Ep #153: Ayurveda and Yoga: The Path to Health, Happiness, and Liberation with Akshay Bhat

What if not knowing is exactly where transformation begins?In this episode, the invitation is clear: step into uncertainty, not as something to fix or avoid, but as a powerful teacher. The conversation explores the contrast between certainty and uncertainty, control and trust, showing how our desire for clarity often blocks us from growth, creativity, and new possibilities.By letting go of needing to control every outcome, we allow space for inner wisdom, surrender, and even joy in the unknown. You’ll explore how breath (especially the pause between inhale and exhale) can train your nervous system to sit with discomfort. From neuroscience to yogic teachings like Ishvara Pranidhana, this episode reminds us that the unknown is not empty—it’s fertile ground for growth.Through reflection questions, breath practices, and insights on decision-making, you’ll leave feeling more grounded, present, and open to possibility—even without all the answers.A calming, poetic reminder that uncertainty isn’t a weakness—it’s where real life begins.—-------—-------—-Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:02:06 Certainty vs. Uncertainty00:06:03 Possibility and the Unknown00:08:07 Voice of Certainty vs. Voice of Trust00:10:00 Breath Awareness & Kumbhaka00:13:06 Brain’s Fear of the Unknown00:15:40 Neuroplasticity & Growth00:18:01 Control vs. Trust00:22:32 Letting Go Increases Oxytocin00:25:03 Decision-Making from Calm vs. Fear00:26:00 Integration Meditation00:28:10 Final Reflections—-------—-------—-Ishvara Pranidhana (Yogic Niyama – surrender)Kumbhaka (breath retention)Concept of neuroplasticityMichael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: uncertainty, letting go, emotional growth, yoga philosophy, breathwork, trust, personal development, self-awareness, nervous system, Ishvara Pranidhana, mindfulness, control, decision making, surrender, neuroplasticity📚 Mentions & Resources:

What if the thing you’re avoiding—being truly seen—is actually the key to healing?In this powerful episode, the speaker explores the contrast between isolation and intimacy, and how both can impact our relationships, our work, and our inner world. While isolation often feels like protection—especially in times of burnout, heartbreak, or exhaustion—it can eventually lead to loneliness and numbness. On the other hand, intimacy requires courage. It’s about being vulnerable, open, and allowing yourself to be supported, not just in romantic relationships but in everyday life and professional spaces too.The episode blends neuroscience, yoga philosophy, and personal reflection. It touches on the role of the spiritual heart (hridaya), the healing power of physical and emotional connection, and the challenges of receiving support without guilt. Themes like overgiving vs. receptivity, self-care as a gateway to connection, and the need for balance are emphasized.Listeners are guided through reflective questions and even a gentle breath-based embodiment practice. The episode closes with a tender reminder: You are allowed to receive. You are not alone.—-------—-------—-Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction  00:02:00 What is Isolation?  00:04:42 Defining Intimacy  00:06:15 Inner Narratives of Isolation  00:07:31 Yogic Lens: Hridaya & Bhakti  00:08:15 Acro Yoga & Building Trust  00:09:18 Science: Cortisol vs. Oxytocin  00:10:43 Intimacy with Yourself  00:13:09 Intimacy in Teaching  00:14:00 Entrepreneurship & Isolation  00:15:45 Overgiving vs. Receptivity  00:18:40 Self-Intimacy as a Foundation  00:22:30 Hatha Yoga & Balance  00:23:47 Why It's Hard to Receive  00:25:04 Story: Needing Help  00:27:27 Somatic Breath Practice  00:29:01 Reflective Questions  00:30:43 Closing Affirmations  —-------—-------—-📚 Mentions & Resources:Yoga Concepts: Hridaya (spiritual heart), Bhakti Yoga, Hatha YogaScientific Ideas: Oxytocin, cortisol, inflammation, Polyvagal TheoryMichael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: intimacy, isolation, overgiving, receptivity, burnout, nervous system, yoga philosophy, self-care, emotional healing, vulnerability, connection, polyvagal theory

What happens when ancient wisdom meets a modern heart that's ready to listen?That’s exactly what unfolded for Lucy St. John. At just 23, a spontaneous experience of unity consciousness during a trip to India shifted the entire course of her life. Suddenly, she saw herself reflected in every human being—and that sense of deep connection lasted for months.In this heartfelt conversation, Lucy shares how that awakening led her to the Vedic tradition, 12 years of oral teachings, and a deep commitment to yoga, not just as movement, but as a way of being. From washing dishes in an ashram to chanting Sanskrit mantras with precision, Lucy reveals what it means to live yoga—not perform it.She opens up about the early days when no one showed up to her talks, the resilience it took to keep going, and the healing power of sound and silence. Whether you're a yoga teacher, practitioner, or simply curious about spiritual growth, this episode is a warm reminder that sometimes the most profound truths are the ones we already know—deep down.—-------—-------—-Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:02:40 How Lucy Found Yoga00:06:13 Teaching Vedic Wisdom Before Yoga Was Popular00:14:02 What Is the Vedic Tradition?00:23:04 Mantras, Sound, and Vibration00:37:16 The Power of Just Being00:45:00 Ignorance as a Starting Point00:49:15 Shifting Energy in Yoga and Life00:56:05 Why Every Teacher’s Voice Matters00:59:28 Inner Peace Before Outer Change—-------—-------—-📚 Mentions & Resources:Vedic texts and oral traditionPatanjali’s Yoga SutrasMaharishi Mahesh Yogi & Transcendental MeditationKali Yuga & cosmic cyclesTM Ashram in RishikeshStory of Guha (King of the Forest)Dewey's quote: "Failure is instructiveLucy’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucystjohnyoga/?hl=enLucy’s Website: https://lucystjohnyoga.com/Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: vedic tradition, yoga philosophy, unity consciousness, yoga teacher training, mantra, sound healing, yoga therapy, inner peace, Sanskrit, spiritual practice, silence, embodiment

Ever feel like someone else’s success means you’re falling behind? You're not alone.In this episode, we explore the emotional trap of comparison—and how it often leads to scarcity thinking, self-doubt, and isolation. Whether you're a yoga teacher, creative, or entrepreneur, it’s easy to wonder, “Am I doing enough?” But comparison, when left unchecked, can shrink our sense of possibility and worth.Instead, this episode invites a mindset shift: from competition to community, and from scarcity to shared abundance. You’ll hear reflections on the yogic philosophy of aparigraha (non-attachment), the neuroscience of social comparison, and how genuine inspiration can rewire the brain for creativity and courage.With real-life metaphors (like running behind a pace-setter), affirmations, and somatic practices, this episode encourages you to celebrate others without dimming your own light. Because someone else’s success isn’t your loss—it’s proof of what’s possible.—-------—-------—-Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:02:23 Scarcity vs. Enoughness00:05:09 Shifting the Comparison Lens00:09:41 Yogic Philosophy: Aparigraha00:11:19 Science: Fear & the Brain00:14:48 Isolation vs. Collective Growth00:17:46 Real-Life Example: Physio Teamwork00:19:56 Comparison as Pace, Not Threat00:22:29 Sangha & Shared Success00:24:22 Hormones: Cortisol vs. Oxytocin00:25:17 Embodied Reflection Practice00:27:49 Reflective Questions00:30:20 Closing Meditation00:32:28 Bonus Reflections—-------—-------—-📚 Mentions & Resources:Yogic concept: Aparigraha (non-attachment)Yogic concept: Sangha (community)Science: Amygdala activation, cortisol, oxytocinMetaphor: Running behind a pace-setterMichael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: scarcity mindset, abundance, comparison trap, yoga philosophy, community, growth mindset, personal development, aparigraha, neuroscience, enoughness, self-worth, inspiration, collaboration

What if starting over wasn’t a sign of failure… but an act of courage?This episode dives deep into the emotional and psychological journey of beginning again—whether it's a new habit, role, relationship, or mindset. It explores how fear of failure often blocks us from saying “yes” to new opportunities, and how adopting a beginner’s mindset can help us stay curious, resilient, and open to growth.Through personal reflection and a story about volunteering at a yoga festival, the speaker shares how keeping a simple “Courage Journal” helped transform habitual “no’s” into brave “yes’s.” The episode weaves together yogic philosophy (like svadhyaya and abhyasa), Zen teachings (shoshin), and neuroscience (neuroplasticity) to illustrate how starting fresh isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom in action.You’ll be guided through reflection prompts and a short breath-based meditation to reconnect with the idea that it’s not only safe to begin again—it’s brave.💡 A gentle, powerful reminder: you don’t have to be perfect to begin. You just have to begin.—-------—-------—-Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:02:35 Emotional contrast: Fear vs. Curiosity00:06:00 The Courage Journal story00:12:34 What is curiosity and wonder?00:14:34 Yogic and Zen perspectives on beginner's mind00:15:45 Brain science and neuroplasticity00:20:00 Judgment vs. Trust in the Process00:24:16 The illusion of control00:27:24 Growth isn’t linear00:30:01 Releasing the pressure to be good00:31:28 Abhyasa & Vairagya – non-attachment and effort00:33:41 Adaptability as strength00:34:50 Affirmations: “It’s safe to be a beginner”00:37:38 Closing meditation—-------—-------—-📚 Mentions & Resources:Zen Buddhism: Shoshin – beginner’s mindYoga Philosophy: Svadhyaya, Abhyasa, VairagyaNeuroscience: neuroplasticity, growth mindsetMovie: Yes Man (Jim Carrey)Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: beginner’s mindset, courage, self-growth, personal development, yoga philosophy, fear of failure, neuroscience, abhyasa, non-attachment, curiosity, starting fresh, emotional intelligence, mindset shift

What if stress, overwhelm, and the pressure to “push through” are signals—not signs of weakness, but invitations to slow down?In this powerful episode, Ethan Brown shares his personal experience with burnout and anxiety, including the moment that made him step away from teaching yoga and return to healing.Ethan talks candidly about the illusion of perfection, especially for yoga teachers, and the fear of being seen as “not spiritual enough” when experiencing mental health struggles. He opens up about seeking help, the role of therapy, and how honoring his nervous system became the most spiritual act of all.This conversation unpacks the dangers of spiritual bypassing, the power of nervous system awareness, and how rest and boundaries are critical for long-term resilience. It’s a raw and affirming listen for anyone who’s ever felt the pressure to perform, to always be okay, or to be someone they’re not.Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:02:45 Ethan's burnout journey00:09:20 Anxiety and identity00:14:58 Breaking the pattern of perfection00:20:16 The moment he paused teaching00:26:50 Nervous system & embodiment00:33:22 Yoga teachers and shame00:39:45 Rest as resistance00:46:30 The return to authenticity00:52:05 Tools for coming home00:58:30 Closing reflections—-------—-------—-📌 Mentions Ethan Brown’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethpraylove/Ethan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@ethprayreflections?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageMichael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: yoga and mental health, burnout recovery, nervous system healing, spiritual bypassing, anxiety and embodiment, yoga teacher journey, authenticity, emotional regulation, rest and resilience, trauma-informed yoga

Do you speak to yourself the way you speak to a friend?In this episode, you'll be invited to gently explore the way you treat yourself—especially during moments of failure, doubt, or pressure. It’s a powerful reminder that self-compassion is not weakness; it’s wisdom in action.The conversation centers around the contrast between self-criticism and self-kindness, especially for teachers, facilitators, or anyone in a leadership role. You’ll learn how the voice of the inner critic often disguises itself as motivation, but usually leads to burnout, disconnection, or shame. Instead, the episode highlights self-kindness as a skill—a grounded, conscious act that fuels resilience and real presence.From a yogic lens, this is the practice of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Svadhyaya (self-study). From a neuroscience view, it’s about regulating your nervous system to create safety and clarity. And from a practical level, it’s about building a relationship with yourself that is rooted in respect, care, and steady truth.This episode will leave you reflecting on how you lead, love, and live—from within.Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:01:44 Self-Criticism vs Self-Kindness00:04:16 Ahimsa and the Inner Voice00:06:48 Inner Punishment vs Inner Presence00:08:58 Leadership Through Self-Compassion00:11:07 Svadhyaya and Regulating the Nervous System00:13:35 Presence Over Perfection00:16:07 Leading from Self-Kindness00:18:44 Breath and Mantra Practice00:21:04 Reflective Prompts and Closing-------—-------—-📌 Mentions & ResourcesYogic Concepts:Ahimsa (non-violence)Svadhyaya (self-study)Reflective Prompts (shared in episode):When I notice self-criticism arise, what could I say instead?What small act of kindness could I offer myself today?How does self-compassion strengthen my ability to hold space for others?When have I extended compassion to others—and how can I offer that to myself?What parts of me are asking for understanding, not judgment?I choose presence over perfection—what does that feel like in my body?Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: self-compassion, leadership, yoga philosophy, ahimsa, svadhyaya, personal growth, nervous system, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, authenticity, presence

What if you didn’t have to earn belonging—because it was already inside you? This episode explores the difference between seeking approval and trusting your own worth. So many of us shrink ourselves, wear masks, or change who we are just to feel accepted. But belonging isn’t something we gain from others—it’s something we remember within ourselves.The conversation dives into the idea that molding yourself to please others can feel safe in the moment, but over time it pulls you further from your truth. Drawing from yogic philosophy (Asmita, Satya, and Santosha) and neuroscience, the episode shows how authenticity and self-compassion lead to stronger relationships, inner peace, and true resilience.Through journal prompts, gentle breathing practices, and reflective mantras, you’ll be guided back to the part of you that knows: I am already enough. I belong to myself. This episode is for anyone who’s tired of performing and ready to live in integrity with who they truly are.Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:03:42 Seeking Approval vs. Inner Worth00:08:16 Yoga Lens: Asmita and Atman00:10:53 Scientific View: Self-Compassion & Belonging00:13:39 Reflective Prompts: What Are You Hiding?00:16:44 Performing vs. Integrity00:22:08 Neuroscience of Authenticity00:25:50 Belonging Lives Within00:28:11 Final Reflection Prompts00:29:45 Closing Mantras & Breathwork—-------—-------—-📌 Mentions & ResourcesPrevious Episode: Inner Critic vs. True Self (recommended for context)Yogic Concepts:Asmita (false identity)Atman (soul, true self)Satya (truthfulness)Santosha (contentment)Reflective Prompts (shared in episode):Where have I mistaken external approval for true belonging?What parts of myself have I hidden to be accepted?What would it feel like to let them be seen?What does my body feel like when I’m rooted in my truth?What small act can I take today to honor my belonging from within?Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: belonging, self-worth, integrity, asmita, satya, santosha, self-compassion, authenticity, inner critic, approval seeking, yoga philosophy, personal growth, nervous system, emotional health, true self

Have you ever heard a voice inside you whisper, “You’re not good enough”? This episode is a gentle and powerful reminder that your inner critic is not who you really are. It explores how that harsh inner voice—the one that tells you you’re not ready, smart enough, or worthy—can sound convincing, but it isn’t the truth of your being. That voice comes from fear and old patterns, not from your deepest self.Using both yoga philosophy and neuroscience, the episode explains the idea of Asmita (false identity), which is when we mistake our thoughts, labels, or past mistakes for who we are. But underneath the noise is your true self—calm, compassionate, and clear. The path forward isn’t to silence the critic completely, but to stop letting it run your life.With reflection prompts, breath practices, and mantras, you’ll learn how to shift your focus from fear to inner wisdom. This episode is an invitation to come home to yourself—one small breath at a time.Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:02:06 The Inner Critic Speaks00:04:54 The Idea of Asmita00:05:47 Fear and the Brain00:07:00 You Are Not Your Thoughts00:10:55 False Identity vs. Inner Wisdom00:13:18 New Neural Pathways00:16:04 Breath + Mantra Practice00:18:48 Reflective Journaling Prompts00:22:51 Key Takeaways00:25:34 Closing Mantras00:27:50 Final Reflections—-------—-------—-Concepts from Yogic Philosophy:Asmita (false identity)Purusha (pure consciousness)Atman (soul)Referenced Book or Movie:Inside Out (Pixar film about emotions)Reflective Prompts Shared in the Episode:“What roles or thoughts am I mistaking for my true self?”“Where has my inner wisdom already guided me?”“When does my inner critic speak the loudest?”“What evidence do I have that I am growing—even with fear present?”“If I trusted my true self 5% more, what small choice might I make?”Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: inner critic, self-worth, yoga philosophy, asmita, self-doubt, identity, imposter syndrome, true self, self-compassion, self-awareness, personal growth, inner wisdom, breathwork, mindset, confidence📌 Mentions & Resources

What’s really keeping you stuck—fear of regret or fear of change? In this powerful episode, the emotional journey of letting go reaches its final stage. It explores the tension between attachment and freedom, and regret versus relief—those final moments of decision when you’re standing at a crossroads.Attachment feels safe because it’s familiar, even when it’s no longer helping us grow. Freedom feels light and open but can be scary because it invites change and uncertainty. When we let go—whether of a role, a relationship, or a routine—we often fear regret. But what usually follows is a sense of relief, clarity, and renewed energy.This episode combines insights from neuroscience and yoga philosophy, especially Aparigraha (non-attachment) and Ishvarapranidhana (surrender to something greater), offering real tools to navigate the fear of change. You’ll be invited to reflect on what you’re clinging to, and what you might gain by letting it go—even if it’s uncomfortable at first.Let this episode be the gentle push you need to move toward more space, more ease, and more self-trust.Episode Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction00:02:20 Attachment vs. Freedom00:05:29 Nervous System and Change00:08:43 Yogic Lens: Aparigraha00:10:47 Letting Go as a Life Practice00:14:24 Living in the Present00:18:53 Fear of Regret vs. Relief00:23:36 Svadhyaya & Self-Study00:25:06 Ishvarapranidhana: Trust in the Unknown00:26:26 Practice and Mantra00:28:00 Conscious Decision Making00:29:48 Closing Reflections—-------—-------—-📌 Mentions & ResourcesPrevious Episode Mentioned:Part 1: Pushing Forward or Letting Go: Hope vs GriefPart 2: When Pride Gets in the WayYogic Philosophy Concepts:Aparigraha – non-attachmentIshvarapranidhana – surrender/trust in the higher selfSvadhyaya – self-studyBreath + Mantra Practice (timestamp ~26:36):Inhale: “I trust myself.”Exhale: “I release what no longer serves me.”Suggested Reflection Prompts:What am I clinging to, and what is it costing me?If I had permission to choose freedom, what would that look like?What’s keeping me stuck—fear of regret or fear of changeMichael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/ Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/—-------—-------—-Tags: attachment, freedom, letting go, non-attachment, yoga philosophy, emotional growth, regret, surrender, trust, neuroscience, nervous system, self-reflection, svadhyaya, aparigraha, ishvarapranidhana