Deepen Your Yoga Practice

In this tender and nuanced episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the structure of spiritual leadership — and what happens when charismatic teachers fall from grace. Every few years (or lately, every few days), a spiritual teacher, wellness figure, or thought leader becomes entangled in allegations of misconduct, abuse of power, or ethical breach. When their work has meant something to us, that moment can feel disorienting. This episode is not about amplifying headlines. It’s about examining something deeper and more enduring: Where did the guru–student model originate? How did ancient lineage-based mentorship evolve into modern celebrity spirituality? Why does spiritual authority feel regulating to our nervous systems? What is projection, and how does it distort teacher–student dynamics? What are common red flags in hierarchical spiritual communities? How can non-dual language be weaponized to bypass accountability? What does healthy spiritual leadership actually look like? How do we practice devotion without dependence? Lauren explores the psychology of projection, the risks of pedestal dynamics, and how both teachers and students can become distorted within unchecked hierarchy. She offers six ways to practice yoga without slipping into unhealthy guru culture: Keep your agency Diversify your teachers Trust your nervous system Value community over charisma Separate teachings from personality Maintain critical thinking Yoga has always been about liberation. Mature spiritual practice does not require blind faith — it requires discernment, humility, and the willingness to stay human.

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores two often-overlooked senses that transform yoga from movement into embodiment: interoception and proprioception. Interoception is your ability to sense what’s happening inside your body — breath, heartbeat, hunger, emotional sensations, effort versus strain. Proprioception is your ability to sense where your body is in space — balance, alignment, movement, orientation. Lauren breaks down: The neuroscience of interoception (insula, emotional awareness, nervous system regulation) How proprioceptors in muscles, fascia, and joints act as your body’s internal GPS Why trauma, stress, and digital overload can disrupt these senses How yoga retrains embodied awareness Why these skills matter for safety, longevity, emotional regulation, and aging well Practical ways to build interoception and proprioception on and off the mat Teaching tips for cueing sensation over shape This episode invites you to pause and ask two simple but profound questions: How do I feel? Where am I? Because yoga is not just about movement. It’s about awareness.

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the five kleshas — the root causes of suffering described in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (Book II, Sutras 3–9). These ancient psychological insights, compiled around 400 CE and influenced by Samkhya philosophy, offer a powerful framework for understanding why we repeat patterns, cling to identities, avoid discomfort, and fear change. Lauren unpacks: What the kleshas are historically and where they appear in the sutras The five kleshas: Avidya (misperception), Asmita (ego-identification), Raga (attachment), Dvesha (aversion), and Abhinivesha (fear/clinging to life) How they show up in modern life — social media, productivity culture, politics, parenting, wellness culture, and relationships Why the kleshas are not sins, but universal human tendencies How meditation, self-study (svadhyaya), non-attachment (vairagya), and conscious pause help loosen their grip This episode is not about self-judgment. It’s about compassionate awareness. The kleshas are proof you are human — not failing at yoga. Freedom, Lauren reminds us, is not removing suffering from the world. It’s loosening the grip suffering has on your perception.

n this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the throat chakra (Vishuddha) — the energetic center of expression, authenticity, and refinement. Rather than approaching the throat chakra as a mystical abstraction, Lauren presents it as a deeply practical bridge between the heart and the mind — where inner truth becomes outer speech. You’ll learn: The traditional symbolism of Vishuddha (ether element, blue color, seed mantra HAM) How the throat chakra relates to the nervous system and vagus nerve Signs of underactive and overactive expression The connection between posture, neck tension, breath, and voice tone The role of mantra, chanting, humming, and sound in regulation Satya (truthfulness) and Right Speech in yogic philosophy On- and off-the-mat practices to cultivate aligned communication Shadow work prompts for authentic self-expression How throat chakra work supports leadership and legacy This episode is an invitation to refine how you speak — not to speak louder, but to speak clearly, kindly, and in alignment with your values.

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores what it means to “spring clean” the energetic body — in a way that is philosophically grounded, nervous system informed, practical, and free from magical thinking. Spring is traditionally associated with renewal, circulation, and momentum. In Ayurveda, it is kapha season — characterized by heaviness, dampness, and stagnation. In yoga philosophy, it is a time to invite renewed prana flow. Lauren unpacks: What the subtle or energetic body includes (prana, nadis, chakras, koshas) A modern interpretation of energetic health (nervous system tone, emotional residue, digital overstimulation, thought loops) Signs your energy body may need clearing Five practical ways to “spring clean” your energy: Clearing physical stagnation through movement Breathwork for energetic reset (Kapalabhati, Bhastrika, Ujjayi, long exhale breathing) Emotional composting (shadow work and integration) Attention hygiene (digital and cognitive detox) Ritual and intention reset (saucha and sankalpa) You’ll also hear chakra-specific spring reset ideas for those following the chakra series. Spring cleaning isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about removing what blocks who you already are.

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc breaks down what it actually means to “engage your core” in yoga. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about abs or holding your breath. Lauren walks you through: What muscles make up the core (hint: it’s not just your six-pack) The difference between bracing vs. hollowing Breath-friendly strategies for core engagement How and when to use Uddiyana and Mula Bandha Why breath retention = strain, not yoga Core cues for common yoga poses Red flags for gripping, bracing, or over-cueing Special considerations for pelvic floor, pregnancy, low back pain, and more This is a must-listen for yoga teachers and curious students who want to move with more intention, stability, and breath. You’ll leave with clearer language, deeper understanding, and core strategies that support long-term practice.

In this solo episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores five of the most commonly repeated myths about yoga history—and offers a clearer, more honest perspective in their place. Drawing inspiration from Doug Keller’s Yoga History course, Lauren dives into the real roots of yoga, from Vedic texts and Śramaṇa traditions to modern postural yoga. She explains how yoga evolved over centuries as a diverse family of practices—not a single, unchanging system—and how understanding its historical complexity deepens our personal and teaching practices. If you’ve ever wondered where yoga really comes from, or questioned how modern vinyasa fits into an ancient lineage, this episode will challenge, inspire, and expand your view. Sources  Mark Singleton, Yoga Body: The Origins of Modern Posture Practice (OUP).  James Mallinson & Mark Singleton, Roots of Yoga (primary sourcebook).  Geoffrey Samuel, The Origins of Yoga and Tantra (Cambridge). 

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc breaks down the science of stretching—what it is, how it works, and how to make it safer and more effective within your yoga practice. Learn about the role of your nervous system, fascia, and five key types of stretching (static, dynamic, active, passive, and resistance/PNF), and walk away with tools to stretch mindfully and intelligently. Lauren also addresses common myths (like “more flexibility is always better”) and explores how strength supports long-term flexibility and joint stability. Whether you're a yoga teacher or curious practitioner, this episode offers valuable insight to support a sustainable, well-rounded practice. What You’ll Learn: The role of the nervous system in stretching What fascia is and how to support it Five major types of stretching (and how to use them) How stretching helps (and doesn’t help) prevent injury Why strength is essential for flexibility Hypermobile bodies and how to support them Why yoga is more than stretching Reflection Questions: Where might strength support your flexibility? Where do you feel safe to soften? Mentioned: Yoga Sutra 2.46: Sthira Sukham Asanam PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) Fascia hydration and load adaptation Nervous system tools for safe mobility Listen now: https://deepen-your-practice.castos.com Explore More: Learn about Lauren’s 300-hour YTT at True Love Yoga Follow Lauren on Instagram: @laurenleduc Check out Lauren’s book: Embody Your Inner Goddess

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc continues her chakra series by diving into the heart chakra—Anahata, the center of love, integration, and emotional wisdom. She explores how the heart serves as a bridge between the lower and upper chakras, connects the physical and spiritual self, and reflects the qualities of compassion with boundaries. Lauren shares signs of imbalance, practices to strengthen this energetic center, and the importance of self-love and resilience. She also ties the heart chakra to yogic concepts like bhakti, ahimsa, and metta, offering practical tools both on and off the mat, including heart-opening postures, boundary work, grief rituals, and breath-led movement. Whether you're navigating heartbreak, working on emotional balance, or seeking deeper integration, this episode will support you in cultivating an open but supported heart. This episode also highlights Lauren's book, Embody Your Inner Goddess, and True Love Yoga’s 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training, where each chakra is explored in depth throughout the yearlong curriculum. Takeaways Anahata is the fourth chakra, representing love, integration, and compassion. It bridges the lower (earthly) and upper (spiritual) chakras. A balanced heart supports empathy, connection, and emotional boundaries. Imbalances may show up as numbness, people-pleasing, isolation, or martyrdom. Anahata relates to the lungs, shoulders, immune system, and vagus nerve. Philosophical connections include Bhakti Yoga, Ahimsa, Metta, and Karuna. Practices include heart-opening postures, grief rituals, metta meditation, and breathwork. Boundary setting is essential to giving from a place of wholeness. Grief and heartbreak are not flaws—they are part of an intelligent heart. Yoga teaches us to stay present with discomfort and to love bravely.

Is it true that we store trauma in our hips? In this thoughtful solo episode, Lauren unpacks a commonly repeated phrase in yoga classes: “we store emotion in the hips.” She explores where this idea comes from, whether it’s metaphorical or literal, and what both science and yoga philosophy actually say. Drawing from her own experience, current neuroscience, fascia research, and classical yogic teachings, Lauren examines how trauma, stress, and emotion can shape our bodies—especially the hips. She offers nuanced insight into nervous system holding patterns, the role of fascia in sensation, and how yoga helps us cultivate awareness and regulation, rather than force emotional release. Lauren also shares why she avoids using language like “this pose releases trauma” in her classes, and instead offers a more compassionate, inclusive, and empowering approach to emotional experience on the mat. This episode invites yoga practitioners and teachers alike to approach sensation with curiosity, emotion with compassion, and the body with reverence. Topics Include: Where the phrase “we store trauma in the hips” comes from The role of the nervous system and chronic tension What fascia actually does and doesn’t do Scientific vs. metaphorical interpretations of body memory Yogic concepts like samskaras, svadhyaya, pratyahara, and discernment Responsible language choices for yoga teachers How to guide students toward awareness without forcing catharsis Practice invitations: Notice sensation without attaching a story Allow emotions to arise without pressure Honor your body’s natural process with patience and compassion For further exploration: If this topic resonates with you, you’ll love our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training at True Love Yoga—where we dive deep into the intersection of yoga, science, and self-inquiry. Early bird enrollment for the March 2026 cohort ends January 31, 2026. Learn more at trueloveyogakc.com/yoga-teacher-training

n this deeply grounded and timely episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the experience of moral injury, political despair, and nervous system exhaustion through a yogic and trauma‑informed lens. Naming the quiet undercurrent many people are carrying—grief, unease, confusion, and ethical disorientation—Lauren offers language, compassion, and structure for staying human, regulated, and engaged without burning out. Rather than bypassing reality or amplifying fear, this episode invites discernment over reactivity, service over self‑sacrifice, and sustainability over urgency. Drawing on yoga philosophy, nervous system science, the Bhagavad Gita, the gunas, and concepts like Abhyasa and Vairagya, Lauren reframes non‑attachment as clarity, not indifference—and joy as a form of resistance, not denial. Listeners are guided through practical reflections and nervous‑system‑supportive practices to help them identify their unique role in collective care, protect their inner resources, and stay ethically engaged without losing themselves. Reflection Questions from the Episode: What is mine to carry? What is not mine to carry? What kind of service feels sustainable for me right now? What helps me stay human?

In this heartfelt episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the concept of Dharma—your soul's sacred path—and how yoga can help you uncover and align with your purpose. She offers yogic definitions of Dharma and Swadharma, draws on teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, and shares signs of alignment and misalignment in body, mind, and spirit. Lauren invites listeners to explore their inner knowing through journaling, curiosity, embodied practice, and the transformative potential of Yoga Teacher Training. This episode includes practical tools, reflective prompts, and encouragement to walk your unique path with clarity and courage. Lauren also shares details about the True Love Yoga 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, starting March 2026—with $500 off if you enroll by January 31, 2026. If you feel the nudge toward YTT, this episode is for you. ‍♀️ Explore Dharma through: Yogic and modern definitions of Dharma Teachings from the Bhagavad Gita Physical and emotional signs of alignment Practices to connect to your inner truth Tools to begin uncovering your unique path A gentle invitation to step toward yoga teacher training Free Guide: Are You Ready to Become a Yoga Teacher? Learn more or apply now: True Love Yoga 200-Hour YTT

In this fiery episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the solar plexus chakra, or Manipura—the energetic center of personal power, confidence, and purposeful action. Lauren breaks down this chakra’s associations with fire, transformation, self-trust, and discipline, connecting it to yogic philosophy through concepts like Tapas (spiritual discipline), Swadharma (individual purpose), and Karma Yoga (selfless action). She discusses the signs of balanced and imbalanced Manipura energy, offers powerful on- and off-the-mat practices to build confidence and ignite your inner fire, and encourages listeners to step into leadership with clarity, courage, and compassion. This episode includes journaling prompts to help you align with your purpose and closes with a warm reminder: you have the right to take up space and move forward with confidence. Whether you're deepening your chakra study or just learning to trust your intuition, this episode is your invitation to burn brightly—with purpose. Mentioned: Lauren’s book: Embody Your Inner Goddess True Love Yoga’s 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training

In this first episode of 2026, Lauren invites you into a softer, soul-rooted approach to the new year—one grounded in sankalpa, the yogic practice of heartfelt intention. Rather than setting rigid resolutions, this episode offers an embodied path of becoming through sankalpa (intention), abhyasa (consistent practice), and vairagya (non-attachment). Lauren reflects on her personal sankalpa for the year—“I am mastery”—and unpacks what it means to align with your deepest truth through gentle discipline and devotion. You’ll learn: What sankalpa is and how it differs from resolutions How to align your goals with your heart’s deepest wisdom The power of small, sustainable habits (abhiyasa) Why non-attachment (vairagya) brings maturity and grace How to regulate your nervous system in busy seasons The deeper meaning of mastery in yoga and life Journaling prompts are included to help you clarify your 2026 sankalpa and anchor it in your daily life. ✨ Whether you're craving a more sustainable way to show up for yourself or looking to deepen your practice with intention, this episode will meet you right where you are. ‍♀️ Offerings Mentioned: Abhyasa: A Ritual Practice at True Love Yoga – Sundays in Kansas City 200-Hour and 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Trainings – Enroll now at True Love Yoga Yoga Practice Journal – Track your consistency and deepen your embodiment Explore more at LaurenLeduc.com ✍️ Journaling Prompts (from the episode): What quality do I long to embody this year? What feeling do I want to cultivate more often? What inner truth is ready to surface? From your answers, create a present-tense, affirmative sankalpa—a guiding light for your year ahead.

This special episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice is not just a podcast—it’s a ritual. Lauren Leduc guides you through a year-end letting go ceremony grounded in yogic philosophy, self-inquiry, and mindfulness. With candlelight, journaling, breathwork, and personal reflection, you’ll be invited to honor the end of 2025 and create space for clarity and purpose in 2026. Grab your journal, light a candle, make some tea, and settle in. Or listen once while walking or driving, then return for the guided practice. ️ You’ll explore: Yogic pillars of Svadhyaya (self-study) and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender) Integration and rest as forms of spiritual practice How Abhyasa and Vairagya help us release what no longer fits Seasonal wisdom from Ayurveda and how winter supports deep digestion Journaling prompts to reflect on what you’re proud of, what you’ve learned, what you’re ready to let go of, and what you’re calling in Journal Prompts Include: What am I most proud of from 2025? What version of myself am I ready to release? What word or feeling do I want to leave behind? What do I want to feel in 2026? What dreams are gently tapping at my door? You’ll be invited to burn, bury, or release your reflections as a physical act of letting go—and then to tune in to your inner knowing to welcome what’s next. Upcoming Events at True Love Yoga: Dec 31: Release, Reset & Renew with Avey & Liz (10–11:30am) Jan 1: Breathe, Flow & Set Your Intention for 2026 with Lauren Join us to move, reflect, and step into the new year with presence. Want to go deeper in 2026? Explore our Yoga Teacher Trainings: Learn more

In this contemplative episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, host Lauren Leduc invites you to pause and honor the Winter Solstice—a sacred seasonal threshold that marks the darkest day of the year and the return of the light. Through a blend of yogic philosophy, Ayurveda, and personal ritual, Lauren explores the deeper meaning of this powerful time and how we can align with its energies for spiritual and energetic renewal. You'll hear reflections on the solstice as a moment of stillness, surrender, and clarity, and how it calls us toward self-study (Svadhyaya), truth (Satya), and trust (Ishwara Pranidhana). ✨ Topics include: The solstice as a sacred samita (moment between) Yogic concepts of tamas, rajas, and sattva Aligning with the Ayurvedic transition from vata to kapha Building ojas (vitality) in winter Yoga limbs: Pratyahara, Dharana, Svadhyaya, Ishwara Pranidhana Warming and nourishing practices for winter Rituals for honoring the solstice (movement, meditation, journaling, nature walks) Why dormancy is not death—it's restoration ️ Suggested Rituals: Candlelit slow flow or yin practice Trataka (candle gazing) meditation Journaling on what’s gestating in the dark Silent tea or meal ritual Nature walks at sunrise or sunset Next Week: Join Lauren for a letting go ritual to close the year. Bring a journal, candle, and open heart. ‍♀️ Practice with us: True Love Yoga offers yin and restorative yoga weekly to support seasonal alignment. Deepen your path through our 200-hour and 300-hour Yoga Teacher Trainings. Learn more

In this nourishing and timely episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc guides you into the spacious world of Yin Yoga—a gentle, meditative practice designed to cultivate stillness, surrender, and deep awareness. As we shift into the more introspective yin season of the year, Lauren explores how yin yoga can support your nervous system, balance an active lifestyle, and help you reconnect with your inner landscape. You’ll learn about the roots and philosophy of yin, its physical and energetic benefits, how it differs from restorative yoga, and how to create a sustainable yin practice both at home and in the studio. ✨ Topics include: The Taoist and yogic influences behind Yin Yoga What happens in a typical yin class Yin vs. Restorative: key differences Meridian theory, chi, and chakra integration Yin for athletes, creatives, and burned-out humans How yin supports emotional processing and spiritual connection Simple yin poses to try at home ‍♀️ Practice prompt: Try legs up the wall for 5 minutes with deep breathing. Set a timer and notice how you feel after. Journal prompt: Where in my life am I being asked to soften? Classes at True Love Yoga: We offer Yin Yoga 4x/week: Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Go deeper with us: The True Love Yoga 300-hour Advanced YTT includes in-depth yin study, meridian theory, intuitive teaching, and more. Begins January 1, 2026. Apply here

In this rich solo episode, Lauren explores two foundational teachings from the Yoga Sutras: Abhyasa (consistent, sustained effort) and Vairagya (non-attachment or surrender). She shares personal reflections on how all-or-nothing thinking shaped her early adult life and how these twin teachings have helped her find steadiness, balance, and purpose. Lauren breaks down how to embody both concepts on and off the mat, including: Why both effort and surrender are essential for growth The dangers of over-efforting without release What Abhyasa and Vairagya look like in modern life How to recognize when you're leaning too far in one direction Why self-study (svadhyaya) is key to balance She also shares exciting announcements about her 2026 teaching schedule at True Love Yoga, including: Her new weekly class Abhyasa Quarterly Vairagya Yin + Myofascial Release workshops Monthly Lila creative full practices Upcoming 200-Hour and 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Trainings ✨ Want to deepen your practice in 2026? Visit trueloveyogakc.com or reach out directly to Lauren to chat. ️ Journal prompt: Where in your life could you show up with more commitment? Where could you soften your grip and surrender? Links Join True Love Yoga Try the Yoga Practice Journal Fall Challenge Info Lauren on Instagram

✨ Shownotes In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc dives into the Prana Vayus, the five vital energy currents within the subtle body that influence our physical, emotional, and spiritual experiences. While many are familiar with the chakras, fewer practitioners explore these foundational energetic flows—yet understanding them can transform both your yoga practice and your daily life. Lauren explores: The definition and origin of prana and vayu Each of the 5 Prana Vayus: Prana Vayu (inward + upward, heart/lungs, intake) Apana Vayu (downward + outward, pelvic floor, elimination) Samana Vayu (inward + centering, navel, assimilation) Udana Vayu (upward + outward, throat/head, expression) Vyana Vayu (circulating + integrating, full body, coordination) How to feel and work with each current on the mat Practices to cultivate energy balance, intention, and inner alignment Ideas for integrating Vayus into your teaching, breathwork, sequencing, and daily living Whether you're a student, teacher, or simply someone seeking more clarity and vitality, this episode will help you deepen your understanding of subtle energy and reconnect to your inner wisdom. ‍♀️ Want to go even deeper? Lauren’s 300-Hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training begins in January 2026 and includes full training on subtle anatomy, energetics, and yogic philosophy. Learn more: trueloveyogakc.com/yoga-teacher-training Takeaways Prana = vital life force; Vayu = wind/movement The 5 Vayus represent directional flows of energy in the body Awareness of these flows enhances physical, emotional, and spiritual balance You can work with the Vayus through asana, breath, meditation, and intention Knowing which Vayu is deficient or dominant can guide self-care and practice You don’t need to memorize them to begin noticing energetic shifts Subtle body awareness creates a more integrated, intelligent yoga practice The Vayus can inform decisions, boundaries, digestion, voice, and vision Teachers can use the Vayus to sequence, theme, and assist more effectively Each Vayu has a role in our healing and wholeness Links Join True Love Yoga Try the Yoga Practice Journal Lauren on Instagram

This Thanksgiving week, Lauren invites you into a gentler, more honest expression of gratitude—not a list, not a platitude, but the embodied art of presence and savoring. In this solo episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, you’ll explore yogic teachings like: Santoshya – contentment Ishvara Pranidhana – surrender Abhyasa & Vairagya – disciplined presence + letting go ️ Pratyahara – withdrawing from overstimulation Lauren shares personal reflections, seasonal wisdom, and gentle invitations to slow down—especially during the holidays. She also addresses the complexity of Thanksgiving as a holiday, honoring its historical context and encouraging thoughtful land acknowledgment. ✨ Topics include: How slowing down activates the parasympathetic nervous system Why savoring is a deeper form of gratitude Mindful eating as a spiritual practice Accessible yoga and journaling rituals for the season Thanksgiving classes at True Love Yoga ‍♀️ What are you savoring this week? Let us know on Instagram or Spotify comments. Studio Schedule: https://www.trueloveyogakc.com/schedule Journal prompt: What am I rushing through in my life? What’s asking me to slow down and savor?