Tag Archives: spirituality

Anne Marie Gordon | The Alchemy of Heat: How Hot Yoga Transforms Mind, Body & Spirit

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Anne Marie Gordon is a veteran yoga teacher and pioneering studio owner with over two decades devoted to spirituality and 15+ years immersed in yoga practice. Originally from New York, her path blends traditional yoga, Tai Chi, and the intensity of hot yoga into a deeply transformative approach. Now based in Sheffield, she founded and leads Soul Fire Studios — the city’s first hot yoga studio. Trained in the lineage of Sri Dharma Mittra (500-hour certification), Anne Marie also developed the groundbreaking Hot Yoga Alchemy method, fusing trauma-informed principles with the traditional heat-based practice to create a powerful environment for healing, resilience, and personal transformation.

Why listeners tune in: real-world wisdom, lineage-based teaching, trauma-aware insight, and the story of building a thriving yoga community from the ground up.

Visit Anne Marie: https://www.soulfirestudios.co.uk/ & https://www.hotyogaalchemy.com/ 

What happens when you combine the vibrant heat of hot yoga with the profound depth of spiritual practice? This insightful conversation between Anne Marie Gordon, a seasoned yoga practitioner and studio owner, and Todd McLaughlin, explores this intersection. The dialogue delves into the transformative journey through yoga, the nuances of running a yoga studio, and the holistic integration of heat and meditation to cultivate a deeper sense of self. Whether you are a yogi, a studio owner, or simply someone on a spiritual quest, this discussion offers a rich tapestry of wisdom and practical insights.

Key Takeaways

  • Integration of Heat and Spirituality: Combining the physical intensity of hot yoga with spiritual elements can redefine personal growth and healing.
  • Yoga Business Dynamics: Navigating the business aspect of yoga studios involves balancing ethical practices with financial sustainability.
  • Cultural and Personal Insights: Recognizing and respecting different cultural approaches to yoga can enrich personal practice and community connections.

The Synergy of Heat and Meditation in Yoga

Unlocking the Potential of Heat-Enhanced Practice

Anne Marie Gordon brings a refreshing perspective on how heat can serve as a catalyst for deeper meditative states in yoga practice. By combining her experiences from traditional hot yoga spaces with a commitment to holistic well-being, she charts a path that goes beyond the physical. “We use it now to alchemize,” she notes, steering away from the commercialized aspects of hot yoga that emphasize detoxification and weight loss.

She envisions the heated room as more than just a space for physical exertion. It becomes a sanctuary where “the practice begins” and individuals can explore their internal landscape. The warmth isn’t merely about sweating out toxins but about nurturing a safe environment for introspection. “It’s beautiful,” she suggests, intertwining the physical with the spiritual, allowing participants to experience a “moving meditation” similar to the serenity found in Tai chi.

A Trauma-Informed Approach to Hot Yoga

Anne Marie’s dedication to overlapping the physical and spiritual dimensions of yoga also extends to addressing trauma within the practice, a bold stride that reveals the evolving nature of yoga as an inclusive, healing art form. She acknowledges, “In my hot yoga training… I’ve basically cultivated my own sequences,” promoting practices that honor individual boundaries and foster a sense of empowerment.

This trauma-informed approach emphasizes providing practitioners with “permission” to listen to their bodies, to hydrate, and to rest, moving away from the stringent, endurance-test mentality of earlier hot yoga paradigms. She aims to redefine the hot yoga experience as one that not only respects but encourages mental and emotional resilience, helping yogis “reconnect to the truth of feeling their own experience.”

Navigating the Business of Yoga Studios in a Capitalist Context

Sustaining Authenticity in a Commercial World

Owning a yoga studio comes with its unique challenges, especially when straddling the lines between business sustainability and authentic practice. Anne Marie encapsulates this duality by emphasizing the need for integrity while managing financial viability. She compares the capitalist notion of expansion to the more soulful mission of sharing yoga’s authentic ethos: “what do you really need?” questions Anne Marie, challenging the conventional motivation to franchise for the sake of profit.

She sees the potential growth of yoga businesses as more than a venture for financial success. Instead, it is about cultivating spaces where the teachings can deeply resonate with diverse audiences. Her reflections delve into “bringing people together to do yoga,” a prime example of how community building can coexist with smart business practices, creating a sustainable platform that honors yogic values.

The UK vs. US Yoga Scene Dynamics

The geographical shift from the dynamic, bustling New York yoga scene to the more conservative environment in Sheffield, UK, highlights the adaptability required in running a yoga business. Anne Marie talks about the “entrepreneur’s paradise” that Sheffield initially represented. The difference in market density, cultural perceptions of yoga, and business operations shaped her approach. She had to innovate by introducing various business models such as “intro offers,” an approach previously unfamiliar in the UK.

Her insights reveal that adapting to local culture doesn’t mean diluting yoga’s essence. Instead, it involves interpreting yoga’s universal truths in a locally resonant way, ensuring alignment with community values while maintaining integral business operations.

Bridging Trans-Atlantic Yoga Practices and Wisdom

Transcending the Divide Through Adaptability and Inclusion

Anne Marie’s journey elucidates the rich tapestry of possibilities when blending diverse cultural practices and finding common ground in yoga’s core teachings. Her experiences from the US inform her adaptability in the UK, allowing her to cater to varied cultural understandings of yoga without losing the practice’s authenticity.

The trans-Atlantic trajectory becomes a powerful symbol for inclusivity, offering a yoga experience that speaks across borders. By merging American innovation with British receptivity, she brings a holistic model that espouses yoga as both a personal and community-oriented practice.

Creating a Universal Dialogue in Yoga

At its essence, this dialogue between Anne Marie and her interviewer underscores the importance of creating spaces for universal dialogue within yoga. The conversation revolves around respecting the diverse approaches individuals and cultures bring to their practice. “Yoga is yoga,” she quotes, highlighting each practitioner’s unique path to enlightenment, whether through traditional methods or innovative practices like hot yoga.

The implications of her work emphasize the necessity for yoga communities to embody empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and inclusivity, echoing a world where yoga is not confined to physical spaces or rigid traditions but expands toward broader truths and higher consciousness.

Reflections on Heat, Business, and Integrity

Anne Marie Gordon’s innovative narrative on integrating heat with spiritual mindfulness within yoga practice crafts a rich, multi-layered discussion that resonates deeply with the evolving nature of contemporary yoga. Her insights bridge traditional and modern interpretations, showing the transformative power of adaptability and integrity, whether within the realms of hot yoga, business practices, or cultural exchanges.

Amidst the changing landscapes of both the business and spirituality of yoga, Anne Marie’s journey reminds us to hold steadfast to our truths while embracing the abundant potential of collaboration, learning, and community building. Through an ethos that cherishes both the individual heart and the collective spirit, yoga, at its fullest, becomes a dance of unity, authenticity, and shared wisdom.

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

Gerald Saluti | Surviving the Impossible: From Near-Death to Spiritual Awakening

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Gerald Saluti is a former criminal defense lawyer turned marketing consultant, skilled in resilience, motivational speaking, and breathwork coaching. With over 20 years of legal experience, Gerald pivoted after a significant health crisis, channeling his journey into writing, public speaking, and teaching. A dedicated family man, Gerald is 23 years sober and uses his life experiences to inspire others. His current endeavors include completing a memoir that highlights his transformative experiences and insights into overcoming life’s challenges.

Visit Jerry here: https://salutihealthwellness.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Gerald Saluti transformed his challenging experiences as a caregiver and patient into profound lessons on resilience and spirituality.
  • Facing a severe health crisis allowed Gerald to tap into meditation and breathwork practices, leading to unexpected insights and self-discovery.
  • Gerald emphasizes the importance of kindness and community, crediting his survival to the outpouring of support from friends and family.
  • His journey has reinforced the belief that people can uncover their true potential and strength, even in the absence of extreme adversity.
  • Gerald’s upcoming memoir aims to share these learnings, offering a blueprint for others to lead empowered, victimless lives.

Exploring the Depths of Human Resilience

The conversation between Gerald Saluti and Todd reflects an exploration of resilience through intense personal tribulation. Gerald’s narrative is not merely one of survival but of transformational insight into the human spirit’s capacity to endure and evolve. His challenges are highlighted by a profound life-threatening experience, shared with vulnerability and sincerity.

Gerald recounts his hospitalization and the unraveling of his strength both physically and spiritually. “I went into the hospital last year, you know, really as a caregiver…And there is such a new perspective for the strength that my, my wife has as a patient now that I’ve been a patient like I was,” he shares with an openness about the transition from caregiver to one in need of care. Through these trials, he gained a new appreciation for life’s fragile beauty, underscoring the necessity of resilience: “I’m someone who’s been placed into some very special circumstances, a bunch of different times in my life, some of which were my fault. This one wasn’t.” This narrative captures the essence of resilience that transcends mere survival, pointing instead to thriving through adversity.

The Power of Love and Community in Overcoming Challenges

Central to Gerald’s transformation is the unwavering love and support from his wife, family, and community. The catalyst for his endurance is not confined to personal willpower alone but is significantly bolstered by the communal strength that envelops him. “My whole life with her has been as a caregiver, not someone getting care at all,” Gerald states, reflecting on his wife’s continuous health battles and the role reversal experienced during his illness.

The outpouring of support from friends of varied backgrounds and beliefs manifests in a powerful collective prayer that Gerald profoundly feels during his most vulnerable moments: “The second time I pass, you can feel everyone’s hands like, pushing you back into your body. And I felt individual people.” This communal act serves as a testament to the strength of interconnectedness and collective love, reinforcing a theme that love and support are formidable forces in overcoming life’s trials.

Unlocking Inner Strength Through Spiritual Insight

Amidst the storm of adversity, Gerald finds a sanctuary in spiritual practices, which serve both as his shield and his guide. The narrative dives into a rich tapestry of meditation, breath work, and spiritual awareness that guides him to a profound realization of inner strength and potential. “I used two mantras when I was in the hospital, very effectively… The first mantra when I was dying…was the words not yet,” he recounts, illustrating how mental fortitude guided his path in tandem with spiritual insight.

This experience is punctuated by his mantra “unbreakable,” which emerges as a powerful declaration of resilience and purpose. “The word unbreakable became the mantra that I got out of the hospital with,” Gerald explains, signifying the internal shift from victim to agent of his own story. His spiritual insights extend beyond personal survival, touching on the universal potential within each individual to access deeper realms of awareness and control over one’s body and mind. “I think we’re all right and nobody’s wrong. It’s whatever, however, you choose that you’re going to worship or you’re going to find a better version of yourself.”

Gerald’s story stands as a testament to the power of the human spirit and the untapped potential within each individual. Through his journey, we understand that life’s adversities are not mere endpoints but pathways to profound transformation. Gerald’s insights shine light on a path where love, resilience, and spiritual practice converge to reveal an unbreakable will that not only overcomes but thrives beyond the greatest of challenges. As he aptly concludes, the journey is less about the setbacks and more about the revelation of purpose and potential that these adversities unveil.

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/

Support the show

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

Sam Manchulenko | Yoga, Intuition & Compassionate Awareness

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Sam Manchulenko is a seasoned yoga instructor and spiritual guide based out of Winnipeg, Canada. She is renowned for her expertise in facilitating yoga teacher trainings and workshops that integrate yoga philosophy with practical spiritual tools. Trained under prominent spiritual figures such as Dharma Mittra, Byron Katie, and Eckhart Tolle, Sam offers unique insights into yoga and personal development. She specializes in psychic development, intuitive empowerment, and blending various philosophical teachings to help individuals achieve internal harmony and mindfulness.

Visit Sam: https://www.samtheyogi.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Integration of Practice: Sam highlights the impact of practicing yoga alongside spiritual guides and emphasizes the importance of embodying compassion and curiosity.
  • Yoga and Dance Synergy: Discover how both yoga and dance facilitate mindfulness, presence, and the subtle art of offering oneself to a greater purpose.
  • Philosophical Insights: Explore the power of detachment and the unconditional love that comes from accepting challenges and darker emotions.
  • Psychic Development: Learn about psychic development or intuitive empowerment and how it focuses on attuning to one’s inner vibrations to manifest positivity.

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/

Vibrational Connection: Tuning Into the Energy Around You

Connecting with High-Vibrational Beings

In the yoga community, the idea of vibrational connection plays a crucial role in personal growth and healing. The transcript highlights the transformative power of being in the presence of someone who embodies the practice, such as Dharma. This is not merely about learning techniques but absorbing the energy and love radiated by such individuals. Sam Manchulenko shares, “There’s this feeling when I’m close to Dharma…That flow of unconditional love that I perceive as coming from him, it just…It’s a wonderful gift to be in.”

This experience underscores an essential element of the practice—the idea that yoga is not only about asanas (poses) but about cultivating an internal state of sattva or peace. Reflecting on her journey, Sam describes how studying with Dharma and others helped her navigate life with greater compassion and curiosity.

Implications and Impact

This insight invites practitioners to seek out environments and relationships that elevate their vibrational frequency, thus impacting the broader spectrum of their life positively. It emphasizes that real growth often comes not from striving alone but from the subtle influences of one’s surroundings and company.

Ego and Imagination: Navigating the Inner Landscape

The Role of Ego in Personal Suffering

The dialogue between Sam and Todd delves deeply into the nature of the ego and its impact on personal well-being. Sam illustrates how mental attachments and beliefs contribute to suffering. “Our attachments are mental,” echoes the teachings of Krishnamurti and Byron Katie, whose work focuses on questioning the validity of these thoughts.

The four questions of Byron Katie’s “The Work” guide practitioners to dismantle the narratives that the ego constructs, offering a pathway from suffering to peace. When asked about a challenging belief, Sam responds with the process: “How do you react? What happens when you believe that thought?…Who would you be without that thought?”

Expanding Imagination as a Tool

Imagination serves as a tool for shifting one’s vibrational reality. Rather than letting past stories define the present, consciously directing imagination towards feeling states one desires can alter one’s vibration. This concept is intertwined with Dharma’s teachings on psychic development, which encourage practitioners to use imagination to align their vibrations with how they wish their world to be.

Implications and Impact

These insights challenge us to become more aware of our mental processes and leverage imagination constructively. By altering our inner dialogues and visualizations, we open doors to healing and connection, transforming the way we engage with ourselves and the world.

Understanding Pain and Presence: Redefining the Experience

The Nature of Pain

The transcript offers a profound perspective on addressing pain through presence. Rather than viewing pain as an enemy, Sam suggests encountering it with love: “The thing that made the pain so intense was the hatred of it…What would it be like to love that part as opposed to being mad at it?”

This reflects Byron Katie’s assertion that pain is often a construct of memories or future anticipations. By anchoring in the present moment and releasing these mental attachments, one can transcend the experience of suffering.

Presence as a Healing Balm

In practicing presence, the conversation highlights the potential for healing by simply allowing what is. Sam points out, “Can you get completely present right in the center of it?…If you stay right in the center, is there still pain?” This shifting of focus from resistance to acceptance presents a subtle yet powerful approach to healing.

Implications and Impact

By reframing pain through the lens of presence, practitioners can soften their inner battles, fostering a deeper state of peace. This approach not only redefines personal suffering but also enriches one’s ability to hold space for others experiencing pain.

Synthesizing Insight and Experience: An Invitation to Practice

This conversation between Todd and Sam Manchulenko beautifully weaves concepts from yoga philosophy with personal insights to transform how we perceive and interact with our inner and outer worlds. The dialogue is instructive, offering practices that encourage vibrational awareness, a compassionate inquiry into the ego, and a loving presence with pain.

Exploring the perspectives of revered teachers like Dharma, Byron Katie, and Eckhart Tolle further enriches the narrative, inviting practitioners to seek a deeper connection to self and spirit through their wisdom. While no singular approach offers all the answers, merging these teachings in a personal practice can facilitate profound inner change.

As we continue to navigate our realities with these insights, we are reminded of the transformational power of vibration, imagination, and presence. These core elements can shift our experiences, guiding us toward a life that is both authentic and interconnected—a testament to the enduring wisdom of yoga as a holistic, heart-centered journey.

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/

Support the show

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

Sathu Jois | Ashtanga Lineage, Joyful Practice & the Future of Yoga

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Sathu Jois is a dedicated Ashtanga yoga teacher rooted in a rich lineage as the granddaughter of Pattabhi Jois and daughter of Manju Jois. Immersed in yoga from birth, she deepened her practice during the COVID-19 pandemic while studying with her father. A former dance major, Sathu blends discipline and joy in her teaching and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Yoga Therapy and Philosophy at Loyola Marymount University, with hopes of working with veterans.

Visit Sathu: https://joissathu.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Sathu Jois combines her Ashtanga lineage with modern yoga therapy to cater to a diverse range of students, including those with therapeutic needs.
  • The integration of joy and exploration in yoga practice can help soften strict perceptions and promote a holistic approach to personal and communal growth.
  • Sathu’s work aims to support veterans by applying yoga’s transformative tools to relieve physical and mental stress.
  • Understanding the female cycle and the impact of daily variances reflects in Sathu’s yoga practice and her teaching philosophy.
  • Sathu aspires to create a community-focused yoga retreat and farm, embodying the spirit of inclusivity and joy.

Transformative Power of Yoga: A Journey with Sathu Jois

Yoga is often celebrated for its physical benefits, but its potential to bring about profound personal transformation and joy is unparalleled. This notion is wholeheartedly embraced by Sathu Jois, the granddaughter of renowned yogi Pattabhi Jois, and a burgeoning yoga teacher herself. Sathu’s journey into the intricate world of yoga started young, rooted in her family’s storied lineage. “The way my dad taught me was to have a lot of fun,” Sathu reflects, recalling her early introduction to yoga. Encouraged through playful exploration rather than rigid discipline, she found her own path. During COVID-19, she rediscovered yoga’s calming presence amid uncertainty, developing “a lot of tools” that would anchor her through life’s challenges.

Sathu’s experiences reveal the cyclical dance of stepping away and returning to yoga, a space where healing unfolds. “I found that it was giving me a lot of tools,” she reveals, describing how yoga breathed calm into her high school anxiety. This profound transformation underscores yoga’s inherent ability to offer solace and understanding amid life’s chaos.

Bridging Traditional Practices with Contemporary Therapeutic Approaches

An evolving discourse in the contemporary wellness sphere is the synthesis of traditional yoga practices with modern therapeutic approaches. Sathu delves into this dynamic, emphasizing the importance of adaptability. As someone deeply rooted in Ashtanga yoga, she advocates for flexibility in practice structures, especially when tailoring programs for individuals with unique needs, such as veterans or those undergoing significant life transitions. “We really just try to use the picking for more therapeutic uses,” she notes, illustrating how yoga’s inherent fluidity can meet practitioners wherever they are on their journey.

This notion is further expanded upon through her exploration of yoga’s potential in therapeutic contexts. “Ashtanga would be a great practice for [veterans] because they need a yoga practice where they can sweat,” Sathu explains, emphasizing the vitality of adaption. Bridging traditional Ashtanga with therapeutic elements creates a unique healing space, encouraging engagement with the practice on an individualized basis. The intentional incorporation of therapeutic yoga principles into traditional Ashtanga practices underscores a movement toward inclusivity and accessibility in the yoga community.

Building Community and Connection through Yoga

At its core, yoga fosters a sense of unity and connection, a theme that resonates deeply with Sathu. Her practice and teaching approach are imbued with an enthusiasm for creating joyous, inclusive environments. This is particularly evident in her reflections on teaching alongside her father, Manju Jois. Their sessions are marked not by verbal commands, but by a profound, intuitive understanding—”we only ever communicate with eyes,” she shares, encapsulating a wordless yet profound connection.

Her vision of yoga as a unifying force is perhaps best illustrated through her work with veterans—an endeavor close to her heart. Sathu’s personal experiences with veterans have illuminated yoga’s potential to offer comfort and understanding to those who have served. “The least we could do to give back to them is offer them some peace,” she states, recognizing yoga’s role in facilitating emotional release and acceptance. This commitment to service reflects a broader ethos of community care and outreach, further enriching the practice and its impact.

Sathu’s aspirations extend beyond the mat, envisioning a future where yoga’s philosophy and practice cultivate profound, lasting connections. Her dream of a farm-based community, complete with a yoga shala and café, mirrors her belief in yoga’s potential to create a nurturing hub for growth and exploration—an ethos that she carries through each class she teaches.

Sathu Jois’s story is a vibrant tapestry of tradition and evolution, colored by the jubilant pursuit of healing and connection through yoga. Her journey reflects the profound potential of yoga as both a personal anchor and a universal connector, illuminating paths of joy and understanding in its wake. By weaving traditional practices with therapeutic insights, and embracing community-oriented service, yoga stands as a beacon of transformation amidst life’s myriad challenges. In Sathu’s own words, it invites us all to “explore your likes and your dislikes,” gently guiding us toward a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

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

Support the show

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

Christiane Coste Cacho | Ashtanga Yoga, Motherhood & Social Justice

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Christiane Coste Cacho is an accomplished yoga instructor and social justice advocate. With a background in classical ballet and a Master’s in Human Rights Studies from Columbia University, Christiane has seamlessly merged her passion for movement with her dedication to humanitarian work. She has worked with Freedom House, focusing on activists and journalists at risk in Latin America, while also delving into academia as a professor. Christiane now runs a successful yoga studio in Seattle with her husband, Brendan Smullen, where they emphasize community-driven yoga practice that is inclusive and socially responsible.

Visit Christiane: https://www.theyogashalaseattle.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • The Role of Yoga in Resilience: Christiane explains how yoga helped her process the challenging emotional impacts of her work in human rights and social justice, providing a somatic outlet for stress relief.
  • Community-Centric Business Model: Emphasizing inclusivity through sliding scale payments and constant support for diverse communities is a key aspect of their studio’s success.
  • Navigating Cultural Crossroads: Insights into balancing Mexican cultural values with life in the U.S., especially in understanding family dynamics and respect for the elderly.
  • Motherhood and Practice Evolution: Motherhood has shaped Christiane’s approach to yoga, advocating for adaptations in practice that honor one’s current life stage and physical capabilities.

The Transformational Role of Yoga: A Safe Space Amidst Life’s Challenges

In the compelling dialogue between Christiane Coste Cacho and the interviewer, we are ushered into the profound impact that yoga has on one’s life beyond physical well-being. Christiane describes yoga as her haven during tumultuous times working with survivors of torture and journalists at risk in Mexico and Central America. Yoga, especially Ashtanga, provided Christiane with a structured, yet liberating practice that allowed her to navigate and process the intense emotions she encountered in her human rights work.

Reflecting on her introduction to yoga, Christiane states, “The practice just became like a safe space for me to explore and process a lot of what I was witnessing.” This assertion highlights yoga’s therapeutic potential beyond fitness, offering practitioners a tool to cultivate mental resilience against life’s adversities. Moreover, her experience aligns with the growing recognition of yoga as a complementary practice to therapy, offering an embodied approach to healing and mental well-being.

Christiane’s journey is a testament to the transformational capacity of yoga, suggesting that its relevance stretches far beyond the mat, intertwining with every aspect of life to foster a sense of balance and introspection.

Blending Roles with Balance: From Motherhood to Business

Marrying personal aspirations with professional endeavors is often a balancing act. This theme of equilibrium is another pillar of Christiane’s discussion, where she shares insights on harmonizing multiple demanding roles: yoga teacher, mother, and advocate for social justice. The conversation delves into Christiane’s approach to balancing these roles, underscoring the importance of kindness, acceptance, and adaptability.

In addressing the challenges of navigating life’s transitions, Christiane emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations and compassionate acceptance of one’s current situation. She mentions, “Accepting what is and accepting it with kindness and joy, instead of wanting things to be either different as they were before,” as a core practice that keeps her grounded. This mindset serves as a useful guide for anyone juggling various roles, advocating for a compassionate approach to self and others.

Christiane also speaks to her partnership with her husband, Brendan, highlighting the value of shared values and mutual support in managing both family dynamics and their yoga studio in Seattle. This unity strengthens their business, allowing them to support their community while growing personally.

Cultural Insights and Community Connection: Embracing Diversity in Yoga

Christiane’s narrative extends beyond personal and professional themes, weaving in rich cultural insights stemming from her experience as a cross-cultural individual. Living between Mexico and the U.S., she has embraced diverse cultural values and integrated them into her life and work. Her reflections offer a glimpse into the vibrant interplay of Mexican cultural values, emphasizing family and community support, which contrasts with her U.S. experiences.

When discussing Mexican culture, Christiane highlights the profound respect for family and community, noting, “Family is everything in many ways… just the joyfulness of the culture.” This cultural richness translates into the community-driven model of their yoga studio, embracing diversity and fostering a supportive environment for students.

The interview also touches on the broader implications of these cultural elements as they relate to fostering a kinder, more connected world. By encouraging inclusive spaces and celebrating cultural diversity, Christiane’s work accentuates the role of community in creating positive social impact, echoing a broader societal call for inclusivity and understanding.

The discussion with Christiane Coste Cacho offers multifaceted insights into the synergies between yoga, social justice, and a multicultural lifestyle. It underscores the importance of yoga as a powerful tool for personal and communal transformation, advocating for its integrative role in navigating various life’s transitions. Christiane’s personal journey and reflections extend beyond her individual experiences, inviting others to consider how to navigate their path with resilience, empathy, and acceptance.

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/

Support the show

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

Robert Moses | Advaita Vedanta: Reality, Illusion, and the Nature of Consciousness

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Robert Moses is a renowned expert in yoga philosophy and Advaita Vedanta. With over five decades of experience in studying and teaching Vedanta, Robert has become a respected figure in the field. He has been closely associated with influential teachers such as Eddie Stern and is the founder of the website Namarupa.org. Robert’s extensive travels and his appreciation of luminaries like Ramana Maharishi have enriched his understanding and teachings in yoga, Vedanta, and pranayama practices.

Visit Robert here: https://namarupa.org/

Key Takeaways:

  • Advaita Vedanta Philosophy: Advaita Vedanta posits that all perceived separation is an illusion; there is only one supreme consciousness.
  • Impact of Vedanta: Robert Moses illustrates how the teachings of Vedanta have profoundly transformed his understanding of identity and consciousness.
  • Yoga Practices: The discussion highlights how pranayama and meditation are tools to maintain balance, calm, and awareness in everyday life.
  • On Suffering and Empathy: Advaita Vedanta acknowledges suffering but encourages empathy while recognizing it as part of the illusory world.
  • Personal Growth: Regular practice, combined with understanding karma, faith, and consciousness, leads to profound self-awareness and peace.

Unveiling the Essence of Advaita Vedanta

Advaita Vedanta, often translated as “non-dualistic” Vedanta, offers a fascinating lens through which to view our existence. As Robert Moses passionately elaborates in his conversation with Todd, this philosophical viewpoint suggests that the universe we perceive is not the entirety of reality—rather, it is a misrepresentation. “Advaita Vedanta is a philosophical system which says all of that is only caused by…an illusory sense of separation that does not exist.” Moses’s encounter with Advaita Vedanta began at the age of 21 through the impactful writings of Ramana Maharshi. It catalyzed a shift in his understanding, challenging the traditional perception of the universe. This realization posits that beneath what our senses perceive lays a single, timeless consciousness from which individual experiences emerge.

The implications of such a worldview are profound. By considering each individual’s awareness as a part of a singular consciousness, one begins to dissolve the barriers created by individual identities. Moses expounds, “Advaita Vedanta says…trying to explain the experience of being from that point of view…without which we cannot be what we are…which is not an individual.” This perspective encourages an exploration of self that transcends the superficial dualities imposed by our everyday experiences and societal constructs.

Pranayama: A Pathway to Inner Equanimity

Pranayama emerges as a key practice for cultivating balance and mental stability—a tool that supports the journey toward understanding non-duality. Early in his practice, Moses sought to “stop his thought process,” but he quickly discovered the futility of seeking control over the natural flow of consciousness. Instead, pranayama provided a framework to stabilize these fluctuations. He describes pranayama as a way “to stabilize the nervous system as much as possible with the idea that it should become stable and strong.”

Through his practice, Moses realized the importance of pranayama in harmonizing the mind and body, offering an internal robustness that withstands external trials. The discussion reflects a shift from the initial desire for extraordinary experiences to appreciating the simple act of maintaining a daily practice. According to Moses, “Over the years, it sort of went from I want to get here to basically, I just want to be here.” Pranayama, therefore, stands as a reminder of the importance of presence—breathing not just to live, but to engage with the universe’s rhythm.

Engaging with Duality in a Non-Dual Understanding

The transcript also touches on an intriguing paradox: how to navigate the dual nature of existence while embracing non-dual consciousness. This conversation often surfaces when discussing roles such as a renunciate versus a householder. Moses addresses this by emphasizing that these paths are merely reflections of our karmic makeup, saying, “Advaita says you don’t have to be one or the other.”

Yet, the tension remains palpable as individuals grapple with real-world issues—like injustice and inequality—while attempting to reconcile them with a non-dual philosophy that transcends dichotomies. Moses shares, “We need to feel empathy and understanding of the suffering…Vedanta doesn’t say you don’t have these feelings.” His words reflect a balance: acknowledging dual experience while striving to comprehend its unity.

This theme suggests a call to personal responsibility in engaging with the world. Even as Advaita Vedanta teaches the illusion of separation, the lived experience requires us to act within the confines of perceived duality, resolving karma, and aiming for a greater understanding.

The Journey of Integration and Awareness

The discourse between Todd and Robert Moses gracefully navigates the nuances of Advaita Vedanta and its implications for both personal and collective consciousness. It opens a path to understanding that is less about achieving an end goal and more about embracing a continuous, reflective practice. Each individual’s journey, marked by diversity in experiences and roles, contributes to a broader tapestry of universal consciousness.

By reflecting on dying as much as living, and embracing empathy alongside equanimity, practitioners of Advaita Vedanta engage dynamically with life’s complexities. Moses’s insights offer a valuable lesson: that the practice is not about altering the fabric of reality but about weaving our awareness into the vast, interconnected whole that binds consciousness.

Through Vicki Clark’s commendations and Todd’s inquisitive engagement, Moses presents a lived experience that honors both the philosophical teachings and their practical applications. This dialogue provides a window into how Advaita Vedanta can serve as a guide for navigating life’s myriad experiences, fostering an understanding of unity that transcends perceived differences.

Moses’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to a life dedicated to exploration, sharing his understanding and continuing to inspire a broader audience through accessible teachings and practices.

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/

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
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LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin

Brendan Smullen: How Ashtanga Yoga Evolves with Life, Parenthood & Community

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Brendan Smullen is a certified Ashtanga yoga teacher and co-owner of a yoga studio in Seattle, where he and his partner specialize in Ashtanga and progressive variants of this practice. With a rich background in both traditional and Rocket yoga, Brendan is known for fostering inclusive and community-driven yoga experiences. Through his teaching, Brendan emphasizes discipline, practice consistency, and the importance of community in the yoga journey. He has studied with notable instructors, including Christina Martini and Manju Jois, blending traditional teachings with innovative modifications to support diverse practitioners.

Visit Brendan here: https://www.theyogashalaseattle.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Yoga practice adapts to life changes, such as new parenthood, requiring flexibility and understanding rather than strict adherence to routine.
  • Strong partnerships, whether in personal or professional life, can enhance the teaching and practice of yoga through shared goals and mutual support.
  • Creating a vibrant yoga community involves fostering environments where organic connections and support systems, like meal trains, can flourish.
  • Modifying traditional Ashtanga practices allows for greater accessibility and inclusivity, supporting a diverse range of practitioners.
  • Sustainability in yoga practice benefits from an emphasis on personal practice and self-guided sessions, steering away from dependency on external motivation.

Cultivating Community in Yoga Studios

In the realm of yoga, creating a supportive and inclusive community is invaluable. As evidenced by Brendan Smullen’s experiences, cultivating a close-knit environment enhances the yoga journey for both practitioners and instructors. Smullen touches upon the natural development of community gatherings, describing how coffee meet-ups evolved from simple interactions: “Because that space was like assigned as like the office hours… it just became sort of a community event.”

This organic cultivation of community not only aids in breaking down barriers between students and teachers but also enriches the support network within the studio. Such initiatives can lead to profound personal connections, where “folks will come up with [ideas] natively” and the shared experiences form “a lot of trust and a lot of, a lot of giving.” Smullen exemplifies how fostering these environments can become a platform for collective resilience, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and genuine interaction within yoga communities.

Navigating Family and Professional Life

Combining family life with professional endeavors is both challenging and rewarding. For Brendan Smullen, integrating his yoga practice with his responsibilities as a new parent and studio owner demonstrates the delicate balancing act many face. Within the interview, Smullen discusses how he and his partner manage parental duties alongside their teaching schedules, illustrating, “We have…our studio is principally Ashtanga, so I’m teaching four hours most mornings… and then helping her when she teaches in the evenings.”

This collaboration between partners highlights the potential for mutual support, yet it also speaks to the need for mindful communication and shared objectives. As Smullen points out, “There’s a shared mission that you have that kind of also anchors the relationship.” The overarching sentiment is one of teamwork, where shared responsibilities can create a symbiotic environment, enriching both personal and professional facets of life.

Additionally, Brendan mentions how community support extends into personal life, like creating a “meal train” to ease family challenges, thereby strengthening community bonds. The synthesis of familial, professional, and community life champions the notion of interdependence, emphasizing that such integration can lead to profound personal and collective growth.

Evolving Ashtanga Practice

The practice of Ashtanga yoga, with its deep historical roots, often requires adaptations to meet the needs of its practitioners. Brendan Smullen shares insights into personalizing Ashtanga to suit both life changes and individual physical needs. This customization is crucial, as Smullen explains, “Your legs don’t need to be fully straight in order to emphasize a hamstring stretch,” offering that even with a mainly structured practice, there is room for personalized adjustments.

Furthermore, Smullen addresses the balance between tradition and accessibility: “The approach with Ashtanga in the self-guided environment…is honestly the best way to establish a practice.” This reflects a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the practice while acknowledging individual limitations or life circumstances, such as parenting or seasonal influences. Through thoughtful adjustments, Smullen illustrates how even a traditional practice can remain sustainable and fulfilling. He emphasizes, “I’ve softened on some things… I’m only doing a portion of…my intermediate advanced series practice,” highlighting the importance of flexibility within one’s practice.

This theme of adaptability aligns with Brendan’s personal journey, illustrating how life’s ebbs and flows can dictate practice intensity and focus. As such, flexibility in practice becomes a model for handling life’s broader shifts—showcasing yoga’s enduring relevance in personal development.

Embracing a yoga practice that reflects our lives’ dynamic nature fosters both personal resilience and community cohesion. Brendan Smullen’s experiences underscore the potent synergy of community-building within yoga, the nuanced balance of integrating family with work, and the adaptability required to sustain a lifelong practice. His journey serves as a testament to yoga’s ability to transform lives, nurturing both individuality and collective spirit. As he details, a sensitive approach to practice and community interaction offers avenues for enduring peace and growth amid life’s inevitable transitions.

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

Steve Burgess: Exploring Past Lives, Reincarnation & the Power of Hypnotic Trance

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Steve Burgess is a renowned hypnotherapist specializing in past life regression. With 33 years of experience, Steve has facilitated over 15,000 sessions and conducts workshops around the globe, including in the UK, Norway, Canada, and the US. He brings a unique blend of therapeutic and spiritual approaches to hypnotherapy, gaining deep insights for his clients into their current lives from past life experiences. Steve is also an accomplished author with three published books, highlighting his profound understanding and experiences in the field of regression therapy.

Register for Workshop here:https://www.nativeyogacenter.com/ap-past-life-regression-group-workshop-w-steve-burgess-saturday-december-6th-15pm.php

Visit Steve on his website: https://steveburgesshypnosis.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Regression therapy utilizes hypnosis to access the subconscious, revealing past life experiences that can offer insights into current life issues.
  • Hypnosis is a natural, trance-like state, similar to everyday experiences like daydreaming or focused activities, and is integral to past life regression.
  • While belief in reincarnation can enrich the experience, an open mind is sufficient to engage in past life regression workshops.
  • Regression therapy can uncover emotional traumas from not only past lives but also from the present life and ancestral experiences.

Unveiling Past Life Regression: A Journey Through Time

The concept of past life regression is as fascinating as it is mysterious. Central to this discussion is Steve Burgess, a seasoned hypnotherapist whose expertise in regression therapy spans over three decades. Burgess’s methodology is not just about curiosity, but about healing emotional traumas that anchor our present issues. This exploration offers an understanding of how our past lives interplay with our current existence, making regression a potent tool for self-discovery and healing.

Journey into Hypnotherapy: Unlocking the Subconscious Mind

Understanding Trance and Its Natural Occurrence

Burgess elucidates the natural state of trance, commonly misunderstood as something akin to sleep or a hypnotic stupor. “Trance is what we call the hypnotic state,” he explains. “It’s completely natural… like when we’re daydreaming or driving on autopilot.” This understanding is crucial, dispelling myths and allowing individuals to approach hypnotherapy with an open mind.

Hypnotherapy serves as a gateway to the subconscious, unlocking profound insights which are not easily accessed in our conscious state. Burgess’s process involves guiding individuals to a relaxed trance state, where the subconscious mind becomes accessible, often likened to an “iceberg” where the deeper portion holds the key to our true selves. The implications here are vast; by understanding that trance is part of our daily lives, more people might be open to leveraging hypnotherapy for personal growth and resolution of deep-seated issues.

The Intersection of Past Lives and Emotional Healing

Therapeutic Benefits Beyond Fascination

While many might initially approach past life regression out of curiosity, the therapeutic implications are profound. Burgess shares numerous accounts where regression therapy unraveled the roots of psychological and emotional issues. “Every issue has emotional causes,” he notes, describing his systematic approach to uncovering traumas ranging from this life, past lives, and even ancestral experiences.

In one compelling narrative, a client’s regression into a past life during World War II revealed the emotional scars that contributed to his present-day anxieties. Such sessions offer not only catharsis but transformative healing. Burgess’s insights present a new layer to therapeutic practices, highlighting the importance of addressing our deep-seated histories for holistic healing. For skeptics, these cases underline the session’s validity, as accessing past life memories can powerfully impact current psychological and emotional well-being.

Hypnotherapy’s Role in Personal Growth and Awareness

Positive Affirmations and Personal Empowerment

Burgess provides actionable advice on utilizing hypnotherapy for positive change, emphasizing the importance of carefully crafted affirmations. “Your affirmation should be in the now and positive,” he suggests, urging a focus on what individuals intend to manifest in their lives. The interplay of affirmation and visualization can indeed shape one’s subconscious intentions, leading to tangible transformations.

For those seeking to integrate hypnotherapy into daily routines, exploring resources like Burgess’s YouTube channel presents an accessible start. By recognizing the capabilities of the subconscious mind, individuals can actively curate their desired realities, facilitated by hypnotherapy’s deep-reaching methods. This process extends beyond personal agendas, offering a path for clearer understanding and improved quality of life.

Embracing the Mystique of Past Life Regression

The exploration into our past lives through regression therapy poses more than intellectual curiosity; it becomes a vital tool for personal empowerment. Burgess’s experience showcases how regression therapy unveils the unseen influences crafted by past traumas, offering profound healing avenues that traditional therapeutic methods may overlook. His insights confirm that through the natural process of trance, we can unlock an unprecedented understanding of ourselves, bridging the chasm between past influences and present realities.

By embracing hypnotherapy’s transformative power, individuals can translate past experiences into wisdom and healing. Breaking free from the chains of subconscious traumas, past life regression therapy invites a brave exploration of self-discovery, revealing a tapestry of connections that define and enrich our lives across time.

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

Support the show

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

Mahaya: How Authentic Connection Heals Trauma, Anxiety & Emotional Pain

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Mahaya is an experienced healer specializing in transformational modalities such as yoga, body work, breath work, and the unique relational practice known as “circling.” Based on Vancouver Island, Canada, Mahaya’s journey in the healing arts began in her twenties as she sought relief from a personal life of suffering. For more than two decades, Mahaya has embraced a wide range of disciplines, including spiritual community living and exploration of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes. Now, she creates spaces of intimacy and connection to aid others on their self-discovery paths.

Visit Mahaya here: https://www.mahayahealingarts.com/

Key Takeaways:

  • Mahaya’s journey highlights an evolution from personal suffering to becoming a healer through exploration of various modalities such as yoga and breath work.
  • The practice of circling emphasizes authentic relating, creating a safe space for individuals to understand how they connect with others.
  • The pandemic brought Mahaya face-to-face with authentic relating online, catalyzing her growth and reducing her social anxiety.
  • Mahaya’s work now integrates presence and mindfulness into everyday life, transforming professional interactions into an extension of her mindfulness practice.
  • Her story is a powerful testament to the potential for healing and transformation when individuals are open to exploring diverse methodologies.

Unveiling Personal Growth Through Circling and Authentic Relating

The narrative shared by Mahaya highlights an inspiring journey of profound personal growth achieved through the practice of circling and authentic relating. Being on the path of healing for over two decades, Mahaya shares how shifting her focus from individual practices to community-based interactions transformed her life.

With a background deeply rooted in various therapeutic modalities, Mahaya explains her transition to circling, a method of relational meditation that encourages vulnerability and curiosity. “It’s fascinating,” she states, noting how the presence of others within a circle can gently coax underlying insecurities and fears into the open. By vocalizing such feelings and perceiving real-time feedback, individuals engrain a deeper sense of self-awareness and social empathy.

Mahaya’s candid reflections uncover the essence of relational meditation: coming into a space with others to explore emotions and thoughts while navigating interpersonal dynamics. At a point where she previously felt isolated and misaligned, Mahaya emphasizes how this practice helped her become confident and comfortable within her own skin.

“We call it relational meditation because just like in meditation, what we’re doing in this practice, first of all, we check with ourselves,” she explains. Starting with introspection and then broadening to observe interactions with others helped her turn fear into curiosity, laying the foundation for fulfilling connections.

Holistic Healing: A Journey From Isolation to Interconnection

Mahaya’s extensive history with yoga, bodywork, and breathwork illustrates a holistic approach to healing that combines mind, body, and spirit integration. Her narrative underscores how embracing these modalities was a personal pursuit at first, aimed at reclaiming her health and mental clarity. Yoga, in particular, served as a pivotal step in rediscovering passion and empowerment.

She describes how she initiated yoga teacher training for self-healing rather than as a career ambition. “When I asked myself, like, what is it that I actually love doing? I’m like, well, at least I know I feel better in yoga classes,” she reflects. Becoming a yoga teacher allowed her to reconnect with her inner joy, leading to unexpected transformative experiences in both her life and those of her students.

Beyond yoga, she delved into breathwork and touched upon the transformative potential of conscious connected breathwork and psychedelic substances. These practices offered a bridge to transcendent states, where she could reconnect with deeper truths beyond her present challenges.

Her exploration culminates in realizing that even though such practices aided in individual healing, the relational component was missing. Through exploring multilayered interactions in circling, Mahaya learned to navigate interpersonal relationships with newfound grace and authenticity.

Creating Safe Spaces in the Journey of Relational Healing

The application of these healing practices goes beyond individual transformation to creating community spaces where everyone can embark on their own journey of healing. Mahaya articulates the importance of facilitating environments that nurture intimacy and connection, transcending the superficial chatter that often plagues human interactions.

Her compassionate approach advocates providing a platform where each participant is seen, heard, and valued. Reflecting on her practices, Mahaya asserts, “It’s all based on presence.” Engaging participants in awareness and mindfulness not only enriches her client interactions but equally enhances her own lived experience.

Within these spaces, Mahaya thrives on the opportunity to fuel deeper connections. She indicates that facilitating these circles and sharing the principles of psychosomatic therapy nourish her own journey as much as those she guides. It’s a symbiotic relationship that underscores the interconnectedness and interdependence of human healing and flourishing.

In fostering inclusive spaces, Mahaya exemplifies how individuals can catalyze transformation collectively, emphasizing that relational dynamics profoundly impact personal and communal evolution.

Awakening to Authenticity: Continuing the Journey

Mahaya’s story converges on a powerful narrative of stepping into one’s own selfhood with courage and understanding. Her journey from uncertainty and isolation to an empathetic, connective presence highlights how integrating relational practices can redefine our interactions and inner landscapes.

This exploration of circling and relational healing emphasizes the potential within each of us to reshape our narratives when we are willing to uncover and share our authentic selves. As Mahaya illustrates, seemingly small acts of honesty and vulnerability can inspire monumental shifts, strengthening the foundation upon which we build meaningful relationships.

Her journey is an invitation to embrace life holistically, fostering spaces where vulnerability intertwines with bravery, and individuality harmonizes with collective consciousness. Through this integration, the path forward is illuminated with possibilities for deeper, more fulfilling human connections and personal transformation.

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/

Support the show

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

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: 👇
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

Support the show

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