Episodes
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Sequencing in yoga is a vital skill that transforms a collection of poses into a meaningful and impactful practice, and that’s why I want to explore this topic today. As yoga teachers, our ability to craft thoughtful sequences directly influences how students experience and grow in their practice, whether they’re beginners seeking balance or advanced practitioners reaching for deeper challenges. By understanding the principles of sequencing—whether it’s preparing for a peak pose, building a theme-based class, or creating a well-rounded flow for general well-being—we can deliver classes that are not only structured but also deeply rewarding. This discussion sets the stage for my upcoming free masterclass, where I’ll dive even deeper into this essential teaching skill.
What is sequencing?Importance of tailoring sequencing to students’ levels and needs. Sequencing is central to modern yoga teaching but is only one part of a well-rounded class.Three Key Types of SequencingPeak Pose SequencingChallenges: Requires adaptation to students' levels to avoid overwhelming them.Themed Sequencing Caution: Avoid overly complicated or abstract themes to ensure substance and engagement. General Well-Being Sequencing
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In this episode, I had the honor of speaking again with the legendary Judith Hanson Lasater, who shared reflections on her 53 years of teaching yoga. We explored how her teaching has transformed over the decades, from an athletic focus to a holistic, life-centered approach. Judith shared her belief that true yoga extends beyond the mat and is woven into daily life, where being present and compassionate are at the heart of the practice. We talked about challenges like burnout and the importance of self-renewal, especially for yoga teachers today. Judith’s wisdom and insights on being “the bucket, not the water” remind us that teaching yoga is not about pushing students, but guiding them to connect with their own inner wisdom. Her philosophy and stories are sure to inspire both new and experienced yoga practitioners.
Judith’s evolution in teaching yoga over the past five decades.Experiences with feelings of overwhelm and burnout in Judith’s teaching career.How modern, digital life impacts yoga teachers’ fatigue and well-being.Key qualities that yoga teachers should cultivate.Judith’s approach to handling emotions, such as anger or irritation.The story behind how Judith began teaching yoga and her first class.Judith’s philosophy of being “the bucket, not the water” as a teacher.Core practices Judith believes are essential for students and teachers to incorporate.
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Nowadays, there are people who start yoga through asana practice but, at its core, keep saying that yoga is for the mind. The question is how is how can yoga be a tool of mind management? In this episode, I will be joined by a new guest, Sandipani Manur, who will help us look into managing the mind through yoga and the different layers of the mind.
How is the mind connected to yoga?Drawing parallels between the Eastern and Western views of the mindWhat is yoga’s view of the ego?Which layer of the mind should one be operating from?What does the Manas control?How does yoga view the mind?What happens when the mind is overloaded?How do practices like asanas help the mind?Why should someone spend so much time, energy, and effort in deconstructing their mind?Practices that can be used for different levels of the mindWill meditation help the mind?
The Mind Management Episode Highlights:You can find all the resources mentioned in this episode in the show notes at https://letstalk.yoga/episode/mind-management-through-yoga-with-sandipani-manur/
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Prana is something every yoga teacher knows. But many know it only as surface knowledge. In this episode, Arundhati interviews Indu Arora, a long-time yoga teacher, and author about Prana. They decode prana for today's yoga teacher & student. If you're keen to learn about prana clearly and from an authentic source. This is the conversation to tune into.
What is prana?When did prana first appear in the scriptures or in yoga?How does one connect with their prana?How does breath play into prana?The different types of prana and their significanceRecommended practices for healthy functioning of prana and apanaMisinterpretations about prana
Prana Decoded Episode Highlights...
Indu Arora is a long-time yoga teacher, author, and mentor to yoga teachers. To read her full bio, head to https://letstalk.yoga/
You can find all the resources mentioned in this episode in the show notes at https://letstalk.yoga/episode/prana-decoded-with-indu-arora/Join our mailing list
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In this episode, I highlight an often-overlooked but crucial step in yoga teaching—building a solid foundation before focusing on sequencing. I share a 10-point cheat list to help yoga teachers improve their class planning and sequencing skills. This includes understanding each pose’s fundamentals, knowing the Sanskrit and English names, and being aware of the benefits and contraindications. I also emphasize the importance of using props, guiding students through breathwork, and recognizing whether a pose is heating, cooling, or neutral. Additionally, I discuss how to assess the difficulty of poses, incorporate proper warm-ups, and balance sequences with counter poses. Mastering these principles helps create more thoughtful and personalized classes that enhance students' well-being.
Know the Name of the PoseKnow the Benefits of the PoseContraindicationsAdaptations of PosesUse Props SkillfullyBreathing Pattern for PosesKnow the Nature of the PosePose LevelsWarm-up NeedsCounter Poses
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In this episode of Let's Talk Yoga, we explore the relationship between emotions, yoga, and Ayurveda with Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath, an expert in Ayurveda. Dr. Jay provides valuable insights into how Ayurveda views emotional health, the impact of doshas on emotions, and whether certain emotions are more harmful than others. We discuss the significance of prana, the Ayurvedic perspective on depression, and how to move from a tamasic state toward better emotional well-being. The episode offers practical advice on improving emotional health and managing relationships while maintaining balance, offering listeners a deeper understanding of emotions in holistic health.
What is Ayurveda’s perspective on emotions and emotional well-being?How can we identify signs of healthy emotional health in ourselves and others?What role do doshas play in shaping our emotional experiences?In what ways do emotions influence both the mind and the body?Are certain emotions considered more detrimental than others in Ayurveda?Understanding prana through an Ayurvedic lens: its connection to emotions.How does Ayurveda conceptualize and approach depression?Strategies for moving out of a tamasic state towards emotional clarity.Practical tips for cultivating better emotional health.How can individuals assess their progress in emotional well-being?Navigating interpersonal interactions while maintaining emotional balance.
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Today, I'm excited to introduce Adam Husler, a dedicated yoga teacher from the UK. I discovered Adam online a couple of years ago and have been inspired by his authentic approach to yoga ever since. In our conversation, Adam shares his unique perspective on teaching yoga, especially for beginners. His insights offer a fresh alternative to the often academic and sequence-focused discussions in modern yoga.
How do yoga teachers show up and be their own authentic selves?The fine balance between being liked and not liked as a yoga teacher.What should a new teacher focus on?Moving from confusion to clarityThe importance of grounding and reflectingAsking for feedback from studentsHow do teachers respond to FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out)?Asking your “why”The importance of readingHow can students ask for support?Adam’s biggest mindset shift
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I've been increasingly interested in the topic of meditation over the past year and have been waiting for the right guest to kickstart the conversation. Recently, I came across Jimmy Wightman, also known as That Meditation Guy on Instagram. Based in the UK, he is a well-respected meditation and mindfulness teacher. I've been following Jimmy's work for quite some time, and I believe the time is right to have him as a guest on the podcast.
What is the goal of meditation and why should someone meditate?Setting yourself up for success in meditationMindfulness and meditation: what comes first?Dealing with rough moments in meditationWhat type of meditation to start withStages of attentionDo you meditate for joy or happiness?How much time is needed to cultivate a steady meditation practice?Grief and trauma in meditationLearning meditation through apps and videos versus going to a teacherHow does someone choose their mantra?
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Today, I want to share with you a helpful guide that I've created for pronouncing Sanskrit yoga pose names. This guide is intended to save you the significant cost of enrolling in teacher training just to learn how to pronounce these names. While I couldn't include every yoga pose, I've made sure to cover the most fundamental ones in this episode.
Episode Highlights:
Standing posesBackbendsInversionsSeated posesBalance posesSupine posesJoin our mailing list
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In this episode, I aim to highlight the significance of cueing as a crucial component of your skill set. Over the years, I have crafted five distinct queuing styles, and I am excited to share them with you. These styles are straightforward and practical. I encourage you to take note of them and consider integrating one, two, three, or all five into your classes.
Highlights:
Teaching a yoga or an asana class is not solely about cueing.Yoga classes in AmericaThe challenge of being a good communicatorMy goal in every class5 Cueing Styles to Enhance Your Yoga ClassDirectional cueingAction-oriented cueingExpansive cueingExperiential cueingBenefit cueingReasons why Down Dog is one of the best posesJoin our mailing list
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My 200-hour program begins in September, just 5 weeks from now, and this episode was created as a source of inspiration for that. Consider this as a thorough evaluation and comprehensive audit of your yoga education journey thus far. The purpose is to help you accurately assess your current position as a yoga student or instructor. Reflect on the quality of the education you have received so far, whether it has been outstanding, good, average, or below par.
Focus on how much clarity you get from your teacher instead of solely focusing on the credentials and popularity index.Are you an Asana expert?My non-negotiables whenever I share something about a poseHow much pranayama should you learn?Is yoga history and evolution important?How much of the subtle body or Sukshma Sharira do you know?Yoga for special conditionsAdaptability of yogaYoga philosophy and how to live yoga off your matTeaching skill setThe sequencing and the teachingThe Invisible stuff
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In today's episode, I will be unveiling five essential poses that are a must-know. These poses form a checklist for those aspiring to master Shirshasana, the head balance, or aiming to teach it to others. I will also delve into the mythical story of Shirshasana, adding depth and cultural context to this practice.
What is ShirshasanaShirshasana as the king of all posesThe mythical story of ShirshasanaPhysical benefits of Shirshasana posePsychological benefits of Shirshasana poseFive non-negotiable headstand preparatory posesAdho Mukha Svanasana or Downward-facing DogUttanasanaPrasarita Padottanasana or Wide-Legged Standing Forward BendChaturanga Dandasana or Four-Limbed Staff PoseSalamba Sarvangasana or Shoulderstand Pose, the mother of all posesAlternative options for individuals unable to put weight on their neck or headHeadless Headstand
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Have you ever wondered why our minds are so full of thoughts and are restless? Is there actually a way that we can manage our minds? The last time I checked, I think there are more or less 60,000 thoughts we have per day, which is just mind-blowing. To shed some light on this interesting topic, I’ve invited a friend of mine whom I’ve known for almost a decade and who also happens to be a yoga teacher, Pavel Dmitriev.
What is the mind according to yoga?Where in the mind is morality?Managing the mind through yoga for beginnersWhy is our mind so troubled?Pranayama and the mindWhat is the purpose of a thought?Where do thoughts come from?What we resist persistsPractices in yoga that will help manage our mind
Episode Highlights:Find the Full Episode Show Notes Here: https://letstalk.yoga/episode/managing-the-mind-with-yoga/
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I’m really excited about today’s conversation with Dr. Manasa Rao sharing her experience and knowledge about sadhana. Dr. Manasa Rao is practicing yoga since the year 1995. She genuinely believes that yoga is about connecting, healing, and becoming aware of a higher reality within all of us, that stretches beyond the mat.
Join us as we discover the meaning of the word sadhana, what its goal is, and its importance. We also go as far as discussing the obstacles while being in sadhana and whether we need to lean on a teacher or not to create a sadhana for us.
What does the word sadhana mean?What is the goal of yoga practitioners?Does everyone who does yoga need to have a sadhana?Factors to consider while building a sadhanaThe obstacles while being in sadhanaDifferent components to building one’s sadhanaWho creates the sadhana for you?What to do if you feel stuck in your sadhana?Sharing sadhana knowledge
Episode Highlights:Find the Full Episode Show Notes Here: https://letstalk.yoga/episode/everything-you-need-to-know-about-sadhana-in-yoga-with-dr-manasa-rao/
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In my studio at Aham Yoga, I have students who have some knowledge of Ayurveda and I would often get so many questions about what the role of food is. How should we really eat? How frequently should we eat and in what quantity? This is honestly a topic that I am no expert with and so I decided to invite back a past guest who is the real expert in Ayurveda, Nidhi Pandya.
The role of food in our lives according to AyurvedaThe three pillars of health in AyurvedaThe connection between the ahara (food) and pranaDoes Ayurveda look at cooked food and raw food differently?The effects of green juices and smoothies on our bodiesHow the yogis ate and their relationship to foodWhat is a sattvic diet?Does doing yoga mean one should only eat a vegetarian dietDoes the food we eat affect the quality of our minds and our thoughtsAyurveda’s approach to the frequency of meals, what to eat, and in what quantityPractical tips for modern-day yoga practitioners to live more holistically
Episode Highlights:Find the Full Episode Show Notes Here: https://letstalk.yoga/episode/eat-like-a-yogi-with-nidhi-pandya/
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Today's episode features a deep dive into the intersection of social media and yoga. It's an important listen for those active on social media, as well as for those who may have chosen to disconnect from it due to its distractions. We have Daniel Simpson, the author of "The Truth of Yoga," joining us in discussing discernment and digital yoga.
Episode Highlights:
The future of yoga for someone who has worked with long-form yoga studies and content for a long time.How can yoga consumers be sharper at discerning and be better at critical thinking?What are some of the qualities of a good student?The difference between knowledge and wisdomApproaching social media consumption criticallyIs there any way to measure whether or not our yoga is working for us?Understanding the concept of ‘dukkha’ in yoga and how suffering can be an opportunity for growth.Setting intentions for yoga beginnersJoin our mailing list
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I'm excited to welcome Swami Chidananda to the show, our first-ever Swami guest. We delve into the topic of peace in light of current global events. We explore how we can practice and promote peace in our daily lives, given the prevalence of unrest and suffering in the world. How can we engage peacefully and act in a way that benefits both ourselves and those around us?
What is peace?The journey to inner peaceSuffering or grace: the two ways to grow on the spiritual pathHow to balance detachment and indifference in reactions when thinking about peace and suffering?Is peace and love the same thing?Where does one begin when trying to cultivate peace, love, and compassion?How does one find their dharma?Is there a sudden change once you understand your dharma?How does one understand the divine?
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On today's episode, I am excited to share three deeply insightful and practical tips that you can pass on to your asana students to help them establish a stronger connection with the non-physical aspects of yoga. These tips go beyond the physical practice of yoga and delve into the more subtle and profound elements of the practice.
Arrive early to class and sit with yourself.Practice Mauna (silence) on the way home after yoga classSpend a little time in reflection
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In this episode of the Let's Talk Yoga podcast, we welcome Savitha Enner, a fellow yoga teacher from Karnataka, India. Savitha shares her unique perspective on living yogic wisdom, which she affectionately calls the "lazy person's approach."
What is this lazy teacher's approach?Exploring the pursuit of sustainable inner peace through yoga practiceExploring the concept of ahimsa in yoga practicePrioritizing peace over ego in personal relationships can be challenging but rewarding in the long run.Emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and showing compassion towards others.Savitha’s advice to a beginner teacher and an experienced teacher“Teaching yoga is a privilege”Learning to be more loving by responding to messages with kindness and creating situations for love to flourish.
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In this episode, I share five important lessons I have learned from practicing yoga, which include letting go of mental and physical burdens, being kind to ourselves, and building inner resilience. These lessons are not just applicable to yoga but can be incorporated into our daily lives to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Insights on yoga poses and life lessons.Yoga poses offer valuable life lessons in different shapes5 things yoga poses teach us about navigating lifeYoga poses make you fitter, stronger, healthier, or wholesome.You put yourself in different shapes and orientations in yoga poses regularly.You embrace the unknown.You learn to surrender.We learn to treat ourselves with true self-compassion, kindness, and respect.
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