Deepen Your Yoga Practice

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc kicks off a seven-part chakra series with an exploration of the Root Chakra—Muladhara. Learn how this foundational energy center relates to safety, survival, money, home, the body, and our sense of belonging. Lauren shares philosophical insights, personal reflections, and a wide array of grounding practices—both on and off the mat. You’ll discover the power of asana (like Tadasana, Warrior II, and Malasana), bandhas (Pada Bandha and Mula Bandha), mudra, nature connection, Ayurveda, and nervous system care to help regulate and rebalance this vital energy center. She also offers journaling prompts to deepen your inner work and encourages you to choose one grounding action this week. This episode supports the themes in Lauren’s book Embody Your Inner Goddess and offers a glimpse into her chakra-based 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training launching in January 2026.   Journal Prompts Where in my life do I feel ungrounded? What does safety mean to me? What roots me when I feel disconnected?   Call to Action If you're loving this series, check out Lauren’s book Embody Your Inner Goddess for chakra-based embodiment practices and reflections. Are you a yoga teacher ready to go deeper? Apply now for the 2026 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training through True Love Yoga. Limited spots available!   Links Join True Love Yoga Try the Yoga Practice Journal Fall Challenge Info Lauren on Instagram

Shownotes In this episode, Lauren Leduc shares the exciting launch of True Love Yoga’s 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training program, beginning January 1, 2026. With honesty and heart, Lauren reflects on her journey to this moment, explains the purpose of a 300-hour program, and outlines who it’s for. She also offers details on the curriculum, hybrid learning model, mentorship, community building, and how this training empowers yoga teachers to grow in depth, confidence, leadership, and legacy. If you’re a 200-hour certified yoga teacher ready to rise, this episode is your invitation to say yes. Takeaways The 300-hour YTT is for 200-hour certified teachers ready to evolve It offers depth, confidence, mentorship, and community The curriculum is full, rich, and integrated—going beyond technique into philosophy, energetics, leadership, and business Students receive 1:1 mentoring and create a final project to cement their growth Training includes monthly self-paced content, live Sunday sessions (in-person + Zoom), and community office hours The training is capped at 12 participants for intimacy and potency Applications open September 15, 2025 Early bird pricing available until November 11, 2025 Payment plans and accessibility options are available Links Apply for the 300-Hour YTT Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga — Book a Class

EPISODE SUMMARY In this heartfelt anniversary episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc reflects on the 10-year journey of True Love Yoga. From humble beginnings with donation-based pop-up classes to establishing a vibrant studio and training community, Lauren shares the story behind the studio’s evolution, the challenges overcome, and the values that have remained steady through it all—accessibility, inclusivity, and deep reverence for yoga. She also announces the launch of the 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training program and invites listeners to celebrate and share their memories. TAKEAWAYS True Love Yoga began with pop-up donation-based classes at the Nelson-Atkins Museum. The studio was built using donated and upcycled materials with strong community involvement. The name transitioned from Karma Tribe Yoga to True Love Yoga to honor cultural sensitivity. COVID reshaped how TLY operates, introducing hybrid offerings and online teacher training. The first 200-hour YTT launched in 2018; now, the 300-hour YTT launches in 2025. The community is the heart of TLY, growing more rooted and mature with time. The studio remains committed to accessibility, inclusivity, and reverence for yoga’s roots. Lauren expresses deep gratitude to students, teachers, family, and long-time supporters Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!

Shownotes In this motivating seasonal reset episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc invites you to recommit to your yoga practice as the energy of fall returns. With the back-to-school rhythm in the air, Lauren shares personal reflections, yogic philosophy, and practical tips to help you get back on the mat with presence—not perfection. Whether you’ve taken a break or just need fresh inspiration, this is your reminder that yoga will always welcome you home. Takeaways Fall offers the perfect moment to reset and recommit to personal practices Recommitment doesn’t mean perfection—it means presence We often fall out of practice due to life disruptions, shame, or burnout Small steps like 5-minute practices or a favorite teacher’s class can reignite the spark Create a sacred space at home or explore something new like a workshop or playlist Yogic concepts like tapas, abhiyasa, and vairagya support steady, intentional recommitment You can set goals or intentions to guide your return There’s no shame in stepping back on the mat—only open arms True Love Yoga is celebrating 10 years with fall specials and events to support your return One small step is all it takes Links Join True Love Yoga Try the Yoga Practice Journal Fall Challenge Info Lauren on Instagram

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the powerful world of inversions—from gentle legs-up-the-wall to ambitious handstands. Whether you’re brand new or experienced, Lauren shares how to build strength, regulate fear, and shift your energetic perspective by turning your body upside down.   She breaks down: •What qualifies as an inversion (hint: it’s not just handstand!) •Common fears and how to overcome them with playfulness and progressive strength •Physical, mental, emotional, and energetic benefits of going upside down •Beginner-friendly poses and key alignment tips •The yogic philosophy of non-attachment, surrender, and perspective   Lauren also touches on contraindications and the importance of proper support and instruction. Discover how inversions can be empowering, playful, and a profound tool for transformation—no matter where you are on your yoga journey.   ✨ Stay connected, stay playful, and keep exploring. Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc invites yoga teachers—new and seasoned alike—into a heartful exploration of what it means to find your voice as a teacher. Drawing from her own journey, she discusses the ways our teaching voice is shaped by experience, introspection, and dharma.   Lauren explores common challenges like imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and feedback overload—and offers powerful tools like self-study (svadhyaya), energetic attunement, and mentorship to support your evolution. She also shares how her 300-hour Advanced YTT launching in 2026 is designed to help you refine your voice and rise into your role as an embodied guide.   Whether you’re fresh out of a 200-hour training or feeling called to evolve your teaching style, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and support for your path.   Journal prompts from the episode: •What makes you unique as a teacher? •What styles or themes light you up to teach? •Where do you still feel unsure or limited—and how might you grow?   ✨ Learn more about the upcoming 300-hour training and get the free guide “10 Signs You’re Ready to Level Up” at trueloveyogakc.com   Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!

Are chakras literal spinning wheels of energy in the body—or powerful metaphors for our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves? In this episode, Lauren explores the chakra system through a yogic, scientific, and personal lens. She covers: The origins and meaning of the chakra system The seven main chakras and their symbolic attributes Differences between viewing chakras as energetic maps vs psychological metaphors Scientific perspectives on chakras and their correlation with the nervous and endocrine systems Ways to work with the chakra system through yoga, self-inquiry, and meditation How Lauren uses the chakra framework in her book Embody Your Inner Goddess and her upcoming 300-hour YTT at True Love Yoga Whether you're chakra-curious or already love working with energy systems, this episode offers grounding context and empowering insights. Mentioned in the episode: Lauren’s book: Embody Your Inner Goddess: A Guided Journey to Radical Wholeness True Love Yoga 300-Hour Advanced YTT (launching 2026): trueloveyogakc.com Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!

Whether you’re working from home, at an office, driving all day, or glued to your laptop—this episode is for you. Lauren Leduc explores the physical, emotional, and energetic effects of prolonged sitting and tech use, and offers simple, effective yoga practices you can do right at your desk.   Learn stretches for the neck, shoulders, spine, and hips, as well as breathwork techniques to reduce stress and increase clarity. Lauren also shares practical tips on creating a more ergonomic workspace and discusses the yogic philosophy of movement, self-study (svadhyaya), non-harming (ahimsa), and letting go (aparigraha) in the context of modern sedentary lifestyles.   ✨ You’ll Learn: •How desk work affects posture, breath, and nervous system regulation •Easy yoga stretches and breathwork to do during your workday •The importance of movement breaks (even just 2 minutes!) •Yogic ways to bring mindfulness and care into daily habits •Why your body was made to move—and how to honor that daily   Perfect for: Office workers, remote workers, drivers, students, and anyone who sits a lot. Share this with someone you love who could use more ease in their day!   Listen now: Deepen Your Yoga Practice ‍♀️ Learn more at True Love Yoga   Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren explores one of yoga’s most profound yet practical teachings: the balance of Sthira (steadiness, effort) and Sukha (ease, sweetness). These Sanskrit concepts are introduced in Yoga Sutra 2.46, traditionally applied to meditation posture, but Lauren shows how they can inform every aspect of yoga—and life.   She walks listeners through: •The meaning of Sthira and Sukha •How to embody both in asana, using Warrior II and Sukhasana as examples •The connection between breath, nervous system regulation, and balance •Integrating effort and ease into your mindset, habits, and schedule •The relationship between tapas (discipline) and santosha (contentment) •Real-life ways to schedule both structure and soul into your day   You’ll also receive practical suggestions for your practice and a journaling prompt to help you bring more conscious balance into your week.   ✨ Journal Prompt: Where am I craving more steadiness? Where can I allow more ease? Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, host Lauren Leduc explores one of the most iconic, mystical, and often misunderstood parts of the yoga tradition: Om.   Whether you’ve chanted it hundreds of times or are new to the practice, this episode offers a clear and heartfelt look at the origin, meaning, symbolism, and science behind Om. Learn why we chant it, what each syllable represents, and how it supports your nervous system, deepens your intention, and reconnects you to the whole.   You’ll Learn: •The origin of Om in Vedic texts and yogic philosophy •The symbolic meanings of A–U–M and the fourth silent part •Om as the sound form of the divine (Ishvara) and a tool for meditation •Its physiological benefits like vagus nerve stimulation and nervous system regulation •Why we chant Om at the beginning and end of yoga practice •Ways to incorporate Om into your own life with respect and mindfulness   Try This: •Join Lauren in a chant of Om with breath •Meditate silently or aloud with Om as your mantra •Reflect on the ripple effect of your energy and intention   Reflective Prompts: •When do you feel most connected to everything? •What does Om mean to you personally? •What energy are you putting into the world?   Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction + Why Talk About Om 02:00 – Chanting Om Together 03:00 – What Om Is + Its Sacred Roots 06:00 – Om in the Vedas and Yoga Sutras 08:00 – Symbolism of A-U-M + Cosmic Meaning 10:00 – Why We Chant Om in Class 12:00 – Scientific + Energetic Benefits 14:30 – Philosophical Significance in Jnana + Bhakti Yoga 16:30 – Practicing Om Mindfully in 2025 18:30 – Journal Prompts + Closing Chant Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the question: “What is meditation?” Drawing from personal experience and classical yogic philosophy, she breaks down common misconceptions, explains the difference between Dharana and Dhyana, and offers accessible ways to integrate meditative awareness into daily life. Lauren emphasizes that meditation is not about stopping thoughts or sitting in silence for hours, but rather cultivating presence, self-compassion, and inner clarity. Whether you’re new to meditation or deepening your practice, this episode offers grounding insights, journaling prompts, and inspiration for everyday mindfulness. Key Takeaways •Meditation is sustained attention and awareness—not the absence of thought. •Most of what we call “meditation” today is actually Dharana (concentration). •Meditation can look like walking, breathing, or even truly listening. •You don’t need to be spiritual, calm, or perfectly still to begin. •It’s normal for the mind to wander—returning to focus is the practice. •Yogic meditation is rooted in Patanjali’s 8-limbed path and supported by texts like the Bhagavad Gita. •Meditation is a form of radical presence, self-love, and nervous system regulation. •Modern life benefits from small, intentional moments of mindfulness. •Incorporating short, focused rituals daily (e.g., breath awareness or mantra) can build a sustainable practice. •Journaling, yoga, and teacher training can all support meditation exploration. Sound Bites •“Meditation is not about having no thoughts—it’s about observing them with compassion.” •“Dharana is the effort. Dhyana is the fruit.” •“It’s okay if your meditation doesn’t feel peaceful. That’s part of the process.” •“Meditation is radical presence. It meets you where you are.” Journal Prompts 1.What is one belief I’ve held about meditation that I can let go of? 2.How can I make space for even two minutes of presence each day?   Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!  

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc shares her personal journey from 200-hour training to advanced study and explains the transformational power of a 300-hour Yoga Teacher Training. She reflects on the difference between foundational and advanced training, who an advanced training is for, and why she created the upcoming 300-hour program at True Love Yoga launching in 2026. Whether you’re feeling called to elevate your teaching, reignite your passion, or step into a greater sense of purpose and legacy, this episode invites you to consider what’s next on your path. TAKEAWAYS •Advanced training offers space for nourishment, inspiration, and reconnection to purpose. •300-hour YTTs are not required—but can be a powerful choice for deepening mastery. •Advanced YTTs focus on leadership, subtle energetics, advanced teaching tools, and business strategy. •True Love Yoga’s 2026 300-hour YTT is a 12-month hybrid program built around mastery, intuition, and leadership. •The training is structured around three modules, personalized mentorship, and chakra-inspired progression. •Listeners can sign up for a free PDF: 10 Signs You’re Ready to Level Up and be notified when enrollment opens. SOUND BITES •“You don’t have to do a 300-hour training—but if you want to, it can change everything.” •“The 200-hour teaches you what to teach. The 300-hour helps you understand why you teach.” •“This is about shaping your legacy as a yoga teacher.” CHAPTERS   00:00 – Welcome + Why This Topic Matters 01:30 – Lauren’s 200-Hour Training Story 03:30 – Why She Chose to Do a 300-Hour 06:30 – What Is Advanced YTT and Who Is It For? 08:40 – Benefits of Advanced Study 11:00 – Evolving Teaching from Knowledge to Wisdom 13:10 – Holding Space, Retreats, and Bigger Offerings 14:35 – Leading With Integrity and Shaping the Future of Yoga 17:20 – The Joy and Depth of Learning in Community 18:45 – What to Expect from True Love Yoga’s 300-Hour YTT 22:00 – How to Join the Waitlist and Get the Free PDF 23:30 – Reflection Prompts + Closing FREE DOWNLOAD AND 300 HR INFO   Follow Lauren on Instagram

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, host Lauren Leduc shares practical and intuitive tools from Ayurveda, the sister science of yoga, to help you stay balanced during Pitta season—aka summer. Learn how to cool your body, soothe your mind, and stay steady through the heat with holistic tips for movement, breathwork, nutrition, and self-care. This episode is your guide to beating the burn—whether it’s physical, emotional, or energetic.   You’ll Learn: What the Pitta dosha is and how it affects your body and mind in summer Lifestyle practices to stay cool, grounded, and balanced Ayurvedic diet tips: what to eat and what to avoid in the heat Summer yoga practices, postures, and pranayama to calm intensity The importance of adjusting your pace and practicing softness   Try This: Wake before 6 AM for movement and meditation Add mint, cucumber, or rose water to your drinks Practice Shitali pranayama or Legs-Up-the-Wall Take evening walks under the moonlight Opt for cotton, linen, and cooling oils like coconut   Reflective Prompt: Where is your inner fire burning too hot? How can you bring in more softness, sweetness, and ease this season?   Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome + What Is Ayurveda? 04:30 – Pitta Dosha & Summer Energy 08:10 – Signs of Pitta Imbalance 11:22 – Summer Lifestyle Tips 16:40 – Ayurvedic Diet for Summer 20:44 – Cooling Yoga & Meditation Practices 26:20 – Seasonal Reflection + Invitation   Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!

In this special Independence Day episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, host Lauren Leduc explores the yogic concept of liberation—moksha—and what true freedom means on and off the mat. Moving beyond nationalism or personal liberty, Lauren discusses how freedom is defined in yoga philosophy, from the eight-limbed path to teachings in the Bhagavad Gita and Vedanta. She shares real-life examples, like how yoga helps her call her representatives and take action aligned with her values. This episode offers reflection prompts, practical tips for embodied liberation, and insight into how your personal practice can support collective freedom.   Takeaways: Moksha is liberation from ego, attachment, and fear. True freedom comes from living in alignment with your dharma (purpose). Practices like asana, breathwork, and meditation help us experience spaciousness and clarity. External and internal barriers to liberation are real—and yoga helps us meet them with resilience. Collective liberation is connected to personal liberation; no one is free until everyone is free.   Journal Prompts: Where do I feel most free? What conditions do I believe I need to feel liberated? What can I release—an outcome, fear, or story—to feel more free? Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!  

In this episode, Lauren Leduc explores the significance of Savasana, or corpse pose, in yoga practice. She demystifies its purpose, discussing its physical, philosophical, and neuroscientific aspects. Savasana is portrayed as a crucial component for integration and reflection, allowing practitioners to connect with their inner selves and the universe. The episode also highlights scientific studies supporting the benefits of rest and relaxation, emphasizing the importance of Savasana in enhancing learning and well-being. Lauren provides practical tips for making Savasana more meaningful and encourages listeners to embrace this vital practice. Takeaways Savasana is a vital part of your practice. It's not just lying down, it's surrender. Savasana is linked to Samadhi, union with the divine. Quiet rest helps the brain solidify new skills. Savasana decreases heart rate and calms the mind. Rest is just as important as effort in yoga. Let it be imperfect; rest is rest. What does stillness reveal to me? Savasana is not optional for an asana practice. Embrace Savasana as a vital piece of yoga. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Savasana: The Corpse Pose02:33 The Philosophy Behind Savasana05:01 The Neuroscience of Rest and Integration09:50 Benefits of Savasana: Physical, Mental, and Emotional12:06 Creating a Meaningful Savasana Practice15:03 Embracing the Importance of Savasana Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!    

In this episode, Lauren Leduc discusses the importance of integrating strength training into yoga practice. She shares her personal journey of discovering the benefits of strength training, including injury prevention, improved mobility, and enhanced performance in yoga. Lauren emphasizes the need for balance between strength and flexibility, and offers practical tips for incorporating strength training techniques into yoga sessions. She also reflects on the philosophical aspects of yoga and strength training, encouraging listeners to embrace a holistic approach to their fitness journey. Takeaways Yogis can benefit significantly from strength training. Strength training helps prevent injuries and supports longevity. Incorporating strength training can enhance yoga practice. Cross training with other modalities improves overall fitness. Strength training can be fun and empowering. Isometric holds in yoga can build strength effectively. Eccentric control during movements enhances muscle strength. Using props can aid in strength building during yoga. Philosophical concepts in yoga can inform strength training practices. Consistency and discipline are key to integrating strength training. Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!  

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, host Lauren Leduc interviews Savanna Smith, a member of the True Love Yoga community, about her journey with yoga, her experiences in yoga teacher training, and her new summer book club initiative. Savanna shares how yoga has been a healing force in her life, especially after a traumatic car accident, and how she integrates yoga principles into her career in cosmetology. The conversation also explores Savanna's teaching philosophy, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility, and her passion for combining yoga with reading in her upcoming book club, 'Get Lit.'   Takeaways Yoga has always been a background music in Savanna's life. Yoga helped Savanna recover from mental and physical health challenges. The idea of teaching yoga was always a whisper in Savanna's mind. Yoga teacher training emphasized feeling over perfect alignment. Savanna found joy in teaching yoga with a focus on inclusivity. Her cosmetology students embraced yoga practices in their learning. Savanna's teaching approach is about accessibility for all body types. Music plays a significant role in creating a joyful yoga experience. The summer book club combines yoga and reading for community building. Dance is a powerful way to connect with one's body and flow. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Yoga and Reading03:10 Savanna's Journey with Yoga06:18 Yoga Teacher Training Experience09:20 Integrating Yoga into Cosmetology12:09 Teaching Approach and Inclusivity15:04 Get Lit: Summer Book Club18:15 Deepening Your Yoga Practice Sign up for Savanna's Summer Series Follow Savanna on Instagram Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!      

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc discusses the transformative power of yoga retreats compared to everyday yoga practice. She emphasizes the importance of immersing oneself in a retreat environment, where distractions are minimized, allowing for deeper self-connection and community bonding. Lauren also announces her upcoming retreat in Mallorca, Spain, highlighting the unique experiences and benefits it offers. Takeaways Yoga retreats can be a significant investment in personal well-being. Everyday life often distracts from a full yoga practice. Retreats provide a structured environment for deeper connection. Traveling for yoga enhances sensory experiences and mindfulness. New experiences during retreats can improve cognition and mood. Shared intentions among retreat participants foster quick connections. Retreats balance fun with moments of self-reflection. Having a planned retreat alleviates travel stress. Yoga practices can be tailored to all experience levels. Taking time for yoga can rejuvenate and enhance daily life. Learn More about Lauren's 2026 Mallorca Retreat and use code SAVE200 to save $200 off your spot! Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!    

In this episode, Lauren Leduc explores the connection between myofascial release and seasonal practices, particularly focusing on the energy of summer. She discusses the myofascial system's superficial and deep front lines, their importance in yoga, and how they relate to emotional and physical well-being. The conversation highlights techniques for myofascial release and invites listeners to participate in an upcoming workshop designed to enhance their practice and personal growth. Takeaways Myofascial release is essential for body awareness. Fascia connects muscles, tissues, and organs in the body. Summer energy is associated with expansion and expression. Mindful movement can help release emotional tension. Techniques like foam rolling can improve mobility. The deep front line is crucial for stability and breath. Emotional regulation is linked to the myofascial system. Workshops can provide practical techniques for personal growth. Exploring the front body enhances confidence and vitality. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Myofascial Release and Seasonal Living03:10 Understanding the Myofascial System06:21 The Superficial and Deep Front Lines09:17 The Importance of Myofascial Release in Summer12:01 Techniques for Enhancing Practice15:02 Workshop Invitation and Closing Thoughts Sign up for Lauren's Myofascial Release Workshop Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!    

In this episode, Lauren Leduc explores the concept of pranayama, the practice of breath control in yoga. She discusses its significance, origins, and various techniques that can enhance physical and mental well-being. The episode emphasizes the importance of integrating pranayama into daily life for improved health and mindfulness. Takeaways: Pranayama means control of life force energy. Breath is a powerful tool for health and relaxation. Pranayama is rooted in ancient yogic texts. It serves as a bridge between body and mind. Different techniques can activate or calm the nervous system. Diaphragmatic breathing is essential for beginners. Advanced techniques include breath retention practices. Pranayama can be integrated into daily routines. Practicing pranayama can enhance lung capacity and cardiovascular health. Start with small, consistent practices for best results. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pranayama01:47 Understanding the Roots of Pranayama04:19 The Benefits of Pranayama08:51 Pranayama Techniques for All Levels12:33 Integrating Pranayama into Daily Life Follow Lauren on Instagram True Love Yoga on Instagram True Love Yoga- Book a Class!