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

Listen to podcast with Benjamin for FREE here

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: 👇
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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
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Twitter: @nativeyoga 
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter 
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

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

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

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

Key Takeaways:

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

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

Introduction

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

Key Takeaways

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

Finding Balance: The Joy and Challenges of Parenting

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

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

The Role of a Teacher: Guiding and Supporting

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

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

The Impact of Technology: Finding Solitude in a Connected World

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

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

Conclusion

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

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
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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.comSupport the show

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

20 Minute Yoga for Back Pain: Strengthen, Soothe and Release Low Back & Hips

Todd McLaughlin is a yoga instructor and the owner of Native Yoga Center in Juno Beach, Florida. With over 20 years of experience in teaching yoga, Todd is passionate about helping people alleviate back pain and improve their overall well-being through yoga practice.

Summary: In this episode of Grow Your Yoga, Todd McLaughlin shares his favorite stretches and poses to alleviate back pain. He emphasizes the importance of consulting with a physician and understanding one’s specific condition before starting a yoga practice. Todd guides listeners through various movements, such as flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation, to determine which motions provide relief and which exacerbate the pain. He then demonstrates poses like Cow and Cat, Child’s Pose, Head-to-Knee Pose, Bridge Pose, and Supine Twist, explaining how each pose targets different areas of the back and hips. Todd concludes the session with a relaxation pose, Shavasana, and encourages listeners to practice yoga regularly to cultivate peace within themselves and spread it to others.

Key Takeaways:

  • Consult with a physician and understand your specific condition before starting a yoga practice for back pain relief.
  • Determine which movements provide relief and which exacerbate the pain by exploring flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation.
  • Cow and Cat poses can help alleviate back pain by opening up space between the vertebrae.
  • Child’s Pose can be modified to accommodate different levels of flexibility and comfort.
  • Head-to-Knee Pose stretches the side body and hips, providing relief for the lower back.
  • Bridge Pose strengthens the legs and opens up space around the sacrum.
  • Supine Twist can be adjusted with props to make it more comfortable and gentle.
  • Regular yoga practice can help cultivate peace within oneself and promote overall well-being.

*Grow Your Yoga: Alleviating Back Pain with Yoga

By Todd McLaughlin, Native Yoga Center

Welcome to Grow Your Yoga! In this webinar, we will be discussing 20-minute yoga routines that can help alleviate back pain. Whether you’re experiencing low back pain, thoracic pain, or neck pain, I will guide you through a series of stretches and movements that can provide relief and improve flexibility. It’s important to consult with a physician and undergo imaging tests to understand the underlying causes of your back pain. Once you have a better understanding, we can tailor the yoga movements to suit your needs.

Discovering the Right Movements

To begin, let’s explore different movements and observe how they affect your back. Start by standing with your hands on your waist. Bend your knees slightly and round your spine forward. Pay attention to how this motion feels. Does it alleviate or increase the discomfort? Next, straighten your legs, press your hips forward, and go into extension. Again, observe the sensation. Does it improve or worsen the pain? Lastly, try lateral flexion by pressing your hips to the right and leaning to the left. Repeat on the other side. Take note of how these movements affect your back.

Cow and Cat Poses

One of the key poses for alleviating back pain is the Cow and Cat poses. Start on your hands and knees, with your hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips. In Cow Pose, lift your chin and tailbone, allowing the ribcage to drop down. In Cat Pose, tuck your chin and round your spine, engaging your abdominal muscles. Coordinate your breath with the movements, inhaling in Cow Pose and exhaling in Cat Pose. Adjust the range of motion based on what provides relief for your back.

Child’s Pose

Child’s Pose is another effective stretch for the back. If you’re unable to kneel, you can lie on your back and bring your knees to your chest. In Child’s Pose, bring your hips towards your heels and rest your forehead on the floor. If flexion exacerbates your pain, come onto your elbows and maintain a neutral spine. If flexion feels good, fully extend your arms and relax into the pose.

Head-to-Knee Pose

Head-to-Knee Pose is a great stretch for the hips and lower back. Start by sitting with your right knee bent and your right heel close to your body. Reach over for your left foot, either grabbing it or using a strap. This pose opens up the space on the right side of your waistline and hip. If flexion is challenging, focus on isolating the movement at the pelvis and hips. If flexion feels good, fold forward as much as your body allows, engaging your abdominal muscles.

Bridge Pose

Bridge Pose is a strength-building pose that also helps alleviate tension in the back. Lie on your back and bend your knees. Before lifting your hips, isolate the movement of your pelvis and low back. Experiment with anterior and posterior tilts of the pelvis to find what feels best for your back. When you’re ready, press your feet into the floor and lift your hips, engaging your leg muscles. Focus on stability at the midsection and relax your neck and shoulders.

Supine Twist

The Supine Twist is a gentle twisting motion that can provide relief for back stiffness. Lie on your back and tip your knees to the right, allowing your legs to relax. If the twist is too deep, you can place a block under the outside leg for support. Explore the rocking motion of twisting from side to side, coordinating your breath with the movement. This gentle twist helps stretch and release tension in the back.

Seated Cross-Legged Position

To conclude the practice, sit in a cross-legged position. If forward bending is challenging, sit with your hands on your knees and focus on tractioning your spine by engaging your abdominal muscles. If rounding feels better, lean forward and allow your back to release and stretch. Take deep breaths in through your nose and exhale through your nose, focusing on relaxation and letting go of tension.

Implications and Future Outlook

Yoga has been proven to be an effective tool for managing and alleviating back pain. By incorporating these 20-minute routines into your daily or weekly practice, you can strengthen your legs, improve flexibility, and release tension in the back. It’s important to listen to your body and modify the movements based on your individual needs. Regular practice and self-observation will help you become more proficient in finding the movements that provide relief for your back pain.

Conclusion

Back pain can be debilitating, but with the right yoga practice, you can find relief and improve your overall well-being. The stretches and movements discussed in this webinar are just a starting point. It’s important to consult with a physician and work with a qualified yoga instructor to tailor the practice to your specific needs. Remember to listen to your body, practice self-observation, and be patient with yourself as you explore what works best for your back. With regular practice, you can find peace and freedom from back pain.

Thank you for joining me in this webinar. I hope you found these insights and tips helpful. Remember to consult with a physician and practice under the guidance of a qualified instructor. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment, and I will be happy to answer them. Stay tuned for more webinars and classes at Native Yoga Center. Namaste.

Check out: 👇
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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 video on Youtube.

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

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
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Twitter: @nativeyoga 
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LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

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

Celest Pereira, a physiotherapist and yoga teacher, discusses the importance of focusing on one main project instead of trying to juggle multiple streams of income. She emphasizes the need to prioritize and avoid spreading oneself too thin. Celest also explains the concept of functional neurology and how it can be used to evaluate and treat various physical issues.  Celest also shares insights on breathing techniques, pain perception, and the power of positive self-talk.

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

Key Takeaways:

  • Diversifying movement patterns is important for optimal brain mapping and overall physical well-being.
  • Pain is an output of the brain and can be influenced by our thoughts and beliefs.
  • Functional neurology can help improve movement and reduce pain by addressing the underlying neurological issues.

Introduction

In a world where self-employment and multiple streams of income are often glorified, it’s important to take a step back and reevaluate our approach. As a physiotherapist and yoga teacher, I have learned that focusing on one main project and giving it our full attention can lead to more success and fulfillment. In this thought leadership article, we will explore the power of functional neurology and mindful movement in promoting physical and mental well-being. We will delve into the concept of functional neurology, discuss the importance of diversifying our exercise routines, and examine the role of breathing techniques in optimizing our movement patterns. Through verbatim quotes from a recent podcast interview, we will gain insights into the mind of Celest Pereira, a renowned physiotherapist and yoga teacher, and explore the implications and potential impact of these themes.

Functional Neurology and the Power of the Brain

Functional neurology is a field that focuses on the relationship between the brain and the body. Celest Pereira, a physiotherapist and yoga teacher, explains that every process in our body is governed by the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. She emphasizes that the brain plays a crucial role in movement and physical well-being. Pereira shares her experience of working with clients who have various physical issues and how evaluating their nervous system online has led to positive results. She highlights the importance of looking at the body holistically and understanding that seemingly unrelated problems can manifest as pain in the body. Pereira’s approach challenges the traditional allopathic model of focusing solely on the area of pain and encourages a more comprehensive evaluation of the body.

“Every single thing that you do, think, say, every process in your body, it’s all governed from the central nervous system, everything.”

Diversifying Exercise Routines for Optimal Results

Pereira challenges the myth that having multiple streams of income is necessary for success as a self-employed professional. She shares her personal experience of trying to juggle multiple projects and realizing that it is not sustainable in the long run. Pereira explains that focusing on one main project and letting that be the main thing you work on can lead to better results. She encourages individuals to evaluate their exercise routines and diversify their training schedules. Pereira emphasizes the importance of exploring different movements and not getting stuck in a rigid routine. She uses the example of climbing and how she enjoys incorporating various activities like yoga, dancing, and weightlifting into her fitness regimen. Pereira’s approach highlights the need for individuals to find what works best for their bodies and to listen to their own needs and preferences.

“We should be working extremely hard and we should be able to pause and step away from it and think, okay, now time to get inspiration. So that when I go back to the thing, there is something left in the tank.”

The Power of Breathing Techniques and Mindful Movement

Pereira challenges the notion that the feet should always be parallel in yoga poses. She explains that while finding a neutral alignment can be useful, it is important to explore different movements and positions to allow the brain to map all the possibilities. Pereira emphasizes the importance of lunging, both in yoga and in the gym, and encourages individuals to move their feet out of parallel positions. She shares her own experience of teaching yoga and the shift to online platforms during the pandemic. Pereira highlights the benefits of connecting with people from around the world and the importance of finding inspiration and rest to maintain a sustainable practice.

“We can also shorten the time it takes to achieve things in the body by going to the neural tissue first.”

Implications and Potential Impact

The insights shared by Celest Pereira shed light on the power of functional neurology and mindful movement in promoting physical and mental well-being. By understanding the relationship between the brain and the body, individuals can optimize their movement patterns and address underlying issues that may contribute to pain or discomfort. Pereira’s approach challenges traditional notions of exercise and encourages individuals to listen to their bodies, diversify their routines, and find what works best for them. By incorporating breathing techniques and mindful movement, individuals can enhance their overall well-being and improve their physical performance.

The implications of these concepts are significant, as they offer a new perspective on how we approach movement and exercise. By focusing on the brain-body connection and understanding the role of the nervous system, individuals can make more informed choices about their fitness routines. This knowledge can empower individuals to take control of their physical health and explore new possibilities for movement and self-expression.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In conclusion, the power of functional neurology and mindful movement lies in their ability to optimize physical and mental well-being. By understanding the brain-body connection and incorporating breathing techniques and mindful movement into our routines, we can enhance our overall health and performance. The insights shared by Celest Pereira highlight the importance of listening to our bodies, diversifying our exercise routines, and challenging traditional notions of movement. As we continue to explore the potential of functional neurology and mindful movement, we can expect to see a shift in how we approach fitness and well-being. By embracing these concepts, we can unlock our full potential and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
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

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

I am honored to present Prashantha Ramu on this week’s episode! Prashantha is a yoga teacher living in Mysuru, India who is passionate about the power of yoga to heal and transform lives. Listen as he shares his life as a yogi and feel the positive vibrations he has to give.

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

During this conversation we speak about:

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

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

Myself Prashanth from Kadavadara Gudi Village, Mysore. 
Working with IT corporate culture so many years I never left my love towards yoga. 

Yoga is not just part of my life, it travels with me in my entire span of life in every step of My life. 
Yoga is introduced to me in my childhood from my father. Since then I have practiced Yoga under guidance of my father for two years. Yes, My father is my first yoga guru.  Any knowledge that is introduced in childhood has special impact on life. 

Since 2013 I have been practicing vinyasa yoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. After a long self practice went for TTC in Mysore, and I’ve been teaching for four years. 

Today I stand in front of you all as a person who emerged different because of Yoga. Practice should never end in the yoga whether it is teacher or student, Practice is the key to the success. Believing strongly in this, I expect the same from the students. 
Dedicated, determined, passionate and confidence in learning and also be hardworking so the success can reach you and make you new person. 
Yoga has different dimensions of learning, I help you with understanding Yoga in your own way, which is my unique way of teaching Yoga. 
Depending on the student requirements the sequence will be built/created and will be used and can modified again based on the student learning. This methodology is very important as every human being is unique with their strength and flexibility. 
I’m specialised in different styles like Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Handstands, and many more different sequences in a yogic Way.

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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.

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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

Victoria Davis ~ Mental Balance for High Performing Minds

Join my special guest, Victoria Davis, on this week’s episode of Native Yoga Toddcast. Victoria spent twenty years searching for answers, applying remedies & integrating practices, and have taken all she has learned & packaged it in a way that works. How does she know it works? Because it’s worked for her. And here’s why she knows it’ll work for you.

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

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

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


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

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

New Student Livestream Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ~ Click Here to join.

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

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

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

Emma Stern – Somatic Awareness in Trauma Informed Yoga Spaces

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

New Student Livestream Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ~ Click Here to join.

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

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

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

Zuzanna Bućko – Body Kind Yoga in Poland

New podcast with Zuzanna Bućko titled Body Kind Yoga in Poland out now. Zuza is a yoga teacher who directs and leads yoga classes at a retreat center in the remote mountains of Poland. 

You can find Zuza on her IG profiles at:
@bodykind_yoga and @cialozyczliwa_joga

During this conversation we discuss topics like:

  • What is the weather like in the mountains? 
  • How she decided the path of yoga? 
  • The political and economic situation in Poland.
  • Intuitive eating and diet culture.
  • Advice for people who are struggling with IBS. 
  • The importance of unity in diversity. 
  • Diet Culture and Yoga Culture. 

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

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


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

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

New Student Livestream Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ~ Click Here to join.

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

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

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

Federico Blardone – Mind Teaching the Body & Body Teaching the Mind

Join  this week’s special guest, Federico Blardone. Federico is a talented and passionate yoga teacher from Italy. He combines his knowledge of yoga asana  with vedantic studies to facilitate meaningful yoga practices.

Check out Federico on his website: https://www.federicoyoga.com/
Follow him on Instagram @federico_yoga: https://www.instagram.com/federico_yoga/

During this conversation we covered topics like:

  • What was your first introduction to yoga? 
  • How did you become interested in embodied movement? 
  • The utility of Virabhadrasana & backbending. 
  • The definition of madness in yoga. 
  • Learning and teaching embodied movement classes. 
  • Using the mind to teach the body and the body to teach the mind.
  • Yoga’s role in building character. 
  • Being reasonable and living in the moment. 
  • Knowledge of the body and meditation. 

Federico learnt the traditional way of ashtanga Yoga through the guidance of the great Yogini Eileen Hall.

He shares this discipline focusing on the alignment of the body to understand and optimize introspection and injury prevention.

His Embodied movement Yoga classes are based on understanding the natural body movements and how to integrate them in Yoga asana.

His process of teaching is based on observing progressive patterns, moving from the preliminary lines of the postures towards the big picture represented by the asana.

He has been teaching around the world since 2015 and has taught regularly in Italy, China, India, Switzerland, Mexico, and shares workshops abroad regularly.

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

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


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

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

New Student Livestream Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ~ Click Here to join.

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

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

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

Christian Valeriani – EvenFlow Yoga & Thoughts Like Butterflies

Christian Valeriani is the owner of EvenFlow Yoga in Fair Haven, NJ.  In 2002, Christian experienced a significant life shift through which he was introduced to the practice. Three years later, he hung up his corporate hat to serve others by way of teaching yoga. Since then, Christian has taught over 15,000 hours of yoga, is a highly sought after workshop presenter, and directs a Yoga Alliance Certified Teacher Training Program. Christian remains the perpetual student and infuses his teaching with a rare balance of charisma and humility. 

Visit him on his website: https://evenflowyoga.com/
And at: https://wisemen.health/
on IG at: @evenflowyogajerseyshore
and on IG at: @the_wisemen_project

During the conversation we speak about:

  • How he got introduced into yoga?
  • Yoga as a workout vs. mindfulness. 
  • How the breath takes on a different personality during meditation. 
  • Hardest challenges as a yoga studio owner.  

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

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


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

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

New Student Livestream Special ~ Try 2 Weeks of Free Unlimited Livestream Yoga Classes  at Native Yoga Center. Sign into the classes you would like to take and you will receive an email 30 minutes prior to join on Zoom. The class is recorded and uploaded to nativeyogaonline.com ~ Click Here to join.

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

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

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