Keen on Yoga Podcast

Adam interviews Mark Togni, a seasoned yoga practitioner and teacher. They discuss Mark's journey into yoga, his experiences in India, and the evolution of the Ashtanga advanced series. Mark shares insights on the purpose of advanced series, the significance of Samadhi, and how yoga serves as a means to cultivate a deeper understanding of self and consciousness. The conversation highlights the importance of humility in practice and the role of meditation in achieving clarity and insight. www.goldcoastyogacentre.com  | @goldcoastyogacentre 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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Key Points  ·      Mark started yoga at 21 and was searching for a guru. ·      His journey took him to India, where he met influential teachers. ·      Mark practiced advanced series for over 20 years. ·      The advanced series has evolved over time, splitting into multiple series. ·      Primary series is foundational and essential for all practitioners. ·      Samadhi is a means to achieve deeper understanding, not the ultimate goal. ·      Practicing advanced series can enhance meditative stability. ·      Mark emphasizes the importance of humility in advanced practice. ·      Yoga serves as a tool for introspection and self-discovery. ·      Mark continues to explore yoga therapy and its benefits.  

Adam Keen delves into the practice of Surya Namaskar, exploring its historical roots, cultural significance, and evolution over time. He discusses how Surya Namaskar is often misunderstood as merely a warm-up in yoga, while it has its own distinct identity and purpose. The conversation highlights the intertwining of physical fitness, religious practices, and national pride in the development of Surya Namaskar, particularly in the context of modern yoga. Keen emphasizes the importance of understanding the varied uses and contexts of Surya Namaskar to enrich one's practice. www.keenonyoga.com  | @adam_keen_ashtanga 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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Key Points ·      Surya Namaskar is a distinct practice separate from Asana. ·      Historical roots of Surya Namaskar trace back to Vedic rituals. ·      Cultural significance includes links to Hindu nationalism and pride. ·      The practice evolved significantly in the 20th century. ·      Surya Namaskar was promoted as a physical conditioning exercise. ·      Understanding the context of Surya Namaskar enhances practice. ·      The practice has been influenced by various scholars and practitioners. ·      Surya Namaskar has both religious and physical connotations. ·      Modern interpretations often strip away religious elements. ·      Personal intention shapes the practice of Surya Namaskar.  

Ep 209 Jason Birch – Jason Birch – Āsanas of the Yogacintāmaṇi Adam and Jason Birch delve into the historical and philosophical significance of the Yoga Chintamani, Jason's latest book. They explore the evolution of Hatha Yoga, the role of key figures like Shiv Ananda Sarasvati, and the influence of Persian texts on yoga practices. The discussion also touches on the politics surrounding yoga and how historical narratives can be shaped by contemporary interests. Jason emphasizes the importance of understanding the roots of yoga to appreciate its modern practice. Jason's Book: Āsanas of the Yogacintāmaṇi To buy the book email Shanti at shanti@efeo-pondicherry.org  Website: The Luminescent | IG: theluminescent_   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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga   Key Points The Yoga Chintamani is a culmination of over 10 years of research. ·      Hatha Yoga evolved significantly from the 12th to the 17th century. ·      Shiv Ananda Sarasvati's contributions were pivotal in integrating yoga with Vedantic philosophy. ·      The text provides a comprehensive overview of asana practices, including 84 asanas. ·      Persian texts show a cross-cultural exchange in yoga practices. ·      The historical context of yoga is often politicized in modern discussions. ·      Patanjali's Yoga Sutras remained influential throughout history, contrary to popular belief. ·      The synthesis of different yoga traditions is evident in modern practices. ·      Understanding the historical roots of yoga enhances its contemporary relevance. ·      The dialogue around yoga practices continues to evolve, reflecting cultural shifts.      

Adam discusses the evolution of yoga, focusing on the modern history of yoga from the 20th century onwards. He highlights the significance of the Bhagavad Gita, the myth of the Yoga Korunta, and the influential role of Krishnamacharya in shaping contemporary yoga practices. The conversation delves into the cultural context of yoga in early 20th century India, the impact of physical culture, and the innovations that have led to the development of Ashtanga yoga. Adam reflects on the shift from traditional to modern asana practices and concludes with thoughts on the legacy of Krishnamacharya and Pattabhi Jois in the yoga community today.  Adam discusses: ·      The Bhagavad Gita offers practical guidance for living. ·      Modern yoga has roots in historical texts and practices. ·      Krishnamacharya's teachings were pivotal for contemporary yoga. ·      The Yoga Korunta remains a myth with no physical evidence. ·      Ashtanga yoga evolved through various cultural influences. ·      Physical culture in India shaped the development of yoga. ·      Innovations in yoga practice are necessary for modern practitioners. ·      The transition from traditional to modern asana is significant. ·      Krishnamacharya's legacy is evident in today's yoga practices. ·      Understanding yoga's history enriches our practice today.  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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Ep 207 Richard & Mary – 'Feeling Happy: The Yoga of Body, Heart, and Mind.' New Book: 'Feeling Happy: The Yoga of Body, Heart, and Mind.' www.freemantayloryoga.com  | IG  @freemantayloryoga Adam speaks with Richard and Mary Freeman about their book 'Feeling Happy: The Yoga of Body, Heart, and Mind.' They explore the practical applications of yoga, emphasizing the importance of embodiment, the heart's language, and the concept of basic goodness. The discussion delves into the nature of happiness, the gradual process of waking up to one's experiences, and the significance of acknowledging suffering.  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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Key Points ·      The book aims to make yoga accessible to everyone. ·      Embodiment connects the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of life. ·      The heart has its own language that often goes unrecognized. ·      Basic goodness is a fundamental aspect of human nature. ·      Happiness is a deeper connection to love and compassion, not just fleeting joy. ·      Waking up is a gradual process that requires awareness of suffering. ·      Practices like Tonglen help cultivate compassion and connection. ·      Asana practice enhances awareness of the body and breath. ·      Twisting in yoga can shift perspectives and release tension. ·      Being nice and allowing others to help is essential for connection.  

Ep 206 Adam & Theresa Keen – New Year Reflections: A Yoga Journey In this New Year's roundup episode, Adam and Theresa reflect on their experiences over the past year, discussing their highlights, challenges, and learning moments. They share insights on their travels, culinary adventures, and personal growth, while also looking ahead to the future and what they hope to achieve in the coming year. Adam & Theresa discuss: ·      Meeting students during retreats was a highlight. ·      Success in teaching is appreciated more after experiencing failure. ·      Travel logistics can be overwhelming without a base. ·      Online criticism can be difficult to navigate. ·      Driving in Chiang Mai was a significant learning experience. ·      Traveling can be challenging and not always glamorous. ·      Spending more time in the UK would be grounding. ·      Puglia was a surprising and enjoyable destination. ·      The best meal was a Middle Eastern breakfast in Dubai. ·      Streamlining travel schedules is a goal for next year.       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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga        

Ep 205 Daniela Bevilacqua – Sadhus Understanding of Embodied Practices From Tapas to Modern Yoga www.yogicstudies.com/daniela-bevilacqua | IG  @dhanya_83 Daniela Bevilacqua discusses her new book 'From Tapas to Modern Yoga' and shares her unique experiences living with sadhus in India. The dialogue explores the complexities of sadhu culture, the significance of tapasya, the intricacies of sampradaya and lineages, and the role of yoga and kriyas in their practices. 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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Key Points ·      Daniela's book offers a unique perspective on sadhus. ·      Living with sadhus provides insights into their practices. ·      Initiation into sadhu life is complex and varies by individual. ·      Sampradaya and lineages play a crucial role in sadhu identity. ·      Tapasya is central to the ascetic practices of sadhus. ·      Sadhus often serve as fatherly figures for abandoned children. ·      Yoga for sadhus focuses primarily on meditation. ·      Kriyas are significant practices that go beyond physical postures. ·      Faith and belief systems vary among sadhus and their followers. ·      Visiting a Mela can be a profound experience for outsiders.          

Ep 204 Adam Keen – The Power of Intentionality  "Embrace things as they are." "We don't lack anything." Adam delves into the concept of intentionality within spiritual practice, particularly in the context of yoga. He emphasizes the importance of transforming mundane routines into meaningful rituals, the role of intentionality in achieving clarity and presence, and the balance between desire and appreciation. Adam discusses the necessity of faith, effort, and reflection in spiritual growth, as well as the courage required to face reality and embrace life as it is. He concludes with thoughts on connecting with others and finding authenticity in one's experiences.  Adam discusses:                 ·      Intentionality is crucial for spiritual practice. ·      Transforming routines into rituals adds meaning to life. ·      Enlightenment is about finding meaning in everyday actions. ·      The mindset behind practice is more important than the practice itself. ·      Removing obstructions leads to clarity and presence. ·      Desire should not overshadow appreciation of the present moment. ·      Building intentionality involves acceptance and letting go. ·      Faith and effort are essential for spiritual growth. ·      Memory and reflection enhance intentionality. ·      Facing reality is a challenge that requires courage.  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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Ep 203 Ramesh Bjonnes – The Intersection of Tantra and Vedic Traditions "Everything has the possibility of yoga." prama.org | Ramesh Bjonnes is a Tantric scholar and author with a personal practice for over 50 years. He is the co-founder of the Prama Institute and the Director of the Prama Wellness Center. He lived and taught as a yogic monk for some years after studying in Nepal and India. He studied Ayurveda at California College of Ayurveda and is a certified yoga detox therapist from the Ananda Marga Wellness Center in Cebu, Philippines. He is the author of five books, including A Brief History of Yoga (InnerWorld), Sacred Body, Sacred Spirit (InnerWorld) and Tantra: The Yoga of Love and Awakening (Hay House India). He lives with his wife Radhika and Juno, a Great Pyrenees, in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.    In this conversation Adam and Ramesh discuss: ·      Ramesh Bjonnes presents a non-traditional view of yoga history. ·      The Two River Theory suggests yoga's roots in both Vedic and Shaiva traditions. ·      Tantra is often misunderstood in the West, conflated with Neo-Tantra. ·      Anandamurti's teachings challenge conventional views on yoga and history. ·      The Pashupati seal may indicate ancient yogic practices. ·      Mantra plays a crucial role in Tantric practices and spiritual awakening. ·      Ramesh emphasizes the importance of oral traditions in yoga. ·      Experiences of clairvoyance can arise from deep meditative states. ·      Yoga practices are not solely Vedic but include various traditions. ·      Ramesh's work blends health, yoga, and holistic living. 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 Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga  

Ep 202 Adam Keen – Exploring the Roots of Vinyasa "Vinyasa is the root of modern yoga." www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga Adam explores the foundational aspects of Vinyasa and its significance in modern yoga, tracing its roots back to Krishnamacharya. He discusses the evolution of yoga practices, the importance of breath and the diaphragm, and the contrast between ritual space and flow states in yoga. Adam emphasizes the need to understand the original intentions behind yoga practices and how they have transformed over time. Key Points ·      Vinyasa is essential to understanding modern yoga. ·      Krishnamacharya was a pivotal figure in yoga's evolution. ·      Modern yoga often misinterprets the original concept of vinyasa. ·      Breath and diaphragm play crucial roles in yoga practice. ·      Rituals create a sacred space for transformation. ·      Movement and stillness are interconnected in yoga. ·      Vinyasa should focus on breathing rather than just flowing. ·      Understanding the diaphragm enhances yoga practice. ·      Yoga shapes require internal pressure to be effective. ·      The modern flow state may detract from yoga's original purpose.