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In this insightful interview, Amanda Lucia, Professor of Studies of Religion, discusses her book 'White Utopias' and explores the complex issues surrounding modern yoga, cultural appropriation, exoticism, and racial dynamics within the yoga community. The conversation delves into festival experiences, the impact of capitalism, and the importance of authentic cultural engagement. Main Topics: ·      Cultural appropriation in yoga ·      The role of festivals in modern yoga culture ·      Exoticism and orientalism in spiritual practices Websites: www.amandajeanlucia.com www.religionandsexualabuseproject.org Books:  Reflections of Amma: Devotees in a Global Embrace (2014) White Utopias: The Religious Exoticism of Transformational Festivals (2020) A Cultural History of Hinduism: Age of Independence (1947-2017) (2024) SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRfCONNECT WITH ADAM Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga In person events: https://www.keenonyoga.com/all-events/  WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga

Adam explores the relationship between yoga asana, other physical activities, and the evolution of yoga practices. He discusses historical roots, modern misconceptions, and practical advice for balancing yoga with strength training for longevity and health. KEY  TOPICS ·       Historical roots of yoga and ascetic practices ·       The relationship between yoga asana and body care ·       Risks of over-stretching and joint instability with age ·       The importance of strength training for longevity ·       Integrating energy work with physical exercise SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf CONNECT WITH ADAM Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga In person events: https://www.keenonyoga.com/all-events/ LISTEN Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga  

Yoga expert Jason Crandell shares his journey into yoga, explores the relationship between yoga philosophy and asana practice, and discusses how to integrate strength training with traditional yoga. He offers practical advice on self-regulation, avoiding common pitfalls like naive flexibility, and balancing repetition with variation in teaching. Support the Podcast: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Main Topics: ·      Relationship between yoga asana and philosophy ·      Self-regulation and nervous system balance ·      Naive flexibility and control in yoga ·      Integrating strength training with yoga ·      Teaching strategies for consistency and variation Connect with Jason: Website: https://jasonyoga.com/ Instagram: @jason_crandell  Connect with Keen on Yoga Website: http://www.keenonyoga.com/ Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Adam explores the complex topic of whether yoga can be considered a cult, examining warning signs, cultural influences, and the importance of open dialogue in the yoga community. Key  topics ·       Definition of cults and their characteristics ·       The role of charismatic leaders in yoga ·       Control and coercion in yoga practices ·       Cultural and religious influences in yoga ·       The importance of transparency and dialogue in yoga communities        Connect with Adam Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Follow Adam:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats/ Support: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf

Magdalena discusses how perceptions of prana, pranayama, and breathing techniques have evolved across Indian traditions and Western influences, shedding light on often overlooked aspects of yogic breathing. Buy the Book: Yoga Breath: Prana and Pranayama in Early Modern Yoga  Support the Podcast: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Main Topics: ·       The historical development of breath practices from Vedic to contemporary yoga ·       The distinction between breath and life force (prana) in traditional and modern contexts ·       Western influence on yoga breathing techniques from the 1850s onward ·       Scientific explorations and experimental approaches to measuring breath and prana ·       Cultural and nationalist implications of prana and breath in Indian and global contexts ·       Integration of sound, voice, mantra, and rhythm in pranayama ·       The role of breathing in modern body-mind practices like Feldenkrais and Yogira approach In this episode: ·       Magdalena highlights the transition from breath being part of rituals in ancient India to a focused yogic technique ·       Discussion on the significance of kumbhaka and how it differs from casual breath control ·       Exploration of how Western practices like deep breathing, hypnotherapy, and scientific measurements influenced yoga in the 19th and 20th centuries ·       The influence of theosophists and occult sciences on the conceptualization of prana as cosmic life energy ·       The cultural nationalism attached to controlling prana for spiritual and political sovereignty ·       Connections between sound, mantra, and breath, including practices like Ujjayi and seed syllables ·       Personal reflections on how playing wind instruments and singing deepened the research and understanding of breath Connect with Magdalena Kraler: ·       Research Profile ·       Twitter Connect with Keen on Yoga Website: http://www.keenonyoga.com/ Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Magdalena Kraler and her comprehensive exploration of yoga breathing 02:30 - Traditional Indian perspectives on breath in pre-modern yoga 06:00 - The evolution of pranayama from Vedic to early modern yoga 10:00 - Western influence on yoga breath practices in the 1850s and beyond 13:00 - Methods of deep breathing introduced into yoga in the late 19th century 17:00 - Theosophical interpretations and the cosmic scope of prana 21:00 - The scientific approach: experiments measuring Kumbhaka and breath chemistry 25:00 - The nationalism of breath: yoga as a symbol of spiritual sovereignty 30:00 - Sound, mantra, and the role of voice in breath control practices 35:00 - Modern influences: Delsarte, vocal techniques, and rhythmic breathing 40:00 - The subtlety of sound and breath in Tantric practices and modern yoga 44:00 - Prana beyond breath: life force, cosmic energy, and natural sciences 48:00 - Prana's location in the body: Heart, mouth, and subtle channels 52:00 - Personal influences: Magdalena's background as a musician and wind instrument player 55:00 - The ongoing journey of exploring breath: personal insights and future research     LISTEN Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga    

In this episode, Adam Keen explores the profound relationship between yoga and trauma healing, emphasizing the somatic, emotional, and energetic dimensions of the practice. Discover how yoga goes beyond relaxation to facilitate catharsis, integration, and genuine recovery from unresolved trauma. Key topics covered: ·       The role of trauma and karma in the body and mind ·       How yoga acts as a cathartic process for emotional release ·       The importance of ritual and framing in yoga practice for healing ·       The connection between spinal movement and emotional release ·       Managing the stimulating effects of asana to avoid overstimulation ·       The significance of touch, visualization, and nervous system regulation ·       How to build a stable framework for safe emotional processing during practice ·       The potential risks of using yoga to numb or suppress issues ·       Diaphragmatic breathing techniques to release trapped tension ·       The neck as a vulnerable area storing trauma and its release Resources & Links: ·       Peter Levine on the Keen on Yoga Podcast ·       Bessel van der Kolk on the Keen on Yoga Podcast ·       The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk ·       Waking the Tiger by Peter Levine ·       Peter Levine - Somatic Experiencing   Connect with Adam Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Follow Adam:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats/ Support: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf LISTEN Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga  

Leslie Howard and Richard Rosen discuss with Adam the profound topics of death, Savasana, and their intersection with yoga philosophy. They explore the history, practice, and spiritual significance of Savasana, as well as the importance of facing mortality to enrich life. Buy the Book: Savasana, Between Breath and Death Support the Podcast: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Lesley and Richard Share ·      History of Savasana in Yoga ·      Differences in Savasana practices among teachers ·      The role of death doulas and legacy planning ·      The philosophical significance of facing death ·      Practical tips for deepening Savasana practice   Find Leslie Instagram: @lesliehowardyoga Website: https://lesliehowardyoga.com/   Find Richard Instagram: @richardrosenyoga Keen on Yoga Website: http://www.keenonyoga.com/ Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga

Adam explores the challenges faced by modern yoga teachers, including lack of professionalism, support, and societal recognition. He discusses the differences between traditional and modern yoga, the impact of societal structures, and the importance of establishing a professional framework for yoga teaching. Adam Shares ·      Differences between traditional and modern yoga ·      Challenges faced by modern yoga teachers ·      Lack of professional standards and support ·      Societal perception of yoga teachers ·      The role of yoga in society and capitalism Keen on Yoga Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Follow Adam:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats/ Support: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Modern Yoga Teaching Challenges 05:55 Yoga vs. Modern Wellness: A Philosophical Divide 12:45 Professionalism and Standards in Yoga Teaching 20:59 Teaching in a Commercialized Yoga Environment 30:43 Friendship vs. Professionalism in Yoga Teaching

Adam interviews Mark Epstein, a psychiatrist and author, discussing the complex nature of desire from both a Buddhist and psychotherapeutic perspective. They explore how desire is often misunderstood as an obstacle, when in fact it can serve as a vehicle for spiritual growth and understanding. The conversation delves into the importance of recognizing and embracing desire rather than suppressing it, the role of the ego, and the lessons learned from personal experiences and stories, including the Ramayana and the parable of the strawberry. Buy the Book: Open to Desire – The Truth About What The Buddha Taught Support the Podcast: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Mark Shares  ·    Desire is not inherently negative; it's often our perception of it that limits us. ·   Suppressing desire can lead to greater dissatisfaction and emotional issues. ·      Desire can be a pathway to spiritual growth and understanding. ·      The ego plays a crucial role in our awareness and spiritual practice. ·      Meditation helps us to understand and transform our desires. ·      The middle path involves finding a balance between indulgence and suppression of desires. ·      Personal anecdotes can illustrate the complexities of desire and satisfaction. ·      Understanding the nature of desire can lead to greater empathy and connection with others. ·      The Ramayana serves as a metaphor for the journey of desire and its true purpose. ·      Self-awareness is key to transforming our relationship with desire. Find Mark Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/markepstein108 Website: www.markepsteinmd.com  Keen on Yoga Website: http://www.keenonyoga.com/ Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Epstein 01:01 Desire: A Different Perspective 05:55 Desire as a Vehicle for Growth 11:55 The Nature of Desire and Suffering 18:04 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons Learned 24:06 Empathy and the Objectification of Desire 30:46 Exploring Desire and Unsatisfactoriness 33:42 The Middle Path: Balancing Indulgence and Suppression 36:09 Understanding Desire: The Role of Self and Shame 37:12 The Ramayana: A Story of Desire and Purpose 40:37 The Strawberry Parable: Appreciating Desire 43:43 The Ego: Our Greatest Obstacle and Hope  

Adam explores the complex relationship between money and yoga, addressing the common perception that charging for yoga corrupts its authenticity. He shares personal experiences and insights on the necessity of money as a means of energy exchange, the historical context of yoga's accessibility, and the implications of consumerism in modern yoga practices. Keen emphasizes the importance of trust, accountability, and the teacher's role in navigating these dynamics, ultimately advocating for a balanced approach to money in the yoga community.  Adam Shares ·      Money is often seen as corrupting yoga, but it's a necessary exchange. ·      Many yoga teachers struggle with the idea of charging for their services. ·      Offering yoga for free can lead to a lack of commitment from students. ·      Money can democratize access to yoga, making it available to more people. ·      The historical guru-shisha relationship was exclusive and selective. ·      Modern yoga allows for more freedom and choice for students. ·      Accountability is important in the teacher-student dynamic. ·      Consumerism has influenced the way yoga is marketed and taught today. ·      Teachers have a responsibility to create a supportive environment. ·      Navigating money in yoga requires a balance between accessibility and quality. Keen on Yoga Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Follow Adam:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats/ Support: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Money and Yoga 02:19 The Dilemma of Charging for Yoga 08:05 The Value of Money in Yoga 14:16 Trust and Money in Yoga 18:09 The Guru-Shisha Relationship and Modern Yoga 25:00 Reframing Yoga's Historical Context 28:55 Democratization of Yoga Through Money 33:49 The Challenges of Modern Yoga Teaching 40:07 Navigating Consumerism in Yoga 44:46 Finding Balance in Yoga's Modern Landscape

Adam speaks with Bernie Clark, a renowned yoga teacher and author, about his latest book on Prana. They explore the multifaceted nature of Prana, its historical context, and its relationship with breath and energy. Bernie shares his personal journey with Prana, including challenges and insights gained through his practice. The discussion delves into the significance of compression in yoga, the communication pathways within the body, and the importance of surrender and acceptance in healing. This conversation offers a rich exploration of the concept of Prana, bridging Eastern and Western perspectives on energy and vitality. Buy the Book: Prana, One Breath, Many Worlds Support the Podcast: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Bernie Shares  ·      Bernie's journey with Prana began with personal experiences and injuries. ·      Prana is more than breath; it encompasses life energy and vitality. ·      The historical evolution of Prana reflects cultural understandings of life force. ·      Breath is intrinsically linked to life and spirit across cultures. ·      Prana can be viewed through both Eastern and Western scientific lenses. ·      Compression in yoga can stimulate energy flow and health in tissues. ·      The body communicates through fascia, affecting energy flow and blockages. ·      Different yoga practices can influence organ health through energy pathways. ·      Scar tissue can disrupt energy flow and communication in the body. ·      Surrender and acceptance are key to healing and understanding one's energy.   Find Bernie Instagram: @bernieclark7528 Website: https://yinyoga.com/prana/

Adam delves into the complexities of the Mysore tradition of Ashtanga yoga, discussing both its merits and drawbacks. He reflects on his personal journey of why he stopped attending Mysore, the challenges of teaching Ashtanga, and the evolving nature of yoga traditions. Keen emphasizes the importance of intention in practice and the value of community while acknowledging the need for adaptability in teaching methods. Adam Shares ·      Mysore tradition has both pros and cons. ·      The authenticity of yoga lies in the practitioner's intention. ·      Tradition in yoga is not static; it evolves over time. ·      Personal experiences can shape one's relationship with yoga. ·      Teaching methods should adapt to individual needs. ·      Community plays a crucial role in the practice of yoga. ·      The practice of Ashtanga can be both grounding and challenging. ·      It's important to separate the method from the individual teacher. ·      Trusting one's intuition is vital in yoga practice. ·      The journey of yoga is personal and unique for everyone.  

Annie shares her extensive journey in yoga, discussing the evolution of her practice over the years. She emphasizes the importance of intention, presence, and self-inquiry in yoga, while also addressing the changing landscape of yoga and the need for alignment to serve the flow of energy. Annie reflects on her teaching philosophy, the role of anatomy, and the balance between strength and flexibility as one ages. The discussion highlights the significance of self-practice and personal growth in the journey of yoga. Support the Podcast: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Annie Shares ·      Yoga is a lifelong journey of self-discovery. ·      The practice evolves with age and experience. ·      Intention and presence are key in yoga practice. ·      Alignment should serve the flow of energy, not the other way around. ·      Teaching should encourage self-inquiry and personal exploration. ·      Yoga can be both therapeutic and a form of physical fitness. ·      Anatomy knowledge is important but should be accessible to students. ·      The yoga landscape is changing, often focusing too much on aesthetics. ·      Self-practice is essential for personal growth in yoga. ·      Embracing change in practice is a sign of wisdom. Find Annie Instagram: @anniecarpentersmartflow Website: https://www.smartflowyoga.com/ Keen on Yoga Website: http://www.keenonyoga.com/ Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga

Adam delves into the practical aspects of yoga philosophy, emphasizing the importance of direct experience over theoretical knowledge. He discusses the role of emotions in yoga, the influence of karma on our present experiences, and the significance of faith and belief in the spiritual journey. Keen also highlights the necessity of consistent practice and self-inquiry as essential components of personal growth in yoga. The conversation culminates in reflections on the New Year, encouraging listeners to embrace life's experiences with courage and authenticity. Adam Shares ·      Yoga philosophy emphasizes direct experience over theoretical knowledge. ·      The importance of connecting with oneself to understand yoga. ·      Right knowledge is based on direct perception, inference, and authoritative texts. ·      Emotions are integral to the yoga experience, not to be avoided. ·      Karma influences our present experience and understanding. ·      Misconceptions can cloud our perception of reality. ·      The interplay of pleasure and pain is essential for meaning-making. ·      Faith and belief are crucial for a meaningful spiritual journey. ·      Consistent practice is necessary for personal growth in yoga. ·      Self-inquiry is a continuous process of connecting with oneself. Keen on Yoga Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Follow Adam:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats/ Support: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf    

Clive shares his profound journey into yoga, spirituality, and self-discovery. From his early experiences in India to his disciplined practice of asana and pranayama, Clive reflects on the transformative power of yoga in healing the heart and mind. He discusses the importance of self-inquiry, the nature of reality, and the role of a teacher as a friend rather than a guru. Clive also delves into the mystical experiences he encountered in India, the significance of diet and lifestyle, and his views on enlightenment and the meaning of life. This conversation offers a deep insight into the essence of yoga and the spiritual journey. Support the Podcast: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Clive Shares ·      He's has been practicing yoga since 1968, inspired by a book on Hatha Yoga. ·      His journey to India began in 1966, leading to a deep spiritual awakening. ·      Yoga for Clive is about healing the heart and mind, not just physical practice. ·      He emphasizes the importance of pranayama as a key to mental and physical vitality. ·      Clive views asana and pranayama as tools for transformation and self-discovery. ·      His experiences in India were marked by mystical encounters and deep emotional releases. ·      Self-inquiry is essential for recognizing the impersonal witness within us. ·      Clive believes there is no afterlife, only pure awareness after the body dissolves. ·      He advocates for a balanced lifestyle, embracing life with wisdom and moderation. ·      The meaning of life, according to Clive, is liberation from the illusion of self. Find Clive Instagram: Website: Email: [email protected] Clive's Book "Free from me" cosmic poems on yoga & 'the way', the essence of his sharing in workshops and retreats Lulu.com/clivesheridan   Keen on Yoga Website: http://www.keenonyoga.com/ Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga