Yoga Teacher Resource Podcast Suffering and our True Nature with Michelle Cassandra Johnson
Michelle Cassandra Johnson explores the kleshas—the five afflictions that cause suffering—within the framework of modern challenges ranging from racial injustice to climate change. Through personal stories, insights on yoga philosophy, and practical advice, Michelle offers a roadmap for understanding and addressing the root causes of suffering both individually and collectively. This conversation will inspire yoga practitioners and activists alike to engage deeply with their practice and strive for personal and social transformation.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
00:00 Introduction to the kleshas
2:10 Levity as sustenance for deep work
04:45 Why Michelle chose to write about the kleshas
06:55 A primer on the kleshas
14:36 How the kleshas confront our assumptions
16:32 Pain and the kleshas
24:35 The kleshas and social change
42:14 Teaching the kleshas in yoga
EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES:
Book: Illuminating Our True Nature
Illuminating Our True Nature Book Club
Illuminating Our True Nature Course: The Five Afflictions
Illuminating Our True Nature Gathering and Practice
Follow Michelle on Instagram @skillinaction
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource
Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list
Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group
Learn more about the Impact Club
Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe