Zephyr Yoga Podcast

Apologies for the audio quality; I’m working on fixing it. Thanks for your patience.Today, we explore the 3rd chakra, Manipura, meaning “city of jewels.” Located at the solar plexus, it governs self-definition, confidence, and personal power. Associated with fire, it fuels digestion, metabolism, and transformation—Agni. The bija mantra is RAM, its colour is yellow, and its sense organ is sight, representing vision and illumination (Tejas).Fire in yoga, or Tapas, creates positive change through disciplined action and intention. Imbalances manifest as rajasic dominance (control, aggression) or tamasic weakness (low self-esteem). A balanced state, or sattva, fosters vitality, confidence, and wise action.Manipura’s ten-petal lotus represents overcoming negative tendencies like fear, shame, and ignorance, replacing them with strength, compassion, and clarity. Its symbol, a downward triangle, signifies transformation. The ram embodies courage and determination.Let’s connect with our power and purpose. Enjoy the practice.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Svadhisthana, or Sacral Chakra, is associated with emotions, creativity, sensuality, and the water element. Located in the lower belly, it is symbolised by a six-petaled lotus representing desire, sensuality, adaptability, emotional balance, creativity, and fantasy. The crescent moon within the lotus reflects the cyclical nature of emotions, reminding us to embrace change with grace.The chakra’s bija mantra is “VAM,” and its mudra is Jala Hasta, symbolising emotional flow. When balanced, it fosters healthy desire, creativity, and the right to feel and express. Imbalances may manifest as emotional extremes, attachment, or numbness.Svadhisthana governs our ability to experience pleasure and emotional depth. The associated sense is taste, emphasising the importance of savouring life. Represented by water-associated symbols like the yoni and crocodile, it embodies fluidity and primal instincts. Practicing yoga helps cultivate awareness, balance, and a deeper connection to our emotions and creativity.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Muladhara, or Root Chakra, is the foundation of the chakra system, located at the base of the spine. It is symbolised by a four-petaled lotus, a red square, and a downward-facing triangle representing stability and grounding. Associated with the earth element (Prithvi Tattva), its bija mantra is “LAM,” and its hand mudra is Prithvi Mudra. The elephant symbolizes its qualities of strength, protection, and connection to the earth.Muladhara governs survival needs, security, and belonging. A balanced root chakra fosters stability and confidence, while imbalance can manifest as fear, insecurity, or material obsession. In yoga, grounding poses and meditations help harmonise this energy, promoting strength and flexibility. Kundalini energy, depicted as a coiled serpent, resides here, representing spiritual potential. Working with Muladhara creates a solid base for overall well-being and higher spiritual growth.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subtle Body – NadisYoga is the mastery of self-knowledge, while Tantra is the mastery of Prana’s power. Weaving asana, pranayama, mudra, kriya, mantra, and philosophy, we aim to empower ourselves with loving awareness to fulfill our purpose. Yoga is the management of prana, the life force that animates and sustains us physically, mentally, and emotionally.The subtle body, or Sukshma Sharira, bridges the physical and spiritual realms through nadis (energy channels) and chakras (energy centers). The three main nadis: Sushumna (central), Ida (left, lunar), and Pingala (right, solar)...govern prana flow and balance. Kundalini, the dormant spiritual energy at the spine's base, rises through Sushumna, purifying chakras and leading to spiritual awakening.Practices help activate and harmonize the subtle body, enabling physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. While siddhis (psychic abilities) may arise, the goal remains self-realisation and unity with the divine, fostering transformation with guidance and humility.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purusarthas – 4 Desires – MokshaMoksha is the ultimate desire...liberation from ignorance (avidya), the cycle of birth and death (samsara), and the effects of karma. It is the realization of one’s true self (Atman), transcending the ego and achieving union with the divine (Brahman), leading to eternal bliss and peace.Yogis pursue Moksha through various paths: Hatha Yoga (physical practices), Raja Yoga (meditation), Jnana Yoga (knowledge), Karma Yoga (selfless service), and Bhakti Yoga (devotion). By practicing self-inquiry, mindfulness, and non-attachment (vairagya), they purify the mind and cultivate virtues such as compassion and forgiveness.Sacred texts like the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita offer insights into Moksha, while guidance from a guru or one's inner wisdom (buddhi) aids the journey. Devotion and surrender help yogis transcend the ego and merge with the divine. With dedication and grace, Moksha brings profound liberation and spiritual transcendence, fulfilling the soul’s deepest longing.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Purusarthas – 4 Desires – KamaKama, the third Purusartha, pertains to desires, passions, and the pursuit of pleasure—both physical and emotional. In yoga, Kama is experienced mindfully and ethically through relationships, creativity, and sensory enjoyment. Meaningful connections with others, artistic expression, and appreciating nature cultivate joy and satisfaction. Sensory pleasures—such as savoring food, feeling sunlight, or listening to the ocean—can deepen our connection to life.However, yogis recognize the impermanence of pleasure and practice non-attachment to avoid the suffering caused by excessive desire (Raga Klesha). Through self-awareness, emotional resilience, and conscious choices, they embrace joy without clinging to it. Kama is balanced within a fulfilling lifestyle, integrating spiritual growth and gratitude.By approaching desires with moderation and ethical conduct, yogis experience Kama while staying grounded in their spiritual path. Enjoy this Kama Yoga practice and guided savasana, awakening sensory delight and celebrating life’s pleasures in harmony.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artha – The Second PurusarthaArtha refers to the means and tools needed to support one’s Dharma, focusing on material wealth, prosperity, and economic security. It is not about accumulation but aligning resources with values to fulfill life’s purpose responsibly and ethically.To pursue Artha within Dharma’s boundaries, one must choose ethical livelihoods and practice non-attachment to wealth. Living within one’s means, avoiding debt, and appreciating life’s richness beyond material possessions fosters contentment.Selfless service (karma yoga) helps cultivate gratitude and connection, making wealth a tool for greater good. Yogis understand that effort alone does not guarantee prosperity—karma also plays a role, encouraging trust in life’s flow.In practice, our bodies are essential tools for fulfilling purpose. Through asana, breath, and meditation, we create steadiness and ease, leading to clarity and alignment with our highest aspirations.Mantra: “I am open and willing, please guide me.”To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dharma – The First PurusarthaDharma is one’s life path of virtue and purpose, fulfilled through ethical duties and responsibilities. Discovering Dharma requires deep introspection, self-awareness, and reflection on your unique talents and calling.Consider: What brings you joy and fulfilment? What values guide you? Where do you feel most alive? Challenges serve as opportunities for growth, shaping your journey. Contributing to society and being of service can provide meaning and purpose.Yoga and meditation support this exploration...yoga nurtures well-being, while meditation offers clarity and connection to one’s true nature. Studying spiritual texts and seeking guidance from mentors further refines your path.Living your Dharma brings fulfilment, clarity, and a profound sense of harmony. It empowers you to serve, create, and inspire with integrity. Dharma evolves, and embracing it leads to self-realisation and liberation.Mantra: “I am open and willing, please guide me.”To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Purusharthas are the four fundamental aims of human life in Hindu philosophy, guiding individuals toward a balanced and meaningful existence.Dharma – One’s purpose and moral duty, fulfilling ethical responsibilities.Artha – Material wealth and resources needed to support Dharma.Kama – The pursuit of desires, pleasure, and emotional fulfillment.Moksha – Spiritual liberation and self-realization, the ultimate goal.The term "Purushartha" combines Purusha, meaning pure consciousness, and Artha, meaning purpose or goal. Together, they signify the pursuit of purpose, prosperity, pleasure, and liberation.Ancient texts such as the Vedas, Bhagavad Gita, and Ramayana provide insights on achieving these goals. Balancing all four leads to inner fulfillment, harmony, spiritual wisdom, and unity with pure consciousness. Though Moksha is often prioritised, embracing all Purusharthas allows for a fulfilling, well-rounded life that integrates material, emotional, and spiritual well-being.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yoga is the art of skillful action, awakened through intention and loving awareness. An intention draws us toward love, truth, and creativity, reflecting on what truly matters—what we care about, desire, and long for. Our intention is like planting a seed within us, which requires nurturing and care. In practice, we tend to our inner landscape as a gardener tends to a garden, removing negative thoughts (weeds), cultivating positive growth, and enriching our mental soil. As we nurture our intention, it grows strong, rooted in the challenges we face and the lessons we learn. By embodying virtues such as faith (Shraddha), courage (Vidya), remembrance (Smriti), absorption (Samadhi), and wisdom (Prajna), we align with our deepest truth, empowering us toward fulfillment and joy. Embrace your intention, allowing it to guide you with loving awareness, and grow into a balanced, harmonious life.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 9th Rasa, Calmness (Shanta), represents steadiness, peace, contentment, and serenity in the body, energy, and mind. It is the calm beneath the emotional storms of life. True peace of mind is challenging to attain, and yoga helps cultivate this stillness through practices like meditation and self-awareness. The Yoga Sutras emphasize turning inward, focusing on one thing at a time, and observing emotional obstacles. As we deepen our practice, we develop a non-judgmental awareness, leading to the quieting of the ego and a realisation of our true, peaceful nature. Calmness reflects the vast, unchanging ocean beneath the waves of emotions, offering clarity and liberation. Achieving equanimity through practice brings lasting peace and tranquility, allowing us to let go of worldly distractions and embrace self-realisation and spiritual freedom. As Suzuki Roshi states, "Gaining enlightenment is an accident. Spiritual practice simply makes us accident-prone."To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sadness and Joy are the final pairing in our emotional practice. Sadness, or Karuna, is a natural, healthy emotion that arises when we face disappointment, loss, or attachment. It can lead to depression if not processed. We feel sadness in the body as lethargy, withdrawal, or physical discomfort. However, sadness can also open our hearts, fostering compassion, tolerance, and understanding, as seen in figures like the Dalai Lama. Recognising impermanence, sadness can lead us to deeper joy, or Hasya, which expresses itself as happiness, delight, and euphoria. Joy is vulnerable, tethered to sadness, and calls us to be present and appreciate life’s beauty. While joy can be fleeting, emotional agility allows us to navigate both emotions. A “Gratitude List” or “Annoy and Joy” list helps cultivate resilience, balancing sadness with the joy that brings fulfilment and freedom. By embracing both emotions, we open to greater love, creativity, and compassion.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anger, represented by the Rasa of Raudra, arises when the ego feels neglected, threatened, or unfulfilled. It manifests as frustration, irritation, or rage, often clouding our judgment and affecting our well-being. Unchecked, anger can lead to resentment, health issues, and strained relationships. However, anger can also be motivating, driving us to confront injustices and create positive change, as seen in peaceful protests for civil rights.To manage anger, practice the RAIN technique: Recognize the signs of anger, Allow it safely, Investigate its cause, and Nurture yourself. Shifting from anger to wonder, or Adbhuta, can help dissolve ego attachments, expanding our perspective. By being curious and open to the emotions we experience, we can transform anger into a force for growth and compassion. Embrace your humanity, and learn to work skilfully with your emotions, using practices like breathing exercises and mindful reflection to regain balance and clarity.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we continue our exploration of the essential human emotions known as Rasas and how we can use yogic tools to embrace our humanity and make skilful choices that guide us toward lasting fulfilment and inner freedom. This practice invites us to engage with undesirable and uncomfortable emotions, using them as teachers to deepen our self-awareness and growth.We focus on the Rasas of Disgust and Love. Vibhatsa, or Disgust, is the feeling of dissatisfaction with oneself or others, often expressed through harsh judgment, criticism, and aversion. Disgust arises from a distorted sense of self, known as Asmita, which creates a false separation between ourselves and others. It can manifest as arrogance or self-loathing, reinforcing patterns of shame, guilt, and resistance (Dvesa), which perpetuate suffering.The antidote to Disgust is Shringara, the Rasa of Love. Love takes many forms...devotion, admiration, tenderness, compassion...and reminds us of our true nature. Through the practice of RAIN (Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture), we learn to pause in moments of self-judgment and criticism, making space for healing and self-compassion. This process helps us move beyond aversion and open to the ocean of love that resides within.We ask ourselves: What disgusts us? Who do we find repulsive? What parts of ourselves do we struggle to accept? By practicing radical acceptance and loving awareness, we nurture the parts of us that feel inadequate or unworthy, fostering a deeper connection to ourselves and others.As Cozolino, an attachment psychologist, reminds us, "It is not the survival of the fittest, but the survival of the nurtured." Lean into the pause where love resides and discover the healing power of compassionate self-inquiry.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the profound relationship between fear and courage through the lens of the ancient concept of Rasas. Fear, or Bhayanka, manifests in many ways, worry, anxiety, dread, while courage, or Virya, is the fearless heart that moves us forward with faith and trust. We'll discuss how fear arises from our attachments, our resistance to change, and our deep-seated need for safety and belonging. Using yoga philosophy and practical tools like breathwork, movement, and self-inquiry, we uncover how fear affects the mind, body, and soul. Together, we’ll explore how courage isn’t the absence of fear but the ability to face life’s uncertainties with an open heart. Whether it’s fear of the unknown, failure, or loss, this practice invites us to meet fear with loving awareness and step into our dharma with confidence. Join me on this journey of transformation...bravely, wholeheartedly, courageously.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rasa, meaning “nectar” or “essence,” captures the richness of life’s emotional experiences, much like the flavours of a meal. Just as the Gunas influence taste...Rajas being too intense, Tamas too dull, and Sattva offering the perfect balance...our emotions shape our human experience. As Robert Svoboda says, “Existence without juice is dry and tasteless.”Tantric tradition recognizes nine Rasas, the core emotional flavors of life: Disgust, Fear, Anger, Sadness, Love, Courage, Wonder, Joy, and Calmness. Each Rasa is born from an underlying Bhava, our true feeling state, giving depth and meaning to our experiences.In this practice, we explore these Rasas through movement, allowing emotions to surface and shift naturally. By embracing the full spectrum of our emotions with awareness and courage, we open to greater self-understanding and fulfillment. Let yourself fully taste, savour, and express the richness of your inner landscape.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we reflect on the past year and look ahead, we may seek focus through resolutions or intentions that align with what matters most. This class introduces R.A.I.N, a powerful tool to help manifest your Sankalpa—your intention, vow, or heartfelt prayer—while addressing the Vikalpa, the limiting beliefs that hold you back.R – Recognize the thoughts, emotions, and sensations arising within you.A – Allow them space to be seen and felt without resistance.I – Investigate their root causes with curiosity and self-inquiry.N – Nurture yourself with compassion and non-judgment.This session marks the beginning of our exploration into Rasas (emotions) and their Bhava (feelings), offering a practical way to navigate life's complexities with clarity and purpose. Let’s embark on this journey together and cultivate a deeper connection to our true desires.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore the Granthis...energetic, physical, and emotional knots...and how unraveling them allows Prana to flow freely, guiding us toward self-realisation and liberation. We’ll dive into the timeless wisdom of Brahma, Vishnu, and Rudra, reflecting on impermanence and the cyclical nature of life. At the heart of Yoga lies the union of polar energies...Shiva and Shakti. Shiva, pure consciousness, finds expression through Shakti, the creative force of form and action. Together, they represent the sacred dance of existence within us. Through asana, pranayama, and meditation, we harmonise these energies, awakening the five Shaktis; awareness, joy, intention, action, and wisdom. Join me in discovering the deeper purpose of practice and how embracing this divine partnership can bring fulfilment, contentment, and liberation both on and off the mat.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this session, we focus on Rudra Granthi, the final knot that binds us to the illusion of self-importance and worldly attachments. Located at the neck and head, this knot keeps us trapped in the egoic “I am” clinging to achievements, labels, and spiritual materialism. Rudra, an aspect of Shiva the destroyer, dissolves ignorance, revealing our true essence beyond thoughts and experiences. Through meditation, mantra, and breathwork, we practice Neti Neti...“not this, not that”...dismissing illusions to uncover pure awareness. The bija mantra KLEEM, invoking Kali’s fierce grace, helps us dissolve false identities and return to the limitless self. Techniques such as Jalandhara bandha and pranayama guide prana upward, unlocking deeper consciousness. With devotion and discernment, we learn to release attachment and step into the boundless truth of who we truly are...pure, free, and ever-present.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we explore Vishnu Granthi, the energetic knot that binds us to attachment, grief, and the struggle for acceptance in relationships and self-worth. Covering the Manipura, Anahata, and Vishuddha chakras, this knot fuels insecurities, the relentless 'I should' mindset, and emotional burdens that prevent honest communication and authentic connection. Inspired by Vishnu and Lakshm...symbols of preservation and abundance—we use the bija mantra SHREEM to open the heart and throat, fostering love, compassion, and acceptance. Through pranayama, chanting, and mindful movement, we dissolve the attachments that keep us from embracing life as it is. Surrounding ourselves with prana-rich experiences...nature, beauty, and connection...supports this process. Let this practice guide you toward deeper presence, gratitude, and the freedom to express your truth.To read more and to practice with Zephyr Wildman, click here. To support Zephyr Yoga Podcast, donate here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.