#157 Adam Keen on Keeping Motivated in Practice

JAMES RAFAEL (www.jamesrafael.com | @jamesyoga )

James Rafael shares his journey from mental health and addiction to health through yoga and meditation. He emphasises the importance of embodiment and finding balance in yoga and meditation practices. James also discusses the role of trauma-informed approaches in these practices. He advocates for incorporating strength training into yoga practice and shares his daily routine.

James addresses common concerns about strength training impacting flexibility and encourages a long-term perspective on physical well-being. In this conversation, Adam and James Rafael discuss various aspects of yoga and movement. They explore the practical applications of yoga in daily life, the techniques used in contortionism, the incorporation of different movement modalities, the relationship between embodiment and meditation, the challenges of addictive tendencies, and the importance of creating kind and compassionate spaces. James shares his journey and emphasizes the need for balance and self-awareness in one's practice.

Key Points

·      Embodiment is a key aspect of yoga and meditation practices, allowing individuals to connect with their bodies and address deeper traumas or shame.

·      Strength training can be beneficial for yoga practitioners, helping to create balance, and stability, and prevent injuries.

·      Finding a balance between different practices, such as yoga, meditation, and strength training, is essential for overall well-being.

·      Incorporating trauma-informed approaches into yoga and meditation practices can lead to more holistic and helpful experiences.

·      Taking a long-term perspective on physical well-being and training for the body you want in the future can guide your yoga and strength training practices. Yoga can be used as a tool for feeling comfortable in one's body and living a fulfilling life.

·      Contortionism involves technique and strength and can be a valuable addition to a yoga practice.

·      Incorporating different movement modalities can enhance one's understanding and practice of yoga.

·      Embodiment and meditation are interconnected, contributing to a deeper sense of presence.

·      Maintaining balance and self-awareness is crucial in managing addictive tendencies.

·      Creating kind and compassionate spaces is essential for fostering growth and healing in yoga communities.

ADARSH WILLIAMS (www.ashtangayogagroningen.nl | www.smartstretch.com | @ adarshw)

Adarsh Williams shares his journey into yoga and how it helped him overcome anxiety and insomnia. He started with self-taught yoga practice using library books and later transitioned to Ashtanga Yoga. Adarsh emphasizes that yoga is a tool that can be applied in various ways and does not necessarily require a spiritual context.

He also discusses his experiences with Pattabhi Jois and Sharath Jois, highlighting their consistency and dedication to the practice. In this conversation, Adarsh Williams discusses his time with Sharath and the transition he went through after the passing of Pattabhi Joyce. He reflects on Sharath's pressure to fill his grandfather's shoes and how he has grown into his role as a teacher.

Adarsh emphasizes the importance of tolerance and understanding in the yoga community, as well as the need for a pragmatic approach to the Ashtanga method. He shares his experience with injuries and how he incorporates functional movement into his teaching. Adarsh concludes by revealing his guilty pleasure of being a professional wrestling fan and expressing his inspiration from his yoga students.

In this conversation, we discussed the importance of effective communication and explored various strategies to improve communication skills. We covered topics such as building trust and rapport, active listening and empathy, non-verbal communication, managing conflict, cultural sensitivity and diversity, and effective feedback.

These themes highlight the key aspects of communication that can lead to successful interactions and relationships. By implementing the strategies discussed, individuals can enhance their communication skills and achieve better outcomes in personal and professional settings.

Key Points

·      Yoga can be a powerful tool for managing mental health issues such as anxiety and insomnia.

·      Self-taught yoga practice can be effective, especially when combined with reading and learning from various sources.

·      Ashtanga Yoga offers a structured and efficient practice that can lead to physical and mental transformation.

·      The guru-disciple relationship in yoga can vary, and it is important to maintain a balanced perspective and not idealize the teacher. Transition and growth are natural processes in any practice or role.

·      Tolerance and understanding are essential in the yoga community.

·      A pragmatic approach to the Ashtanga method can benefit students of all levels and abilities.

·      Incorporating functional movement can help prevent injuries and enhance the practice.

·      Finding inspiration in yoga students and their dedication can motivate teachers to continue their work. Effective communication is crucial for successful interactions and relationships.

·      Building trust and rapport is essential for effective communication.

·      Active listening and empathy help in understanding others and fostering better communication.

·      Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in conveying messages.

·      Managing conflict requires effective communication and problem-solving skills.

·      Cultural sensitivity and diversity awareness are important for inclusive communication.

·      Providing constructive feedback is essential for personal and professional growth.

Adam Keen - Injuries in Yoga, Managing and Healing From Them (@adam_keen_ashtanga | www.keenonyoga.com )

Adam discusses the topic of injuries in yoga and the upcoming injuries conference. He emphasizes that injuries are not the fault of the yoga practice itself, but rather the approach and individual factors. Adam encourages practitioners to adapt the practice to their own bodies and focus on the feeling in the body rather than accomplishing postures. He also shares his personal experiences with injuries and highlights the importance of rest, seeking different approaches, and strengthening the body. The episode concludes with an invitation to the injuries conference. 

Key Points 

• ·       Injuries in yoga are often the result of individual factors and the approach to the practice, rather than the practice itself.
• ·       Adapting the practice to suit one's own body and focusing on the feeling in the body can help prevent injuries.
• ·       Injuries can be seen as opportunities for growth and learning, and seeking different approaches and opinions can be beneficial.
• ·       Resting the injured area, strengthening the body, and considering alternative therapies can aid in the healing process.
• ·       The injuries conference provides a platform for discussing and addressing yoga-related injuries and healing.

MC Yogi (www.mcyogi.com | @mcyogi )

MC Yogi (Nicholas Giacomini) shares his journey from a troubled youth to becoming a renowned yoga teacher and musician. He discusses the transformative power of yoga and breath, and how it helped him find peace and purpose in life. MC Yogi also talks about his mentor, Larry Schultz, and the development of Rocket Yoga.

He reflects on the counterculture vibe of early yoga and the cathartic nature of yoga practice. Finally, he shares his experience as a musician and the role of music in his spiritual journey. In this conversation, MC Yogi discusses the power of words and mantras in his music. He explains how he remembers his lyrics and mantras through somatic movement and neural programming. MC Yogi also shares his influences from various genres of music and the cultural influences of growing up in the Bay Area. He emphasizes connecting with the spirit and seeking the inner kingdom. MC Yogi's guilty pleasure is driving fast, and his inspiration comes from the awe-inspiring force of the breath.

Key Points

·      Yoga can transform and bring peace and purpose to one's life.

·      The breath is a powerful tool for self-awareness and connection.

·      The counterculture vibe of early yoga created a sense of community and acceptance.

·      Music can be a powerful tool for spiritual expression and connection.

In this conversation, Adam discusses how to stay motivated and inspired in a yoga practice that can sometimes feel repetitive. He explores the challenges of maintaining focus and setting realistic goals, emphasizing the importance of individuality and avoiding comparison. Adam also highlights the need for self-reflection and finding meaning in one's practice. He shares personal experiences and offers practical advice for staying motivated, such as creating a consistent practice space and routine, and being flexible in approach. Adam concludes with New Year's wishes and encourages listeners to continue their yoga journey with confidence and perseverance.

Key Points

Maintaining motivation in a yoga practice requires setting realistic goals and avoiding comparison with others.
Finding meaning in one's practice is essential for long-term motivation and perseverance.
Creating a consistent practice space and routine can help in staying focused and committed.
Building self-trust and confidence is crucial in overcoming challenges and making better choices in practice and in life.

BERNIE CLARK – YOGA RELATED INJURIES (www.yinyoga.com | @bernieclark7528In this episode, Bernie Clark discusses knee issues in Ashtanga yoga. He explains the anatomy of the knee joint and the role of ligaments in preventing excessive movement. Bernie shares his personal experience with knee injuries and the different approaches to healing, including surgery and non-surgical methods. (more below)

Bernie emphasizes the importance of strengthening the knee muscles and finding a balance between flexibility and stability. Bernie also addresses the idea of symmetry in yoga practice and the need for individualized approaches based on each person's unique body. 

This conversation explores the topics of symmetry vs. balance, the cultural protocol of crossing legs, hip structure and range of motion, hip pain and lotus position, hip issues and solutions, understanding pain and discomfort, the impact on personal practice, carrying angles and individual differences, and recognising pain vs. discomfort.

Key Points

• ·      Hyperextension of the knee is a natural movement and is not necessarily harmful.
• ·      Meniscus tears are more common than ACL ruptures in yoga.
• ·      The knee joint does not have a good blood supply, which makes healing difficult.
• ·      Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help support the joint and prevent injuries.
• ·      Asymmetry is natural in the body, and it is more important to focus on functionality rather than achieving perfect symmetry in yoga practice. Seek balance, not symmetry, in your practice.
• ·      Individual differences in hip structure and range of motion can affect poses like lotus position.
• ·      Various factors, including overuse and structural differences can cause hip pain.
• ·      Understanding the difference between pain and discomfort is important for practising safely.
• ·      Personalise your practice based on your body's capabilities and limitations.

    To find out more about Professor Stuart McGill and see his books and videos: https://www.backfitpro.com/

#155 Adam & Theresa – Keens Xmas Chat (www.keenonyoga.com | @keen_on_yoga )

In this episode, Adam and Theresa discuss their background stories, their journey with Ashtanga practice and teaching, and their experiences before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also talk about starting an online presence and the Keen on Yoga Podcast.

Theresa shares her experience working in corporate events and how she transitioned to running a yoga retreat centre. They discuss the benefits of teaching and practicing online, including the autonomy it gives to students.

Overall, they emphasise the importance of adapting and finding new opportunities in challenging times. In this conversation, Adam and Theresa discuss various aspects of yoga teaching and practice. They explore the sustainability of online yoga, the benefits of online teaching for improving in-person teaching skills, and the role of Mysore in yoga practice.

They also discuss the evolution of Ashtanga teaching and the need for flexibility and inclusivity in the approach. Adam shares his desired changes in Ashtanga teaching, emphasizing the importance of encouragement and individualization. They touch on the loneliness of teaching and express their desire for more connections and stability. Adam talks about finding inspiration for his writing and shares his gratitude for inspirational figures in yoga. They end the conversation by discussing their guilty pleasures and expressing their gratitude to the listeners.

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Key Points

• ·      Online yoga offers sustainability and flexibility for practitioners, allowing them to practice at their own pace without the pressure of competition or strong adjustments from teachers.
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• ·      Teaching online can improve in-person teaching skills by providing a broader perspective and allowing teachers to see different bodies and variations in practice.
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• ·      Mysore style yoga has its benefits, but it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to approach teaching with inclusivity and flexibility, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
•  
• ·      The method of Ashtanga should be focused on encouragement and individual exploration, rather than strict adherence to rules and perfecting postures.
•  
• ·      Developing connections and finding stability in teaching and personal life are important goals for Adam and Theresa.
•  
• ·      Adam finds inspiration for his writing through his years of teaching experience and his passion for yoga philosophy.
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• ·      Mark Darby and Sharath are inspirational figures for Adam in his yoga journey.
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• ·      Adam's guilty pleasure is sitting in a cafe, enjoying a croissant and black coffee while reading philosophy or yoga books.
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• ·      Adam and Theresa express their gratitude to the listeners and their hopes for a positive and fulfilling new year.
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Ellen Johannesen – Buddhism & Ashtanga Yoga (  www.ashtanganepal.com | www.onyoga.no | @ashtanganepal )

Ellen Johannessen shares her journey from studying dance to discovering Ashtanga yoga and eventually delving into Buddhist philosophy. She explains the differences between yoga and Buddhism, emphasising the importance of compassion and wisdom in both traditions. Ellen discusses the integration of Buddhist teachings in her Ashtanga yoga practice and how it enhances the overall experience. She also reflects on her time teaching and practising in Nepal and the impact of long retreats.

Finally, Ellen opens up about her hip replacement surgery and the recovery process. In this conversation, Ellen discusses her decision to have hip replacement surgery after years of pain and limited mobility. She shares her recovery process and her challenges in regaining her yoga practice. Ellen emphasizes the importance of adapting the practice to accommodate physical limitations and finding joy in alternative movements. She also talks about her plans for the future, including online teaching and organizing yoga adventures in Nepal.

Key Points

·      Yoga and Buddhism share common principles of compassion, interconnectedness, and self-realisation.

·      The integration of Buddhist teachings in yoga practice can deepen one's understanding and enhance the overall experience.

·      Long retreats and intensive practices provide an opportunity for focused self-reflection and growth.

Hip replacement surgery can be a necessary step in maintaining physical well-being and continuing a yoga practice. Hip replacement surgery can provide relief from chronic pain and improve mobility.

    Recovery from surgery requires patience and a gradual return to physical activity.

    Adapting the yoga practice to accommodate physical limitations is essential for maintaining a consistent practice.

    Exploring alternative movements and practices can bring joy and fulfilment to the yoga journey.

    Online teaching and creating a supportive community can enhance the yoga experience for practitioners.

In this episode, Adam discusses his journey from studying philosophy to finding solace in Ashtanga Yoga. He shares his disappointment with the philosophy department and the lack of wisdom and inspiration he found in his professors. Adam explains how Ashtanga Yoga helped him deal with negative emotions and how the practice stimulates the spine to release stored emotions. He emphasizes the importance of a yoga lifestyle and provides tips for processing and digesting negative emotions in the practice.

Takeaways

• Ashtanga Yoga can be an effective tool for dealing with negative emotions and trauma.
• The practice stimulates the spine and releases stored emotions and trauma.
• A yoga lifestyle, including diet, sleep, and social interactions, is essential for processing and digesting emotions.
• Breathing and compression techniques can enhance the effectiveness of the practice in releasing emotions.

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Reema Datta (www.reemadatta.com | @reemayoga)

In this conversation, Reema Datta shares her journey of discovering yoga and becoming a teacher. She discusses her background growing up in a family immersed in yoga and Ayurveda. Rima also talks about her experience with Larry Schultz and the perception of yoga appropriation.

She emphasises the need for a holistic approach to yoga, including integrating mind practices. Rima suggests that ancient texts should be translated and made applicable to modern life to deepen the understanding of yoga.

The conversation explores the importance of incorporating mental aspects in yoga and the need to go back to the original teachings of yoga. It discusses the role of translations in understanding yoga texts and the significance of cultural appropriation and respect in yoga.

The meaning and pronunciation of Namaste are explored, along with the importance of respecting yoga traditions and practices. The conversation also delves into overcoming the fluctuations of the mind and the gift of yoga to humanity. It highlights the need to improve the representation of yoga and the use of yoga sequences to work with emotions. 

The conversation concludes with discussing the need for a feminine touch in yoga and the mind-body experience in yoga. The chapter ends with a reflection on inspiration and guilty pleasures.

Highlights

• Yoga can be practised in various ways and is not limited to asana.
•        The perception of yoga appropriation can be divisive and counterproductive.
• ·       There is a need for a holistic approach to yoga that integrates mind practices.
• ·       Ancient texts should be translated and made applicable to modern life to deepen the understanding of yoga. Incorporating mental aspects in yoga is essential to honour the original teachings of yoga.
• ·       Translations of yoga texts can greatly impact our understanding and practice of yoga.
• ·       Cultural appropriation in yoga should be approached with respect and understanding.
• ·       The meaning and pronunciation of Namaste can vary, but the intention behind it is what matters.
• ·       Respecting yoga traditions and practices includes understanding the symbolism and significance of statues and other elements.
• ·       Yoga helps overcome the fluctuations of the mind and promotes unity and connection.
• ·       Yoga is a gift to humanity and should be represented with integrity and authenticity.
• ·       Yoga sequences can be designed to work with specific emotions and promote emotional well-being.
• ·       Including more feminine perspectives in yoga can bring balance and depth to the practice.
• ·       The mind-body experience is an integral part of yoga and should not be suppressed or denied.
• ·       Honesty and authenticity are inspiring qualities in yoga and in life.
• ·       Taking time for guilty pleasures, such as watching movies and enjoying snacks, is important for self-care.

You can find links to Reema's book, Sacred Sanskrit Words for Yoga, Chant, and Meditation and her two mantra albums on her website: www.reemadatta.com 

You can also follow her on Instagram @reemayoga

Sources: 

Eknath Easwaran's translations of the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads are excellent. He taught at the University of California, Berkeley for decades, and was an amazing bridge between India and the West. His translations are easy to read and full of relatable stories. Roopa Pai has written The Gita for Children and The Vedas and Upanishads for Children. They are both excellent books if you'd like to share with your kids and learn with them! Even for adults, these books are a great introduction to these texts, which carry the original wisdom teachings of yoga that focus on the mind. 

You can learn more about Niguma from H.E. Kalu Rinpoche. 

Reema offers a free online community gathering on the last Sunday of each month to discuss aspects of yoga philosophy and engage in a short practice of mantra, pranayama, and meditation together. Everyone is welcome to join.

You can register online and receive a link. She also has a few online courses that combine asana, mantra, pranayama, meditation, and philosophy. www.reemadatta.com