Raj Balkaran - Sanctity of Stories in Yoga & Beyond

Dec 18, 2024

Raj Balkaran, a scholar of Sanskrit narratives and author of "The Stories Behind the Poses," shares his inspiring journey from English literature to spiritual exploration within Hinduism. He reveals the powerful impact of storytelling in yoga practice, emphasizing how ancient narratives enhance understanding of poses. Balkaran discusses the evolution of tradition in modern teaching and the balance of innovation with preserving heritage. Listeners will also discover exciting upcoming courses and the significance of stories in navigating identity.

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ANECDOTE

Finding a Path

Raj Balkaran initially left university and felt spiritually lost.
He found his academic and spiritual path through an introductory Hinduism course and his teacher, Mantariji.

INSIGHT

The Matrix of Meaning

Raj Balkaran views narrative as the foundation of human experience.
He sees storytelling as a way to decode the stories we live.

ANECDOTE

Toronto Destiny

Mantariji, Raj Balkaran's teacher, believed his students were destined for Toronto.
Now, technology allows for connection beyond geographical limits.

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Dr. Raj Balkaran is a scholar of Sanskrit narrative texts and author of “The Stories Behind the Poses”. He is a Tutor at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies and Founder of the online Indian Wisdom School where he integrates scholarship, storytelling and spirituality to apply ancient Indian wisdom teachings to modern life. Beyond research, speaking and teaching, he runs a thriving one-on-one life guidance and runs transformative retreats in stunning global settings.

IN THIS EPISODE:

— Raj’s life path and love story with rich literacy and story alongside his scholarly work and spiritual exploration

— A wonderful story from the Chandogya Upanishad

— The evolution of tradition

— Story pedagogy and frame narratives

— Exploration of the meaning of “myth” and “mythology”

— The powerful impact and value behind the timeless stories

— The driving motivation and process behind the creation of The Stories Behind the Poses

— Considerations of the application of stories into yoga asana environments

CONNECT WITH RAJ:

Website: www.rajbalkaran.com & www.indianwisdomschool.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indianwisdomschool/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indianwisdomschool

LISTEN TO RAJ via these podcasts:

— Indian Wisdom School

— New Books in Indian Religions (New Books Network)

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ABOUT YOUR HOST, AMY LANDRY:

A beacon for those craving a connection to tradition and timeless wisdom, Amy has cemented herself as a global yoga teacher, ayurvedic practitioner, mentor, podcast host, speaker, and facilitator of the Study Yoga Summit.

Based in Australia and renowned for her sold-out international retreats, Amy has contributed extensively to Australian Yoga Journal, Om Yoga & Lifestyle magazine, YOGA Magazine (UK), and Nature & Health magazine (AU). She has presented at Wanderlust, Evolve Festival, Byron Spirit Fest, and Ekam Yoga Festival.

You can listen to her Living In Alignment podcast on all major platforms. A registered senior yoga teacher, Amy aims to amalgamate several Indian disciplines into daily life with the hope of inspiring her community to have a tangible relationship with living yoga–rather than seeing it as an isolated practice.

WEBSITE: ⁠https://amyelandry.com/⁠

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/amyelandry/