Tag Archives: history

Andrew Eppler: Uncovering the Mysteries of Mysore and the True Roots of Ashtanga Yoga

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Andrew Eppler is a renowned yoga practitioner and documentarian with a deep-rooted connection to Ashtanga yoga. Having begun his yoga journey at the age of 14 under the guidance of his father, Andrew quickly became engrossed in the world of Mysore-style Ashtanga, which has profoundly shaped his life. Known for his insightful documentary “Mysore Yoga Traditions,” Andrew has worked tirelessly to document and highlight the roots and evolution of yoga practices. He is also the driving force behind the Mysore Yoga conference, which invites practitioners to dive deeper into the cultural and practical aspects of yoga.

Visit Andrew here: https://www.mysoreyogatraditions.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Andrew Eppler’s yoga journey began at a young age, significantly influenced by his father’s connections and the transformative practice of Ashtanga yoga.
  • The development and creation of Ashtanga yoga involve a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and personal influences, with significant contributions from Indian royalty and yoga masters.
  • Andrew’s documentary, “Mysore Yoga Traditions,” seeks to uncover the mythical and historical roots of Ashtanga yoga, blending modern practice with ancient traditions.
  • Engaging with Sanskrit and understanding its numerical and musical intricacies is crucial in truly grasping the depths of yoga philosophy.

Exploring Mysore’s Rich Heritage: A Culmination of History and Modernity

The interview with Andrew Eppler reveals a world where tradition and modernity intertwine, shedding light on the rich heritage of Mysore Yoga traditions. Eppler’s journey, beginning at age 14 under the influence of an Ashtanga practitioner visiting Oklahoma, ultimately led him to Mysore, the cornerstone of his exploration into yoga’s roots. This personal connection and subsequent pilgrimage highlight the allure and enigma of Yoga’s spiritual homeland.

Eppler recounts how the Mysore Yoga Traditions documentary began with an intention to document his teacher BNS Iyengar’s teachings, but it evolved into an exploration of a broader community. “When this guy crosses over, it would be a shame not to document all these teachings that he has,” remarks Eppler. Initially hesitant, Iyengar eventually contributed to the project in a broader context, showing the complexity of capturing such an authentic tapestry of history and cultural depth.

Preserving Mysore’s Ancient Knowledge: Challenges and Responsibilities

The preservation of historical manuscripts emerges as a crucial theme in Eppler’s narrative, particularly the elusive Yoga Korunta. The mystery of such ancient texts is underscored by the meticulous care required to maintain them against the ravages of time. “They will sometimes let you hold them in your hands. They’re delicate,” Eppler shares, conveying the tangible connection to a rich, yet fragile, cultural inheritance.

Eppler’s encounters with the principal of the Maharaja’s Sanskrit College opened a treasure trove of information, exemplifying the serendipity often experienced in India. This chance meeting led to unprecedented access. “We hit the jackpot,” he exclaims, underscoring the importance of seizing such unforeseen opportunities. The role of yoga practitioners worldwide in supporting these preservation efforts is gently urged, suggesting a collective responsibility towards these ancient teachings.

The Evolution of Ashtanga Yoga: From Personalized Practice to Global Movement

A deeply insightful segment of Eppler’s conversation reflects on the evolution of Yoga practice. He acknowledges the visionary work of Pattabhi Jois, credited with structuring Ashtanga Yoga’s primary series, while retaining respect for its roots. “Krishnamacharya taught Vinyasa flow… a precise drill designed to create impressive practitioners,” he notes, highlighting the discipline’s journey through time and its adaptation to contemporary needs.

Eppler also addresses the broader cultural influences that shaped modern yoga. He notes the contributions of Mysore’s royal family and King Krishnaraja Wadiyar, whose vision enabled Krishnamacharya’s teachings to flourish. This historical context reveals the adaptability of Yoga – an ancient practice now accommodating the modern seeker on a pragmatic path to self-discovery, while maintaining respect for tradition.

Harmonizing Tradition and Innovation in Yoga’s Dynamic Journey

Eppler’s vivid recounting of his experiences in Mysore emphasizes the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation. His dedication to preserving the authenticity of teaching while acknowledging necessary adaptations presents a balanced view, highlighting how practitioners today can remain true to core values while embracing evolution.

The forthcoming documentary, “Kings and Yogis,” promises to delve deeper into the rich history shared by Mysore’s kings and Yogis, illuminating a tapestry that demonstrates the seamless integration of heritage and novelty. “The tradition of yoga in Mysore is old. It’s beautiful and very rich,” Eppler affirms, inviting a broader understanding of how these ancient teachings continue to inform and inspire modern practice.

In conclusion, Andrew Eppler’s insights serve as a compelling reminder of the profound legacy of Mysore Yoga traditions. Aspiring Yogis and seasoned practitioners alike are encouraged to explore this intricate history – a reminder of the enduring power of yoga as both an ancient spiritual practice and a continually evolving modern discipline.

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

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Francisco Morales ~ Nature as a Healer: Synergy Yoga in Peru’s Sacred Valley

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Francisco Morales is a distinguished healing artist with deep roots in the martial arts, yoga, and Thai massage disciplines. Originally from Peru, he spent his formative years along the Peruvian coast before moving to Washington D.C. at eight. Francisco has lived and trained worldwide, amassing a wealth of experience in various healing arts, such as capoeira, jiu-jitsu, acro yoga, and more. He pioneered Synergy Yoga, a collaborative movement melding elements of therapeutic partner yoga, Thai massage, and circular movement arts. Francisco is also heavily involved in community and youth empowerment through his NGO, Synergy Rising, working to maintain cultural arts and traditions in Peru and beyond.

Visit him at https://synergy.yoga/

Key Takeaways:

  • Francisco Morales embodies a deep connection to Peru’s landscapes and culture, significantly shaping his journey in healing arts.
  • Through Synergy Yoga and Synergy Rising NGO, Francisco emphasizes community, integration of traditional arts, and youth empowerment, particularly in Peru.
  • His insights into the synergy between yoga, martial arts, and healing touch underscore the essential role of intention, movement, and breath.
  • Francisco’s mentoring initiatives aim to preserve cultural heritage and provide pathways for youth, fostering personal growth and economic opportunity.
  • The importance of maintaining mental health, groundedness, and the distinct connection between nature, community, and individual well-being are focal points in Francisco’s philosophy.

Personal Journey: Blending Martial Arts and Healing Arts

Francisco Morales’s journey is a tapestry woven with the threads of martial arts, healing arts, and cultural heritage. Emerging from the vibrant landscapes of Peru and the bustling streets of Washington D.C., his story invites reflection on how geographical and cultural dichotomies shape our worldviews and life paths. Morales’s dialogue reveals an intersection where the discipline of martial arts meets the tenderness of healing arts, painting a portrait of a life dedicated to self-discovery and community empowerment.

As Morales recounts, “I think yoga is a martial art as well. It’s just a martial art that’s kind of like with yourself,” highlighting the internal discipline common to both yoga and martial arts. His belief that practices such as yoga, Thai massage, and capoeira can offer profound self-knowledge emphasizes the philosophy of self-discipline and balance. By framing yoga as a martial art, Morales underscores its role in mental resilience, teaching practitioners to move with intention and mindfulness.

Broad Implications: Morales’s narrative offers insights into the potential of integrating diverse disciplines to nurture holistic well-being. By presenting yoga and martial arts as vehicles for connection with oneself and one’s surroundings, he advocates for a more inclusive understanding of these practices beyond their traditional boundaries. His story encourages the exploration of how geographical and cultural influences can be harmonized into a life path marked by balance and cohesion.

Nurturing Indigenous Arts: The Power of Community

A central mission in Morales’s endeavors is the preservation and celebration of indigenous cultures. Based in Urubamba, the sacred valley of Peru, Morales stresses the importance of preserving the rich Quechua culture through initiatives like Synergy Rising, an NGO dedicated to empowering local youth. “We really want to maintain these arts with the youth,” he asserts, emphasizing the integration of local traditions such as weaving and ceramics into educational programs.

His work champions community as a vital framework for personal growth and cultural sustenance. Morales notes, “Synergy Yoga was formed with the idea…that together you’re greater than one by the self.” By embedding indigenous art forms and traditions within modern education practices, not only is cultural heritage honored, but a newfound path for youth is also paved. This heritage preservation fosters a sense of pride and identity among young community members, contributing to their empowerment and holistic development.

Broader Perspectives: This theme amplifies the dialogue surrounding the preservation of indigenous cultures in contemporary society. Morales’s approach illustrates how the nurturing of traditional arts can serve as both a means of cultural survival and a source of community resilience. By wielding cultural education as a tool for empowerment, his initiatives prompt us to reconsider the role of traditional arts as vital components in sustainable community development, offering valuable insights into the potential synergy between cultural preservation and modern educational frameworks.

Integrating Ancient and Modern Wellness: Path to Holistic Growth

The dialogue between ancient practices and modern wellness trends is evident in Morales’s work, especially within the domains of Thai massage, capoeira, and acro yoga. Each of these practices, while distinct in their origins and applications, converge on a shared platform of promoting physical and mental well-being. Morales’s deep commitment to these arts encapsulates a holistic approach aimed at both healing and strengthening, built on authentic experiences and cultural reverence.

Discussing his trajectory with Thai massage, Morales notes, “I wanted to use my hands, you know, to learn…I always loved it.” This tactile appreciation extends throughout his work, both in his martial arts practice and his wellness initiatives. The integration of Thai massage, as he explains, “helps alleviate” discomfort from endeavors such as acro yoga, blurring the lines between disciplines in service of physical harmony and therapeutic outcomes.

Broader Implications: Morales’s philosophy advocates for a holistic paradigm shift in how we perceive wellness practices today. By merging traditional and modern methodologies, there’s a promise of deeper, fuller healing that acknowledges the body’s complexities and the mind’s nuances. The synergetic approach Morales promotes offers a blueprint for a new paradigm in wellness, where the merging of ancient and modern techniques is not only feasible but necessary for personal and community growth in a rapidly evolving world.

In the words and work of Francisco Morales, we find a compelling narrative centered on the interconnectedness of self and community, tradition and modernity. His initiatives serve as a beacon, illustrating that healing and empowerment stem from within, while drawing strength and identity from communal and cultural roots. This vision for holistic growth challenges conventional wellness paradigms, illuminating pathways enriched with cultural appreciation, mutual support, and personal evolution.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online– Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days – Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online – New classes EVERY day – Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

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

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James Fox ~ Prison Yoga Project: Finding Freedom Behind Bars Through Yoga

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James Fox is the founder of the Prison Yoga Project, an initiative dedicated to bringing yoga and mindfulness practices to incarcerated populations. Over the past two decades, Fox has developed a trauma-informed approach to teaching yoga, focusing on emotional healing and rehabilitation within the prison system. Under his leadership, the Prison Yoga Project has expanded globally across multiple continents. Fox has authored the book “Yoga A Path for Healing and Recovery,” which has been distributed widely to incarcerated individuals worldwide. He is also a trained facilitator in violence prevention and emotional intelligence, contributing significantly to prison reform and rehabilitation through yoga.

Visit Prison Yoga Project and make a donation today: https://www.prisonyoga.org/

Key Takeaways:

  • Trauma-Informed Approach: James Fox emphasizes the importance of using yoga as a tool for managing unresolved trauma, which is common among the incarcerated.
  • Prison System Insights: Fox provides a critical look at how the current prison system lacks effective rehabilitation programs and suggests a shift towards healing over mere punishment.
  • Global Impact: The Prison Yoga Project has grown significantly, with affiliates worldwide, demonstrating the universal applicability of yoga as a rehabilitation tool.

Unlocking Healing: The Transformative Power of Yoga in Prisons

Key Takeaways

  • Healing Through Yoga: James Fox’s work highlights how yoga provides emotional and psychological benefits for inmates, guiding them from violence and addiction to peace and self-awareness.
  • Impact of Trauma-Informed Practices: The importance of trauma-informed yoga practices cannot be overstated, offering incarcerated individuals relief from trauma and improved impulse control.
  • Challenges and Hope for Reform: Despite systemic challenges, the Prison Yoga Project offers a beacon of hope for rehabilitative reform in the criminal justice system.

Healing Through Yoga: Beyond the Bars

The journey of James Fox into the complex world of prison yoga began with a clear intention: to extend the benefits of yoga beyond the confines of traditional studios. His story, as detailed in a compelling conversation with Todd, unfolds as an inspiring tale of transformation and healing through the Prison Yoga Project. Fox reveals, “I was really clear that I didn’t want to teach in a yoga studio. I wanted to bring yoga to people who weren’t being exposed to yoga.” Making a profound impact, Fox introduced yoga to San Quentin Prison in 2003, initially considering it a physical regimen but soon discovering its emotional and psychological potency.

Fox identifies the two underlying issues prevalent in prison populations: violence and addiction. As he worked alongside incarcerated individuals, he realized yoga’s ability to help participants manage these issues not just physically, but also emotionally. “I began to lean more heavily on the emotional and the neuro and the mental benefits of the practice,” Fox explains. This shift in focus is critical, as it transcends the standard physical exertions of a yoga class to address deeper emotional needs, facilitating a healing process that diminishes aggression and fosters inner peace.

Trauma-Informed Yoga: Addressing Deep-Rooted Pain

Understanding the intricate connections between trauma and incarceration is a key theme in the work of the Prison Yoga Project. Fox’s insight into trauma-informed practices reveals the profound impact of unresolved trauma on behavior. “The vast majority of people who are incarcerated come from backgrounds of developmental trauma,” Fox notes. This understanding is pivotal in a prison setting, where trauma often manifests as violence and addiction.

Citing the foundational work of experts like Bessel van der Kolk, Fox emphasizes the healing potential of trauma-informed yoga by addressing the root causes of trauma and providing tools for emotional recovery. By integrating yoga’s meditative and physical practices, participants learn to calm their nervous systems and cultivate impulse control, enabling more considered responses to stressful situations. As Fox eloquently states, “Five mindful breaths can make the difference between a blind reaction and a considered response.”

The transformation experienced by inmates, as Fox describes, is palpable. From improved sleep to reduced aggression, the benefits are immediate and significant. The development of emotional intelligence through yoga empowers prisoners, providing them with vital coping mechanisms needed to navigate and ultimately change their behavior patterns.

Challenges and Hope for Reform: A Future Reimagined

The evolution of the Prison Yoga Project illustrates both the systemic challenges and the potential for change within the criminal justice system. As Fox candidly states, “We’re not rehabilitating people. We’re housing people and we’re punishing people.” Despite these obstacles, Fox’s relentless dedication to prison reform through yoga shines as a beacon of hope.

The widespread acceptance of the project, now spanning 19 US states and several other countries, underscores its transformative power. With a growing network of instructors and volunteers, the project fosters healing over punishment, contrasting starkly against the punitive nature of traditional incarceration. “The train has left the station,” Fox asserts, indicating a burgeoning awareness and advocacy for change. The Prison Yoga Project exemplifies a model of criminal justice reform grounded in empathy and rehabilitation, rather than mere punishment.

Yet, the journey isn’t without its hurdles, particularly in securing funding. “That’s our greatest challenge, is to continue funding the nonprofit,” Fox admits. However, the project’s success in positively influencing the lives of thousands of incarcerated individuals is undeniable. His vision of shifting the paradigm from retribution to restoration is manifesting, albeit gradually.

The Road Ahead: Bridging the Gap Between Punishment and Rehabilitation

The compelling narrative of James Fox and the Prison Yoga Project emphasizes the transformative impact of yoga within the prison system, standing as a testament to the power of second chances. By focusing on healing over punishment and offering a trauma-informed approach to yoga, Fox has paved the way for countless individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery and rehabilitation. Through empathy, understanding, and the therapeutic potential of yoga, the Prison Yoga Project reimagines a future where rehabilitation and reform replace the tired rhetoric of retribution, forging a path toward a more compassionate and effective criminal justice system.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online– Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days – Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online – New classes EVERY day – Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

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

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
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Eric Shaw – Light On Yoga History and Philosophy

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Ever wonder if there is more to yoga than just the yoga postures? Join my guest Eric Shaw for a discussion around his new book called Sacred Thread: A Comprehensive Yoga Timeline: 2000 Events that Shaped Yoga History.  Eric’s teachings and passions have been influenced significantly by his teachers, in particular Shandor Remete and Rod Stryker. You can visit Eric on his website at prasanayoga.com and you can purchase a copy of Eric’s new book on Amazon here.

We discuss topics like:

  • What is the pre-common era?
  • Yoga sutras and urbanization in India.
  • Buddha gives us a new philosophy of life.
  • The difference between consumer consumerism and environmentalism in India.
  • Mapping connections through language patterns.
  • Who were the key cultural movers of the Theosophical Society?
  • The History of the Hatha Yoga Project.
  • Historical perspective of Krishnamacharya’s story.

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

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