Keen on Yoga Podcast

In this episode, we explore the practice of Yoga Nidra, its safety, benefits, and how to incorporate it into modern wellness routines. Guests Beverly Nolan and Theo Wildcroft share insights on maintaining autonomy, managing emotional responses, and the historical roots of this multifaceted practice. MAIN TOPICS ·       What is Yoga Nidra and how does it differ from sleep and hypnosis ·       Ensuring safety and maintaining autonomy in Yoga Nidra practice ·       Managing emotional responses and challenging experiences during practice ·       Historical roots and evolution of Yoga Nidra from Indian traditions to modern adaptations ·       The role of intention and visualization in Yoga Nidra ·       Scientific insights into the benefits of deep relaxation and rest ·       Practical tips for incorporating Yoga Nidra into daily routines ·       The importance of informed consent and ethical teaching in Yoga Nidra New Book: Leading Safe and Simple Yoga Nidras CONNECT WITH THEO Website: https://theowildcroft.com/   | IG @theodorawildcroft CONNECT WITH BEVERLEY Website: https://www.beverleynolan.com/  SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/

Keen on Yoga host Adam reflects on what he learned from teachers whose methods sometimes inspired, challenged, or discouraged him. Through stories from Ashtanga classes, Mysore practice, and teacher trainings, he explores how rigor, technique, charisma, and careful communication can help one student while harming another.   Key  Topics   ·      Adam frames the episode around how teachers can teach valuable lessons even through experiences that felt difficult or unhelpful at the time. ·      A poorly organized first class helped Adam realize he could teach without being perfect and that students often need a supportive space more than a flawless performance. ·      A charismatic teacher's handstands motivated Adam to stay with Ashtanga but also made yoga seem performative and obscured the practice's vinyasa technique. ·      Mysore self-practice offered a profound group experience, but little technique instruction contributed to Adam pushing through postures and injuring both menisci. ·      Adam recalls a teacher-training comment about his worn-out body that eventually helped him recognize over-practice, while arguing that truth should be delivered with care. ·      He criticizes teaching that is too advanced or inaccessible for the people in the room, emphasizing that instruction must meet students where they are. ·      Adam questions adjustment-centered teaching and rigid progression, arguing that students need technique, agency, and the ability to modify practice. ·      The episode's recurring paradox: rigor can support progress or drive overexertion, while encouragement can welcome students but also leave practice sloppy. ·      Adam says teachers should be careful with offhand remarks because a few words can remain painful for a student long after the teacher has forgotten them. ·      He describes Sharat's demanding Mysore approach as raising his standards while also contributing to pressure, over-practice, and injury. SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/ CONNECT WITH ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga

Daniel discusses his new book, The Evolution of Modern Yoga, exploring its historical roots, key figures like Vivekananda, and how traditional practices have been adapted for contemporary wellness and cultural contexts.  MAIN TOPICS ·       The distinction between pre-modern and modern yoga practices ·       Vivekananda's influence on yoga in the West ·       The shift from renunciate to household yoga ·       The integration of Western and Indian traditions ·       The role of physical postures in modern yoga ·       The influence of Indian nationalist movements on yoga ·       The impact of the Theosophical Society ·       The development of yoga as a health and wellness practice ·       The appropriation and adaptation of yoga in the West ·       The importance of understanding yoga's core objectives CONNECT WITH DANIEL Website: https://www.danielsimpson.info/  | IG: @danielcsimpson New Book: The Evolution of Modern Yoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/ CONNECT WITH ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga

Adam explores how to maintain motivation for yoga practice during different seasons of energy and life. He shares practical tips, philosophical insights, and personal stories to help practitioners stay connected to their practice and deepen their understanding of yoga beyond the physical postures. Key  Topics  ·      The natural seasons of energy and motivation in yoga practice ·      Practical strategies to overcome lack of motivation, including variation and focal points ·      The importance of ritual and consistency in yoga practice ·      Understanding the deeper purpose of yoga beyond physical postures ·      The impact of aging on motivation and how to adapt ·      The role of the breath and diaphragm in deepening practice ·      The relationship between yoga practice and self-inquiry ·      The significance of personal connection and inspiration in teaching and practice ·      The concept of yoga as a lifelong journey with ups and downs ·      The importance of integrating yoga into daily life for meaning and connectioSUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/  

James discusses the research on the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā, its historical context, and the significance of different manuscript recensions. We explore the evolution of yoga texts, the importance of original sources, and the challenges of translating and interpreting ancient practices. James and Adam explore the evolution of yoga practices, the influence of different traditions, and the scholarly insights into ancient texts and their relevance to modern yoga.   Sir James Mallinson, 5th Baronet, of Walthamstow is a British Indologist, writer and translator. He is Boden Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Oxford, and recognised as one of the world's leading experts on the history of medieval Hatha yoga. MAIN TOPICS ·       Research on the Hatha Yoga Pradipika ·       Manuscript transmission and variations ·       The significance of original recensions ·       Translation challenges and practices ·       Historical context of yoga texts ·       The role of practitioners in textual transmission Evolution of yoga techniques over time ·       The influence of Indian and Chinese practices ·       The role of Siddhas and yogis in shaping yoga ·       The ambiguity in Svātmārāma's presentation of yoga ·       The relationship between physical postures and meditation ·       The significance of breath control and bandhas ·       The development of asanas and their origins ·       The impact of religious and cultural contexts on yoga TAKE AWAYS The Hatha Yoga Pradipika is one of the earliest physical yoga texts and has over 100 translations. The most reliable manuscripts are from the 15th to 19th centuries, not necessarily the oldest. Svātmārāma's version of the text is considered the most coherent and closest to the original. Practitioners' oral traditions significantly influenced the written texts. The translation of Sanskrit terms can impact the understanding and practice of yoga. CONNECT WITH JAMES Website:  https://hathapradipika.online/ SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/

Adam explores the complex nature of modern yoga, its roots, cultural influences, and the importance of context and intention in practice. He discusses how yoga can be a sacred space for self-discovery and the challenges of balancing tradition with contemporary practice. Key  Topics ·      The evolution of yoga from pre-twentieth century to today ·      The importance of context and intention in yoga practice ·      The cultural and spiritual roots of yoga and their influence on modern classes ·      The role of sacred space and symbolism in yoga ·      The difference between traditional yoga and modern wellness classes ·      The influence of Western physical culture on yoga ·      The significance of Indian philosophy and symbolism in yoga ·      The challenge of cultural appropriation and authenticity in teaching yoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/ CONNECT WITH ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga

From Blues to Bhakti - Krishna Das shares his profound spiritual journey from childhood to meeting Maharaji, exploring the transformative power of chanting, devotion, and spiritual practice. Discover insights into the nature of love, the importance of surrender, and the timeless wisdom that guides his life. This episode is remastered from the original interview that took place in April, 2022 MAIN TOPICS ·       Krishna Das's early spiritual experiences and musical background ·       The transformative peyote experience and its impact on his worldview ·       Meeting Maharaji and the profound effect of his presence ·       The significance of chanting and devotional practice in spiritual growth ·       The nature of love, surrender, and the guru-disciple relationship ·       The role of music and sound in awakening consciousness ·       Insights into Indian spirituality and the guru tradition ·       Krishna Das's reflections on life, death, and the eternal CONNECT WITH KRISHNA DAS Website:  https://krishnadas.com/ IG: @krishnadasmusic SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/

Adam explores the profound significance of the neck in yoga practice, its role as a bridge between inner energy and outer expression, and how proper alignment can influence physical and mental well-being. Key  Topics   ·      The neck as a bridge between inner and outer worlds ·      The significance of neck alignment for physical and mental health ·      The role of Jalandhara Bandha and Drishti in yoga practice ·      The theory of the neck as a barometer and lightning rod ·      The spiral and energetic implications of neck misalignment ·      The relationship between inner karma and physical posture ·      The impact of neck tension on the nervous system and emotional states ·      The deep metaphysical perspective on energy flow and disalignmen SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/ CONNECT WITH ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga 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  

Divya shares her unique journey through yoga, from childhood in the UK to her professional practice, and her insights on yoga's role in managing health conditions like endometriosis. Main Topics ·       Divya's childhood and cultural background ·       Her first encounter with yoga in London ·       The evolution of her yoga practice and teaching ·       Her experience with endometriosis and yoga's role in management ·       The philosophy of yoga and its relevance today ·       Misconceptions about yoga and its purpose ·       The importance of context and individual approach in yoga practice ·       Her insights on yoga's spiritual and secular aspects Connect with Divya Instagram - @Yoga Divya Website – https://yogawithdivya.co.uk/ Divya's book Finding Peace in Difficult Times https://amzn.eu/d/0drg7ZPc SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/ CONNECT WITH ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga 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

Adam shares his personal journey with yoga, lessons learned, and what he would do differently in his practice and teaching. This episode offers valuable insights for practitioners at all levels.     Key  Topics   ·      Personal lessons from decades of yoga practice ·      Importance of listening to your body and teachers ·      The role of variation and rest in training ·      The significance of understanding yoga's roots and context ·      Balancing physical practice with mental and emotional growth ·      Listening more to teachers while maintaining critical insight ·      Incorporating more variation and rest days in practice ·      Starting strength training earlier for joint stability ·      Focusing on fundamentals and inner mechanics of asanas ·      Cultivating outside interests and broader context of yoga ·      Being honest about limits and avoiding over-pushing ·      Less reliance on Mysore trips and social media for growth ·      Teaching with more individual focus and adaptability ·      Recognizing the importance of inner connection beyond asana ·      Appreciating the life-changing impact of yoga  SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/