Letting Go: Navigating Turbulence and Stillness with Elena Brower and Kia Miller

Prenatal yoga helps prepare the body for labor and delivery, and the benefits can include stress reduction, improved emotional well-being, and increased self-awareness. As in any health or exercise program pursued during pregnancy, it’s important to listen to your body and consult with your doctor or health practitioner for guidance, before you begin.Guest-host Katie Baki is in her third trimester and guest Ali Owens is a mother of three. They are both teachers at Glo. Katie has a three-part class of prenatal yoga classes on the Glo platform.Katie and Ali discuss how pregnant yoga practitioners must adjust their practice to accommodate the changes in the body during pregnancy. Yoga props can help, providing support for the body and more room for the baby. Katie and Ali discuss the prevailing myths about yoga during pregnancy, focus on the importance of core work to foster stability (rather than strengthening), and how to use breath work and pelvic floor exercises to help with relaxation, stress reduction, and preparing for labor and delivery. They agree that one of the top benefits to practicing prenatal yoga is learning how to listen to the body and check in with what it needs.To wrap up the conversation, they discuss what prenatal yoga classes are available on the Glo platform.Key Takeaways for this Episode00:00 Meet Ali Owens 06:56 benefits of prenatal yoga 12:23 self-awareness and listening to your body 19:32 shifting perspectives and redefining “progress” 29:05 myths and modifications in prenatal yoga 36:01 core work and pelvic floor exercises 42:23 breath work and relaxation techniques 48:04 prenatal yoga programs on the Glo platformLinks:GLO classes:Katie Baki’s Prenatal Power Yoga: 1st Trimester ProgramKatie Baki’s Prenatal Power Yoga: 2nd Trimester ProgramKatie Baki’s Prenatal Power Yoga: 3rd Trimester ProgramAli’s Moving Into Motherhood: First Trimester ProgramAli’s Moving Into Motherhood: Second Trimester ProgramAli’s Moving Into Motherhood: Third Trimester ProgramWe have an expansive library of prenatal classes and programs on Glo.Katie’s websiteKatie’s InstagramAli’s websiteAli’s Instagram

In this extended conversation for The Glo Podcast, Glo teachers Annie Carpenter and Kia Miller discuss their journeys through the energy of the asana poses to the subtle energetic shifts the poses bring about.Kia and Annie emphasize why a safe and sacred space is important to create in yoga classes, where students can pursue an investigation into and questioning of the self. Both Annie and Kia talk about how their yoga practices have evolved over time. During Kia’s thoughtful line of questions, Annie discusses being present, finding balance, and witnessing life as a form of spiritual engagement.They also discuss the power of pranayama as a tool for observation and finding stillness. Annie is one of Kia’s mentors, so the conversation naturally flows into the topic of mentorship.The episode ends with expressions of gratitude and admiration between Kia and Annie, encapsulating the essence of their teacher-student relationship and the enduring impact of their shared yoga journey.Key Takeaways for this Episode00:00 introducing Annie Carpenter 03:57 the importance of subtlety in yoga 08:40 yoga as a quieting practice 24:14 living in continuums and finding balance 27:03 the role of yoga studios and community 30:49 the dance of surrender: allowing life to unfold 35:04 the power of pranayama: observing and finding stillness 41:46 self-trust and resilience: keys to a strong yoga practice 45:38 mentorship and assisting: deepening understanding and growth 47:27 in-person trainings: community and hands-on learning 49:45 the evolution of practice: finding meaning and simplicity 53:29 witnessing and presence: connecting with self and the worldLinks:Annie Carpenter’s SmartFlow Yoga Teacher Training.Annie on InstagramKia Miller WebsiteKia on YouTubeKia on InstagramGLO classes:Classes with AnnieClasses with Kia

In this deep dive into yoga’s origins and history, guest-host Stephanie Serrano interviews scholar Dr. Christopher Jain Miller about the yoga sutras and their role as the guiding texts for modern yoga. They discuss the connections between the yoga sutras and Samkhya philosophy, the relationship between the yoga sutras and the Bhagavad Gita, and the origins of the yoga sutras and Patanjali himself.Their discussion also covers how these texts were reinterpreted, and even misinterpreted, during the American counterculture. The conversation delves into how British colonialism changed our perception of the yoga tests. The conversation concludes by examining the changes in the practice of the Yoga Sutra today and how the text can inspire practitioners to bring yoga philosophy into their everyday lives and create a better world.Key Takeaways for this Episode00:00 the yoga sutras as guiding texts 07:16 the connection between the yoga sutras and Samkhya philosophy 13:49 unraveling the origins of the yoga sutras and Patanjali 21:37 the importance of selfless action in the Bhagavad Gita 24:08 the influence of the American counterculture on modern yoga 28:14 the role of British colonialism in the history of yoga 38:18 overemphasis on asana in modern yoga 44:12 embodying yoga philosophy in everyday lifeLinks:arihantainstitute.orgDr. Miller on Instagram: @theyogaprofessorEmbodying Transnational Yoga by Dr. Christopher Jain MillerGLO classes:Our Beyond The Pose series are classes themed after the first two of eight limbs, outlined in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. There are five Yamas that make up the first limb: Ahimsa: Beyond The Pose: Vinyasa For AhimsaSatya: Beyond The Pose: Hatha For SatyaAsteya: Beyond The Pose: Flow For AsteyaBrahmacharya: Beyond The Pose: Hatha For BrahmacharyaAparigraha: Beyond The Pose: Flow For Aparigraha There are five Niyamas that make up the second limb:Saucha: Beyond The Pose: Kundalini For SauchaSantosha: Beyond The Pose: Flow For SantoshaTapas: Beyond The Pose: Conditioning For TapasSvadhyaya: Beyond The Pose: Meditation For SvadhyayaIsvara Pranidhana: Beyond The Pose: Flow For Isvara Pranidhana

Kia Miller and Elena Brower discuss Elena’s continuing journey into her Zen practice, covering her methodology and some key insights that the practice has brought her. They discuss how their spiritual practices have led them to positively embrace imperfection, and steer away from perfectionism.They discuss the challenges and rewards of meditation, and how to bring a fresh perspective to one’s practice. Elena emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and shares techniques for practicing nonviolent communication, both internally and with others. Kia and Elena reflect on how their practices have evolved over the years and what it means to accept and grow from one’s imperfections. They delve into the role of teaching and how to connect with and inspire students in the ever-evolving journey of spiritual and personal development.As “Elena says in the interview, “The best celebration of your humanity is to sit and be present with what is."You’ll come away from the episode with insightful strategies for integrating meditation and mindfulness into daily life.Key Takeaways for this Episode00:00 Meet Elena Brower02:13 Elena’s journey into zen practice06:04 The simplicity of zen practice08:41 Letting go and cultivating compassion12:35 Nonviolent communication and acknowledging humanity25:04 Dropping negative thoughts32:46 Embracing imperfection on the spiritual path36:49 Self-compassion and self-acceptance40:29 The evolution of Kia and Elena’s personal practices43:20 Gratitude and love as healing forcesLinks:Kia Miller: Website | InstagramElena Brower: Website | InstagramGlo: Website | InstagramGLO classes:Practice with KiaPractice with Elena

Kia Miller guest-hosts this episode in which she interviews Jason Crandell about ADHD, self-regulation, and turning challenges into assets.Kia shares her insights about how yoga has been useful as a practice to recognize egoist behaviors and cultivate self-awareness. Kia and Jason talk about how they apply the principles learned on the mat to everyday life.They wrap up their conversation by discussing the value of staying curious, continually learning and innovating as teachers, seeking new challenges. They pay homage to some of their favorite teachers, like Annie Carpenter and Elena Brower.Key Takeaways for this Episode(00:03) ADHD(13:14) Reflecting on yoga practice and transformation (19:29) Self-responsibility in yoga practice (40:29) Glimpses of self-truths in yoga (53:27) The functional approach in yoga (01:04:40) Yoga teacher mentors and menteesLinks:Jason’s websiteJason’s InstagramGLO classes:Kia’s classes on GloJason’s classes on Glo

Join guest host Rachel Autumn as she welcomes the incredible Goli Gabbay, a pioneer at the intersection of mental health, wellness, and environmental sustainability. Goli bridges the worlds of mind and earth, speaking to the connections between the human home of our body and the bigger, Earthly home of our planet.As Goli says in the interview, “What we’re doing to the planet, we do to ourselves. What we are doing to the planet harms us. Our wellbeing is intrinsically tied to the wellbeing of the planet.”Goli shares her personal journey, beginning with her healing experiences with Kundalini yoga following a thyroid cancer diagnosis. When discussing her work integrating Yoga Nidra into therapeutic settings, Goli opens up about how these practices, through repetition, can rewire neural pathways and foster sustained healing. As the conversation unfolds, Goli also explores her environmental work, discussing the deep connection between personal well-being and planetary health, a theme that echoes throughout this episode.Rachel and Goli’s exchange finishes up with practical advice about how to live a sustainable and mindful life. Goli shares a few simple lifestyle changes that anyone can make to support environmental sustainability, emphasizing the collective power we have to influence change. Don’t miss this heartwarming and enlightening discussion that’s sure to inspire your own journey towards personal and planetary healing.Key Takeaways for this Episode(00:00) Introducing Goli Gabbay(05:29) Healing trauma through yoga therapy(21:33) Yoga nidra benefits and relaxation(28:20) Yoga’s connection with environmentalism(37:37) Environmental action and awareness(44:43) Benefits of a plant-based diet(55:27) Tips for living a sustainable life(01:08:48) Eco-friendly habits(01:21:44) Connecting through yoga goalsLinksGoli’s Website: http://goligabbay.comGoli’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goligabbayGoli's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goligabbay/Follow Goli’s music journey on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/goli-gabbayThe most delicious plant based recipesEvidence-based plant-based MDs:Dr. Neal Barnard: https://www.instagram.com/drnealbarnard/Dr. Michael Gregor: https://www.instagram.com/michaelgregermd/The most heartwarming farm animal sanctuary: https://www.instagram.com/moustache\_farmer?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==Goli’s favorite conservation journalist

Join guest host Rachel Autumn and music artist, poet and author Londrelle as they discuss how to take a “spiritual selfie,” seeing oneself through a lens of unconditional love, and explore the joys and challenges of being a parent.The structure of their conversation takes the chakras as a theme, offering insights on how to cultivate peace amidst the tumult of life. Londrelle shares that life doesn’t hand out responsibilities on a whim, but instead, life says you are worthy of that responsibility. Responsibilities, he continues, are not burdens, they are gifts in your life that keep giving to your life.Londrelle and Rachel discuss the influence Vedic writings have had on his creative process and life. Their conversation illuminates the importance of honoring one’s journey and the healing that comes with self-love, reminding us that the true measure of success is not found in achievements, but in our connection to something greater.They wrap up with Londrelle announcing that he will be at the Sound Healers Convention in Los Angeles.Key Takeaways for this Episode(0:00:01) How to take a “soul selfie” (0:13:31) The role of chakras in finding peace (0:18:58) Setbacks as opportunities for growth (0:28:47) Honoring personal journeys for healing (0:57:17) Parenthood as a source of joy and revelation(01:09:31) Sound healers in Los AngelesLinks:Londrelle’s BooksSunflower SoulEternal Sunshine Self-Care Package: Healing Through The ChakrasVibrate Higher Daily: Live Your PowerWebsite and Social MediaLondrelle’s websiteLondrelle’s InstagramLondrelle’s SpotifyYouTubeEternal Sunshine app on the App StoreLondrelle’s AppGLO classes: Kia Miller’s Chakra SeriesClass 1Class 2  Class 3  Class 4Class 5Class 6Class 7Class 8

Guest host Rachel Autumn welcomes her mentor and friend Natalia Benson on The Glo Podcast to discuss astrology and business coaching, and to celebrate Natalia’s podcast, which has surpassed a million downloads. They explore Natalia’s astrology origin story, starting with a pivotal moment that led to Natalia discovering her passion for astrology and commitment to learn more about it. Natalia emphasizes the impact that astrology has had on her understanding of her personality and business, and how astrology has shaped her mission to help women create independent revenue streams through spiritual and conscious entrepreneurship.Rachel and Natalia discuss Natalia’s book Mystical AF, and explore the significance of natal charts, using Rachel’s chart as an example. Natalia offers some insights into how celestial placements can indicate transformations in your career and life, and unpacks the concept of Saturn transits and the Saturn return. Astrological events, Natalia says, are often seen as challenging. But they can highlight areas in our lives that require attention and work. Finally, Rachel and Natalia rethink Mercury retrogrades, asking listeners not to dread them, but consider them as opportunities for reflection and growth.Key Takeaways for this Episode (09:14 - 10:08) Astrology as science and art (14:58 - 17:12) Natal chart book discussion (20:10 - 21:54) Astrological signs and personalities (24:46 - 26:09) Exploring astrology and personal beliefs (30:01 - 31:22) Exploring astrology transits and personal growth (37:06 - 37:55) Multi-faceted creative journeys (41:28 - 43:06) Pluto on mid heaven (46:03 - 48:28) Understanding zodiac signs through personal stories (52:25 - 54:20) Navigating Saturn’s energy for personal growth (01:03:18 - 01:04:16) Retrograde planetsLinks:Natalia’s WebsiteMystical AF: A Very Aries Journey from Darkness to Lightness of Being

Derik Mills interviews longtime friend and colleague Elena Brower about writing poetry, teaching yoga, friendship, and podcasting. They discuss Elena’s debut collection of poetry, Softening Time: Collected Poems.Elena shares an inspiring encounter she had a Glo student who had taken classes with her online. Derik and Elena also turn the conversation inward, discussing the therapeutic journey from poetry to prose as Elena shares about her book of poems and her upcoming book.In a previous episode of The Glo Podcast, Elena took over the microphone to guest host. Her guest was Jeff Rosenthal, co-author of Make No Small Plans: Lessons on Thinking Big, Chasing Dreams, and Building Community. Listen to her episode, Community is a Powerful Human Technology, featuring Elena Brower and Jeff Rosenthal.Closing the chapter on this heartfelt conversation, Derik and Elena speak about dreams, the practice of Buddhism, and how to persist in creative endeavors. Both share about their insights drawn from the lectures of professor Douglas Brooks. (A number of Dr. Brooks’s are available on The Glo Podcast as episodes.)Elena recommends a few books as well. Find them on her Bookshop.org page, where she offers reading recommendations on poetry, Zen Buddhism, perceptive parenting, on death and dying, art and writing, inspiration for daily living, leadership, yoga, mental health, and essential oils.Key Takeaways for this Episode(0:00:01) - a journey of friendship and business(0:06:32) - the impact of curiosity(0:16:36) - exploring personal growth and healing(0:34:38) - exploring dreams and Buddhism(0:46:41) - the art of practice and compassion(1:00:58) - book recommendations from ElenaLinks:Elena’s WebsiteElena on InstagramBeing You: A Journal by Elena BrowerPractice You: A Journal by Elena BrowerThe Practice You Podcast with Elena BrowerElena’s reading recommendations on bookshop.org.Professor Douglas Brooks's New Winter Sessions for 2024GLO classes:Elena Brower on Glo

Join our conversation with host Rachel Autumn and Darby Ray, a trauma-informed yoga teacher. Darby discusses how yoga spaces can be a sanctuary, supporting students’ experiences with stress and trauma. In the compassionate world of trauma-informed yoga, personal agency and resilience are at the heart of a healing practice.Darby has been teaching yoga for more than ten years, and is a passionate advocate for bringing trauma informed practices into wellness spaces. She’s worked in different treatment centers and communities, offering yoga as a modality to assist the body’s inherent capacity for healing and growth.The conversation covers how to navigate the delicate balance of personal boundaries and growth within yoga, we share candid reflections on maintaining focus amidst distraction, and the power of listening to one’s body over external cues. Breathwork, often a cornerstone of yoga, is dissected for its dual role as a grounding force and a potential source of discomfort, prompting a deeper conversation on offering choices and normalizing a spectrum of responses. Moreover, we tackle the practical aspects of teaching, like the use of consent cards for hands-on adjustments and the necessity of self-care to sustain the quality of teaching, especially in group dynamics post-pandemic.Included is a discussion about the art of crafting a yoga practice rich in options and variations that honors all bodies and abilities. Rachel and Darby explore the challenges of online instruction, affirming the critical role of language and pacing when visual cues are absent, and how the universal benefits of trauma-informed yoga that can extend beyond trauma survivors to anyone coping with life’s stresses.Key Takeaways for this Episode(00:00) Introduction to Darby Rae(06:53) Addressing trauma in classes (11:27) The language of trauma-informed teaching(18:00) Teachers' responsibility in trauma-informed classes(24:01) Creating a supportive and flexible classroom environment(26:31) Step-by-step exploration of trauma-informed yoga practice(34:27) Importance of self-care in yoga teaching(37:11) Building a trauma-informed public yoga class(45:12) Trauma-informed yoga classes online(51:02) Collective Resilience yoga teacher trainingLinks:Darby Rae on InstagramDarby Rae WebsiteCollective ResilienceHala KhouriKira HaglundSanta Monica YogaExhale to InhaleGLO classes:Listen To Your Body Qi Gong with StephanieRegulate Emotions Flow with ElenaNervous System Gentle Flow with DivyaGrief Support Hatha with Ivorie