Yoga Is Fundamentally A Spiritual Practice | Nicki Doane

“Practicing yoga is not really something separate from me. It is happening all the time.” In this episode of a Curious Yogi Podcast, yoga teacher Myra Khanna shares her journey from Kathak dancer and scuba diving instructor to dedicated yoga practitioner and teacher. Drawing from studies with Bharath Shetty, Vinay Kumar, Vijay Kumar, Deepika Mehta, Mark Robberds, Eddie Stern, and ongoing training with Yoga Education College, Myra reflects on her evolution from a physically driven Ashtanga practice to a more holistic exploration of pranayama, meditation, and nervous system regulation.The conversation explores the commercialization of yoga, misconceptions about yoga in India, female health awareness in asana practice, and the parallels between diving and meditative practice. Myra also shares how traditional strength disciplines like mudgar swinging, dandas, and baithaks inform her approach to resilience and sustainability in practice.Here are some key takeaways; ➖ Transition from purely physical to a more holistic practice.➖ Emphasize the importance of listening to one's body and nervous system.➖ Commercialization of yoga impacts its true essence.➖ Teaching should accommodate students' individual needs and journeys.➖ Diving parallels the meditative aspects of yoga.➖ Myra’s passion for education on female health in yoga after becoming unwell. Connect with Myra: IG @myrakhann02 I really enjoyed this conversation as an invitation to reconsider yoga as a living, evolving process — one rooted in curiosity, community, and embodied awareness. I know you will also dear listeners. In oneness, Bobbi Thanks for listening! 💭Support the podcast Patreon Page and join monthly satsangs 💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one. 💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel 💭Join me on Retreat in India or Scandinavia! Get on the waitlist HERE💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together - Let’s connect! 🙏♥️✨

"Women are not small men – we are cyclical beings." In this episode, the delightful Sheila Arnell shares her journey through yoga, emphasizing the importance of understanding women's health and the menstrual cycle in practice. She discusses her transition from a physically focused practice to a more spiritual and holistic approach, highlighting the significance of listening to the body and respecting its natural rhythms. Sheila also addresses the challenges women face in yoga, the need for inclusivity, and the importance of creating a supportive community. Epic highlights!: ➖Injuries and Their Impact on Practice➖Understanding Women's Health in Yoga➖The Feminine Perspective in Yoga➖The Need for Inclusive Yoga Education➖Embracing Limitless Growth in Practice➖Finding Balance with Lagom (my favourite Swedish word!)Find Shelia HERE: Inre Skolan: LINK IG: @sheilaarnellI took so much value from this conversation, lots to think about in my life and physical practice as a mighty and cyclical woman. I know you will, too. In oneness, Bobbi Thanks for listening! 💭Support the podcast Patreon Page and join monthly satsangs 💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one. 💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel 💭Join me on Retreat in India or Scandinavia! Get on the waitlist HERE💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together - Let’s connect! 🙏♥️✨

"Yoga is the drill, life is the game, chill is the skill." What happens when we stop trying to fit our bodies into "perfect" geometric boxes and start listening to the miracle of our own physiology? A total joy to be joined by Eoin Finn to discuss his revolutionary approach to movement, blending soulful science with Harvard-level anatomy, a lifetime of study and practice, and a deep reverence for nature and heart-centred philosophy.In this episode, we explore:➖ How letting go of the ego’s desire for "endpoints" leads us to a state of experiencing yoga ➖ The DUO Concept: Dynamic Unifying Opposition. How myofascial tuning creates the holy trinity of joint health: Stretch, Stability, and Space.➖ Stillness Literacy: How to cultivate the skill of "chilling" as a doorway to emotional regulation and self-awareness.➖ Tensegrity on the Mat: Understanding the body as a continuous web of tension and integrity, rather than just a stack of bones.➖ How Kindness, Reverence, and Wisdom transform a physical practice into a spiritual life.➖ Movement Span vs. Life Span: Why we practice today so we can move with grace and freedom thirty years from now.Connect with Eoin, buy the Yoga Optimized and more at blissology.comInstagram @blissology This episode was a great teaching and reminder to move with intention, to stay curious and compassionate with our bodies and follow the cues from nature. I’ve already been integrating Eoin’s DUO philosophy into my own practice – and I gotta say, it works. Enjoy and thanks for listening! In oneness, Bobbi 💭Support the podcast Patreon Page and join monthly satsang 💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one. 💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel 💭Join me for the next Yog Sadhana Retreat! Get on the waitlist💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together - Let’s connect! 🙏♥️✨

"The truth is such an attractive pursuit."In this episode, I share an illuminating conversation with Jyoti, a devoted meditator who has spent decades exploring the depths of her sadhana. Our dialogue begins with Jyoti reflecting on her journey to India, where she found both her spiritual home and a deeper understanding of herself.She shares how her former life as a professional dancer—filled with intensity and chaos—ultimately led her toward yoga and meditation, and to the ashram where she met her teacher, Swami Shyam. From there, the conversation unfolds into a rich exploration of conviction in spiritual practice. Jyoti reminds us that while practices naturally evolve over time, the truth remains constant—alive, expansive, and ever-revealing.Some highlights; ➖ Yoga is always interpreted through the mind of the listener.➖ Practices change over time, but conviction in truth remains.➖ Meditation is a doorway into a subtler reality beyond thought.➖ The mind is not qualified to tell you who you are—it creates problems and then attempts to solve them.➖ By changing your thoughts, you can change your experience.Jyoti invites us into a more spacious relationship with practice—one rooted not in rigidity, but in freedom, discernment, and a steady conviction in who we truly are beyond the mind. It’s such a joy to share these satsang conversations with you. They are true jewels—offering sincere expressions and perspectives from luminous beings like Jyoti.I trust you’ll feel inspired to stand with greater conviction in the truth of who you are.in oneness, Bobbi Thanks for listening! 💭Support the podcast Patreon Page and join monthly satsangs💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one. 💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel 💭Join me in northern India for the Yog Sadhana Retreat Himalaya March 2026 HERE 💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together - Let’s connect! 🙏♥️✨

"Yoga is about spirit." In this episode, I sit down with a true "teacher’s teacher," Nicki Doane. Based in Maui at her Maya Yoga Studio, Nicki has been immersed in the sacred teachings of Yog since 1989. Having studied under legends like Sri K. Pattabhi Jois and B.K.S. Iyengar, she brings a rare depth of wisdom mixed with a lightheartedness that makes the profound feel accessible.We dive into her journey from the Grateful Dead scene to the feet of the masters in India, the birth of her unique approach (Maya Yoga), and why individualized practice is the key to a lifelong Sadhana.In this episode, we explore:➖ The Fusion of Lineages: How Nicki blends the discipline of Ashtanga with the precision of Iyengar.➖ Yoga as "Working-In": Moving beyond the physical to honor the spiritual essence of the practice.➖ The Power of Discipline: How boundaries in practice actually foster internal freedom.➖ The India Connection: Why visiting the roots of Yoga is essential for every earnest seeker.➖ Modern Yoga Challenges: Navigating the current landscape without losing the depth of the tradition.Find Nicki Here: Website & Retreats IG HERE @mayayogastudioI love, love, loved this conversation. It’s so packed with wisdom. I know you’ll love it just as much. Thanks for listening! In oneness, Bobbi 💭Support the podcast Patreon Page and join monthly satsangs💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one. 💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel 💭Join me in northern India for the Yog Sadhana Retreat Himalaya March 2026 HERE 💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together - Let’s connect! 🙏♥️✨

"The ultimate research laboratory is this mind, body, brain, heart."A privilege to introduce Philippe Goldin, PhD – Professor at UC Davis, mindfulness researcher, and a true bridge between science and spirituality.Join us for a delightful and mind-stretching conversation. Philippe’s path spans New York City, a deep study of Tibetan Buddhism across India, Nepal, and Tibet, and groundbreaking research in psychology and neuroscience. Today, we explore consciousness, meditation, ethics, intentionality, and how science and spirituality can inform and enhance each other.Philippe also shares his insights on interpersonal neurobiology, empathy, awakening, and how our intentions ripple through the world - plus fascinating stories of translating for Tibetan Lamas, developing global mindfulness programs with Google and Stanford, and pioneering approaches to mental health, workplace wellness, and climate resilience.Key Takeaways:➖ How meditation and science intersect➖ Consciousness, dark matter, and the unseen➖ Ethics and intentionality in practice➖ The ripple effects of empathy and human connection➖ Lifelong curiosity and learning is essentialI absolutely loved listening to Philippe’s unique perspective and highly developed expression on science, psychology, and spirituality. I’m sure it will leave you inspired, curious, and maybe even a little mind-blown 💥- just as it did me.In oneness,BobbiThanks for listening!💭Support the podcast Patreon Page and join monthly satsangs💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one.💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel💭Join me in northern India for the Yog Sadhana Retreat Himalaya, March 2026 HERE💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together - Let’s connect! 🙏♥️✨

"It's never too late to make changes and reconnect with nature."In today's delightful conversation, I speak with a dear friend and colleague, Anette Christensen, a certified Ayurvedic health counsellor, therapist, and founder of Ayurvedic Center Malmö. We delve into the ancient practice of Ayurveda, exploring its principles, applications in modern life, and the importance of daily routines for maintaining balance. Anette highlights the significance of understanding one's dosha and the practical steps individuals can take to integrate Ayurvedic practices into their daily lives for improved well-being.Ayurveda and Yoga are sister philosophies and applied lifestyles, which is why I find this talk so relevant for all the curious yogis out there. The interconnectedness of mind, body, and nature - the need for a holistic approach to health and wellness. Here are some big takeaways; ➖Understanding your dosha is key to personal health.➖Daily routines and practices are essential for maintaining balance.➖The opposite balances: understanding how to counteract imbalances in life.➖Sleep is crucial for mental and physical health.➖Ayurveda emphasizes prevention rather than just treatment.➖Creating a lifestyle around Ayurveda leads to long-term health benefits.Find Anette at the beautiful Ayurvedic Center in Malmö, Sweden – my yoga home away from home, a quiet oasis in busy city life. And join us! Upcoming courses with me and Anette, along with our Deep Winter Day Retreat on December 28th. More on the event calendar HEREI really enjoyed getting clear on Ayurveda, how it aligns with yoga and exactly how to begin to apply the simple practices to our daily routines. In oneness, Bobbi Thanks for listening! 💭Support the podcast Patreon Page and join monthly satsangs💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one. 💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel 💭Join me in northern India for the Yog Sadhana Retreat Himalaya, March 2026 HERE 💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together - Let’s connect! 🙏♥️✨

“Stay open with the wish to reach your highest potential.” A delight to share this week's conversation with Aviva Robibo or Abhaya, as I know her, to discuss the Guru in the yogi or sadhak's journey of learning and unfolding one's true self.Abhaya is a PhD scholar-practitioner who has devoted her life and work to the research and study of the Guru traditions of India and the sadhana and meditation that go along with it. We discuss her new book of the same name, we meditate, we sing, and it really feels like I’m bringing you along to one of the intimate meetings that we’ve shared so many times in India. Here are some takeaways; ➖ Staying open is essential for reaching our highest potential.➖Meditation is a key to accessing our true self.➖There must be an agreement between the disciple and the Guru.➖Learning and unfolding are continuous processes.➖The relationship between Guru and disciple is sacred.➖The famous Guru Stotram broken down and sung. Purchase The Guru Tradition: India’s Spiritual Heritage HEREI really loved this conversation with my dearest Abhaya. Please make sure to become a member on the Patreon page for bonus material from this episode! And please, let us know what you think. In oneness, Bobbi Thanks for listening! 💭Support the podcast Patreon Page and join monthly satsangs💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one. 💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel 💭Join me in northern India for the Yog Sadhana Retreat Himalaya March 2026 HERE 💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together - Let’s connect! 🙏♥️✨

"The goal is to advance to consciousness."In this episode, I chat with Alexandra McRobert - yoga teacher, writer, podcast host, and lifelong student of spiritual wisdom. She created Sober Yoga Girl as a sanctuary for seekers on the path of healing - those navigating recovery from addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges, or just the overwhelm of being human in this modern world.And she’s also a fellow Canadian (living abroad like me!). Alex shares her personal journey from Canada to teaching yoga abroad, her struggles with alcohol, and how sobriety transformed her life and practice.The conversation delves into the importance of community in recovery, the shift from ego to authenticity in teaching, and the role of meditation in yoga. Alexandra shares insights on navigating the yoga teacher training landscape, the significance of personal practice, and how her offerings in retreats have evolved.Here are some takeaways;➖ Building a community is essential for recovery and growth.➖Authenticity in teaching comes from personal experience and humility.➖ Meditation is a crucial practice for yoga teachers.➖ Teacher training should focus on personal development and self-discipline.➖ Curiosity and continuous learning are vital for personal growth.➖ The impact of past experiences shapes future teaching methods.Find Alex at. Mindful Bali HEREJoin her online community HEREListen to us on Alex’s Podcast “Sober Yoga Girl” where I share about the importance of practice. Listen HEREI love the final part of this talk where Alex highlights continuous learning and the importance of self-care in supporting others. Let me know what you think!In oneness,BobbiThanks for listening!💭Support the podcast and join monthly satsangs 💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one.💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel💭Join me in northern India for the Yog Sadhana Retreat Himalaya💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together, connect with me here 🙏♥️✨

“So when you experience that peace, it's because it's your nature. Your real nature is peaceful. It is blissful. It is contented.”Wow, this is an incredible episode from early in September, recorded for the Good Company livestream series with my brilliant friend Katharine from Unchanging Being. She is a longtime meditator and a deeply wise teacher. We talked about the Gita, the Gunas, retraining the mind, meditation, and satsang (and more). This is a conversation that bridges ancient wisdom with modern life. A classic, inspiring and educational talk that everyone will take something from, especially if you have a mind that tends to disturb you - like me!Our dialogue explores the interplay of the essence of true freedom and the vital role of meditation in discovering the unchanging Self.Through personal anecdotes and insights, Katharine illuminates the path of self-discovery and the eternal quest to understand one’s true nature.Here are a few of the profound takeaways (there are many):➖ Satsang and good company support genuine spiritual growth ➖ The Bhagavad Gita is a living scripture, fully relevant today ➖ Freedom from the mind is the true aim of meditation ➖ The Gunas are constantly shaping our thoughts and actions ➖ Witness consciousness unlocks a deeper understanding of the Self ➖ Meditation reveals the unchanging nature of Being ➖ Self-discovery is a lifelong journey, enriched through teachings and experienceFind Katharine: unchangingbeing.com Subscribe to Unchanging Being on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@unchangingbeingKatharine’s current Bhagavad Gita cohort has already begun, although she offers other in-depth courses on the Upanishads, Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, the Yamas and Niyamas, regular satsang, a brilliant newsletter, and her new YouTube channel, which features teachings and meditations.I loved spending time with my wise satsang friend and sharing this livestream episode with the Patreon community. I look forward to hearing what you take away from it.In oneness,BobbiThanks for listening! 💭Support the podcast and join monthly satsangs at patreon.com/acuriousyogipodcast 💭 If you liked this episode, please leave a review – it really, really helps the show reach more people, plus I love reading each one. 💭 Share your biggest takeaway on Instagram stories @bobbipaidel 💭Join me in northern India for the Yog Sadhana Retreat Himalaya March 2026 bobbipaidel.com/himalayan-retreat 💭 If you’d like to chat about the show, be a guest, or practice together find me at bobbipaidel.com/connect 🙏♥️✨