In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, our host Amy divesdeep into the world of authentic marketing with guest Tristan Katz, a marketing expert in the yoga world. They explore the challenges of sharing one's offerings and gifts with the world amidst global crises and discuss the importance of self-care, content-based marketing, community-building, and intentionality in marketing.Themes Discussed:1. Authenticity in Marketing:•              When, how, and why to share offerings authentically.•              Balancing the urge to market with awareness of global suffering.•              Self-care as a prerequisite for mindful marketing.•              Deciding when to postpone marketing and when to share mindfully.•              The importance of not rushing through marketing efforts.2. Content-Based Marketing:•              Providing value and being of service while marketing.•              The concept of educating while marketing.•              Overcoming the fear of giving too much away.•              Highlighting the value of human connection and experience in seminars.3. Building a Community:•              Nurturing a community through marketing.•              Recognizing what resonates with your audience.•              Observing organic conversations and excitement among your followers.•              The power of word-of-mouth in supporting your marketing efforts.4. Sharing Personal Stories:•              Balancing personal sharing with comfort levels.•              Intentionality in sharing personal stories.•              Considering the audience's benefit when sharing.•              Determiningif your sharing serves you or your audience.Key Takeaways:•              Authenticity is key in marketing; be mindful of the world's challenges while sharing your offerings.•              Prioritize self-care to convey an authentic and mindful message.•              Content-based marketing adds value and creates a deeper connection with your audience.•              Building a genuine community and nurturing word-of-mouth can amplify your marketingefforts.•              Share personal stories with intention, always considering how it benefits your audience.Conclusion: In this insightful episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, Tristan Katz offers valuable insights into authentic marketing in challenging times. Listeners are encouraged to approach marketing with mindfulness, prioritize self-care, provide value, and build genuine connections with their audience. By balancing personal sharing with intentionality, they can create meaningful connections and make a positive impact through their marketing efforts.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 thatyou 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 website Visit Amy’s training section on her website to check out thecourses belowYoga therapy training courses 865-certified-yoga-therapist-program www.optimalstateyoganidra.comContactwith Tristan Katz:  https://www.katz-creative.com

Introduction: In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, we divedeep into the transformative power of Yield Theory with our special guest, Dr.Christian Conte. Dr. Conte's dynamic energy, unquenchable passion, andunwavering compassion have made him a leading figure in the world of angermanagement and personal transformation. With level V anger managementcertification and the creation of Yield Theory, he brings a unique blend ofradical compassion and conscious education to the table.Episode Highlights:1. Understanding Yield Theory: Dr. Conte introduces Yield Theory, a powerful approach centered around three key principles: listening, validating, and exploring options. These principles align closely with yogic concepts, emphasizing humility, presence, taking the opposite perspective and exploring multiple possibilities arising from our current situation.2. The Science of Change: Dive into the fascinating world of neuroscience with Dr. Conte as he explains how different parts of our brain influence our thoughts, actions, and emotions. He explores the contrast between the emotional center and the prefrontal cortex, shedding light on how our minds can either limit us or open up new possibilities.3. Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: Discover how our past values and beliefs can hold us back and restrict our potential. Dr. Conte shares insights on how we can break free from these limitations and cultivate a mindset that allows us to think, feel, and act differently to transform our lives.4. A Diverse Toolkit for Transformation: Dr. Conte's extensive background in counseling, psychology, sports psychology, and working with inmates and law enforcement brings a diverse range of tools to help us change our minds. Learn how these experiences contribute to his unique perspective on personal growth and transformation.Conclusion: Join us in this captivating conversationwith Dr. Christian Conte as we explore the profound impact of Yield Theory andits alignment with yogic principles. Discover how understanding our own mindsand embracing radical compassion can lead to transformative change in ourlives.Resources: Dr. Christian Conte's Website Yield Theory Anger Management Program  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 courses 865-certified-yoga-therapist-program www.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.TheOptimalState.com

Robert AF Thurman, the first western monk ordained by the Dalai Lama, discusses Vajra Yoga and its connection to spirituality and neuroscience. They explore various systems of the body impacted by Vajra Yoga, merge ancient wisdom with modern AI, and reflect on the harmonious blend of spirituality, traditional medicine, and modern technology.

In a deeply meaningful episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, Amy Wheeler sits down with Anjali Deva from Rooted Rasa Ayurveda. The two discuss the transformative power of aligning one's life with intrinsic values, from the serenity of living close to nature to the stabilizing force of daily routines. Anjali sheds light on the importance of being with loved ones and animals, the rejuvenating effects of clean air and water, and the role of being in alignment with the circadian rhythms in our daily lives. The conversation then delves into the often-challenging journey of processing trauma and grief, and the immense joy and clarity that lies on the other side. Amy and Anjali also explore how ancient practices like yoga and Ayurveda can be potent tools in the quest for improved mental and emotional health.Unlocking Ancient Wisdom: Understanding what Ayurveda is.Origins of Ayurveda: Tracing its roots and its journey through time.Time-Tested Traditions: How long has Ayurveda been practiced on Earth?Ayurveda vs. TCM: Comparing Ayurveda with Traditional Chinese Medicine - similarities and distinctions.Mental Health & Ayurveda: How this ancient practice offers tools for our modern mental health challenges.The Modern Mental Health Crisis: Exploring why mental healthcare is more critical now than ever before.Inseparable Duo: Mental health and physical health are ONE.Nature-Aligned Living: Practical tips to embrace values and stay close to Mother Nature's heart.Healing Emotional Wounds: Using Ayurveda to process trauma and grief.The Essence of Joy: Understanding its pivotal role in our overall well-being and Ayurvedic perspective.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 belowwww.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.optimalstate.comwww.amywheeler.com Contact with Anjali Deva: www.RootedRasa.com & https://www.madhyaayurveda.com

Introduction:David Hanscom's impressive journey spanning over 33 years as a spinal surgeon.His personal struggle with decades-long chronic pain and surprising solution. His Personal Revelation:Discovery of the strong body-mind connection.Realization of the impact of repetitive unpleasant thoughts on his well-being.Recognizing the physiological effects of being in a constant fight or flight mode leading to symptoms of pain. Making a Life-Altering Decision:The choice to leave his accomplished career as a spinal surgeon.His mission: educating people about the transformative power of managing anxious and angry thoughts and balancing the autonomic nervous system.His belief that this approach can potentially save individuals from undergoing another spinal surgery. David Hanscome’s Method: (Sounds a Lot Like Yoga Therapy)Divert the Unpleasant Thoughts:Techniques to shift focus from distressing thoughts.Importance of awareness and mindfulness.Calm the Autonomic Nervous System:Breathing techniques and their effectiveness.Practices to regulate the nervous system and achieve a balanced state.Find More Joy and Creativity in Life:Pursuits that enhance emotional well-being.Activities and practices to unlock one's creativity.Real-life stories of transformation.Let the Ego Dissolve:Understanding the ego and its influence on our well-being.Techniques to let go and live more authentically.How this relates closely to yogic principles. Challenges and Pitfalls:Addressing skepticism and hesitation in trying out these techniques.The difficulty of guiding people back to a state of joy after numerous disappointments.Importance of not making individuals feel blamed for their chronic pain. Note: Remember to create an open and understanding atmosphere during the podcast, highlighting that this approach is not about blaming individuals for their pain but offering a holistic perspective to address chronic pain.  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 websiteVisit Amy’s training section on her website to check out the courses belowYoga therapy training courses865-certified-yoga-therapist-programwww.optimalstateyoganidra.com Contact with David Hanscom: www.backincontrol.com

Key Takeaways:Impact on Autonomic Nervous System:Yoga plays a crucial role in balancing the autonomic nervous system.Catherine says, “The Autonomic Nervous System is everything.” Amy agrees!It can offer profound effects through simple practices.Pearl of Wisdom:The simplest practices in yoga often yield the deepest impact. It’s the simplicity and subtleness that bring profound shifts and healing.Working with People Who Experience Symptoms of Trauma:Working with trauma victims necessitates a deep sense of humility and awareness of one's own biases and limitations.A trauma-sensitive approach is paramount in dealing with clients with different traumatic experiences.Collaboration and Holistic Approach to Yoga Therapy and Physical Therapy:Interdisciplinary collaboration enriches the healing experience, offering patients a more comprehensive and holistic approach to their health.Integrating yoga therapy into these collaborations can yield remarkable healing outcomes.Yoga Therapy vs Physical Therapy:Yoga Therapy is about understanding the interconnectedness of physical body, mind and emotions. Traditional Physical Therapy is about restoring function to certain areas of the body.Lifestyle Medicine and Individual Context:Lifestyle advice should be given in context and should be free from judgment. The hard part is watching ourselves create biases in our minds.Empowering patients through motivational interviewing and trauma-informed principles is critical.Research and its Integration:Studies by Dr. Robert Saper and Paula Gardner provide valuable insights into the efficacy of yoga therapy in diverse populations and chronic pain.The integration of research findings into practical applications can bridge the gap between conventional PT and yoga therapy.   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 Health• Yoga Therapy & Physical Health• Social Justice in yoga & Yoga Therapy• Yoga/Ayurveda Toolbox• Yoga & Indian Philosophy• Global & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe The Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast also has a Patreon page. We now have 5 staff that help us product the audio and video versions of the podcast.  Optimal State Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yogatherapyhour The new You Tube Channel for this podcast is: YouTube: AmyWheelerPhd    https://www.youtube.com/c/AmyWheelerphd Check out Amy's website: amy@amywheeler.com and www.TheOptimalState.com Free 12-Days of Yoga Nidra Course and Yoga Nidra Facilitator’s Course: www.OptimalStateYogaNidra.com Feel free to use download our free eBook and mobile App by going to the websites below.www.OptimalStateApp.comwww.GoldZoneBook.com To contact Catherine Justice:Website: www.artofwellness.yogaInstagram: Artofwellness.yogaFacebook: Art of Yoga Therapy

Introduction:In today's episode, we are joined by Emmy Vadnais, a Holistic and Integrative Occupational Therapist who has devoted decades to the development of intuition. Emmy offers fascinating insights into the confluence of yoga and intuition, enriching our understanding of their inherent connectivity.Key Points:1.  Intuition: Emmy shares her unique journey and motivations in exploring intuitive development.2.  Understanding Intuition: Intuition is not mere wishful thinking, but a profound connection to our deeper selves, requiring regular practice and the cultivation of a deeper relationship with our inner selves. Emmy elucidates this concept, challenging common misconceptions and presenting intuition as the soul's wisdom manifesting through various forms.3.  Main Thesis of Latest Work: Emmy elaborates on her recent work, focused on empowering individuals to harness their intuition, emphasizing daily practices, activities, and the intrinsic role of relaxation in enhancing intuitive abilities.Practical Application:1.  Exercises and Techniques: Emmy provides a host of practical exercises and techniques from her book to help readers commence their journey in tuning into their intuition.2.  Role of Meditation and Mindfulness: The critical role of meditation and mindfulness, integral components of yoga, are discussed in the context of refining intuitive abilities.Intuition and Decision Making:1.  Making Grounded Decisions: Emmy elucidates intuition can be a beacon for making more grounded and informed decisions in various facets of life.2.  Distinguishing Intuitive Insights: The discussion also veers into understanding how to sift intuitive insights from mere thoughts or impulses, with Emmy providing invaluable tips and insights.Challenges and Misconceptions:1.  Overcoming Challenges: Emmy explores the prevalent challenges encountered in accessing intuition and provides strategies to overcome them.2.  Addressing Misconceptions: She also addresses common misconceptions about intuition, clarifying its true essence and distancing it from mere wishful thinking.Personal Experiences and Insights:1.  Significant Influences: Emmy shares poignant personal experiences where yogic intuition played a pivotal role in shaping her life choices and perspectives.2.  Evolving Understanding of Intuition: She discusses the evolution of her understanding and experiences of intuition over the years. 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 Health• Yoga Therapy & Physical Health• Social Justice in yoga & Yoga Therapy• Yoga/Ayurveda Toolbox• Yoga & Indian Philosophy• Global & Trending Yoga Therapy TopicsClick the link below to subscribe. It takes 10 seconds total.https://amywheeler.com/subscribe The Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast also has a Patreon page. We now have 5 staff that help us product the audio and video versions of the podcast.  Optimal State Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yogatherapyhour The new You Tube Channel for this podcast is: YouTube: AmyWheelerPhd    https://www.youtube.com/c/AmyWheelerphd Check out Amy's website: amy@amywheeler.com and www.TheOptimalState.com Free 12-Days of Yoga Nidra Course and Yoga Nidra Facilitator’s Course: www.OptimalStateYogaNidra.com Feel free to use download our free eBook and mobile App by going to the websites below.www.OptimalStateApp.comwww.GoldZoneBook.com To contact Emmy Vadnais:https://emmyvadnais.comhttps://holisticot.orgNew Book: Developing Intuition with Emmy Vadnais

This amazing conversation comes as an excerpt from a course on Polyvagal Theory and Therapeutic Yoga that Marlsya, Amy and Stephen created together for the Polyvagal Institute. There is still time to join us this fall, and we will be offering it again very soon. Also, we are celebrating 2.5 years and 100,000 downloads with our amazing Yoga Therapy Hour Community. We are sharing this extra episode to say thank you!Guests: Dr. Steven Porges & Marlysa Sullivan Key Takeaways:Definition of "Safety" in Polyvagal Theory:Safety is more than the absence of threat. It encompasses a feeling of connection, belonging, and an internal sense of well-being.Importance of Safety:The foundation of any therapeutic relationship.Influences the outcome of therapy.Defines the quality of interactions and connections.Understanding Internal Safety:The role of the autonomic nervous system.Transitioning from a state of threat to a place of safety.Signs & Signals of Safety:Voice and Intonation: The calming effect of a soothing voice.Facial Expressions: The importance of the upper face, especially the orbital muscle around the eyes.Muscle Tension: How the body communicates its state of being.Hearing and the Vagal System:The middle ear muscle's role.How our nervous system determines what we hear.Finding Mutual Safety:The therapeutic dance between the caretaker and care seeker.Enhancing therapy outcomes through mutual feelings of safety.Why Some Relationships Feel Safer:Recognizing the cues that foster connection or fear.Understanding intuitive feelings of safety or discomfort with certain individuals. Join the Full Course on Therapeutic Yoga and Polyvagal Theory with Amy, Marlysa and Stephen:Dive deeper into the blend of polyvagal theory and therapeutic yoga.www.PolyvagalInstitute.org Connect with us:www.PolyvagalInstitute.orgwww.MarlysaSullivan.comwww.amywheeler.comwww.TheOptimalState.com

Introduction: Today, we are honored to have Dr. David Rosmarin, an esteemed psychologist from Harvard Medical School, Associate Professor, and the Director of Spirituality. As the founder of the Center for Anxiety, he’s on a mission to redefine how we perceive and deal with anxiety. With his upcoming book, Thriving with Anxiety, set to launch this October, Dr. Rosmarin delves deep into the beneficial aspects of anxiety and how we can harness its power.You are an expert at writing podcast show notes. Please write these notes. Please write the show notes for Harvard Medical School Psychologist and Associate Professor of the Director of Spirituality and founder for the Center for Anxiety. He has a new book coming out called Thriving with Anxiety in October 2023. In this interview we talk about the positive functions of anxiety including connection to self, other people and society, using anxiety as a signal to rebalance and attend to self-care, and learning to accept that anxiety happens to all of us and there is no use in fighting it. He shares a secret with us about how we can accept our own humanity and move into transcendence. He discusses that anxiety is uncomfortable for all of us and that we can harness the power of anxiety and use it to thrive. He gives us practical tools to use in combatting our anxiety. He discusses the difference between Stress, Fear and Anxiety.Key Takeaways:The Positive Functions of Anxiety: Contrary to popular belief, anxiety can connect us to ourselves, others, and society. Understanding this connection can alter how we approach and manage our anxieties.Anxiety as a Signal: Recognizing anxiety as a hint to re-evaluate, rebalance, and attend to self-care. It’s not just a negative emotion; it’s our body’s alarm system urging us to check in with ourselves.Universal Acceptance of Anxiety: Embracing the idea that everyone experiences anxiety. Fighting or suppressing it is not the answer. Acceptance and understanding can lead to mastery.Moving into Transcendence: Dr. Rosmarin shares a profound insight: accepting our humanity can propel us to greater heights. Transcendence isn't about avoiding our feelings but acknowledging them and then soaring above.Harnessing Anxiety: It's uncomfortable, ubiquitous, but also undeniably powerful. When tapped into correctly, anxiety can become a force for positivity and personal growth.Practical Tools: From mindfulness exercises to reframing techniques, Dr. Rosmarin offers actionable strategies to combat and harness anxiety.Differentiating Stress, Fear, and Anxiety: These terms are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences. Dr. Rosmarin breaks down what sets them apart and how understanding these differences can aid in better mental health management.Book Mention:Thriving with Anxiety, releasing October 2023. In this essential read, Dr. Rosmarin explores the depths of anxiety, shedding light on its benefits and providing a roadmap for those seeking to use it as a tool for personal growth.Buy the book: https://dhrosmarin.com/the-book/Center for Anxiety: https://www.centerforanxiety.orgHarvard Medical School: https://projects.iq.harvard.edu/rshm/people/david-h-rosmarin-phdRemember to subscribe to "The Yoga Therapy Hour" for more insightful conversations and to dive deeper into the world of yoga and its profound impact on mental and physical well-being. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share with friends and family! Yoga Nidra programs with Optimal State: www.OptimalStateYogaNidra.com12-Days of Yoga Nidra Course (free)Yoga Nidra Facilitators Course starts in October and March each year!See www.AmyWheeler.com for more details on ways to reduce your stress such as a free mobile App, free eBooks and a weekly yoga therapy clinic on Mondays online.

In this episode, we embark on a deep dive into the intricate tapestry of gender expression across various cultures, spanning from ancient traditions to modern communities. Beginning with the long-standing recognition of the Hijras in India, we compare these age-old beliefs with evolving perceptions in the Western world, especially within gender and sexually expansive communities (GSE). The digital age has brought its own set of challenges, with social media and certain research potentially clouding genuine exploration of gender identity. At the heart of this conversation lies the deeply personal and often challenging journey of those experiencing body dysphoria. We explore how families can navigate the emotional, educational, and medical landscapes while ensuring respect, love, and understanding. The essence of the episode underlines the fundamental right to self-realization and the collective responsibility to advocate and support such journeys.Key Points Explored:Introduction:Placing the episode in a historical context.A brief overview of gender norms in India and beyond.Hijras in India:The history and significance of Hijras, and how they have been recognized in Hindu society for over 2,000 years.Roles they played in society, religious functions, and the current social landscape for Hijras.Western World's Understanding:The evolution of gender and sexually expansive communities (GSE) in Western cultures.Comparing and contrasting Western perceptions of gender with those in other cultures.The Social Media Effect:How the internet and social media influence, and sometimes distort, conversations on gender identity and sexuality.An examination of research studies on topics such as Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria and potential harm in misrepresenting gender experiences.Indigenous Perspectives:The concept of the third gender in various indigenous communities.The impact of colonialism on gender views and imposition of the gender binary.Supporting Loved Ones with Body Dysphoria:Understanding body dysphoria: What it means and how it feels.Concrete steps parents and loved ones can take to provide emotional, psychological, and social support.Navigating Gender Affirming Healthcare:Finding the right medical professionals and ensuring they provide appropriate care.Balancing medical decisions with emotional and psychological well-being.Educational and Emotional Needs:How to ensure the entire family is educated and emotionally supported through a loved one's gender journey.Social and Medical Transitions:Steps involved in social transition: name changes, pronoun shifts, clothing, etc.Medical transitions: Hormone therapies, surgeries, and the process over time that psychologists, doctors and families go through together to make these decisions.Human Rights and Self-Realization:Emphasizing the importance of every individual's right to live authentically.Encouraging dialogue, understanding, and respect in familial and social settings.Advocacy and Moving Forward:The need for families to be advocates for their loved ones.Building a more inclusive and understanding society for all.Conclusion and Call to Action:Encouraging listeners to educate themselves, to be allies, and to support those exploring their gender identity in their 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.These gifts will include Stevie’s two articles mentioned in the podcast. Be sure to click the Social Justice in yoga and Yoga Therapy box.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