Yoga as a Lifeline: Surviving Loss and Finding Strength

In this special Christmas Eve episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater and Russell Case reflect on an emotionally charged year in the Ashtanga Yoga community. With warmth and sincerity, they honor the lives and legacies of three pivotal figures: Nancy Gilgoff, Rolf Naujokat, and Sharath Jois. Through heartfelt conversations and shared memories, this episode pays tribute to the profound impact these teachers had on their students and the global yoga community. Guests featured in this episode include: David Swenson, sharing humorous and heartfelt reflections on decades of friendship with Nancy Gilgoff and his memories of Sharath Jois. Emma O’Neill, recounting her life-changing journey through yoga, including time spent with Nancy, Rolf, and Sharath in Goa, Mysore, and Maui. Sebastian Arbondo, offering personal and touching insights into his experiences with Rolf Naujokat. Sasha Regier, reflecting on over 17 years of practice with Nancy Gilgoff and the profound lessons she imparted. Iain Grysak, recalling his transformative experiences practicing with Rolf and Sharath over nearly two decades. Kate O’Donnell, discussing her years living and practicing with Nancy Gilgoff and her deep gratitude for the teachings of Rolf and Sharath.   Key moments include: Harmony and Russell’s candid reflections on grief, legacy, and the power of community. Stories from David Swenson and Emma O’Neill that capture the essence of the Ashtanga practice and its transformative power. Sebastian Arbondo’s deeply personal anecdotes, including a spiritual encounter with Rolf Naujokat. Harmony and Kate’s discussion on the energetics of practice and the lasting gifts left by these guiding lights of Ashtanga.   As you celebrate the holidays, this episode serves as a reminder to cherish the simple, magical moments that shape our lives. Whether you’re wrapping presents, reflecting on the year, or practicing yoga, this is a tribute to the beauty of life, legacy, and the power of presence.   Connect with our guests: David Swenson  https://www.instagram.com/davidswensonashtanga/?hl=en  https://www.ashtanga.net/  https://www.facebook.com/davidswensonashtanga    Emma O’Neill  http://www.mysoreto.com/  https://www.instagram.com/mysoretoronto/  https://www.facebook.com/mysoretoronto/    https://emmaoneillvo.com/  https://www.instagram.com/emmaoneill  https://www.youtube.com/@EmmaONeillVO  https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmaoneillvo/    Sebastian Arbondo  https://www.facebook.com/sebastian.arbondo/  https://www.instagram.com/sebarb/?hl=en    Sasha Regier  https://www.facebook.com/groups/8583498469/  https://www.instagram.com/stregier/    Iain Grysak  https://spaciousyoga.com/iain-grysak/  https://www.instagram.com/iain_grysak  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53DHdqxcjiiVFgOl26P7ng  https://www.facebook.com/spaciousyogaashtanga/    Kate O’Donnell  https://healwithkate.org/  https://healwithkate.org/book-tour  https://www.instagram.com/kateodonnell.ayurveda  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCa_7q5okagCbDMuGFKVBzBQ  https://www.facebook.com/AyurvedaBoston  Connect with Harmony! Find your Spiritual Archetype! What is your Spiritual Entrepreneur Archetype? Take the Quiz! Sign up for the Free Spiritual Entrepreneur Class! https://harmonyslater.as.me/Spiritual-Entrepreneur-Archetype-Class Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two-Minute Breathwork Session⁠

In this episode, Harmony Slater explores the power of rituals to bring meaning, intention, and abundance into our lives during the holiday season and beyond. Join Harmony as she speaks with three remarkable women: Lisa Marie Rankin, bestselling author of The Goddess Solution, shares simple yet profound rituals to reawaken your connection with the divine feminine energy and bring intention to everyday holiday practices. Sarah Walton, a gifted abundance coach, provides insights on reflecting on wins, setting powerful intentions, and avoiding the “dumpster fire” year-end mindset to create a meaningful 2025. Kate O’Donnell, Ayurveda expert and author, discusses the importance of strengthening the body with nourishing rituals and offers tips for a mono-diet cleanse to prepare for the New Year with clarity and vitality.   From lighting candles to baking cookies with love and gratitude, this conversation dives deep into transforming the mundane into the magical. Discover how to align your energy, connect with the divine, and create sacred routines that support your personal and spiritual growth.   Special Mention:   Kate O’Donnell shares her famous Kitchari recipe! Find it in the show notes and on her blog for a nourishing start to the New Year.   Resources Mentioned: Kate O’Donnell’s Kitchari Recipe: https://healwithkate.org/blog/ayurvedic-kichari-recipe?rq=kichari Lisa Marie Rankin’s The Goddess Solution: https://www.lisamarierankin.com/thegoddesssolution Sarah Walton’s Coaching Programs: https://sarahwalton.com/business-strategy-workshop/   Lisa Marie Rankin Website: lisamarierankin.com Instagram: @lisamarie.rankin Sarah Walton Website: sarahwalton.com Instagram: @thesarahwalton Kate O’Donnell Website: kateodonnell.yoga Instagram: @kateodonnell.ayurveda   Connect with Harmony!  Find your Spiritual Archetype! What is your Spiritual Entrepreneur Archetype? Take the Quiz! Sign up for the LIGHTWORKER MASTERMIND - We Start JANUARY 1st! Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two-Minute Breathwork Session⁠   Listen Now: Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who would love to bring more harmony into their holiday season.

Are you ready to shift old patterns and embrace sustainable change? This week on Finding Harmony, Harmony Slater sits down with Marilena Minucci, a trailblazing coach and the creator of the Quantum Coaching Method. Together, they explore the power of self-love and self-compassion as the keys to personal and professional transformation. Marilena shares her wisdom on how small, deliberate steps can help us rewrite limiting beliefs, create lasting habits, and align with our true essence. Whether you’re a yoga teacher, healer, or just someone seeking a more harmonious life, this conversation offers tools and insights to help you break free from cycles of self-doubt and cultivate a deeper connection with yourself.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode The Power of Self-Compassion: Discover why radical self-forgiveness is a game-changer for breaking negative self-talk and fostering growth. The Quantum Coaching Method: Learn how this heart-centered coaching approach integrates neuroscience, somatic practices, and universal laws to create real, sustainable change. Small Steps, Big Results: Understand how Kaizen—a philosophy of incremental improvement—can help you reprogram your habits without overwhelming your nervous system. Coaching vs. Therapy: Explore the key differences between coaching and therapy, and how each serves unique needs in personal growth. Yoga & Coaching Synergy: Dive into the complementary relationship between yoga and coaching as tools for deeper self-awareness and transformation.   Marilena Minucci is the founder of the Quantum Coaching Method™ and has over 25 years of experience in coaching, mentoring, and training. She is also the author of “Quantum Coaching Questions.”   For more information about her work and offerings, visit the Quantum Coaching Method website. Connect with Harmony! Find your Spiritual Archetype! What is your Spiritual Entrepreneur Archetype? Take the Quiz! Sign up for the Free Spiritual Entrepreneur Class! https://harmonyslater.as.me/Spiritual-Entrepreneur-Archetype-Class Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠ APPLY TO JOIN LIGHTWORKER MASTERMIND - Bonus Half Day Retreat - Dec.15   Tune in now and begin reprogramming your patterns through self-love. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review to help us share these transformative conversations with more listeners!

In this mystical episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater and Russell Case welcome the insightful Letao Wang, a spiritual counselor, astro-mythologist, and creator of two stunning oracle decks: Oracle of the Celestial Deities and Oracle of Mythic Heroes. Together, they explore the power of mythology, astrology, and tarot as tools for self-awareness and spiritual growth. Letao shares his inspiring journey from a corporate career to becoming a spiritual guide, how mythology and archetypes shape our lives, and why storytelling is at the heart of healing. Harmony and Russell delve into the wisdom of ancient deities, the intersection of logic and emotion in leadership, and the art of spiritual counseling. Stay tuned for a live card reading with Letao’s oracle decks, offering guidance to close out your year with clarity and confidence. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The profound connection between Greek mythology and astrology. How oracle decks can serve as tools for reflection and self-discovery. Letao’s transformation from a corporate career to spiritual counseling. Why mythology’s archetypes resonate deeply with modern life. Practical advice for embracing leadership and overcoming anxiety. Live Oracle Reading: Choose your card! Letao guides listeners through a two-option card pull with insights tailored to your choice. Discover the energy of Pan and Athena and what it means for your personal journey. Links & Resources: Connect with Letao Wang and explore his offerings: www.thehealingkingdom.com Connect with Letao on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letaowang/ Purchase Letao’s Oracle Decks on Amazon: Oracle of the Celestial Deities and Oracle of Mythic Heroes Find your Spiritual Archetype! What is your Spiritual Entrepreneur Archetype? Take the Quiz! Sign up for the Free Spiritual Entrepreneur Class! https://harmonyslater.as.me/Spiritual-Entrepreneur-Archetype-Class Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠ APPLY TO JOIN LIGHTWORKER MASTERMIND - Bonus Half Day Retreat - Dec.15

Join Harmony Slater on the Finding Harmony Podcast as she delves into the transformative world of spinal energetics with guest Zeena Kalisperides. Discover how this powerful practice enhances Ashtanga yoga by connecting with the energetic body, releasing trauma, and fostering deep inner healing. Harmony and Zeena share insights into spinal energetics, the upcoming workshop in London, and their experiences with energy work. Key Topics: Introduction to Spinal Energetics: Zeena and Harmony discuss spinal energetics as an integrative practice that enhances Ashtanga yoga and provides a unique method for reconnecting to one’s self and energy. Energy Flow and Consciousness: They explore the importance of prana, energy flow, and how blocked or ignored areas can affect overall well-being. Healing Trauma Through Spinal Energetics: Insights into releasing deep-seated patterns and memories stored in the body. The January Workshop: Upcoming workshop at Stillpoint Yoga in London, January 25–26, 2025, featuring Mysore classes and immersive sessions on energy and breathwork. Mentioned in the Episode: Stillpoint Yoga London: JOIN CLASSES WITH HARMONY JAN-22-26   Elevate Your Inner Experience and Yoga Practice Workshop Dates: January 25–26, 2025 (early bird pricing until November 30) SAVE YOUR SPOT!   People/Books/Concepts: Dr. Sarah Jane (Founder of Spinal Energetics) Koshas, Chakras, and Nadis: Key energy concepts discussed in yogic teachings "Yoga Chikitsa": Ashtanga's primary series, meaning "yoga therapy" Follow Zeena Kalisperides on Instagram: @zeena_kali_yoga Find your Spiritual Archetype! What is your Spiritual Entrepreneur Archetype? Take the Quiz! Sign up for the Free Spiritual Entrepreneur Class! https://harmonyslater.as.me/Spiritual-Entrepreneur-Archetype-Class Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠ APPLY TO JOIN LIGHTWORKER MASTERMIND - Bonus Half Day Retreat - Dec.15  

In this deeply reflective episode, Harmony pauses from her regular programming to honor the life and legacy of her teacher, Shri Sharath Joyce, who recently passed away. Harmony shares personal memories of her time with him in Mysore, detailing his gentle nature, passion for the natural world, and the profound way he brought their global yoga community together. She openly explores the complexities of grief, from sadness and confusion to joy and acceptance, while reminding listeners that love and connection transcend the physical world. Harmony reads a powerful poem by Thich Nhat Hanh, capturing the impermanence of life and the eternal bond we share with those who have passed. Through this tribute, she offers listeners a comforting reminder: we are never truly alone, and the spirit of our loved ones lives on in the love we hold for them. Key Takeaways Reflections on the life, teachings, and impact of Shri Sharath Joyce The complexity of grief and the different emotions that arise when we lose loved ones Finding solace in community, shared love, and continuous connection through spiritual practice Harmony's guidance on being present with our feelings and honoring each moment The enduring legacy of beloved Ashtanga teachers like Shri Sharath Joyce, Nancy Gilgoff, and Rolf Naujokat Special Acknowledgments Harmony would like to recognize the tremendous impact of three inspirational figures lost to the Ashtanga community this year: Shri Sharath Joyce, Nancy Gilgoff, and Rolf Naujokat. Each of these teachers has left an indelible mark on her life and on the global yoga community.   Find your Spiritual Archetype! What is your Spiritual Entrepreneur Archetype? Take the Quiz! Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching ⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠ Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser Join Harmony’s Inner Circle Mentorship: Explore pranayama, yoga philosophy, Sanskrit mantras, and more in Harmony’s private mentorship program. Learn more here.

Join Harmony Slater, Russell Case,  and guest Patrick Belisle for a heartfelt discussion on navigating the complexities of family dynamics during the holiday season. In this episode, Patrick, a personal development expert and fundraiser, shares insights from his work with the Hoffman Institute and the teachings of Edgar Cayce. Together, they explore how emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and spiritual practices can help us heal from generational patterns and foster deeper connections with our loved ones. Topics Covered: Exploring emotional resilience and healing through personal development Techniques from the Hoffman Process for navigating family interactions Embracing spiritual ideals as a guide for life decisions Building a fulfilling practice of gratitude and intentionality Fundraising and financial energy: Viewing money as a spiritual resource Tools to prepare emotionally for the holiday season Guest Links: Hoffman Institute Association for Research and Enlightenment (ARE) University of Virginia Division of Perceptual Studies (DOPS) Find your Spiritual Archetype! What is your Spiritual Entrepreneur Archetype? Take the Quiz! Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching ⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠ Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser

In this heartfelt episode of Finding Harmony, hosts Harmony Slater and Russell Case sit down with longtime yoga practitioner and teacher Ana Hollis. Ana opens up about her journey with Ashtanga yoga, a practice that has been a pillar of strength through major life transitions, including motherhood, the loss of her husband, and the challenges of aging and injury. With over two decades of experience, Ana shares how yoga has provided a steady foundation, helping her navigate physical and emotional obstacles. From early days practicing with few resources in San Antonio to teaching at her own shala, Ana’s story reflects resilience and a profound commitment to the Ashtanga community. She discusses how the Ashtanga method—taught by renowned teachers like Tim Miller and Sharath Jois—has evolved to support practitioners across generations and capabilities. This conversation offers inspiring insights into the ways yoga can be adapted for all stages of life, as well as practical wisdom for aging practitioners. Join us as Ana talks about how her practice continues to evolve and how it has empowered her through the highs and lows of life. Highlights: Ana’s early journey into yoga and its powerful role in her life transitions How yoga supported her through grief and loss Insights into teaching Ashtanga to diverse students in San Antonio Adapting yoga practice for aging and injury recovery Her experiences with esteemed teachers Tim Miller and Sharath Jois The power of community and support within the Ashtanga tradition Find your Spiritual Archetype! What is your Spiritual Entrepreneur Archetype? Take the Quiz! Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching ⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠ Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser Join Harmony’s Inner Circle Mentorship: Explore pranayama, yoga philosophy, Sanskrit mantras, and more in Harmony’s private mentorship program. Learn more here. Upcoming Events: Don’t miss the opportunity to practice with Sharath Jois on his U.S. tour, which concludes in San Antonio from November 16-20. Learn more and register at Sonima.com.

In this transformative episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, hosts Harmony Slater and Russell Case are joined by legendary yoga teacher and author, Tias Little. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of the spiritual path, Tias shares his journey, beginning with his introduction to yoga by his mother in the 1970s. Raised in a family immersed in comparative religion, Tias integrates the psycho-spiritual aspects of yoga into his practice and teaching, blending Buddhist psychology and the ancient wisdom of asana. Listeners will be captivated as Tias delves into the mysterious forces of prana, the subtle body, and how yoga is so much more than physical postures. He explains how breath, meditation, and movement align to release deep-seated stress and tension in the body, leading to greater awareness and connection to the self. Tias also invites listeners to explore the inner asana—what happens at a deeper level during practice, beyond the forms. Tias shares personal insights into the progression of yoga from physical rigor to inner stillness, offering wisdom on how practitioners can refine their sensitivity and explore the subtle rhythms of life. This episode also highlights Tias's upcoming Yoga of the Subtle Body training, which provides a unique opportunity to study with a master teacher and deepen your connection to the subtler aspects of yoga. Key Takeaways: The importance of prana and subtle body awareness in yoga Integrating meditative states into physical asana practice The progression from athletic postures to subtle, internal work How breath and movement connect us to life’s rhythms The significance of slowing down and refining sensitivity in practice About Tias Little: Tias Little is a renowned yoga teacher and the author of Yoga of the Subtle Body. He has been teaching and practicing for over 30 years, blending Eastern philosophies with his deep understanding of the human body and subtle anatomy. Tias has studied with luminaries such as Robert Thurman and Swami Satchidananda, and his teachings integrate both the physical and meditative aspects of yoga. His work has inspired thousands of practitioners to explore the deeper dimensions of their practice. Tias teaches through his Santa Fe-based Prajna Yoga and offers online courses, including the Yoga of the Subtle Body training. Learn with Tias Little: Free Teaching from Yoga of the Subtle Body: https://www.shambhala.com/courses/yoga-of-the-subtle-body-free-teaching-sign-up/#a_aid=harmonyslater&a_cid=421e692d Yoga of the Subtle Body Cours: https://courses.shambhala.com/yoga-of-the-subtle-body/#a_aid=harmonyslater&a_cid=421e692d Website: Prajna Yoga Instagram: @prajnayogatraining Connect with Harmony and Russell: Website: Finding Harmony Podcast Instagram: @harmonyslateryoga | @russellcaseyoga

In this special episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater sits down with the renowned international teacher and healer, Nischala Joy Devi. Known for her groundbreaking work in combining Yoga with Western medicine, Nischala shares her journey and the development of her heart-centered teachings. With decades of experience, Nischala discusses her contributions to The Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease and the Commonweal Cancer Help Program, explaining how Yoga can assist those facing life-threatening illnesses. Nischala also delves into her mission to bring the feminine back into spirituality through her work on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. She reflects on her latest edition of The Secret Power of Yoga, a unique, feminine interpretation of the Sutras. Through these teachings, listeners will gain insight into a more heart-centered, compassionate approach to life, spirituality, and healing. Tune in as Nischala explains how Yoga helps individuals on their path to personal healing and spiritual growth, expanding beyond the boundaries of traditional practices to embrace a more holistic approach. Whether you're new to Yoga or have been practicing for years, this episode will inspire you to explore the depth of Yoga’s healing power. Key Topics Discussed: Integrating Western medicine and Yoga for heart disease and cancer patients The sacred teachings of Yoga from masters around the world The role of feminine energy in spiritual practices A heart-centered approach to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali The mystical power of the Chakras for healing and transformation Connect with Nischala Joy Devi: Website: nischaladevi.com Social Media: @nischaladevi Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!) Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com Finding Harmony Community  https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching ⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠ Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG ⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠ Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser Join Harmony’s Inner Circle Mentorship: Explore pranayama, yoga philosophy, Sanskrit mantras, and more in Harmony’s private mentorship program. Learn more here.