Keen on Yoga Podcast

Ep 283 Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor
 
Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor share their extensive journey through yoga, their insights on tradition versus innovation, and how spiritual practices intersect with everyday life. Discover how their experiences in India, Persia, and beyond shape their teaching and personal philosophies.
 
Main Topics:
·       Richard and Mary's early paths into yoga and their discoveries of Indian philosophy, Tantra, and Buddhist practices
·       Their experiences studying with Pattabhi Jois, in Mysore, and the evolution of the Ashtanga sequence
·       The importance of tradition, innovation, and personal adaptation in yoga practice
·       Insights into pranayama, Sanskrit, and the deeper layers of yogic philosophy
·       The relevance of the Bhagavad Gita's teachings on action, sacrifice, and devotion
·       The role of curiosity, questioning, and avoiding dogma in spiritual development
·       Diet, vegetarianism, and the influence of food on practice and health
·       The visceral and embodied experience of waking up and consciousness in yoga and meditation
·       The parallels and differences between Yoga and Buddhism, and their synergy in modern practice
·       The importance of individualized teaching and the teacher-student relationship
·       Future inspirations drawn from nature, texts, and ongoing spiritual inquiry
Richard Freeman - Official website | Mary Taylor - Personal website
Connect with Richard Freeman: Instagram
Connect with Mary Taylor: Instagram
 
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Dr. Bessel van der Kolk discusses the intersection of trauma therapy and yoga, emphasizing the importance of body awareness, the role of the therapist, and how movement can aid healing.
Main Topics: 
·       The limitations of talking and drug therapies for trauma
·       The importance of body sensations and interoception in healing
·       The role of yoga and movement in trauma recovery
·       The significance of the therapist's relationship and cues
·       The impact of polyvagal theory and brain science on trauma treatment
·       The importance of safety, trust, and relationship in movement therapy
·       The use of video feedback and observation in yoga therapy
·       Cultural differences in trauma expression and healing practices
Key Points
·       Traumatized individuals often shut down physically and emotionally, requiring gentle, safe approaches.
·       Body awareness and interoception are crucial for accessing and influencing the core survival brain.
·       The relationship and tone set by the yoga teacher significantly affect healing outcomes.
·       Movement modalities should be tailored to individual safety and comfort levels.
·       Understanding brain science, like polyvagal theory, can inform more effective trauma interventions.
·       Yoga and movement are parts of a larger puzzle, not standalone solutions.
·       Trauma survivors are among the most courageous people, deserving respect and support.
Website: https://www.besselvanderkolk.com/
Instagram:  @thebodykeepsthescore
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FULL PODCAST LIST
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LISTEN
Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN

Adam explores the evolving meaning of yoga beyond transcendence, focusing on embodied experience, practical application, and making life meaningful through practice. He challenges traditional views and considers how yoga can serve as a tool for self-connection, resilience, and authentic living.
KEY TOPICS 
·       The original meaning of yoga as transcendence
·       The evolution of yoga practices from transcendental to embodied
·       The role of asana in cultivating objectivity and resilience
·       Making meaning through yoga in daily life
·       The relationship between suffering, meaning, and yoga
·       The importance of self-connection and authenticity
·       The use of challenging postures to understand discomfort
·       The concept of big self-versus small self
·       The role of community and shared practice in making meaning
·       The philosophical space of doubt and inquiry in yoga
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In this insightful interview, Doug Keller explores the roots of Hatha Yoga, its modern adaptations, and its profound connection to health, spirituality, and anatomy. Discover how traditional practices can be reinterpreted for contemporary wellness and spiritual growth.
 Main Topics:
·       History and origins of Hatha Yoga
·       The relationship between physical practice and spiritual growth
·       The role of fascia and anatomy in yoga practice
·       Modern reinterpretations of traditional yoga techniques
·       The importance of intention and mindfulness in yoga
Website: https://doyoga.com/
Instagram:  @dougsyoga
Doug's books: https://doyoga.com/bookstore.htm
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Discover the nuanced role of physical touch in yoga, including its profound benefits and significant risks. In this episode, yoga teacher Adam explores the power of touch as a tool for connection, affirmation, and energy work, while addressing the dangers of abuse, boundary setting, and how to incorporate touch thoughtfully and ethically.
Key Topics
·      The significance of touch in embodying energy and cultivating connection in yoga
·      Personal experiences and crises of touch during the COVID-19 pandemic
·      The impact of touch on healing and the importance of positive affirmation
·      Recognizing and preventing physical and sexual abuse in yoga settings
·      Establishing consent, feedback, and trust to create a safe environment
·      The difference between assistance, adjustments, and forcing body shapes
·      Safeguards such as consent cards and open communication with students
·      Principles for ethical touch: gentle, clear, affirmative, and gradual
·      The role of trust, relationship building, and sensitivity to personal boundaries
·      Alternatives to adjustments, emphasizing support through presence and subtle cues
CONNECT WITH ADAM
https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga
SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf
FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/
 
WATCH
https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga
LISTEN
Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN