Keen on Yoga Podcast

Keen on Yoga host Adam reflects on what he learned from teachers whose methods sometimes inspired, challenged, or discouraged him. Through stories from Ashtanga classes, Mysore practice, and teacher trainings, he explores how rigor, technique, charisma, and careful communication can help one student while harming another.

Key Topics

· Adam frames the episode around how teachers can teach valuable lessons even through experiences that felt difficult or unhelpful at the time.

· A poorly organized first class helped Adam realize he could teach without being perfect and that students often need a supportive space more than a flawless performance.

· A charismatic teacher's handstands motivated Adam to stay with Ashtanga but also made yoga seem performative and obscured the practice's vinyasa technique.

· Mysore self-practice offered a profound group experience, but little technique instruction contributed to Adam pushing through postures and injuring both menisci.

· Adam recalls a teacher-training comment about his worn-out body that eventually helped him recognize over-practice, while arguing that truth should be delivered with care.

· He criticizes teaching that is too advanced or inaccessible for the people in the room, emphasizing that instruction must meet students where they are.

· Adam questions adjustment-centered teaching and rigid progression, arguing that students need technique, agency, and the ability to modify practice.

· The episode's recurring paradox: rigor can support progress or drive overexertion, while encouragement can welcome students but also leave practice sloppy.

· Adam says teachers should be careful with offhand remarks because a few words can remain painful for a student long after the teacher has forgotten them.

· He describes Sharat's demanding Mysore approach as raising his standards while also contributing to pressure, over-practice, and injury.

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Daniel discusses his new book, The Evolution of Modern Yoga, exploring its historical roots, key figures like Vivekananda, and how traditional practices have been adapted for contemporary wellness and cultural contexts.

MAIN TOPICS

• · The distinction between pre-modern and modern yoga practices
• · Vivekananda's influence on yoga in the West
• · The shift from renunciate to household yoga
• · The integration of Western and Indian traditions
• · The role of physical postures in modern yoga
• · The influence of Indian nationalist movements on yoga
• · The impact of the Theosophical Society
• · The development of yoga as a health and wellness practice
• · The appropriation and adaptation of yoga in the West
• · The importance of understanding yoga's core objectives

CONNECT WITH DANIEL

Website: https://www.danielsimpson.info/ | IG: @danielcsimpson

New Book: The Evolution of Modern Yoga

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Adam explores how to maintain motivation for yoga practice during different seasons of energy and life. He shares practical tips, philosophical insights, and personal stories to help practitioners stay connected to their practice and deepen their understanding of yoga beyond the physical postures.

Key Topics

· The natural seasons of energy and motivation in yoga practice

· Practical strategies to overcome lack of motivation, including variation and focal points

· The importance of ritual and consistency in yoga practice

· Understanding the deeper purpose of yoga beyond physical postures

· The impact of aging on motivation and how to adapt

· The role of the breath and diaphragm in deepening practice

· The relationship between yoga practice and self-inquiry

· The significance of personal connection and inspiration in teaching and practice

· The concept of yoga as a lifelong journey with ups and downs

· The importance of integrating yoga into daily life for meaning and connectioSUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf

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James discusses the research on the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā, its historical context, and the significance of different manuscript recensions. We explore the evolution of yoga texts, the importance of original sources, and the challenges of translating and interpreting ancient practices. James and Adam explore the evolution of yoga practices, the influence of different traditions, and the scholarly insights into ancient texts and their relevance to modern yoga.

Sir James Mallinson, 5th Baronet, of Walthamstow is a British Indologist, writer and translator. He is Boden Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Oxford, and recognised as one of the world's leading experts on the history of medieval Hatha yoga.

MAIN TOPICS

· Research on the Hatha Yoga Pradipika

· Manuscript transmission and variations

· The significance of original recensions

· Translation challenges and practices

· Historical context of yoga texts

· The role of practitioners in textual transmission Evolution of yoga techniques over time

· The influence of Indian and Chinese practices

· The role of Siddhas and yogis in shaping yoga

· The ambiguity in Svātmārāma's presentation of yoga

· The relationship between physical postures and meditation

· The significance of breath control and bandhas

· The development of asanas and their origins

· The impact of religious and cultural contexts on yoga

TAKE AWAYS

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika is one of the earliest physical yoga texts and has over 100 translations.

The most reliable manuscripts are from the 15th to 19th centuries, not necessarily the oldest.

Svātmārāma's version of the text is considered the most coherent and closest to the original.

Practitioners' oral traditions significantly influenced the written texts.

The translation of Sanskrit terms can impact the understanding and practice of yoga.

CONNECT WITH JAMES

Website: https://hathapradipika.online/

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Adam explores the complex nature of modern yoga, its roots, cultural influences, and the importance of context and intention in practice. He discusses how yoga can be a sacred space for self-discovery and the challenges of balancing tradition with contemporary practice.

Key Topics

· The evolution of yoga from pre-twentieth century to today

· The importance of context and intention in yoga practice

· The cultural and spiritual roots of yoga and their influence on modern classes

· The role of sacred space and symbolism in yoga

· The difference between traditional yoga and modern wellness classes

· The influence of Western physical culture on yoga

· The significance of Indian philosophy and symbolism in yoga

· The challenge of cultural appropriation and authenticity in teaching yoga

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From Blues to Bhakti - Krishna Das shares his profound spiritual journey from childhood to meeting Maharaji, exploring the transformative power of chanting, devotion, and spiritual practice. Discover insights into the nature of love, the importance of surrender, and the timeless wisdom that guides his life.

This episode is remastered from the original interview that took place in April, 2022

MAIN TOPICS

· Krishna Das's early spiritual experiences and musical background

· The transformative peyote experience and its impact on his worldview

· Meeting Maharaji and the profound effect of his presence

· The significance of chanting and devotional practice in spiritual growth

· The nature of love, surrender, and the guru-disciple relationship

· The role of music and sound in awakening consciousness

· Insights into Indian spirituality and the guru tradition

· Krishna Das's reflections on life, death, and the eternal

CONNECT WITH KRISHNA DAS

Website: https://krishnadas.com/

IG: @krishnadasmusic

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Adam explores the profound significance of the neck in yoga practice, its role as a bridge between inner energy and outer expression, and how proper alignment can influence physical and mental well-being.

Key Topics

· The neck as a bridge between inner and outer worlds

· The significance of neck alignment for physical and mental health

· The role of Jalandhara Bandha and Drishti in yoga practice

· The theory of the neck as a barometer and lightning rod

· The spiral and energetic implications of neck misalignment

· The relationship between inner karma and physical posture

· The impact of neck tension on the nervous system and emotional states

· The deep metaphysical perspective on energy flow and disalignmen

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Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN

Divya shares her unique journey through yoga, from childhood in the UK to her professional practice, and her insights on yoga's role in managing health conditions like endometriosis.

Main Topics

· Divya's childhood and cultural background

· Her first encounter with yoga in London

· The evolution of her yoga practice and teaching

· Her experience with endometriosis and yoga's role in management

· The philosophy of yoga and its relevance today

· Misconceptions about yoga and its purpose

· The importance of context and individual approach in yoga practice

· Her insights on yoga's spiritual and secular aspects

Connect with Divya

Instagram - @Yoga Divya

Website – https://yogawithdivya.co.uk/

Divya's book Finding Peace in Difficult Times https://amzn.eu/d/0drg7ZPc

SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA

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LISTEN

Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN

Adam shares his personal journey with yoga, lessons learned, and what he would do differently in his practice and teaching. This episode offers valuable insights for practitioners at all levels.

Key Topics

· Personal lessons from decades of yoga practice

· Importance of listening to your body and teachers

· The role of variation and rest in training

· The significance of understanding yoga's roots and context

· Balancing physical practice with mental and emotional growth

· Listening more to teachers while maintaining critical insight

· Incorporating more variation and rest days in practice

· Starting strength training earlier for joint stability

· Focusing on fundamentals and inner mechanics of asanas

· Cultivating outside interests and broader context of yoga

· Being honest about limits and avoiding over-pushing

· Less reliance on Mysore trips and social media for growth

· Teaching with more individual focus and adaptability

· Recognizing the importance of inner connection beyond asana

· Appreciating the life-changing impact of yoga

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Richard Rosen shares his personal journey with Parkinson's disease, how yoga has helped him cope, and the importance of adapting practice to life's challenges. A candid discussion on acceptance, resilience, and the therapeutic power of yoga.

Main Topics:

· Richard Rosen's experience with Parkinson's disease

· How yoga can help cope with health challenges

· Adapting yoga practice for different stages of Parkinson's

· The role of acceptance and patience in dealing with illness

· The mental and physical benefits of ongoing yoga practice

· The importance of awareness and mindfulness in health management

· Richard Rosen's poetry and reflections on life and aging

Connect with Richard

Instagram - @richardrosenyoga

Website –

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This episode explores the history, culture, and evolving practices of Mysore in the context of Ashtanga Yoga. The host shares personal experiences and insights into the significance of Mysore as a spiritual and community hub for practitioners worldwide.

Key Topics

· History and significance of Mysore in Ashtanga Yoga

· Personal experiences practicing in Mysore with Pattabhi Joice and Sharath

· The evolution of the Mysore practice and community dynamics

· The role of authority, lineage, and myth in yoga traditions

· The impact of modern practices and global spread of Ashtanga

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A panel of renowned yoga teachers and scholars discuss the evolution of yoga, its core principles, and its social and political implications in the modern world. They explore embodiment, awareness, tradition, and the future of yoga practice. Adam hosts Daniel Simpson, Mary Paffard, Richard Rosen and Rodney Yee for a dynamic and interesting chat.

Main Topics:

· The shift from disembodiment to embodiment in modern yoga

· The role of awareness and self-perception in yoga practice

· Historical perspectives on yoga's transcendental and pragmatic aspects

· Social and political responsibilities of yoga practitioners

· The influence of Western ideas and technology on yoga's evolution

· Importance of community and mentorship in yoga education

· The impact of colonialism and globalization on yoga traditions

· Potential of AI and new technologies as tools for yoga and self-awareness

CONNECT WITH

Daniel Simpson

New Book: https://www.danielsimpson.info/books/the-evolution-of-modern-yoga

Year-long course: https://truthofyoga.com/p/knowledge26

Mary Paffard

Website: https://www.maryyoga.com/

Cuba Collaboration: https://yogava.org/

Recent articles about the current situation there: https://yogava.org/crisis26

Richard Rosen

Instagram: @richardrosenyoga

Rodney Yee

Instagram: @rodneyyeeyoga

Website: https://www.rodneyyeeyoga.com/

CONNECT WITH ADAM

https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga

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Adam explores the evolution of social media, its impact on yoga communities, and the challenges and opportunities it presents for teachers and practitioners. He reflects on the shifts in engagement, the influence of conflict-driven content, and how to navigate social media responsibly.

Key Topics

· The decline of organic reach on social media

· The impact of conflict-driven content

· The role of algorithms in shaping engagement

· The importance of authenticity and responsibility

· The influence of influencers and winner-takes-all dynamics

· Balancing online presence with real-life interactions

· The saturation of information and its effects

· Strategies for creating meaningful content

· The psychological impact of social media

· The ethical considerations of marketing in yoga

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Jimmy Wightman, aka That Meditation Guy, shares his transformative journey into meditation, awakening experiences, and insights into different meditation styles. Discover how his practices have reshaped his understanding of consciousness, self, and life.

Main Topics:

· Jimmy's background in DJing and club scene

· His initial struggles with insomnia and mental health

· Introduction to Vedic meditation and mantra practice

· Deep awakening experiences and their impact

· Different styles of meditation: calming, insight, awakening

· The role of self-inquiry and koans in awakening

· Living without a fixed sense of self post-awakening

· The relationship between meditation and consciousness

· Practical advice for meditation practice outside formal settings

· Future retreats and teaching plans

Connect with Jimmy

Instagram - @That_Meditation_Guy

Website - https://thatmeditationguy.com

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Explore the roots and evolution of modern yoga, tracing its history from ancient texts to contemporary practices, and understanding the cultural and political influences shaping it today.

Key Topics

• · Historical development of yoga from 7th to 20th century
• · Influence of Indian and Western physical culture on yoga
• · Role of key texts like Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Yoga Chintamani
• · Impact of political and nationalist movements on yoga's evolution
• · Krishnamacharya's synthesis of yoga traditions

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Join us as we explore the latest insights in yoga anatomy, injury prevention, aging, and the impact of language on body perception with Dr. Andrew McGonigle a medically trained yoga expert. Discover practical principles, debunk myths, and learn how to approach body health with confidence.

Main Topics:

· Yoga anatomy principles

· Myths about fascia and muscle lengthening

· The role of the nervous system in flexibility

· How aging affects mobility and strength

· Language and body perception in yogConnect with Andrew

Upcoming in person trainings: https://www.doctor-yogi.com/in-person-events

Weekly Yoga Anatomy Insights newsletter: https://doctoryogi.substack.com/

Andrew McGonagall's Website - https://andrewmcg.com

Physiology of Yoga (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XYZ1234

Common Injuries of Yoga (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XYZ5678

Andrew McGonagall's Online Courses - https://andrewmcg.com/courses

Website - https://andrewmcg.com Instagram - https://instagram.com/andrewmcg

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Ep 284 Adam Keen – The True Meaning of Yoga

Adam explores the true essence of yoga, its practical and spiritual dimensions, and how modern practices relate to traditional roots. They challenge common misconceptions and emphasize personal inquiry and responsibility in yoga practice.

KEY TOPICS

· The distinction between yoga as a spiritual and practical practice

· The influence of Indian culture and politics on yoga

· The evolution of yoga postures and practices in the 20th century

· The importance of personal inquiry and responsibility in yoga

· The critique of superficial wellness trends in modern yoga

· The connection between yoga and self-knowledge

· The political and cultural ownership of yoga

· The diversity of yoga practices and their historical rootSUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf

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Ep 283 Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor

Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor share their extensive journey through yoga, their insights on tradition versus innovation, and how spiritual practices intersect with everyday life. Discover how their experiences in India, Persia, and beyond shape their teaching and personal philosophies.

Main Topics:

· Richard and Mary's early paths into yoga and their discoveries of Indian philosophy, Tantra, and Buddhist practices

· Their experiences studying with Pattabhi Jois, in Mysore, and the evolution of the Ashtanga sequence

· The importance of tradition, innovation, and personal adaptation in yoga practice

· Insights into pranayama, Sanskrit, and the deeper layers of yogic philosophy

· The relevance of the Bhagavad Gita's teachings on action, sacrifice, and devotion

· The role of curiosity, questioning, and avoiding dogma in spiritual development

· Diet, vegetarianism, and the influence of food on practice and health

· The visceral and embodied experience of waking up and consciousness in yoga and meditation

· The parallels and differences between Yoga and Buddhism, and their synergy in modern practice

· The importance of individualized teaching and the teacher-student relationship

· Future inspirations drawn from nature, texts, and ongoing spiritual inquiry

Richard Freeman - Official website | Mary Taylor - Personal website

Connect with Richard Freeman: Instagram Connect with Mary Taylor: Instagram

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Dr. Bessel van der Kolk discusses the intersection of trauma therapy and yoga, emphasizing the importance of body awareness, the role of the therapist, and how movement can aid healing.

Main Topics:

· The limitations of talking and drug therapies for trauma

· The importance of body sensations and interoception in healing

· The role of yoga and movement in trauma recovery

· The significance of the therapist's relationship and cues

· The impact of polyvagal theory and brain science on trauma treatment

· The importance of safety, trust, and relationship in movement therapy

· The use of video feedback and observation in yoga therapy

· Cultural differences in trauma expression and healing practices

Key Points

• · Traumatized individuals often shut down physically and emotionally, requiring gentle, safe approaches.
• · Body awareness and interoception are crucial for accessing and influencing the core survival brain.
• · The relationship and tone set by the yoga teacher significantly affect healing outcomes.
• · Movement modalities should be tailored to individual safety and comfort levels.
• · Understanding brain science, like polyvagal theory, can inform more effective trauma interventions.
• · Yoga and movement are parts of a larger puzzle, not standalone solutions.
• · Trauma survivors are among the most courageous people, deserving respect and support.

Website: https://www.besselvanderkolk.com/

Instagram: @thebodykeepsthescore

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Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN

Adam explores the evolving meaning of yoga beyond transcendence, focusing on embodied experience, practical application, and making life meaningful through practice. He challenges traditional views and considers how yoga can serve as a tool for self-connection, resilience, and authentic living.

KEY TOPICS

• · The original meaning of yoga as transcendence
• · The evolution of yoga practices from transcendental to embodied
• · The role of asana in cultivating objectivity and resilience
• · Making meaning through yoga in daily life
• · The relationship between suffering, meaning, and yoga
• · The importance of self-connection and authenticity
• · The use of challenging postures to understand discomfort
• · The concept of big self-versus small self
• · The role of community and shared practice in making meaning
• · The philosophical space of doubt and inquiry in yoga

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