Welcome to another insightful episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast. In today's episode, we are joined by the remarkable Leslie Howard, a distinguished yoga teacher, yoga therapist, and yoga researcher. Leslie delves into the profound and mystical experiences she encountered during Savasana Pose, also known as Corpse Pose, experiences that defied modern explanations. But that's just the beginning of Leslie's journey. She shares her transformational path towards becoming a Death Doula, an unexpected realization that drew a profound connection between yoga and the preparation for the inevitable. In a world where the essence of yoga often gets overshadowed by modern practices, Leslie brings to light its ancient purpose: preparing us for the profound journey of death and dying. Through her Death Cafe's, Leslie invites candid conversations about mortality, offering insight and answers to questions that surround the preparation, the moments themselves, and the mysteries beyond. She sheds light on the unsettling medicalization of death in contemporary society, where the focus is on prolonging life, often at the expense of a peaceful transition. Leslie also emphasizes the significance of legacy and the enduring impact of even the smallest acts of kindness. In a thought-provoking discussion, she prompts us to reflect on how we would live our lives if we knew our time was limited, revealing that research suggests people would prioritize quality time with loved ones over material pursuits. As we explore this profound subject, Leslie offers a treasure trove of book recommendations and insights into the art of being present for our loved ones during those final moments of farewell. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation, embracing both the concept of your own mortality and that of your loved ones, then this episode is sure to resonate with you. Quick Summary:Leslie Howard, a renowned yoga teacher, therapist, and researcher, shares her extraordinary experiences in Savasana Pose.Her journey towards becoming a Death Doula and the surprising realization that death preparation is inherently linked to yoga.The lost essence of yoga's role in preparing us for death in modern yoga studios.The establishment of Death Cafe's to foster open conversations about mortality and its various aspects.Discussing the medicalization of death and society's focus on prolonging life at the expense of a peaceful transition.Exploring the significance of legacy and the enduring impact of acts of kindness and contribution.Reflecting on how our lives might change if we lived with the awareness of limited time, with research suggesting a shift towards prioritizing quality time with loved ones.Leslie's book recommendations to further explore the topic.The art of being present for loved ones during their final weeks, days, or moments.  If you would like to receive the free infographics and handouts that correspond to each episode on the Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast, please subscribe to our segmented email list. You will have the opportunity to determine the Infographic Topics that you would like to receive. When The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast has a topic that corresponds to your choices, then you will receive an email for that week with the PDF’s for download.Topics you can choose from include: Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthYoga Therapy & Physical HealthSocial Justice in yoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/Ayurveda ToolboxYoga & Indian PhilosophyGlobal & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe Find Leslie Howard:Website: http://lesliehowardyoga.com  Check out Amy's websiteVisit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses865-certified-yoga-therapist-programwww.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com

Opening Summary:Welcome to The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast! Today's episode features a special guest, Libby Walunas from Houston, TX, who brings a unique perspective to the table. Focusing on mental health and self-confidence, Libby discusses the traditional Top-Down approach used in mental health, which involves reprogramming thoughts through methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, Libby introduces a compelling Bottom-Up approach, emphasizing the importance of physiological changes through grounding, centering, and breathing exercises to enhance mental stability and control. This episode promises to be an enlightening exploration of how body and mind can work together to foster self-confidence and mental well-being.Main Discussion Points:Mental Health and Self-Confidence: Understanding the traditional perspectives and challenges.Bottom-Up Approach to Mental Health: Libby's training and perspective on improving mental health by altering body physiology and the felt sense of Be-ing.Grounding Exercises: Techniques and benefits.Centering Exercises: How they contribute to mental stability.Coherent Breathing Exercises: Their role in achieving mental control.The Connection Between Body and Mind: How physical stability leads to mental stability.Overcoming Anxiety: Why thinking alone may not be the solution.Tools for Grounding and Centering: Practical methods Libby uses with her clients.Embodiment and Trust: The journey to trusting oneself, the world, and life's process.Accessing Internal Wisdom: How self-connection enables sharing one's gifts with the world.Neurodiversity and Social Acceptance: Libby's insights on the authenticity and challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals.Closing Summary:In today's insightful episode with Libby Walunas, we delved into the complexities of mental health and self-confidence, challenging conventional approaches. Libby's Bottom-Up approach to feeling better in our skin provides a refreshing and effective way to handle anxiety, lack of confidence and self-doubt. Her tools for grounding and centering, coupled with the concept of embodiment, open new doors to trusting and understanding oneself. Thank you for joining us on The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast. Enjoy the journey!If you would like to receive the free infographics and handouts that correspond to each episode on the Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast, please subscribe to our segmented email list. You will have the opportunity to determine the Infographic Topics that you would like to receive. When The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast has a topic that corresponds to your choices, then you will receive an email for that week with the PDF’s for download.To receive the research study that Libby mentioned in the closing, please choose Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthTopics you can choose from include: Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthYoga Therapy & Physical HealthSocial Justice in yoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/Ayurveda ToolboxYoga & Indian PhilosophyGlobal & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe Find Libby Walunas in the IAYT Directory online:https://www.iayt.org/members/?id=69259366  Check out Amy's website Visit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses 865-certified-yoga-therapist-program www.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com

In today's episode, we dive into the world of holistic healing for brain health with the esteemed Eve Adler. With a rich background spanning healthcare, wellness, and education, Eve brings a holistic approach to health and healing. As a Registered Nurse, Registered Yoga Teacher, Qi Gong Practitioner, and Brain Longevity Specialist, she offers a wealth of knowledge on healthy aging and brain health. Eve offers a unique perspective on nurturing brain longevity and promoting overall health that comes from her training with the Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention Foundation. As the founder of Help People Heal, she has touched many lives through her innovative approach to wellness. Join us as we explore the critical elements of healthy aging and the importance of maintaining brain health throughout our lives.Key Takeaways:·        Holistic Background: Eve combines her experience in nursing, yoga, and Qi Gong to advocate for comprehensive wellness.·        Brain Health: Discussing the 4 pillars of brain health, she emphasizes a plant-based diet and vital supplementation due to soil depletion.·        Cortisol's Impact: Eve explains the negative effects of cortisol on the brain's memory center and offers meditation techniques to help manage stress.·        Spiritual Fitness: She describes the benefits of secular spirituality, including social connections and volunteering, for improving life satisfaction.·        Exercise: Eve advocates for a balance of cardiovascular and strength training alongside mental challenges to keep both the body and brain in peak condition.·        Preventative Measures: The startling revelation that cognitive decline begins 20 years before symptoms encourages early and proactive engagement in brain health practices.This episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to support their brain health proactively. Eve Adler's message is clear: the time to act is now, and by integrating the four pillars of brain health into our daily lives, we not only safeguard our cognitive future but also enhance our present well-being. Her practical advice, from diet to mental exercises, provides a roadmap for aging gracefully and healthily. Don't miss this transformative discussion with one of the leading voices in integrative health.  If you would like to receive the free infographics and handouts that correspond to each episode on the Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast, please subscribe to our segmented email list. You will have the opportunity to determine the Infographic Topics that you would like to receive. When The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast has a topic that corresponds to your choices, then you will receive an email for that week with the PDF’s for download.Topics you can choose from include: Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthYoga Therapy & Physical HealthSocial Justice in yoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/Ayurveda ToolboxYoga & Indian PhilosophyGlobal & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe Find Eve Adler:Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adlereveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/help_people_heal/Website: https://sites.google.com/view/help-people-heal/home?authuser=0 Check out Amy's website Visit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses 865-certified-yoga-therapist-program www.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com

Welcome to a new episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour with your host Amy Wheeler. Today's guest is Kimberly Searl, a TedX speaker and the mind behind Integrative Sustainable Movement. Together, they explore the healing journey of yoga therapy for those facing the tumultuous path of a cancer diagnosis. This heart-to-heart conversation traverses the role of yoga in the face of illness, the power of maintaining inner equilibrium, and life post cancer recovery, even with a persistent gene mutation.·        Meet Kimberly Searl: An introduction to our guest, her background, and her transformative cancer origin story.·        The Role of Yoga Therapy: Discussion on how yoga therapy aids individuals coping with cancer, focusing on the body's natural tendency towards homeostasis.·        Beyond Postures: Conversing about the less used tools and technologies of yoga, such as mindset shifts, deep relaxation techniques, affirmation, mantra, mudra and meditative practices that play a crucial role in cancer care.·        Realistic Outcomes: Evaluating yoga therapy as a complementary treatment to traditional medicine, emphasizing its stress-reducing benefits and empowerment of personal agency.·        Patience and Support: Delving into the difficulties of seeking support, the slow pace of healing, and confronting the reality of one's mortality.·        Reflections on Life Post-Cancer: Insights into the life-altering lessons of a cancer journey, from shifting communication to focusing on self-care and energy conservation.In summary, Amy and Kimberly's dialogue sheds light on the lesser-discussed facets of yoga therapy in the context of serious health challenges. This episode encourages us to rethink the conventional definitions of yoga and embrace its full spectrum of healing potential. As we reflect on the power of yoga to transform and heal, we're reminded of the courage it takes to face one's mortality and the strength found in vulnerability. Tune into this powerful episode for a blend of personal storytelling and practical wisdom that may change your perspective on health and healing. If you would like to receive the free infographics and handouts that correspond to each episode on the Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast, please subscribe to our segmented email list. You will have the opportunity to determine the Infographic Topics that you would like to receive. When The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast has a topic that corresponds to your choices, then you will receive an email for that week with the PDF’s for download.Topics you can choose from include: Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthYoga Therapy & Physical HealthSocial Justice in yoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/Ayurveda ToolboxYoga & Indian PhilosophyGlobal & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe Find Kimberly Searl:https://ism.healthTedX Talk, What is Yoga Therapy? https://www.ted.com/talks/kimberly_searl_what_is_yoga_therapy Check out Amy's website Visit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses 865-certified-yoga-therapist-program www.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com

Introduction:In this special Valentine's Day episode of Yoga Therapy Hour & Beyond, we are thrilled to introduce our guest, Carla Marie Manly, a yoga practitioner and clinical psychologist whose distinctive approach to her work has been transforming lives. Carla's journey into the realm of writing is nothing short of extraordinary—she crafts books inspired by her clients' real-life struggles. Her first masterpiece, "Joy from Fear," initially conceived as a doctoral dissertation, took eight years to evolve into a book tailored for a broader audience. Join us as we explore Carla's unique perspective on Attachment Theory and delve into the concept of "The Joy of Imperfect Love."Segment 1: Writing from Real-Life ExperiencesCarla's unconventional writing method: Drawing inspiration from clients' challenges."Joy from Fear" - Transition from academia to accessible wisdom.The power of storytelling in healing and personal growth.Segment 2: The Joy of Imperfect LoveExploration of "The Joy of Imperfect Love."Rooted in Carla's clinical practice and client experiences.Imperfect love, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and rewiring for better relationships.Embracing wounds and nurturing strengths in relationships.Segment 3: Rewiring for Healthy AttachmentThe process of rewiring our brains for healthier attachments.Replacing shame and blame with curiosity about our wounds and relationship patterns.Self-attunement and attunement to loved ones for secure attachments.Segment 4: Attachment Theory and Self-ReflectionDeep dive into Attachment Theory.Carla's self-reflection exercise: Define love, caregiver definitions, safety, responsiveness, and attention to needs.Determining secure or insecure attachments from early experiences.Understanding how early patterns shape adult relationships.  Topics you can choose from include: Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthYoga Therapy & Physical HealthSocial Justice in yoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/Ayurveda ToolboxYoga & Indian PhilosophyGlobal & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe Check out Amy's website Visit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses 865-certified-yoga-therapist-program www.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com Contact with Carla Marie Manly: https://drcarlamanly.com   www.OpenHandInstitute.comwww.TherapeuticYogaWorks.comwww.NydiasYogaTherapyStudio.com

In this episode, we are delighted to have Kate Holcombe, founder of the Healing Yoga Foundation, as our guest. Kate shares her profound insights on yoga therapy at various stages of life, emphasizing the importance of adapting our yoga practices to meet the evolving needs of each phase. She explores how life's planned and unexpected changes, such as caring for parents, dealing with illness, or going through a divorce, impact our practice. Kate highlights the flexibility of yoga, including the length of practice, timing, and integration into family life. She also reflects on her personal journey, from a college student under the guidance of TKV Desikachar to raising four children and overcoming breast cancer. Kate encourages us to be both accountable and gentle with ourselves in our daily practice, even if it means just one minute a day. Finally, she shares heartwarming stories about her relationship with TKV Desikachar and his wise counsel to prioritize family over asana practice, reminding us that yoga is here to support life, not the other way around.Key Points:Yoga therapy and its adaptability throughout life's stages.Individualized yoga therapy practices and how they can be used.Adapting practices to meet the changing needs brought by life's challenges.Flexibility in yoga practice, including duration, timing, and integration into daily life.Kate's personal journey, from her college days with TKV Desikachar to overcoming breast cancer.The importance of self-accountability and self-compassion in daily practice.Stories of Kate's relationship with TKV Desikachar and his emphasis on family first over a rigid daily practice.Flexibility is key to helping us to connect to our authentic Self.Kate Holcombe's insights into yoga therapy and its application across life's various stages are a source of inspiration for anyone on a yogic journey. Her emphasis on adapting our practice to life's changing circumstances and the wisdom of prioritizing family and self-care is a reminder that yoga is a dynamic and compassionate practice. Whether you have just one minute or an hour a day, Kate's words encourage us to embrace yoga as a support system for life, rather than a rigid routine. Join us in this episode to gain a deeper understanding of how yoga can be a guiding light through the twists and turns of our life's journey. If you would like to receive the free infographics and handouts that correspond to each episode on the Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast, please subscribe to our segmented email list. You will have the opportunity to determine the Infographic Topics that you would like to receive. When The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast has a topic that corresponds to your choices, then you will receive an email for that week with the PDF’s for download.Topics you can choose from include: Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthYoga Therapy & Physical HealthSocial Justice in yoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/Ayurveda ToolboxYoga & Indian PhilosophyGlobal & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe Check out Amy's website Visit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses 865-certified-yoga-therapist-program www.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com

In this captivating episode, we are joined by the insightful Spring Washam, who takes us on a transformative journey through the realms of yoga, meditation, plant medicine, and ancestral connections. Spring's path to self-realization began with profound books like "Autobiography of a Yogi" and "Man's Eternal Quest for Meaning," but her personal journey was marked by hardship, witnessing suffering, addiction, and trauma. She found solace and liberation in the practices of yoga and meditation, learning to distance herself from the stories of her own mind. A pivotal three-month meditation retreat in 2007 shattered her old self, leading to newfound freedom from self-hatred, attachments, negative thinking, and habitual patterns. Her exploration took her to the mountains of California, where she encountered Ayahuasca and experienced profound healing. This experience led her to South America, where she learned from Indigenous elders, becoming a shaman herself. Through plant medicine journeys, Spring discovered that our ancestors live within us, and by healing ourselves, we can heal generations that came before and after us. Her journey also led to the creation of "The Spirit of Harriet Tubman," a book that is now helping countless people heal ancestral wounds and find their life purpose.Bullet Points:Spring Washam's journey from reading spiritual books to finding relief from suffering through yoga and meditation.The realization that identifying with one's thoughts can lead to suffering and how meditation helps create a gap for self-awareness.Transformative experience during a challenging three-month meditation retreat in 2007.Liberation from self-hatred, attachments, negative thinking, and habitual patterns of the mind.Exploration of Ayahuasca and healing old wounds, leading to Spring's training as a shaman.Understanding the connection between ancestral healing and plant medicine journeys.The idea that healing ourselves can bring peace to our ancestors and future generations.Spring Washam's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the creation of "The Spirit of Harriet Tubman."How "The Spirit of Harriet Tubman" is helping people heal ancestral wounds and discover their life purpose.Join us on this illuminating episode with Spring Washam as she shares her profound journey of self-discovery, healing, and connecting with our ancestors. Through the powerful practices of yoga, meditation, and plant medicine, Spring reminds us that we can transform our lives and heal generations that came before and after us. Her work, including "The Spirit of Harriet Tubman," serves as an inspiring testament to the possibility of profound healing and the fulfillment of life's purpose. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insight into the remarkable journey of Spring Washam and the wisdom she offers to those seeking a deeper connection with themselves and their ancestors.If you would like to receive the free infographics and handouts that correspond to each episode on the Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast, please subscribe to our segmented email list. You will have the opportunity to determine the Infographic Topics that you would like to receive. When The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast has a topic that corresponds to your choices, then you will receive an email for that week with the PDF’s for download.Topics you can choose from include: Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthYoga Therapy & Physical HealthSocial Justice in yoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/Ayurveda ToolboxYoga & Indian PhilosophyGlobal & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe Check out Amy's website Visit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses 865-certified-yoga-therapist-program www.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com

Introduction: Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour! I'm your host, Amy Wheeler, and today, we have a truly special guest joining us. Nydia Tijerina-Darby, a experienced Integrative Physical Therapist, Yoga Therapist, and Therapeutic Yoga Teacher, will be sharing her wealth of knowledge and insights on the topic of spinal health, particularly low back pain.Episode Highlights:The Global Impact of Low Back Pain (LBP):In 2020, LBP affected a staggering 619 million people worldwide.Predictions estimate that this number will soar to 843 million cases by 2050, driven primarily by population growth and aging.LBP is recognized as the leading cause of disability globally, making it a crucial area for rehabilitation.Holistic Approach to Healing:Nydia Darby emphasizes her holistic approach to working with clients.She discusses how she conducts comprehensive assessments and utilizes therapeutic sun salutations for evaluation and treatment planning.The importance of assessing and teaching proper breathing techniques is highlighted in her methodology.Breath, Movement, and Meditation:Nydia explains how the integration of breath and movement can transition into a      meditative state, aiding in pain management.She shares her insights on addressing spirituality with clients who express an interest in discussing this aspect of healing.The Power of Community:Nydia stresses the significance of community support in the healing process.She offers both online yoga classes and in-person sessions at her studio in San Antonio, TX, fostering a sense of belonging and encouragement among her clients.The Role of the Nervous System:Nydia dispels the misconception that MRI scans are the sole indicators of chronic pain.She explains that pain resides not only in the physical structures but also in the nervous system and brain.Nydia outlines how breathing practices can effectively regulate the autonomic nervous system.Three Pillars of Health:Nydia shares her wisdom on what she believes makes the healthiest individuals.She identifies three key elements: a positive outlook, an active lifestyle ith ample movement, and having a higher purpose in life.Closing Thoughts: Thank you for tuning in to The Yoga Therapy Hour with our special guest, Nydia Darby. Her profound insights into therapeutic yoga for low back pain and holistic healing approaches have been truly enlightening. Remember, your journey to a healthier life can start with a breath and a step towards a more positive outlook.If you would like to receive the free infographics and handouts that correspond to each episode on the Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast, please subscribe to our segmented email list. You will have the opportunity to determine the Infographic Topics that you would like to receive. When The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast has a topic that corresponds to your choices, then you will receive an email for that week with the PDF’s for download.Topics you can choose from include:Yoga Therapy & Mental HealthYoga Therapy & Physical HealthSocial Justice in yoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/Ayurveda ToolboxYoga & Indian PhilosophyGlobal & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribeCheck out Amy's websiteVisit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses865-certified-yoga-therapist-programwww.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.comContact with Nydia Tijerina-Darby:www.OpenHandInstitute.comwww.TherapeuticYogaWorks.comwww.NydiasYogaTherapyStudio.com

Amy Wheeler shares her thoughts on self-doubt and the importance of trust, and faith in oneself and in higher forces. She emphasizes that building self-belief involves the ability to overcome tough situations, and to listen to our inner voices that affirm our potential.·        Power of Daily Practice: Amy highlights the benefits of a regular yoga practice, using examples from students who've found greater clarity, self-awareness, and life perspective through consistent engagement with yoga. This practice helps to nurture a connection to self.·        Building a Foundation with Ayurveda: Ayurveda, with its focus on herbs, diet and lifestyle changes, can provide a strong foundation for the journey of yoga, making it accessible to individuals dealing with life's challenges.·        Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome: Using a personal anecdote from a women's workshop, Amy demonstrates how even successful individuals can struggle with self-doubt and imposter syndrome.·        Expression of Self-Doubt: Amy discusses an exercise where participants wrote down their thoughts during their introductions. This revealed shared feelings of self-doubt, which, when expressed openly, resulted in shared laughter and an understanding that self-doubt is a common human experience.·        Self-Doubt and Yoga Therapy: In her yoga therapy sessions, Amy often encounters clients who identify self-doubt as a primary obstacle. This underscores the importance of discussing strategies to overcome it.·        Using Patanjali's Yoga Sutra to Overcome Self-Doubt: Amy uses Patanjali's Yoga Sutra as a guide to overcome self-doubt. The Sutras serve as a reminder of our potential and the importance of conviction and trust in ourselves, our support systems, and the universe at large.·        Moving Forward: The episode concludes with the promise to further explore how yoga and Patanjali's Yoga Sutra can aid in overcoming self-doubt, building self-belief, and achieving a more fulfilling life.This episode explores the themes of self-doubt, trust, faith, and the transformative power of yoga. It is about recognizing and addressing our inner voices of doubt, while harnessing our inherent potential and strength. It's a journey of building new neural pathways and using the philosophy of Patanjali's Yoga Sutra to develop conviction about our potential and life path.

Introduction: Welcome back to another enlighteningepisode of "The Yoga Therapy Hour." Today, we're delving deep intothe world of yoga and self-acceptance with our special guest, Nyk Danu. Nyk isa yoga practitioner and therapist with a unique focus on helping those who feellike they don't quite fit into mainstream yoga circles – the misfits of theworld. Nyk's journey started with anxiety and back pain, and she's nowdedicated to assisting others on their paths to self-discovery and healing.Segment 1: Embracing the Misfits Nyk Danu introducesherself and her mission, emphasizing her affinity for working with the"Yoga MisFits" – a community of individuals who don't feel at home intraditional yoga environments. Nyk shares her personal experience of initiallydoubting yoga's appeal, only to be pleasantly surprised by the sense ofembodiment it brought and the alleviation of her anxiety. She describes howothers who feel like outsiders in the yoga world are naturally drawn to her.Segment 2: The Practice of Non-Judgment In thissegment, Nyk and the host, Amy, engage in a deep discussion aboutself-awareness and the practice of non-judgment. They explore how meditationand asana practice can help individuals recognize their assumptions andexpectations, both about themselves and others. Nyk encourages listeners tostep back and find humor in their own judgments while learning to let go of thestories they create in their minds about people.Segment 3: The "Come as You Are" Mentality Nyk Danushares her philosophy of the "Come as You Are" mentality in her yogaclasses. She discusses the importance of allowing individuals to be themselves,even if that means simply resting on their yoga mats during class. Nykemphasizes the value of listening, leaning in, and discovering what makes eachperson unique and different.Segment 4: Cancel Culture and Cultivating Curiosity Amy and Nykdive into a thought-provoking conversation about cancel culture and its impacton the yoga community and society as a whole. They reflect on their ownexperiences of facing cancelation from yoga teachers and how they emerged fromrejection stronger. Instead of canceling others, they encourage curiosity,questioning, and challenging one's own beliefs to foster greater understandingand connection with those who have different perspectives.Conclusion: In this episode of "The Yoga TherapyHour," Nyk Danu has illuminated the path to self-acceptance, embracingmisfits, and challenging our judgments in the world of yoga and beyond. As wereflect on the transformative power of yoga and the importance of curiosity andcompassion, let us strive to be more open-minded and accepting of others,recognizing that we are all imperfect, flawed humans on our own uniquejourneys. Thank you for joining us today, and remember, you don't have to fitin to find your place in the world of yoga.  Topicsyou can choose from include: Yoga Therapy &Mental HealthYoga Therapy &Physical HealthSocial Justice inyoga & Yoga TherapyYoga/AyurvedaToolboxYoga & IndianPhilosophyGlobal &Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the linkbelow to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe Checkout Amy'swebsiteVisitAmy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses865-certified-yoga-therapist-programwww.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com Contactwith Nyk Danu: www.nykdanu.com