

Yoga Therapy Hour with Amy Wheeler
Amy Wheeler
Welcome to "The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast," a harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, brought to life by Amy's expertise in psychology and public health. With over 100,000 downloads, this podcast delves deep into the principles of yoga therapy, offering expert interviews, practical solutions, and profound insights into real-life challenges.From its inception, the first four seasons have been instrumental in elevating the domain of yoga therapy, emphasizing the pivotal role of lifestyle medicine in addressing both our mental and physical well-being. As we transition into Season 5, 6 & 7, Amy broadens the horizon, reaching out to the masses. Here, listeners will unravel how yoga therapy, when intertwined with lifestyle engineering, can serve as a powerful tool for holistic healing, touching the realms of the mind, body, and spirit.Subscribe now and be part of a transformative journey that bridges the essence of embodied mental health with the spirit's depth. Join Amy in redefining mental and physical wellness. Also, leave us a review if you are enjoying the podcast and consider supporting us at the Optimal State & Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon page -https://www.patreon.com/yogatherapyhourGo to www.TheOptimalState.com for more details on how to improve your mental and emotional health!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 29, 2024 • 52min
Empowering Inclusivity: Navigating Boundaries and Ableism in Yoga with Jivana Heyman
In this enlightening episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour and Beyond, host Amy delves deep into the essentials of accessible yoga with guest Jivana Heyman, author of "The Teacher's Guide to Accessible Yoga: Best Practices for Sharing Yoga with Every Body." Their conversation shines a light on the critical aspects of the teacher-student relationship, emphasizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries to foster a safe and creative environment. Heyman's insights into avoiding burnout, addressing ableism within the yoga community, and the nuances of teaching yoga at different levels further enrich the dialogue. The discussion also covers the use of invitational language to empower students with choice and agency, ensuring yoga remains accessible and inclusive to all. In this enlightening episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour and Beyond, host Amy delves deep into the essentials of accessible yoga with guest Jivana Heyman, author of "The Teacher's Guide to Accessible Yoga: Best Practices for Sharing Yoga with Every Body." Their conversation shines a light on the critical aspects of the teacher-student relationship, emphasizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries to foster a safe and creative environment. Heyman's insights into avoiding burnout, addressing ableism within the yoga community, and the nuances of teaching yoga at different levels further enrich the dialogue. The discussion also covers the use of invitational language to empower students with choice and agency, ensuring yoga remains accessible and inclusive to all.Key thoughts/concepts discussed in the episode:Setting Boundaries: It's crucial for teachers to maintain professional boundaries with students, recognizing that students are not friends and are not there to meet the teacher's personal needs.Avoiding Burnout: By establishing clear boundaries, teachers can avoid burnout, ensuring they meet their own needs through personal support systems outside of the student-teacher dynamic.Addressing Ableism: The conversation highlights the pervasive issue of ableism in yoga, encouraging teachers to recognize and mitigate its impacts on students.Understanding Yoga Levels: Distinguishing between beginner and advanced yoga is less about complexity and more about meeting students where they are, using language that is inclusive and empowering.Invitational Language: The use of invitational language is essential for giving students choice and agency in their practice, without overwhelming them with too many options. In summary, this episode with Jivana Heyman offers invaluable insights into making yoga more accessible and inclusive. By focusing on the significance of boundaries, the awareness of ableism, and the thoughtful approach to teaching, Amy and Heyman provide a roadmap for yoga teachers and therapists to enhance their practice and foster a more welcoming space for all students. The dialogue not only underscores the importance of professional relationships and self-care but also propels the conversation towards creating a more inclusive yoga community that values choice, safety, and collaboration.If you would like to receive the free infographics, research, articles 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 Jivana Heyman:www,JivanaHeyman.comwww.accessibleyogaschool.com 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

Mar 22, 2024 • 40min
Navigating Life with Yoga Therapy: The Key to Autonomic Regulation and Holistic Health with Amy Wheeler
In this compelling solo episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, Amy Wheeler delves into the intricate relationship between the regulation of the autonomic nervous system and overall health. Amy illuminates how mastering this regulation through therapeutic yoga can profoundly impact various bodily systems—digestion, endocrine, immune, cardiovascular, and reproductive—thereby influencing our experiences with chronic pain, autoimmune diseases, and addiction. Her insights offer a transformative approach to health and happiness, guiding listeners towards living a life of coherence and well-being.Understanding Autonomic Regulation: Amy explains the significance of the autonomic nervous system in maintaining body homeostasis and its effect on health and disease.Therapeutic Yoga as a Tool: Discover how therapeutic yoga practices can be strategically used to manage the nervous system, promoting healing, and preventing illness.Personal Journey and Successes: Through personal anecdotes, Amy shares how yoga therapy has been pivotal in managing her health, providing practical examples that inspire.Patanjali’s Insights on Suffering: Amy discusses the four symptoms of suffering outlined by Patanjali, offering a deeper understanding of how yoga philosophy can aid in overcoming life's challenges.The Path to Clarity and Regulation: Learn about the concept of viveka (clarity) and how moving from a place of regulation can lead to making choices that reduce suffering.Integrating Wisdom from Daniel Amen and Gabor Mate: Amy brings in the work of renowned figures like Daniel Amen and Gabor Mate to enrich the discussion on mental health, addiction, and the power of yoga therapy. This episode with Amy Wheeler serves not only as an educational journey into the depths of yoga therapy but also as a testament to the transformative power of yoga in achieving health and happiness. By bridging ancient wisdom with modern scientific understanding, Amy offers a holistic approach to living that prioritizes coherence and regulation. Whether you're navigating chronic conditions, seeking mental clarity, or simply aspiring for a healthier life, this episode provides valuable insights and practical tools to guide you on your path. Join us in exploring how therapeutic yoga can unlock the door to a balanced, fulfilling life, and inspire a journey towards self-regulation and profound well-being. 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 Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinics with Amy Wheeler:Email amy@amywheeler.com for more information www.TheOptimalState.com & www.AmyWheeler.com Institute App Link to Join:https://polyvagal-institute.mn.co/spaces/10721610/feed University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Classes: https://csh.umn.edu/for-community/wellbeing-workshops/online-therapeutic-yoga-series

Mar 15, 2024 • 48min
The Trinity of Wellness: Liz Duncanson and the Journey to a Sustainable Core
Welcome to this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast! Today, we're excited to have Liz Duncanson, a renowned author and expert in the field of musculoskeletal rehabilitation, joining us. Liz's groundbreaking book, "Cultivating a Sustainable Core: An Integrative Framework Integrating Body, Mind, and Breath into Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation," has been a game changer in the way we understand and approach physical therapy and yoga therapy. In this engaging discussion, Liz shares her insights and experiences, shedding light on the intricate connection between the body, mind, and breath in achieving holistic wellness and sustainable core strength.Main Points of Discussion:The Core Concept of a Sustainable Core:Liz explains the foundational idea behind her book, emphasizing the importance of integrating body, mind, and breath for a sustainable core.Discussion on how traditional rehabilitation methods often overlook the holistic aspect of healing.Integrative Approach to Rehabilitation:Exploring the blend of yoga therapy and conventional musculoskeletal rehabilitation techniques.The role of mindfulness and mental well-being in physical healing.Breathing Techniques and Core Stability:The significance of breathwork in strengthening the core and aiding rehabilitation.Practical breathing exercises that can be incorporated into daily routines.Mind-Body Connection in Healing:Real-life examples and case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of an integrative approach.Liz's personal experiences and observations from her practice.Implementing the Framework in Daily Life:Tips and strategies for readers and listeners to apply these concepts in their own lives.Discussing the adaptability of the framework for different age groups and physical conditions.Future of Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation:Liz’s vision for the future of rehabilitation, emphasizing a more holistic, patient-centered approach.Discussion on the evolving landscape of physical therapy and yoga therapy.In today’s enlightening conversation with Liz Duncanson, we delved deep into the essence of her book, "Cultivating a Sustainable Core," and explored the powerful synergy of integrating body, mind, and breath in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Liz's insights not only highlight the importance of a holistic approach to core strength and healing but also offer practical guidance for incorporating these principles into our everyday lives. Her integrative framework paves the way for a more mindful, effective, and sustainable path to rehabilitation and overall well-being. This discussion undoubtedly leaves us with a richer understanding and appreciation of the potential in blending traditional and modern therapeutic practices for optimal health and vitality. 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 Find Liz Duncanson:Body Temple OnlineBody Temple Online FBBody Temple Online IGBody Temple Online YouTube 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

Mar 8, 2024 • 49min
The Journey Beyond Life: Exploring Yoga, Mortality, and Legacy with Leslie Howard
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

Mar 1, 2024 • 49min
Embodying Confidence: Transforming Mental Health from the Body Up with Libby Walunas
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

Feb 23, 2024 • 59min
Empowering Brain Longevity with Eve Adler
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

Feb 16, 2024 • 60min
Embracing Healing from Cancer with Kimberly Searl
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

Feb 9, 2024 • 1h
Exploring Attachment Theory and the Joy of Imperfect Love with Carla Marie Manly
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

Feb 2, 2024 • 49min
Embracing Change: Yoga Therapy Across Life's Stages with Kate Holcombe
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

Jan 26, 2024 • 51min
Connecting with Ancestors through Yoga, Meditation, and Plant Medicine with Spring Washam
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


