Advertise on podcast: Living Yoga with Darren Main

Yoga isn’t just for handstands and highlight reels. In this episode, Darren Main sits down with legendary teacher Janet Stone for a candid, grounded conversation about perimenopause and how yoga can support this powerful life transition. Janet shares her lived experience of the “zone of chaos” when old routines stop working, and offers a yogic toolkit for steadiness: breath practices to calm an over-fired system, strength and bone-supporting asana, meditation for navigating mood and identity shifts, and the medicine of community. They unpack the biology in plain language (declining progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone; brain fog; sleep changes; insulin resistance) and talk about practical compassion in the studio and at home. This episode also invites men and partners into the conversation so they can show up with awareness, respect, and actual support. You’ll hear how Janet’s teaching has evolved to meet real bodies at every age, why “advanced” sometimes looks like Child’s Pose, and how reframing midlife as an initiation into elderhood can be deeply liberating. ✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please drop a comment, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today. RESOURCES Janet Stone's Website: https://www.janetstoneyoga.com Listen to Janet's Music Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow FREE STUFF! FREE Meditation Course: Mindfulness for Busy Minds-  Anyone can learn to meditate—even you! https://darrenmain.net/free-meditation-course FREE Book: Inspired Practice: Wisdom From the Heart of India:  A collection of quotes from Modern teachers and ancient texts. https://darrenmain.net/inspired-practice-book FREE Yoga Class: Join Darren for a Free online practice.  https://darrenmain.net/first-class-free

Darren sits down with longtime friend and author Lucid Dawn to explore how binaries limit us far beyond gender and why yoga’s aim of union invites a more fluid, honest way of being. They unpack manufactured divides, the “dark side” of spiritual bypassing, and how practice helps us hold grief, rage, joy, and love without splitting ourselves in two. Lucid shares insights from their book Dispelling the Binary and a forthcoming course, and the two preview their roles as co-lead teachers in the upcoming Green Yogi Teacher Training.✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please drop a comment, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.RESOURCESJoin Lucid Dawn and Darren Main in The Green Yogi Teacher Training: https://www.mygreenyogi.com/gy200hourLucid Dawn: http://www.lucidyoga.com/Read: Dispelling the Binary https://amzn.to/4oB9TmmConnect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/followFREE STUFF!FREE Meditation Course: Mindfulness for Busy Minds- Anyone can learn to meditate—even you!
https://darrenmain.net/free-meditation-courseFREE Book: Inspired Practice: Wisdom From the Heart of India: A collection of quotes from Modern teachers and ancient texts.https://darrenmain.net/inspired-practice-book

In this Living Yoga episode, Darren talks with Vahid Coskun, a Washington, DC–based teacher and author of Practice Beyond the Postures. He shares his path from collegiate athlete to hot-yoga instructor and how observing students revealed common mental patterns on the mat—blame, guilt, people-pleasing, and outsourcing authority. We explore breath as the bridge between body and mind, why resistance is normal, and curiosity as the most honest intention.Vahid also reflects on growing up Muslim in Turkey, stepping away from organized religion, then returning to spirit; choosing change rather than being changed; and how teachers can honor students’ timing without losing depth.RESOURCESVahid’s Website: https://www.wellnessassemblyservices....Read: Practice Beyond the Postures https://amzn.to/4pV4DvrConnect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/followFREE STUFF!FREE Meditation Course: Mindfulness for Busy Minds- Anyone can learn to meditate—even you!https://darrenmain.net/free-meditatio...FREE Book: Inspired Practice: Wisdom From the Heart of India: A collection of quotes from Modern teachers and ancient texts.https://darrenmain.net/inspired-pract...FREE Yoga Class: Join Darren for a Free online practice. https://darrenmain.net/first-class-free✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.

Adam Spillman was a whitewater kayaker whose life blew up at 30 with a stage IIIC testicular cancer diagnosis and over 200 tumors. After brutal chemo, surgery, and a disciplined daily practice of breathwork, meditation, and yoga, Adam is now five years cancer-free. He talks with Darren about the moment everything changed, how to make friends with discomfort, and why paying attention is the first medicine. We also get practical advice for life after crisis, and how yoga helps you rebuild identity when the old one collapses. RESOURCES Adam Spillman https://www.adamspillman.com/ Yoga Samadhi Columbia Gorge https://www.columbiagorgeyoga.com/ Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow ✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.

Yoga teacher, political strategist, and activist Reggie Hubbard shares his journey from using yoga to survive a toxic job to teaching “active peace” in the middle of political and personal storms. We talk about transforming pain into service, building inclusive yoga spaces, navigating the world’s chaos without losing your center, and how a stroke taught him the urgency of self-care. It’s a candid, inspiring conversation about mindfulness, justice, and the messy beauty of being human. RESOURCES • Connect with Reggie Hubbard: https://activepeaceyoga.com/ • Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow ✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.

In this episode, Darren Main welcomes long-time friend and seasoned yoga teacher Jason Bowman for a deep and honest conversation about navigating difficult times through the lens of yoga and Buddhism. They explore the question so many of us find ourselves asking: When will this be over? From personal practice to community support, grief to resilience, and triggers to transformation, this dialogue offers both wisdom and humor for living more consciously in uncertain times. Jason also shares insights from his work as co-director of The Castro Room yoga studio and teacher training program in San Francisco. • Connect with Jason Bowman – jasonarthurbowman.com • The Castro Room – thecastroroom.com • Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow ✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.

Darren Main speaks with holistic coach Toby Gant about the challenges of navigating a polarized world with mindfulness and compassion. Together, they explore how yoga and spiritual practice can help us break free from group think, develop a strong inner compass, and find common ground—even in the face of division. From family dynamics and political polarization to personal triggers and spiritual activism, this conversation is a masterclass in applying yogic philosophy to real-world issues. Toby shares his personal journey from a conservative religious upbringing to becoming a leader in wellness and transformation. With warmth and humor, he reminds us that the power to heal, connect, and awaken lives within each of us. RESOURCES Toby Gant: https://www.shekholistic.com/ Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow ✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Living Yoga, Darren Main reconnects with author and surfer-yogi Kori Hahn to talk about her latest book, A Temple of Her Own. With unflinching honesty and deep wisdom, Kori shares how a painful breakup, delivered via email, became the unlikely beginning of a powerful inner transformation. Whether you’re in the midst of your own “Kali moment” or simply looking for inspiration to live more authentically, this episode will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and reminded that every temple begins with a blueprint—and sometimes that blueprint is born in the mess. RESOURCES Kori Hahn’s books: -A Temple of Her Own -Rituals of the Soul Connect with Kori Hahn Connect with Darren Main ✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.

In this episode, Darren Main and Pete Guinosso dive into the world of yoga teacher trainings. They break down the various types of trainings and share tips on finding the perfect fit for you. Discover how these trainings can spark personal growth and transformation, highlighting Pete Guinosso’s program as a standout example of a life-changing experience. CONNECT WITH PETE GUINOSSO WEBSITE LIGHTING THE PATH TRAINING CONNECT WITH DARREN Follow Darren Darren’s Books FREE Meditation Course  FREE Yoga Class

In this episode of Living Yoga, Darren Main chats with Zach Beach, a Bay Area yoga teacher and author, about the deeper aspects of yoga beyond the physical poses. They delve into the practice of love and compassion, exploring how yoga can help us connect with our true nature. Zach shares insights on setting intentions, the healing power of compassion, and the role of self-love in transforming ourselves and the world. Tune in to discover how yoga can cultivate love and compassion in all areas of life. CONNECT WITH ZACH BEACH Zach's Website READ: The Seven Lessons of Love CONNECT WITH DARREN Follow Darren Darren’s Books FREE Meditation Course  FREE Yoga Class

Join Darren Main and Marisa Toriggino as they explore how Ayurveda can enhance sleep quality by aligning with natural cycles. Learn about the impact of doshas on sleep and discover practical tips for a better night's rest, including meal timing and limiting screen time. Marisa shares a calming Ayurvedic sleep snack recipe and highlights the importance of personalized guidance from an Ayurvedic practitioner. Embrace holistic self-care for rejuvenating sleep. CONNECT WITH MARISA TORIGGINO Marisa’s Website Free Sleep Snack Recipe CONNECT WITH DARREN Follow Darren Darren’s Books FREE Meditation Course  FREE Yoga Class

Darren Main delves into the dark side of the yoga world with special guest Matthew Remski, author of "Surviving Modern Yoga" and co-host of the Conspirituality Podcast. They candidly discuss the abuses perpetrated by K. Pattabhi Jois and other prominent gurus, exposing the hidden dangers within these spiritual communities. Through personal stories and critical analysis, Darren and Matthew shed light on the complexities of power, consent, and accountability in the modern yoga movement, offering listeners valuable insights on how to navigate these challenging issues while maintaining their wellness journey. RESOURCES Matthew Remski Connect and Follow Matthew Surviving Modern Yoga by Matthew Remski Conspirituality Podcast Darren Main Connect with Darren Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic by Darren Main FREE COURSE: Mindfulness for Busy Minds

Join Darren as he sits down with Leslie Howard, a renowned yoga teacher with a focus on the pelvic floor, in this enlightening episode. Leslie discusses the unique needs of transgender individuals, including those undergoing hormone replacement therapy and gender confirmation surgery. Delving into the essentials of trans yoga, they explore how gender affirming care can transform lives within the LGBTQ+ community. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how yoga can support trans women, trans men, and non-binary individuals through their journeys. Don't miss this powerful discussion on transgender yoga, the broader transgender debate, and the vital message that gender affirming care saves lives. Connect with Leslie READ: Pelvic Liberation: Using Yoga, Self-Inquiry, and Breath Awareness for Pelvic Health Connect with Darren Main

Almost all of us struggle with depression or know someone who does. In this episode, renowned mental health advocate and author of So-Called Normal, Mark Henick, shares his personal journey through depression and suicidal thinking and provides insightful tips and practical advice for those struggling with depression.  Join Darren Main and Mark Henick as they delve into the transformative potential of holistic health practices like yoga and meditation in addressing the complexities of depression and suicidal thinking. RESOURCES • If you or someone you know needs support, you can contact the National Suicide Hotline. Send an SMS Text to 988 Connect With Mark Henick Mark's Website Purchase So-Called Normal: Connect with Darren Main Darren's Website, Social Media and Free Meditation Course

In this insightful episode, we delve into the art of teaching yoga during challenging and stressful times. Join the conversation between Darren Main and Amy Ippoliti, the author of The Art and Business of Teaching Yoga: The Yoga Professional's Guide to a Fulfilling Career. Amy Ippoliti, celebrated for her innovative approach to yoga and wellness, shares her expertise in adapting yoga practices to meet the demands of contemporary life. This episode is not just a discussion; it's a treasure trove of wisdom for yoga teachers looking to deepen their impact and provide a sanctuary of calm and resilience through their teaching. Whether you're a seasoned yoga instructor or new to the field, this conversation between Darren Main and Amy Ippoliti offers valuable perspectives and tools to help you guide your students through these turbulent times. RESOURCES • Learn More about Amy Ippoliti: • Learn More about Darren Main purchase: The Art and Business of Teaching Yoga: The Yoga Professional's Guide to a Fulfilling Career