on, you can slowly start incorporating more foods and more raw foods.

TM

What were the main symptoms that you felt when you had Lyme disease? It sounds like you had Lyme disease for over a year before diagnosed? What were the symptoms you were feeling? When that was happening before you even knew what was going on?

CS

Yeah, I mean, it honestly felt like my body was abducted by an alien. Like I had absolutely no control over my emotions. I forgot where I lived, driving home from work. And that’s really when I had to kind of just confine myself to my apartment. I couldn’t really leave. I was scared. Like a brain fraught with fog. I was like completely disoriented. I had no clue or recollection of where I lived. I didn’t know where to turn to or where I was. There was a whole neurological and cognitive dysfunction and I was just completely affected. 

TM

Are those common symptoms that most people that have Lyme disease experience? 

CS

Yes! A lot of brain fog, mental illness and loss of cognitive function. That’s a very big part of Lyme disease. And that I think is one of the hardest things about Lyme is that it is so difficult to diagnose and why it’s so misdiagnosed. Because there are so many symptoms of Lyme, in connection with that I also had a lot of issues with my hormones. So I was menstrual bleeding for about four months straight, and no one could figure out what was going on. The doctor just eventually told me to go lay at home in bed with my feet up. And that’s not a very common symptom. So I think it’s hard to, for people to get diagnosed, because there’s so many different things that people experience. I never noticed a tick bite, or anything like that. The thought is that perhaps I had that several years ago, and then a long period of stress weakened my immune system. And that’s when the disease flourished.

TM

When you started taking the antibiotics, did you feel a little better? Did that work on some level?

CS

It might have a little bit, initially, but I really was so sick that I couldn’t tell. And then there were so many other issues that kept popping up from the side effects of the antibiotics, that it felt like they were doing more harm than good. So it was hard to kind of pinpoint and truly that dietary change of shifting more towards a gut healing protocol was where I felt the biggest shift in my health. My memory was one of the first things to come back. I started to think more clearly I felt like I had a better control over my emotions. I was able to recall more information and just just felt better overall.

TM

I’m just I’m trying to replay what you said. So you started with bone broth and eliminated almost everything else. You start off with bone broth as the basis for the diet? And then you said slowly implementing easily digestible foods like animal protein? And greens as well and vegetables, fruits, or no? Are you trying to eliminate carbs, the sugar from the carbs and that type of thing? 

CS

Yeah, so it’s basically on the veggie side, it was a lot of winter squashes, and everything is cooked. I know…. nothing raw, it’s a little bit harder to digest those foods, than the cooked meats and vegetables. That was a big thing, the animal proteins, what you’re looking to do with the proteins in the bone broth is really extract all those nutrients that help to support and heal the gut lining. So with those animal fats, and proteins are one of the most important things that you can do to help with that.

TM

So being a yogi, and into yoga culture, where we are pressed in the direction of a “Ahimsa”, or non violence and vegetarian diet. And what are your thoughts regarding implementing animal proteins? In relation to that theory and approach that one should be vegetarian?

CS

Yes, so you can absolutely still focus on gut health, with a more vegetarian approach. And I have a recipe for a vegetarian broth on my website. And basically, what you’re thinking, what you want to think about is pulling those nutrients from those vegetables that are helpful in healing the gut lining, and one of those is L glutamine. You can even just buy L glutamine in a powder form. And that’s very helpful in maintaining the integrity of the gut lining. So you can make a broth with lots of those vegetables like carrots, and beets, very high and L glutamine. Thinking again, about extracting those nutrients. One of the biggest proponents for gut health or components of gut health is fiber. So fiber feeds the good bacteria in the gut. So once the gut is healed, and a way to maintain that optimal gut health is just by, you know, adding in more fiber into your diet. In fact, the entire plate really should be plant based, lots of fiber, and then you can fill in, you know, the remaining parts of that. But as far as the animal base, I mean, for me that really helped. Those animal fats and proteins were one of the biggest things I think that helped my cognitive function and repair the gut lining. But if that’s not something that fits in, and I will note that it’s important to make sure that you’re sourcing those sustainably and that the animals are pasture raised and grass fed. Work with a local farmer and rancher is super important. But if that’s not something that works for you, that doesn’t mean that you still can’t heal the gut. There are other ways to get those nutrients.

Listen to the full episode here.

Thanks for reading this blog post from this podcast episode. Check out: 👇
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.

New Student FREE 30 Minute Yoga Meet & Greet ~ Are you new to Native Yoga Center and have questions that you would like us to address? Whether you are coming to In Studio, Livestream or Online Recorded Classes we offer a one time complimentary 30 minute zoom meeting to answer any questions you may have. Schedule a time that is convenient for you. Click Here

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
Please share this episode with your friends, rate & review and join us next time.