Keen on Yoga Podcast

Gary Kraftsow shares his background and experiences studying with Krishnamacharya and Desikachar. He discusses the teachings he received and the impact they had on his life. He also talks about the relationship between Krishnamacharya and Desikachar and their teaching methods. Kraftsow explains the concepts of Viniyoga and Vinyasa and how they are applied in yoga practice.  www.viniyoga.com | @americanviniyogainstitute Connect 👉 Website: www.keenonyoga.com 👉 Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com  Key Points Gary Kraftsow studied with Krishnamacharya and Desikachar and shares his experiences and the impact they had on his life. Krishnamacharya and Desikachar were both revered teachers who adapted and made yoga practices relevant for practitioners. Viniyoga is the adaptation of yoga practices to suit the needs of the practitioner and apply them appropriately. Vinyasa refers to the sequence and order in which postures are placed in a yoga practice. The teachings of Krishnamacharya and Desikachar emphasized the transformation of the body and the practitioner's highest potential. Adapt postures to suit individual needs and functional benefits. The breath is essential in linking the mind and body during yoga practice. Yoga is an integrated practice that includes yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, and meditation. Release valves are compensating mechanisms that occur when the body cannot stabilize a certain part. Find a sustainable yoga practice that supports overall well-being and prepares for the end of life.

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga Adam explores the topic of community in the context of yoga, specifically Ashtanga yoga. He discusses the importance of community and belonging, as well as the challenges and drawbacks that can arise within a community. Adam also touches on the role of the teacher, the need for autonomy within a community, and the balance between a firm center and expanding edges. He emphasizes the importance of open discussion and the preservation of individuality within a collective. Support Keen on Yoga 👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 PayPal: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  Connect 👉 Website: www.keenonyoga.com 👉 Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com  Key Points  Community is essential in yoga, providing a sense of belonging and support. However, communities can have drawbacks, such as strict rules and a lack of autonomy. The role of the teacher is important in creating a healthy community dynamic. Balancing a firm center with expanding edges allows for growth and dialogue within a community. Preserving individuality and autonomy is crucial within a collective. Open discussion and the ability to question and express doubts are essential in a community. The modern yoga center can play a role in fostering inclusivity and community. Community should extend beyond the yoga class and into daily life. The concept of sangha, or community, has always been important in spiritual practices.  

www.rodneyyeeyoga.com/ | @rodneyyeeyoga   Rodney Yee is an American yoga instructor who rose to prominence in the mid-1990s when he was featured on the cover of Yoga Journal magazine and starred in some of the first-ever yoga instructional videos and DVDs with Gaiam/Living Arts. After his interview with Oprah in 1999, both Yee personally and yoga were catapulted into the mainstream spotlight. Support Keen on Yoga 👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 PayPal: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  Connect 👉 Website: www.keenonyoga.com 👉 Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com   Key Points From dance to yoga Starting with Iyengar yoga Working with Richard Rosen There was no such thing as a yoga career in those days The need to study yoga Creating Gaiam yoga videos On Oprah in 1999 Sold a million videos the day after Fulfilling the map of your skin Being in a place where there is no you Yoga and self reflection The pyramid of yoga Giving a touch of the yoga landscape Even in a bad asana class something else happens Staying relevant in yoga teaching Questing for meaning Teaching this new generation It was easy for us to out do our parents I’m inspired by anyone who is enquiring deeply  

Adam discusses the concept of short forms in Ashtanga Yoga. He explains that while the traditional practice involves doing the entire series every day, it is not always practical or beneficial.  Key Points Short forms in Ashtanga Yoga can be a sensible approach when time, energy, or inspiration are limited. Variation in practice is important to prevent stagnation and maintain enthusiasm. Short forms should still incorporate the principles of posture, counter posture, building, and vinyasa. Grounding and ending the practice with a focus on the parasympathetic nervous system is essential. Practitioners should listen to their bodies and make adjustments to their practice as needed.    

Daniela Bevilacqua, a research associate at the University of SOAS in London, speaks about the Hatha Yoga tradition, the past lack of research and the recent surge of interest in the subject.  https://www.yogicstudies.com/ys-103 | @dhanya_83 Key Points ·      Hatha Yoga texts have been overlooked in the past, with more focus on the philosophical side of yoga. ·      The recent surge of interest in Hatha Yoga is due to scholars and practitioners addressing the textual sources with a different curiosity. ·      Tapas (austerities) and Hatha Yoga are closely connected, with tapas being a form of inner heat produced through austerities. ·      Sadhus practice extreme body modifications for various reasons, including spiritual devotion, burning karma, and the well-being of society. ·      Further research is needed to explore the historical development of Hatha Yoga and its connection to tapas. Sadhus claim to possess various supernatural powers, such as mind reading and walking on leaves. ·      Teachings and initiations within the sadhu community are often reserved for Indians and not foreigners. ·      Certain sadhu groups have a militant nature and have historically been involved in mercenary activities. ·      Female sadhus face challenges in a patriarchal society and often have to fight against societal norms and expectations. Women from educated, middle-class families are slowly gaining positions in Sadhu society. ·      Being fluent in Hindi and an outsider helped Daniela connect with the Sadhus and gain their trust. ·      Hatha Yoga in the Sadhu society has different layers of meaning, including tapas and manipulation of the subtle body. ·      Modern technology, such as smartphones and social media, has impacted the lives of Sadhus. ·      Daniela formed friendships with some Sadhus and continues to stay in touch with them.   

Dr. Ian Baker discusses the connection between Tibetan yoga and modern postural yoga, specifically Astanga yoga. He explores the origins of postural yoga in Tibet and the Himalayan world, highlighting the common elements and different emphases between traditions. He also delves into the practices of Tibetan yoga, such as Hatha Yoga, Tantra, and the subtle body, which focus on the circulation of prana and the transformation of metabolic heat into mystic fire.  Connect with Ian Baker 👉 Website: https://ianbakerjourneys.wordpress.com  👉 Instagram: @ianbaker108  Connect with Keen on Yoga 👉 Website: www.keenonyoga.com 👉 Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com  Key Points Tibetan yoga and modern postural yoga share common elements and different emphases. The practices of Tibetan yoga focus on the circulation of prana and the transformation of metabolic heat into mystic fire. Tapas (heat) is an important aspect of yoga practice, burning away afflictive emotions and expanding our sense of self. The origins of postural yoga can be traced back to Tibet and the Himalayan world. Tantric Buddhism originated from the exchange of knowledge along ancient trade routes, such as the Silk Roads. The cultivation of inner fire, or tummo, is a common practice in various traditions, including the Wim Hof method and ancient Chinese Yangshen traditions. Transformative heat is associated with powerful goddesses in both Hindu tantra and tantric Buddhist texts. Tantra embraces a body-positive approach, celebrating sensory awareness and the potential of the human body.  

(www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga ) Adam explores the concept of tradition in Ashtanga Yoga. He defines tradition as a way of working, a pattern carried over from the old to the new.   Support Keen on Yoga 👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 PayPal: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  Connect 👉 Website: www.keenonyoga.com 👉 Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com  Key Points Tradition in Ashtanga Yoga is a way of working, a pattern that is carried over from the old to the new. Tradition needs to be contextualized and adapted to suit the modern epoch and the needs of the current age. Yoga asana and philosophy are context-sensitive and need to evolve to suit the values and understanding of the modern world. There is a balance between tradition and non-tradition, where pragmatism and maintaining an ideal coexist. Belonging to a tradition can provide a sense of support and community, but it is important to critically evaluate and adapt the tradition to suit individual needs.  

 Celest Pereira –  (www.celestpereira.com | @celestpereirapt ) Adam and Celest discuss the topic of pain and its relationship to the brain. They explore the idea that pain is not solely felt in the body, but rather is an output of the brain.  Support Keen on Yoga 👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 PayPal: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot   Connect 👉 Website: www.keenonyoga.com 👉 Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com  Key Points ·      Pain is not solely felt in the body, but is an output of the brain. ·      Pain is a communication tool used by the brain to alter behavior and promote safety. ·      Outputs can be both safety outputs (like pain) and empowering outputs. ·      The biopsychosocial model of pain considers the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to pain. The brain is a highly suggestive organ that can influence pain perception. ·      Empowering language and positive suggestions can have a significant impact on pain management. ·      The placebo effect is a real and powerful phenomenon that should be explored and utilized. ·      Movement is medicine and can help in pain management. It is important to keep moving and try different forms of movement. ·      Subtle interventions can have profound effects on the body and brain. ·      Finding joy in activities outside of studying or work is important for overall well-being.      

#171 Adam Keen - Are we practicing Patanjali's yoga? (www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga) Adam explores the question of what kind of practice we are doing in modern yoga. He discusses whether we are practicing Patanjali's yoga and how it aligns with our current aims and aspirations. Adam highlights that Patanjali's yoga does not focus much on asana and aims to control the senses and transcend the suffering of the world. He also delves into the concept of Dharma and its importance in yoga philosophy. Adam touches on the evolution of yoga and the inclusion of dynamic asana in modern practice. He concludes by discussing the influence of tantric yoga and its emphasis on using the body as a vessel of knowledge. Key Points ·      Modern yoga practice differs from Patanjali's yoga in terms of its focus on dynamic asanas and its aim to live in unity and connection with the world. ·      Dharma, the objective principles of life, is the basis of yoga philosophy and guides our actions and attitudes towards the world. ·      The inclusion of dynamic asana in modern yoga can be seen as a way to use the body as a vessel of knowledge and to live in harmony with the world. ·      Tantric yoga offers a body-positive approach and emphasizes the awakening of energy and the exploration of esoteric practices. ·      Modern yoga is an evolution of traditional yoga practices, incorporating elements from Patanjali's yoga and tantric yoga.   SUPPORT US 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 Support us directly: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa CONNECT WITH US 👉 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/keen_on_yoga/   👉 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/adam_keen_ashtanga/ 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com        

Richard Rosen (www.m-yoga.org/richard-rosen  | @richardrosenyoga) Adam interviews Richard Rosen, a yoga teacher and author, about his background in yoga and his book, Yoga FAQ. They discuss the evolution of yoga texts, the influence of yoga on Western psychology, and the potential for yoga to suppress emotions. They also explore the role of asana in yoga, the trend of yoga anatomy in classes, and the need for assessing students and structuring classes effectively.  SUPPORT US 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 Support us directly: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Become a Patron for €10 monthly: https://keenonyoga.com/membership/ CONNECT WITH US 👉 Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/keen_on_yoga/ | https://www.instagram.com/adam_keen_ashtanga/ 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com  This conversation covers various topics related to yoga, including accessibility and challenges, the importance of beginner's courses, the practice of pranayama, the significance of savasana, meditation and concentration, the relevance of Sanskrit in yoga, and influences on modern yoga. Richard Rosen shares his insights and experiences, highlighting the need for a balanced and patient approach to yoga. He also discusses his guilty pleasure of writing silly poetry and draws inspiration from various writers and books.   Takeaways Yoga is more than just asana; it is a comprehensive practice encompassing philosophy, meditation, and self-discovery. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, while a foundational text, can be seen as life and world-denying, and may not fully align with modern yoga practices. The Vedas, Upanishads, and other ancient texts provide valuable insights into the history and philosophy of yoga, but they can be challenging to read and interpret. The popularity of yoga has led to the evolution of different styles and approaches, and teachers need to have a solid understanding of the tradition and the needs of their students. Yoga anatomy can be useful for teachers, especially in therapeutic contexts, but it should not overshadow the broader aspects of yoga practice. Yoga should be accessible to all, but it is important to approach it cautiously and seek proper guidance to avoid injury or discouragement. Beginner's courses can provide a solid foundation for yoga practice and help new students ease into the practice gradually. Pranayama, the practice of breath control, can be challenging to teach and may require patience and perseverance from both the teacher and the student. Savasana, the relaxation pose, is an essential part of yoga practice and can help develop self-awareness and a witness consciousness. Meditation and concentration are integral to yoga and can be practised both on and off the mat. Learning Sanskrit can deepen one's understanding of yoga and its traditional texts, but it is not necessary for all practitioners. Various individuals and schools, including B.K.S. Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois, and Indra Devi, have had significant influences on modern yoga. Richard Rosen finds joy in writing silly poetry and draws inspiration from writers such as Ian Banks, Stanislaw Lem, and José Saramago.   "Yoga doesn't affect the union, it reveals a union that pre-existed and will always exist." "In any meditation practice, the world should be included in the meditation." "I'm a little bit unhappy with flow classes." "We can't put it to rights here, but yeah." "Nobody wants to breathe." "There's consequences often times."      

Adam Keen – Exploring the Modern Mysore Tradition of Ashtanga Yoga                               ( www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga) Adam discusses the modern Mysore tradition of Ashtanga yoga. He explores the early days of Krishnamacharya in the Mysore Palace and the emergence of a dynamic form of yoga.  SUPPORT US 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 Support us directly: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Become a Patron for €10 monthly: https://keenonyoga.com/membership/   CONNECT WITH US 👉 Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/keen_on_yoga/ | https://www.instagram.com/adam_keen_ashtanga/ 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com Key Points ·      The modern Mysore tradition of Ashtanga yoga emerged with Krishnamacharya in the Mysore Palace, where a dynamic form of yoga started to take shape. ·      The Ashtanga tradition is a modern tradition that has evolved, with influences from various teachers and adaptations to suit different contexts and individuals. ·      The sequences in Ashtanga yoga are not fixed and rigid, but rather a general method that can be adapted to each individual's body and needs. ·      The emphasis on specific details and postures in the modern Ashtanga tradition is a recent innovation and not a fundamental aspect of the practice. ·      Understanding the historical roots and context of the Ashtanga tradition is important, but ultimately, the effectiveness of the practice should be judged based on individual experience and results.    

( https://uni-hamburg.academia.edu/LauravonOstrowski | @yoganerds_de ) Adam and Laura discuss the application of the Yoga Sutras to modern yoga practice. Laura's PhD focused on how the Yoga Sutras can be applied to the physical practice of Ashtanga yoga. They explore the concept of embodiment and how it relates to the classical philosophy of the Yoga Sutras. They also discuss the idea of concentration and absorption in modern practice, and how it may differ from the traditional interpretation of Patanjali's teachings. Laura emphasises the importance of observing the mind and finding practices that lead to heightened states of concentration. They also touch on the concept of the ego and its role in practice. The conversation explores the different perspectives on interpreting the Yoga Sutras, including the emic and etic approaches. "My PhD was about observing how in the 21st century Patanjali is connected to the physical practice, especially to Ashtanga yoga." "How do these practices get us into a state of concentration and absorption?" "Flow state is not what Patanjali meant with Samadhi, but maybe it can be deemed as a small Samadhi." "What we're doing is, I believe, ethic, is that right?" "We're looking from the outside." "We're not trying to lose the ego." SUPPORT US 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 Support us directly: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Become a Patron for €10 monthly: https://keenonyoga.com/membership/ CONNECT WITH US 👉 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/keen_on_yoga/ | https://www.instagram.com/adam_keen_ashtanga/ 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com   Key Points ·      The Yoga Sutras can be applied to modern yoga practice, but it's important to consider the context and adapt the teachings to fit our current lifestyles. ·      Observing the mind and finding practices that lead to heightened states of concentration can be valuable in modern practice. ·      The concept of the ego in yoga practice is complex and can be interpreted differently. It's important to find a balance between honouring the teachings of Patanjali and adapting them to our modern worldview. ·      The Yamas, or ethical guidelines, can be seen as contemplation points rather than strict rules to follow. It's important to reflect on how they apply to our lives and make conscious choices. ·      Reading the commentaries on the Yoga Sutras can provide a deeper understanding of the text, but it's helpful to have guidance from a teacher or someone knowledgeable in Sankhya philosophy. ·      Recognizing that the Yoga Sutras have been interpreted and adapted throughout history can provide mental clarity and a sense of relaxation when exploring their teachings. There are different perspectives on interpreting the Yoga Sutras, including the emic (within the culture) and etic (cross-cultural) approaches. ·      It is important to question and critically examine the text rather than blindly following it. ·      The concept of ego should not be eliminated, as it is necessary for engagement and living fully in the world. ·      Vivekananda played a significant role in bringing the Yoga Sutras to the modern context, but his promotion of disembodied practices should be reconsidered. ·      Curiosity is a valuable trait that allows for open-mindedness and continuous learning. ·      Taking time to simply be and do nothing can be a guilty pleasure that provides a break from the busyness of life.

#167 Adam Keen -  The Power of Holding Space for Students (www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga ) Adam shares advice for yoga teachers, emphasising the importance of being authentic, kind, and adaptable. He encourages teachers to create a supportive network and find a mentor to guide them on their teaching journey. Adam also discusses the need to hold space for students and allow them to have their own experiences, rather than trying to change them. He reminds teachers to stay humble, open-minded, and inspired in their practice and teaching. "Being kind is much more important than being right." "Yoga is a low entry, high qualification bar." "Know your blind spots and keep humble and caring."   LISTEN ON PODCAST 👉 Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 👉 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN   SUPPORT US 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 Support us directly: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Become a Patron for €10 monthly: https://keenonyoga.com/membership/ CONNECT WITH US 👉 Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/keen_on_yoga/ | https://www.instagram.com/adam_keen_ashtanga/ 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com    Key Points ·      Be authentic to yourself as a yoga teacher. ·      Create a supportive network and find a mentor to guide you. ·      Hold space for your students and allow them to have their own experiences. ·      Stay humble, open-minded, and inspired in your practice and teaching.

#166 Andrea Ferretti – The Human Side of Yoga Teachers (@andreaferretti | www. jasonyoga.com/yogaland-podcast/ ) Andrea Ferretti shares her journey into yoga, starting in the 90s and finding her passion for Ashtanga. She discusses the challenges of early yoga classes and the evolution of yoga studios, as well as her transition to working at Yoga Journal and the opportunity to study with different yoga teachers. Andrea shares her struggles with mental health and how yoga and meditation have been transformative for her. She also discusses the phenomenon of imposter syndrome in the yoga teaching community. They also touch on the purpose of yoga, the impact of yoga on mental health, navigating life as a cancer survivor, and starting the Yoga Land podcast.  Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of self-compassion, curiosity, and authenticity in the yoga teaching journey. Key Points ·      The yoga community in the 90s was small and intimate, with studios often fitting only a handful of students. ·      Personal insight and experience are essential in yoga practice, and teachers should encourage students to find their own path. ·      Yoga can be a powerful tool for mental health, providing a refuge and a sense of connection. ·      Imposter syndrome is common among yoga teachers, but it can be managed by acknowledging it and focusing on personal growth. ·      The evolution of yoga has led to a more diverse and inclusive practice, with a focus on individual needs and experiences. Coping with imposter syndrome involves acknowledging and accepting one's flaws and mistakes, rather than trying to be perfect. ·      The role of the yoga teacher is to have genuine interest and care for students and to provide tools for self-inquiry and turning inward. ·      Yoga helps individuals observe themselves and spend time looking inside, providing a sense of quiet and self-awareness. ·      Embracing imperfection and learning in public is essential for growth as a yoga teacher, as it allows for continuous learning and improvement. ·      Yoga can have a profound impact on mental health, providing tools for managing anxiety and stress. ·      Being a cancer survivor can change one's perspective on life and priorities, leading to a greater appreciation for what truly matters. ·      Starting a podcast can be a way to share conversations and teachings with a wider audience, and it can be a platform for personal growth and learning. ·      Nerve-wracking and difficult interviews can be valuable learning experiences, teaching resilience and adaptability.   SUPPORT US 👉 Subscribe, like and share our videos, it helps us a lot  👉 Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf 👉 Support us directly: https://paypal.me/adamandtheresa 👉 Become a Patron for €10 monthly: https://keenonyoga.com/membership/   CONNECT WITH US 👉 Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/keen_on_yoga/ | https://www.instagram.com/adam_keen_ashtanga/ 👉 Work Enquiries: info@keenonyoga.com

In this solo podcast episode, Adam discusses his personal journey with emotional healing through yoga practice. He emphasizes the importance of using the body to resolve and purge emotions, as emotions are stored in the body. He explains that the practice of yoga, particularly in the tantric tradition, allows for the digestion and integration of past experiences and emotions. Adam also highlights the significance of creating a ritual space for oneself, where emotions can safely arise and be processed. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of self-trust and the potential pitfalls of over-practicing and suppressing emotions. Key Points ·      Yoga practice can be a powerful tool for emotional healing and purging stored emotions in the body. ·      The tantric tradition of yoga emphasizes using the body to resolve and integrate past experiences and emotions. ·      Creating a ritual space for oneself allows emotions to arise and be processed in a safe and supported environment. ·      Self-trust and commitment to a daily practice can lead to a sense of integrity and personal growth.

164 Tomas Zorzo – Mysore Since 1985  (  www.yogashtanga.com | @centro_yoga_ashtanga) Mysore in 1985 | $300 for one year | 2 students in the room | Sivananda ashram | First time seeing Ashtanga yoga | The practice was different | 10 breaths, not 5 | No jumping between sides in sitting | Each student had individual practice | One practice was 4.5 hours | The birth of the led class | Hooked on prana | Ego crisis | BNS Iyengar | Pattabhi Jois as a healer | 20 trips to Mysore | Adapting for older students | What is your reason for practice? | AG Mohan | Yoga is being in touch with your inner self  

In this solo podcast episode, Adam discusses various aspects of teaching yoga. He shares his journey of becoming a yoga teacher and the different experiences that led him to teaching. Adam emphasizes the importance of readiness to teach and the role of enthusiasm and appreciation in sharing the practice. He also discusses the qualifications and proficiency required for teaching, highlighting the significance of care, interest, and connection with students. Adam addresses the issue of burnout and the need for self-care as a teacher. He concludes by discussing the challenges of losing students and the importance of adapting teaching methods to suit individual students. Key Points Readiness to teach comes from personal experience, enthusiasm, and appreciation for the practice. Being the best practitioner is not a qualification for teaching yoga; care, interest, and connection with students are more important. Burnout is a real concern for yoga teachers, and it is essential to take breaks and prioritize self-care. Teaching adaptations and making the practice accessible to students is crucial for their progress and engagement. Continued learning, exploring different perspectives, and having

JAMES RAFAEL (www.jamesrafael.com | @jamesyoga ) James Rafael shares his journey from mental health and addiction to health through yoga and meditation. He emphasises the importance of embodiment and finding balance in yoga and meditation practices. James also discusses the role of trauma-informed approaches in these practices. He advocates for incorporating strength training into yoga practice and shares his daily routine. James addresses common concerns about strength training impacting flexibility and encourages a long-term perspective on physical well-being. In this conversation, Adam and James Rafael discuss various aspects of yoga and movement. They explore the practical applications of yoga in daily life, the techniques used in contortionism, the incorporation of different movement modalities, the relationship between embodiment and meditation, the challenges of addictive tendencies, and the importance of creating kind and compassionate spaces. James shares his journey and emphasizes the need for balance and self-awareness in one's practice. Key Points ·      Embodiment is a key aspect of yoga and meditation practices, allowing individuals to connect with their bodies and address deeper traumas or shame. ·      Strength training can be beneficial for yoga practitioners, helping to create balance, and stability, and prevent injuries. ·      Finding a balance between different practices, such as yoga, meditation, and strength training, is essential for overall well-being. ·      Incorporating trauma-informed approaches into yoga and meditation practices can lead to more holistic and helpful experiences. ·      Taking a long-term perspective on physical well-being and training for the body you want in the future can guide your yoga and strength training practices. Yoga can be used as a tool for feeling comfortable in one's body and living a fulfilling life. ·      Contortionism involves technique and strength and can be a valuable addition to a yoga practice. ·      Incorporating different movement modalities can enhance one's understanding and practice of yoga. ·      Embodiment and meditation are interconnected, contributing to a deeper sense of presence. ·      Maintaining balance and self-awareness is crucial in managing addictive tendencies. ·      Creating kind and compassionate spaces is essential for fostering growth and healing in yoga communities.

ADARSH WILLIAMS (www.ashtangayogagroningen.nl | www.smartstretch.com | @ adarshw) Adarsh Williams and Adam discuss various aspects of yoga practice, including its mental and physical benefits, the blending of yoga with fitness culture, and the importance of adapting the practice to individual bodies. They also explore the significance of consistency and enthusiasm in teaching, as well as the role of community and history in the practice of Ashtanga yoga. In this conversation, Adam and Adarsh discuss various aspects of building a Mysore program, teaching yoga to different types of students, the importance of breath, the framework of Ashtanga Yoga, and the benefits of cold exposure. They emphasise the need for teachers to meet students where they are and create a supportive community. They also highlight the significance of movement nutrition and breath hygiene for overall well-being. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the transformative power of tapas. Key Points ·   Yoga was originally intended as a mental practice and a moving meditation, rather than solely a physical exercise. ·      Ashtanga yoga should be approached as a mental practice with functional movement, rather than a fix for physical ailments. ·      Adapting the lotus work in Ashtanga to individual bodies and incorporating functional movement can make the practice more accessible and beneficial. ·      Consistency and enthusiasm are key in yoga practice, and being a new teacher can bring a fresh perspective and energy to the practice. ·      The discipline and restraint of yoga practice can lead to transformative experiences and a deeper understanding of oneself. Building a Mysore program requires meeting students where they are and creating a supportive community. ·      Teachers should focus on movement nutrition and breath hygiene for overall well-being. ·      The framework of Ashtanga Yoga provides a structure for self-connection and growth. ·      Cold exposure, such as ice baths, can have curative properties and promote mental and physiological well-being. ·      Tapas, the practice of embracing discomfort, can lead to personal transformation.

ADARSH WILLIAMS (www.ashtangayogagroningen.nl | www.smartstretch.com | @ adarshw) Adarsh Williams shares his journey into yoga and how it helped him overcome anxiety and insomnia. He started with self-taught yoga practice using library books and later transitioned to Ashtanga Yoga. Adarsh emphasizes that yoga is a tool that can be applied in various ways and does not necessarily require a spiritual context. He also discusses his experiences with Pattabhi Jois and Sharath Jois, highlighting their consistency and dedication to the practice. In this conversation, Adarsh Williams discusses his time with Sharath and the transition he went through after the passing of Pattabhi Joyce. He reflects on Sharath's pressure to fill his grandfather's shoes and how he has grown into his role as a teacher. Adarsh emphasizes the importance of tolerance and understanding in the yoga community, as well as the need for a pragmatic approach to the Ashtanga method. He shares his experience with injuries and how he incorporates functional movement into his teaching. Adarsh concludes by revealing his guilty pleasure of being a professional wrestling fan and expressing his inspiration from his yoga students. In this conversation, we discussed the importance of effective communication and explored various strategies to improve communication skills. We covered topics such as building trust and rapport, active listening and empathy, non-verbal communication, managing conflict, cultural sensitivity and diversity, and effective feedback. These themes highlight the key aspects of communication that can lead to successful interactions and relationships. By implementing the strategies discussed, individuals can enhance their communication skills and achieve better outcomes in personal and professional settings. Key Points ·      Yoga can be a powerful tool for managing mental health issues such as anxiety and insomnia. ·      Self-taught yoga practice can be effective, especially when combined with reading and learning from various sources. ·      Ashtanga Yoga offers a structured and efficient practice that can lead to physical and mental transformation. ·      The guru-disciple relationship in yoga can vary, and it is important to maintain a balanced perspective and not idealize the teacher. Transition and growth are natural processes in any practice or role. ·      Tolerance and understanding are essential in the yoga community. ·      A pragmatic approach to the Ashtanga method can benefit students of all levels and abilities. ·      Incorporating functional movement can help prevent injuries and enhance the practice. ·      Finding inspiration in yoga students and their dedication can motivate teachers to continue their work. Effective communication is crucial for successful interactions and relationships. ·      Building trust and rapport is essential for effective communication. ·      Active listening and empathy help in understanding others and fostering better communication. ·      Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in conveying messages. ·      Managing conflict requires effective communication and problem-solving skills. ·      Cultural sensitivity and diversity awareness are important for inclusive communication. ·      Providing constructive feedback is essential for personal and professional growth.