Keen on Yoga Podcast

Adam explores the legacy of Krishnamacharya, the father of modern yoga, and the impact of his teachings on contemporary practices. He discusses the influence of Krishnamacharya's students, Pattabhi Jois and BKS Iyengar, and how their interpretations differ from his original teachings. Keen emphasizes the importance of understanding the context in which Krishnamacharya taught and how his methods evolved over time. He also delves into the innovations in yoga postures and the myth surrounding the Yoga Karunta, highlighting the multifaceted nature of Krishnamacharya's legacy and its implications for modern yoga practice. www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga  PODCAST Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Key Points ·      Krishnamacharya is considered the father of modern yoga. ·      His teachings were popularized by his students, Pattabhi Jois and BKS Iyengar. ·      Krishnamacharya's teaching methods evolved significantly over his lifetime. ·      The context of his teachings was influenced by the political climate of India. ·      His legacy is often associated with performative yoga demonstrations. ·      Krishnamacharya's later teachings focused on therapeutic practices. ·      The myth of Yoga Korunta serves to authenticate modern yoga. ·      Truth in yoga history is a shifting concept. ·      Ashtanga Yoga's rigid structure limits the evolution of practice. ·      Understanding the context of Krishnamacharya's teachings is crucial for modern practitioners.      

Dr Louise Newson, a GP and menopause specialist, discusses the complexities of menopause and perimenopause, including symptoms, hormonal impacts on mental and physical health, and the importance of informed choices regarding hormone replacement therapy (HRT). She emphasizes the need for women to understand their bodies and advocate for their health, while also addressing common misconceptions about HRT and the role of lifestyle factors in managing hormonal health. The conversation also touches on the significance of testosterone for both men and women and the benefits of yoga in maintaining hormonal balance. Instagram - @menopause_doctor Latest Book:  The Definitive Guide to the Perimenopause and Menopause Website - Dr Louise Newson Podcast - The Dr Louise Newson Podcast - Podcast - Apple Podcasts Clinic - Newson Health - Home Balance app - Balance - Balance app LISTEN ON PODCAST Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Key Points ·       Menopause is defined as the cessation of periods for one year. ·       Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase leading up to menopause. ·       Hormonal changes can lead to a variety of physical and mental health symptoms. ·       Mental health symptoms are often exacerbated during perimenopause. ·       Testosterone plays a crucial role in mood and physical health for both genders. ·       Women often face misinformation regarding HRT and its risks. ·       Bone health is significantly impacted by hormonal changes during menopause. ·       Patients should seek multiple opinions regarding hormonal treatments. ·       Lifestyle factors, including exercise, can influence hormonal health but are not a substitute for HRT. ·       Knowledge about hormonal health is essential for both women and men.    

Adam shares his personal journey of recovery following a hip replacement surgery, reflecting on the challenges and insights gained during the process. He delves into the role of yoga teachers, discussing the pressure to perform and the misconception that teachers must be the best practitioners in the room. He emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive environment for students, where they can explore their own practice without the burden of comparison. He advocates for a shift in perspective regarding the validity of teachers, highlighting that their worth should not solely be based on physical ability but rather on their capacity to guide and support their students. The conversation culminates in a call for honesty and compassion within the teaching community, encouraging teachers to embrace their humanity and the realities of aging and injury. www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga  YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Key Points ·      Recovery from surgery is a gradual process. ·      Yoga teachers should focus on teaching, not performing. ·      The pressure to be the best can hinder effective teaching. ·      Idealizing teachers can create unrealistic expectations for students. ·      Teaching should prioritize individual student growth over performance. ·      Aging and injury are natural parts of a teacher's journey. ·      Teachers should not feel like frauds for their physical limitations. ·      Kindness and care are essential qualities in teaching. ·      Students need space to explore their practice without pressure. ·      The essence of yoga is about being present and authentic.    

Adam interviews Stuart Ray Sarbacker, a scholar and practitioner of yoga, discussing his journey into Ashtanga yoga, the definitions and roots of yoga, and the evolution of yoga traditions from Brahminical to Buddhist influences. They explore the distinctions between yoga and Buddhism, the relevance of modern asana practice, and the goals of yoga, particularly focusing on the concept of Samadhi. Stuart also shares insights into his upcoming work on the relationship between yoga and psychoactive substances.  www.liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/directory/stuart-sarbacker LISTEN ON PODCAST Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN   WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga   SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/   FOLLOW ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga   Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga   Key Points ·       Stuart Ray Sarbacker has a deep academic and personal connection to yoga. ·       Ashtanga yoga has been transformative for Sarbacker, shaping both his practice and scholarship. ·       Yoga can be defined as a mind-body discipline that enhances human capacities. ·       The concept of tapas is integral to the development of yoga practices. ·       Yoga's roots can be traced back to Brahmanical and Shamanic traditions. ·       The emergence of Buddhism and Jainism contributed significantly to yoga's evolution. ·       Yoga and Buddhism share similarities but differ in their views on self and existence. ·       Modern asana practice can benefit from Buddhist mindfulness techniques. ·       The goals of yoga include both the pursuit of powers and liberation from suffering. ·       Sarbacker's upcoming book will explore the relationship between yoga and psychoactive substances.    

Adam and Stuart M. McGill delve into the complexities of back pain, emphasizing the importance of individual assessment and understanding the unique stories behind each person's pain. They discuss the roles of genetics, exposure, and psychosocial factors in back health, as well as the significance of spinal stiffness and proper posture. The conversation also touches on the impact of physical culture, the importance of moderation in physical activities, and the need for tailored approaches to managing back pain. www.backfitpro.com  | @backfitpro Book: Back Mechanic: The Step-by-step McGill Method to fix back pain LISTEN ON PODCAST Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga   KEY POINTS ·       Genetics plays a crucial role in determining individual back pain susceptibility. ·       Each person's back pain story is unique and requires thorough assessment. ·       The psychosocial context can significantly influence pain responses. ·       Yoga practices can sometimes exacerbate back issues if not approached mindfully. ·       Stiffness in the spine is a material property that can be beneficial when managed correctly. ·       Moderation in physical activities is essential for long-term health. ·       Back pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis; understanding the underlying cause is key. ·       Proper posture is vital for spinal health and can prevent pain. ·       The hip hinge is an important movement pattern for maintaining back health. ·       Everything in physical performance involves trade-offs; balance is necessary.  

Adam Keen on his 25 years of yoga practice, sharing insights and lessons learned along the way. He discusses the importance of self-acceptance, the role of genetics in practice, and the significance of breathing. Adam emphasizes the need for balance in life, the value of strength training, and the importance of creating a safe space for students. He also explores the evolving meaning of yoga and the joy of letting go of postures as one progresses in their practice. YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga   Key Points ·      No posture makes you happier; self-acceptance is key. ·      Practice alone is not stronger than genetics; genetics play a crucial role. ·      Breathing is essential; it dictates how we do postures. ·      Tradition in yoga is less important than personal understanding. ·      People's bodies don't open by being pushed into postures; they open themselves. ·      Being a good teacher is not about being the best practitioner. ·      Yoga means more than just union; it's a multifaceted practice. ·      Making your whole life yoga can lead to a narrow perspective. ·      Practice is for life, not the other way around; enjoy life outside of yoga. ·      Giving back postures can be more liberating than holding onto them.

This conversation explores the themes of yoga as a form of power and its intersection with politics, particularly in the context of India. Sunila S. Kale and Christian Lee Novetzke discuss their book, The Power of Yoga, which examines how yoga has been historically understood not just as a spiritual practice but as a means of political expression and control. They delve into ancient texts like the Rigveda and the Mahabharata, the role of figures like the Raja of Aundh, and the implications of yoga in modern political contexts, including its use by leaders like Gandhi and Modi. The discussion highlights the evolving understanding of yoga and its relevance in contemporary society. Sunila: https://jsis.washington.edu/people/sunila-kale Christian: https://jsis.washington.edu/people/christian-novetzke/ Excerpt from the book about the film on Surya Namaskar: The Yoga of Power, Yoga as Political Thought and Practice in India:  https://thewire.in/books/the-yoga-of-power-surya-namaskar LISTEN  Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga  SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Key Points ·       Yoga can be understood as a means of power and control. ·       The intersection of yoga and politics has historical significance. ·       The Rigveda presents yoga in a context of war and power. ·       The Mahabharata connects yoga with governance and leadership. ·       Yoga's meaning has evolved over centuries in various texts. ·       The Raja of Aundh used yoga for political empowerment and social reform. ·       Modern interpretations of yoga often overlook its political roots. ·       Gandhi and Aurobindo viewed yoga as a tool for political action. ·       Yoga's role in nationalism is complex and multifaceted. ·       The contemporary practice of yoga is influenced by historical political contexts.        

The discussion highlights the vital role of the Intermediate Series in Ashtanga Yoga and challenges the gatekeeping that limits access for students. Emphasizing a holistic approach, it advocates practicing both the Primary and Intermediate Series for injury prevention and improved flexibility. The conversation encourages participants to embrace their individuality by adapting postures to suit their unique needs. Understanding foundational principles rather than striving for perfection is key to deepening one's practice.

Adam explores the deeper aspects of yoga practice, particularly in relation to trauma and the body's response to it. He discusses the importance of understanding the nervous system, the need for both regulation and arousal in yoga, and how to adapt practices to suit personal seasons of life. Keen emphasizes the significance of listening to one's body, the necessity of variation in practice, and the role of breath in achieving balance. He concludes with reflections on the importance of self-practice and personal responsibility in yoga. www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga    WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga   Key Points ·      Yoga is not just about relaxation; it goes deeper. ·      Trauma can be stored in the body and needs to be addressed. ·      Hatha yoga involves both arousal and regulation of the nervous system. ·      There are different seasons for different types of yoga practice. ·      Variation in practice is essential for growth and awareness. ·      Listening to your body is crucial for effective practice. ·      Breath plays a significant role in regulating the nervous system. ·      Self-practice is necessary for personal development in yoga. ·      The method of practice should suit the individual's aims. ·      Responsibility in practice leads to deeper understanding and growth.  

Peter A. Levine, a pioneer in trauma healing and the developer of Somatic Experiencing, shares insights from his extensive work. He emphasizes the body’s role in trauma recovery and discusses transformative case studies. The contrast between how animals and humans respond to trauma is fascinating, highlighting natural coping mechanisms. Levine also explores the healing power of mythology, specifically Medusa's story, and shares techniques like breathwork and vocalization. His approach underscores the importance of community and guidance in healing journeys.