Tim Feldmann – The Joys and the Challenges of Consistent Yoga Practice

Tim Feldmann, co-founder of Miami Yoga Garage, discusses his journey into yoga and the challenges and joys of being a traveling yoga teacher. He reflects on the ups and downs of consistent practice and the importance of finding balance between effort and ease. Tim also shares his thoughts on social media and the role it plays in his professional life. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and finding joy in the practice, regardless of physical abilities. Tim’s unique perspective and sense of humor make for an engaging and insightful conversation.

Visit Tim on his website: https://timfeldmann.com/
Follow him on IG: https://www.instagram.com/timfeldmannyoga/
And on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/MrTimFeldmann

Tim explains:

  • Consistency in yoga practice is important, but the questions and challenges may change over time.
  • The concept of achievement in yoga is often tied to self-worth, but it’s important to find balance and enjoy the practice.
  • Social media can be a valuable platform for sharing insights and connecting with others, but it’s important to stay true to oneself and not get caught up in the pressure to conform.
  • The Ashtanga yoga practice is a form that can lead to deeper experiences and insights, but it’s important to remember the underlying philosophy and purpose behind the practice.

The Comedy and Tragedy of Yoga: A Conversation with Tim Feldman

Introduction

In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, many people turn to yoga as a source of solace and stability. But what is it about yoga that draws us in? Is it the physical practice, the mental discipline, or something deeper? In a recent podcast interview with Tim Feldmann, a renowned yoga teacher and practitioner, we delved into these questions and explored the profound impact that yoga can have on our lives.

The Journey of a Yogi

Tim Feldmann’s journey into yoga began in his early twenties when he discovered the Jivamukti Yoga Center in New York City. As a young dancer, he was drawn to the physicality of the practice and soon found himself exchanging his daily dance classes for yoga sessions. This marked the beginning of a lifelong love affair with yoga.

But Tim’s yoga journey didn’t stop there. He soon discovered Ashtanga yoga and became enamored with its disciplined and structured approach. He traveled to Mysore, India, to study with the late Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, the founder of Ashtanga yoga, and continued to deepen his practice and understanding of the ancient tradition.

The Ups and Downs of a Nomadic Life

One of the most striking aspects of Tim’s life is his nomadic lifestyle. He travels the world, teaching workshops and sharing his passion for yoga with students from all walks of life. But this constant movement comes with its own set of challenges.

Tim admits that the life of a traveling yoga teacher can be exhausting. The constant jet lag, the unfamiliar surroundings, and the pressure to perform can take a toll on both the body and the mind. But despite the challenges, Tim finds joy in connecting with students and sharing the transformative power of yoga.

The Quest for Consistency

One of the key themes that emerged from our conversation was the importance of consistency in a yoga practice. Tim emphasized the value of showing up on the mat day after day, regardless of how we feel or what challenges we may be facing. He believes that it is through this consistency that we can truly experience the benefits of yoga.

But consistency doesn’t mean doing the same thing over and over again. Tim stressed the importance of adapting our practice to meet our ever-changing needs. As we age, our bodies change, and what once came easily may now require more effort. Tim encourages his students to listen to their bodies and modify their practice accordingly, finding a balance between challenge and ease.

The Paradox of Achievement

In our achievement-oriented society, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that we need to constantly strive for more. But Tim challenges this notion and encourages us to find contentment in the present moment. He believes that true achievement comes from within and that the practice of yoga can help us cultivate a sense of inner peace and fulfillment.

Tim also acknowledges the paradox of achievement in yoga. While the physical practice can be challenging and demanding, it is through these challenges that we can experience moments of clarity and insight. The struggle itself becomes a catalyst for growth and self-discovery.

The Comedy and Tragedy of Yoga

Throughout our conversation, Tim often referred to the comedy and tragedy of yoga. He sees yoga as a reflection of the human experience, with all its ups and downs, joys and sorrows. Yoga can be both a source of laughter and a source of tears, a reminder of our own imperfections and a celebration of our inherent beauty.

Tim’s perspective on yoga is rooted in the teachings of Patanjali, the ancient sage who codified the principles of yoga in the Yoga Sutras. He believes that yoga is not just a physical practice but a path to self-realization and enlightenment. It is a journey of self-discovery and self-transformation, a way to connect with our true nature and find peace amidst the chaos of life.

Conclusion

In our conversation with Tim Feldmann, we explored the profound impact that yoga can have on our lives. From the challenges of a nomadic lifestyle to the quest for consistency, Tim shared his insights and wisdom gained from years of practice and teaching. He reminded us of the importance of finding joy in the present moment and embracing the comedy and tragedy of life.

As we continue on our own yoga journeys, let us remember that yoga is not just a physical practice but a way of life. It is a path to self-discovery and self-transformation, a journey of growth and self-realization. And through it all, let us find solace in the practice, knowing that we are not alone on this path, but part of a larger community of seekers and yogis.

So, whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just beginning your yoga journey, embrace the comedy and tragedy of yoga, and let it guide you on the path to self-discovery and enlightenment. Namaste.

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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.

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Lotta Sebzda – Demonstrating Age is Just a Number in Yoga

Lotta Sebzda, a 57 year old Swedish Ashtanga yoga practitioner and hairdresser, shares her love for Ashtanga yoga and her journey with the practice. She discusses the benefits of a consistent practice, the importance of listening to your body, and the joy of teaching workshops. Lota also talks about the evolution of social media and its impact on the yoga community.

Follow Lotta on Instagram at @lottasebzdayoga https://www.instagram.com/lottasebzdayoga/

Listen to full episode of podcast for free here: https://nativeyogacenter.buzzsprout.com/950785/13635446-lotta-sebzda-demonstrating-age-is-just-a-number-in-yoga


Key Takeaways:

  • Ashtanga yoga is a consistent practice that can be done anywhere and provides different experiences each day.
  • Age is just a number in yoga, and it’s never too late to start or continue your practice.
  • It’s important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to avoid injury.
  • Social media has made yoga more accessible and allows for connection and inspiration within the yoga community.

The Evolution of Ashtanga Yoga: A Conversation with Lotta Sebzda

In this thought leadership article, we explore the main themes discussed in a podcast interview with Lotta Sebzda, a renowned Ashtanga yoga practitioner. Through a detailed analysis of the transcript, we delve into the evolution of Ashtanga yoga, the benefits of the practice, and the impact of social media on the yoga community.

Introduction

In a recent podcast interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lotta Sebzda, a dedicated Ashtanga yoga practitioner with over 25 years of experience. Lotta shared her journey with Ashtanga yoga, her love for the practice, and her insights into the physical and mental benefits it offers. We discussed the evolution of Ashtanga yoga, the role of social media in the yoga community, and the importance of finding joy and contentment in one’s practice. In this article, we will explore these themes in detail, using verbatim quotes from the interview to provide a comprehensive and insightful analysis.

The Evolution of Ashtanga Yoga

Lotta Sebzda began her Ashtanga yoga journey over two decades ago, and she has been practicing the same sequence ever since. She explained that the beauty of Ashtanga yoga lies in its consistency and repetition. Each day’s practice is unique, offering new challenges and opportunities for growth. Lotta emphasized that Ashtanga yoga is not about achieving perfection or mastering advanced poses; it is about showing up on the mat every day and embracing the practice as it is. She shared her love for the traditional Mysore style of teaching, where students practice at their own pace and receive individualized attention from the teacher. Lotta believes that the Mysore style allows for a deeper connection with the practice and a greater understanding of one’s body and mind.

The Benefits of Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga offers a multitude of physical and mental benefits. Lotta explained that the practice helps to build strength, flexibility, and balance. It also improves focus, concentration, and mental clarity. Lotta shared her personal experience of how Ashtanga yoga helped her regain her strength and immune system after experiencing health issues. She emphasized that the practice is adaptable to individual needs and abilities, and it can be modified to suit different body types and levels of fitness. Lotta also highlighted the importance of breath control in Ashtanga yoga, as it helps to calm the mind and create a meditative state during the practice.

The Impact of Social Media on the Yoga Community

The rise of social media has had a significant impact on the yoga community, and Lotta shared her thoughts on this phenomenon. She acknowledged the benefits of social media in making yoga more accessible to a wider audience and connecting practitioners from around the world. However, she also expressed concerns about the potential negative effects of social media on the practice. Lotta emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective and not comparing oneself to others based on their social media presence. She encouraged practitioners to focus on their own journey and to find joy and contentment in their practice, regardless of their level or ability.

Finding Joy and Contentment in the Practice

Throughout our conversation, Lotta emphasized the importance of finding joy and contentment in the practice of Ashtanga yoga. She encouraged practitioners to approach their practice with a sense of curiosity and playfulness, rather than striving for perfection or achievement. Lotta shared her own experience of how the practice has brought her immense joy and fulfillment, and she encouraged others to cultivate a similar mindset. She reminded us that yoga is a lifelong journey, and that the true essence of the practice lies in the process, rather than the end result.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In conclusion, my conversation with Lotta Sebzda provided valuable insights into the evolution of Ashtanga yoga, the benefits of the practice, and the impact of social media on the yoga community. Lotta’s passion for Ashtanga yoga and her dedication to the practice were evident throughout our discussion. Her words serve as a reminder to all practitioners to approach their practice with an open mind, a sense of joy, and a commitment to self-care. As the yoga community continues to evolve, it is important to stay true to the essence of the practice and to find joy and contentment in the journey.

Thanks for listening to this episode. Check out: 👇
Free Grow Your Yoga Live Webinar – Every Thursday at 12pm EST
➡️ Click here to receive link

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

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

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

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

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