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

Episode Summary: This enlightening episode dives deep into the fascinating journey of yoga and Indian philosophy in America, discussing the influence of notable figures and movements and addressing important contemporary questions about cultural appreciation and adaptation.Topics Covered:1.   Introduction to Phil Goldberg - The mind behind "American Veda."2.   Yoga’s Early Ties to America:Influence of writers like Thoreau and Emerson.Their studies of the Bhagavad Gita, meditation, and karma.3.   The Rise of Unity Churches:Examining the Indian philosophical foundations of movements like Science of Mind and Christian Science.4.   Notable Personalities and Their Trysts with Yoga:Nikola Tesla’s relationship with Swami Vivekananda.The founders of AA, Bill W, and their connection to the Oxford Group.5.   Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation:A deep dive into the complexities of adopting, adapting, and integrating teachings from one culture into another.The importance of maintaining authenticity and integrity.6.   Adapting Yoga for Modern Times:How can we stay true to the roots of yoga while making it relevant and accessible to today's audience?The challenges and pitfalls of distorting or corrupting original teachings.7.   Why America was Primed for Indian Philosophy:Exploring the vacuum that existed for introspective and esoteric methods.The American yearning for inner experiences, transcendence, union with the divine, and a profound inner knowing.Key Takeaways:Yoga and Indian philosophy have deep roots in American culture, shaping thought leaders and movements across the centuries.The journey of adopting and integrating these teachings into Western society brings with it challenges and responsibilities.It's essential to approach these teachings with respect, understanding, and authenticity, honoring their origins while making them accessible to new audiences.Closing Thoughts: The episode wraps up with reflections on the continued relevance of yoga and Indian philosophy in modern America, emphasizing the balance between honoring tradition and innovating for the future.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: Polyvagal Theory and Yoga 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.com Contact with Phil Goldberg:www.PhilipGoldberg.comBooks: Spiritual Practice for Crazy TimesAmerican VedaThe Life of YoganandaRoadsigns on the Spiritual PathThis is Next YearThe Intuitive EdgeCreating MagicGet Out of Your Own WayThe Best That I Can Be

In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, we journey into the essence of the therapeutic alliance in physiotherapy. The discussion revolves around five primary attributes and four nuanced sub-themes of the therapeutic alliance. While the episode emphasizes the personal connection and communication between therapist and patient, it also introduces the fascinating intersection of ancient yoga wisdom and contemporary science. We delve into the co-regulation of our nervous system and how traditional concepts like Kavaca resonate with our understanding of heart rate variability and its influence on our sense of safety.Key Points Explored:Introduction to the Therapeutic AllianceWhat is the therapeutic alliance?Why is it essential in physiotherapy and yoga therapy? Conceptualising the Therapeutic Alliance in Physiotherapy: A Deep DiveResearch conducted by Søndenå, Dalusio-King, and Hebron. Five Master Attribute Themes Explored:Seeing the person: Recognizing the individual behind the symptoms. Personalized care and building trust. Sharing the journey: Walking side by side with the patient, acknowledging the mutual collaboration in the healing process. Communication: The critical role of effective communication in physiotherapy. The impact on recovery and mental well-being. Therapeutic space: Importance of creating a safe, comforting environment where patients feel seen and heard. Fostering autonomy: Empowering patients to take charge of their healing journey. The significance of self-care. Four Sub-themes Explored:Giving of self: How therapists provide not just their skills but their humanity to the healing process. Legitimizing the experience: Validating the patient's experiences, feelings, and pain.Physiotherapist characteristics matter: Highlighting the essential qualities of a therapist that can make or break the therapeutic alliance. Interpersonal collaboration: The balance of give and take between therapist and patient. Co-regulation of the Autonomic Nervous System:The role of the caretaker-care seeker relationship.How the dynamic influences overall well-being.Neuroception, Heart Rate Variability, and Vagal Tone:The link between these parameters and the therapeutic alliance.How they impact our perception of safety and threats.Ancient Teachings of Kavaca:Brief exploration of the concept of Kavaca in yoga traditions.How it might be related to modern-day understanding of the therapeutic alliance.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.comConceptualisation of the therapeutic alliance in physiotherapy: is it adequate?   Pub Med Article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32217276/

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour! Today, we delve deep into the intricacies of our body's systems with the master of pain management, Dr. Perry Nickelston. Through his expansive knowledge and experience, Dr. Nickelston demystifies the often-overlooked lymphatic system, illustrating its vital role in maintaining our overall health and wellbeing. This episode is a gold mine for those seeking holistic ways to alleviate chronic pain, autoimmune diseases, and inflammation.Episode Highlights:🌊 How the lymph system functions in our body.A deep dive into the body's waste management system.❤️‍🩹 Lymph & Circulatory System: The dynamic duo of detoxification.How these two systems work hand in hand for optimal health.🌬️ The wonders of deep abdominal breathing.Benefits and techniques for lymphatic health.🚫 The consequences of waste buildup.Inflammation, pain, and the importance of effective waste removal.🚽 Lymph nodes explained: Our body's mini-toilets.Understanding the significance and functionality of these nodes.💪 The Big 6 exercises to boost lymph movement.A step-by-step guide to unclog and rejuvenate your body. #StopChasingPain #LymphaticHealth #DeepBreathingBenefits#ChronicPainRelief #NaturalDetox #TheBig6ExercisesJoin us on this transformative journey with Dr. Nickelston and uncover the secrets to a healthier, pain-free life. 🌿🧘‍♀️🌟 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: Polyvagal Theory and Yoga Therapy (free eBook)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 Nidra Facilitator’s course: www.OptimalStateYogaNidra.comYoga therapy training courses @ www.AmyWheeler.com865-certified-yoga-therapist-program  Resources from Dr. Perry Nickelstonwww.stopchasingpain.comInstagram- StopChasingPainYou Tube Video of how to perform the Big 6: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlgqllPKQUA

Amy is thrilled to welcome Carol Krucoff from the Duke University Integrative Medical Center. In this illuminating episode, we journey through Carol's inspiring personal and professional path that led her to pioneer the yoga program at the renowned medical center. As she unveils the story behind the successful launch of the Integrative Yoga for Seniors Professional Training at Duke, we delve deeper into the transformative power of yoga. Carol passionately champions yoga as the secret to delayed aging, offering insights into its myriad benefits—from physical attributes like improved strength, endurance, and flexibility to its profound impact on emotional health. We also explore compelling research on yoga's positive effects on various health conditions. However, with its benefits come cautionary tales; Carol sheds light on the risks older adults might encounter in yoga and offers guidance on how to practice safely.Carol’s Journey:Dive deep into Carol's personal history and her step-by-step journey that led her to Duke University.Uncovering the story behind the birth of the yoga program at the Duke University Integrative Medical Center.The inception and growth of the Integrative Yoga for Seniors Professional Training at Duke: The importance, need for this work, and her success.The Miracles of Yoga:Yoga as a tool for delayed aging: Exploring the science and belief behind this statement.Comprehensive look at the physical benefits:Improved strength: Key exercises and how they impact the body.Endurance enhancement: The longevity benefit.Flexibility: Importance in daily life activities.Balance: Preventing falls and increasing confidence.Diving into the mental and emotional advantages:Boosting emotional health: Coping mechanisms and mindfulness.The wonders of a good night's sleep: How yoga contributes.Deepening the connection with oneself: Importance of self-awareness and grounding.Research Speaks:The evidence-based approach: Validating yoga’s effectiveness.Positive impacts observed in:Cardiovascular Disease (CVD): The connection and prevention.Metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance: How yoga aids.High blood pressure: Yoga’s role in management and relief.Addressing back pain: Breathing, exercises, and long-term relief.Combating depression: Emotional stability and the yoga influence.Safety First:Risks associated with yoga, especially for older adults: What to watch out for.Key recommendations from Carol on mitigating those risks: Safe practices, modifications, and listening to one's body.Importance of structured programs for the older population.Conclusion:A heartfelt thanks to Carol for her insightful contribution and sharing her journey.The holistic essence of yoga: Beyond just a physical activity.The importance of safety, especially for senior practitioners.

Introduction: In today's enlightening episode, Amy is joined by Dr. Norman Rosenthal, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Georgetown Medical School and renowned author. As someone who has intertwined the spiritual and scientific in his illustrious career, Dr. Rosenthal delves into the profound influence of yoga and meditation on his life and practice.·        Personal Journey with Yoga & Meditation: Dr. Rosenthal recounts how a lifelong commitment to yoga and meditation has fostered creativity, success, and an unparalleled network of support in his life.·        Benefits of Meditation Include Turya - The 4th State of Consciousness:The importance and implications of this elevated state of consciousness.How Turya has provided Dr. Rosenthal with fresh perspectives in various aspects of life, from patient interactions to personal relationships.·        Introducing "Defeating Sad: A Guide to Health and Happiness Through All The Seasons":A sneak peek into Dr. Rosenthal's latest book, slated for release this August 2023 on Amazon and on Audible.How it offers insights into managing and overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).·        The Journey to Discovering SAD:The backstory on how Dr. Rosenthal arrived at the theory of SAD.Challenges faced, including skepticism from colleagues and the academic world.How intuition played a pivotal role in driving his passion and research on the subject.·        Tools for Tackling SAD:The relevance and efficacy of daily self-care routines.Benefits and application of light boxes as a therapeutic tool.Lifestyle adjustments that can make a world of difference.·        Decades of Clinical Experience:Reflections on balancing rigorous research and direct patient care in his private practice.The role of personal intuition and internal guidance in shaping his career and patient care methodologies.Dr. Rosenthal's story is a testament to the power of combining the introspective journey of yoga and meditation with the analytical and evidence-based world of psychiatry. By continually tuning into his inner voice, even in the face of skepticism, he has carved a niche that not only validates his personal experiences but also offers hope and solutions to countless individuals.Resources:Transcendence by Dr. Norman RosenthalSuper Mind by Dr. Norman RosenthalThe Gift of Adversity by Dr. Norman RosenthalDefeating Sad: A Guide to Health and Happiness Through All The Seasons by Dr. Norman Rosenthal (Available August 2023)Connect with Dr. Norman Rosenthal:WebsiteTwitterInstagram Remember 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 for depression: a systematic review and meta-analysisHolger Cramer 1 , Romy Lauche, Jost Langhorst, Gustav Doboshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23922209/ Effectiveness of yoga for major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysisYufei Wu 1 , Danni Yan 1 , Jianli Yang 1https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37032928/

In this episode, Amy Wheeler sits down with Machiel Klerk, an esteemed dream guide and the author of the book "Dream Guidance". Together, they delve into the profound and transformative topic of dreams and their impacts on our waking life. This episode ties nicely into Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra Chapter 1, vs. 38. Patanjali tells us that dream exploration is a valid way to understand our deeper self, our psyche and connect with something deep inside of ourselves.Highlights of the Episode:Dream Realities and Symbols: Amy and Machiel explore the concept of dreams as an alternate reality or timeline. They discuss whether this reality truly exists or if it's purely symbolic. How does our dream life intersect with our everyday life? What does it mean to perceive dreams as another timeline?The Power of Emotion and Focus in Dreams: The duo considers how our emotions within the dream state can influence our waking life. They discuss the importance of where we choose to put our attentional focus in the dream state.Lucid Dreaming: The ability to be conscious within your dream and potentially control it, known as lucid dreaming, is discussed. Machiel provides insights on how to achieve this state and the potential benefits it can bring.Dream Incubation and Building Relationships with Dreams: Machiel speaks about the practice of dream incubation and how to cultivate a deeper relationship with our dreams.Calling Upon Personal Guides: The discussion moves towards the idea of personal guides. These can be ancestors or spiritual guides that we can call upon during our dream states.Dreams and Life Purpose: Machiel illuminates how dreams can guide us to understand what our soul yearns to manifest in this life and how our life purpose can begin to live through us.Mental Health and Dream Guidance: They delve into the correlation between mental health issues and our alignment with life's purpose. They discuss how dreams might offer valuable insights and guidance to help us regain our life track when we lose our way.The Concept of Eudaimonia: Lastly, they discuss the ancient Greek concept of Eudaimonia, signifying that your guide or daimon is by your side, assisting you in living your life purpose. This episode is a profound exploration of the world of dreams. Join Amy and Machiel as they weave together wisdom from ancient philosophies and modern psychology to illuminate the potential of our dreaming minds.Whether you're curious about the realm of dreams, interested in mental health, or seeking to understand more about your life purpose, this episode offers a wealth of insights.Listen in, and let's journey together into the realm of dreams!Join the Optimal State Yoga Nidra Family:www.optimalstateyoganidra.comwww.amywheeler.com See more from Machiel Klerk:www.jungplatform.comhttps://machielklerk.comhttps://machielklerk.com/dream-book/#order