Keen on Yoga Podcast

This conversation explores the themes of yoga as a form of power and its intersection with politics, particularly in the context of India. Sunila S. Kale and Christian Lee Novetzke discuss their book, The Power of Yoga, which examines how yoga has been historically understood not just as a spiritual practice but as a means of political expression and control. They delve into ancient texts like the Rigveda and the Mahabharata, the role of figures like the Raja of Aundh, and the implications of yoga in modern political contexts, including its use by leaders like Gandhi and Modi. The discussion highlights the evolving understanding of yoga and its relevance in contemporary society.

Sunila: https://jsis.washington.edu/people/sunila-kale

Christian: https://jsis.washington.edu/people/christian-novetzke/

Excerpt from the book about the film on Surya Namaskar: The Yoga of Power, Yoga as Political Thought and Practice in India:  https://thewire.in/books/the-yoga-of-power-surya-namaskar

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Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Key Points

·       Yoga can be understood as a means of power and control.

·       The intersection of yoga and politics has historical significance.

·       The Rigveda presents yoga in a context of war and power.

·       The Mahabharata connects yoga with governance and leadership.

·       Yoga's meaning has evolved over centuries in various texts.

·       The Raja of Aundh used yoga for political empowerment and social reform.

·       Modern interpretations of yoga often overlook its political roots.

·       Gandhi and Aurobindo viewed yoga as a tool for political action.

·       Yoga's role in nationalism is complex and multifaceted.

·       The contemporary practice of yoga is influenced by historical political contexts.

Adam discusses the importance of the Intermediate Series in Ashtanga Yoga, arguing against the common gatekeeping practices that prevent students from exploring these postures. He emphasizes the complementary nature of the Primary and Intermediate Series, advocating for a more integrated approach to practice. Keen highlights the significance of understanding the foundational principles behind each posture rather than merely striving for the ideal shape. He encourages practitioners to make a start with the Intermediate Series, regardless of their current abilities, and to seek guidance that fosters a deeper understanding of their practice.

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

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

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Key Points

·      Everyone should do the intermediate series.

·      It's wrong to withhold the intermediate series from students.

·      The two series complement each other in practice.

·      Practicing both series can prevent injury and enhance flexibility.

·      Understanding the foundations of postures is crucial for safe practice.

·      The emotional temperament of the Intermediate Series differs from the Primary Series.

·      Gatekeeping in yoga can hinder personal growth and exploration.

·      Practitioners should focus on function over form in their practice.

·      It's important to modify postures to suit individual capabilities.

·      The primary and second series are all you need for a fulfilling practice.

Adam explores the deeper aspects of yoga practice, particularly in relation to trauma and the body's response to it. He discusses the importance of understanding the nervous system, the need for both regulation and arousal in yoga, and how to adapt practices to suit personal seasons of life. Keen emphasizes the significance of listening to one's body, the necessity of variation in practice, and the role of breath in achieving balance. He concludes with reflections on the importance of self-practice and personal responsibility in yoga.

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga 

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Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Key Points

·      Yoga is not just about relaxation; it goes deeper.

·      Trauma can be stored in the body and needs to be addressed.

·      Hatha yoga involves both arousal and regulation of the nervous system.

·      There are different seasons for different types of yoga practice.

·      Variation in practice is essential for growth and awareness.

·      Listening to your body is crucial for effective practice.

·      Breath plays a significant role in regulating the nervous system.

·      Self-practice is necessary for personal development in yoga.

·      The method of practice should suit the individual's aims.

·      Responsibility in practice leads to deeper understanding and growth.

Peter A Levine, Ph.D., is the developer of Somatic Experiencing®, a naturalistic and neurobiological approach to healing trauma. He holds doctorates in both Biophysics and Psychology. He is the Founder and President of the Ergos Institute of Somatic Education and the Founder and Advisor for Somatic Experiencing International and has received Lifetime Achievement awards from Psychotherapy Networker and from the US Association for Body-Oriented Psychotherapy.

He continues to teach trauma healing workshops internationally. Dr. Levine’s books including his latest book, An Autobiography of Trauma: A Healing Journey is available at: Ergos Institute, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Amazon UK, Inner Traditions, Books A Million, and Bookshop.org

Learn more at:

 www.somaticexperiencing.com | @drpeteralevine

LISTEN ON PODCAST

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

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

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Website: www.keenonyoga.com

Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Key Points

·       Peter A. Levine's work focuses on the connection between trauma and the body.

·       Somatic Experiencing helps individuals process trauma without reliving it.

·       Animals naturally release trauma through physical responses, unlike humans.

·       Trauma is often a disorder of presence, where individuals are stuck in the past.

·       Intuition plays a crucial role in healing and understanding trauma.

·       The importance of having an empathetic presence during trauma recovery.

·       Healing trauma involves completing the body's natural responses.

·       Practical exercises can help individuals reconnect with their bodies and emotions.

·       The relationship between trauma and spirituality is intrinsic and significant.

·       Current projects include a book on trauma and spirituality.

Andrey Lappa shares his extensive journey into yoga, detailing his early experiences in Ukraine, his studies with renowned teachers like Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois, and the development of his own style, Universal Yoga. He emphasizes the importance of individual practice and understanding the deeper aspects of yoga beyond physical postures. Lappa discusses the significance of Kundalini awakening and the pursuit of Samadhi, advocating for a scientific approach to yoga that yields tangible results. He also critiques the current state of yoga education and the need for a more profound understanding of yoga's true essence.

www.andreylappa.com   | @andreylappa

LISTEN ON PODCAST

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

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

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Website: www.keenonyoga.com

Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Key Points

·     Andrey Lappa's journey into yoga began in Ukraine under the Soviet regime.

·       He studied extensively with various teachers, including Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois.

·       Lappa developed Universal Yoga to address the limitations he found in traditional methods.

·       He emphasizes the importance of individual practice tailored to each person's needs.

·       Kundalini awakening is a significant aspect of Lappa's teachings.

·       He believes that yoga should lead to tangible results and personal growth.

·       Lappa critiques the current state of yoga education as being too superficial.

·       He advocates for a scientific approach to yoga that transcends mere fitness.

·       The essence of yoga is about unity and connection with the Supreme.

·       Lappa encourages a deeper understanding of yoga's philosophy and practices.

Adam presents an engaging A to Z exploration of Ashtanga Yoga, discussing key concepts and personal insights. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the fundamentals of Ashtanga, the significance of breath and energy locks (bandhas), and the need for enjoyment in practice. Keen also addresses common misconceptions, the role of injuries, and the evolution of yoga practice in the modern world, including the impact of online classes. This comprehensive discussion encourages practitioners to question traditional teachings and adapt their practice to their individual needs.

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga 

LISTEN ON PODCAST

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

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

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Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Key Points

·      Ashtanga is fundamentally a style of Hatha yoga.

·      Bandha should focus on the relationship of the spine's curves.

·      Catching in backbends may not be suitable for everyone.

·      Drishti is essential for orienting the spine effectively.

·      Enjoyment in practice is crucial for a fulfilling experience.

·      Ujjayi breath should not lead to overstraining.

·      The specifics of hand positions are less important than overall tension.

·      Injuries should be taken seriously and not ignored.

·      Jumping back should not overshadow the asanas themselves.

·      Practitioners should question and engage with their teachers.

Mick Brown discusses his book 'The Nirvana Express', which chronicles the West's engagement with Indian spirituality from the mid-19th century to the present. He explores key figures such as Edwin Arnold, Krishnamurti, Meher Baba, and Osho, highlighting their influence on Western perceptions of Eastern teachings. The discussion also touches on the impact of psychedelics in the 1960s and the ongoing legacy of these spiritual traditions in contemporary society.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/authors/mick-brown/ | @mickbrownwriter

https://www.hurstpublishers.com/book/the-nirvana-express/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Nirvana-Express-Search-Enlightenment-Went/dp/1805260197

LISTEN ON PODCAST

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

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

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Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga 

Key Points

·       The book explores the West's engagement with Indian spirituality since the mid-19th century.

·       Edwin Arnold's 'The Light of Asia' was pivotal in introducing Buddhism to the West.

·       Theosophy played a significant role in shaping Western perceptions of Eastern spirituality.

·       Krishnamurti's rejection of theosophy marked a significant shift in spiritual teachings.

·       Meher Baba attracted a following of influential women in the early 20th century.

·       Aleister Crowley was a complex figure who blended Eastern and Western esoteric traditions.

·       Paul Brunton introduced key Indian figures to the West, including Ramana Maharshi.

·       The 1960s saw a surge in interest in Eastern spirituality, fueled by psychedelics.

·       Osho's community in Oregon became infamous for its controversial practices and lifestyle.

·       The conversation highlights the ongoing influence of Eastern teachings in contemporary Western spirituality.

Adam delves into the complex sensations associated with stretching in yoga. He discusses the importance of understanding the right kind of stretch, emphasizing that the feeling of stretch can often be misleading. Instead of seeking the immediate sensation of stretching, Adam encourages practitioners to focus on creating a sense of pressure and energy within the body. He explores the balance between body awareness and mental engagement, highlighting the need for a deeper connection to the body's energy. The conversation also touches on the nuances of pain and discomfort in practice, offering insights on how to navigate these sensations effectively.

"Pain is a sign to back off."

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga  

LISTEN ON PODCAST

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

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

WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE

https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga

SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA

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Website: www.keenonyoga.com

Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Key Points

·      The sensation of stretch can be misleading.

·      It's important to understand the body's signals during stretching.

·      Yoga should be viewed as a work in, not just a workout.

·      Creating pressure and energy in the body is essential.

·      Discomfort can be part of the journey in yoga practice.

·      Finding balance between body awareness and mental engagement is crucial.

·      Pain is a signal to back off, while discomfort can be part of growth.

·      The feeling of stretch should lead to a sense of space and freedom.

·      Dynamic postures in yoga serve multiple purposes, including health and emotional release.

·      The practice of yoga is about catharsis and energy work.

Adam, Edward, and Laurie explore the themes presented in their book 'Yoga and the Body: The Future of Modern Yoga in the Studio and Beyond.' They discuss the definitions of yoga, the differences between asana and vinyasa, the importance of rituals in yoga practice, and the role of community versus individual practice. They also delve into the intersection of science and yoga, address myths and misconceptions, and contemplate the future of yoga practice, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility and the potentiality of the body in understanding reality.

Edward Clark: www.tripsichore.com   | @tripsichore 

Laurie Green: www.laurieagreene.com 

"The body is what creates consciousness."

25% discount code: ADC25 (if you buy at Routledge using the link below)

https://www.routledge.com/Yoga-and-the-Body-The-Future-of-Modern-Yoga-in-the-Studio-and-Beyond/Clark-Greene/p/book/9781032731032?srsltid=AfmBOorPp_QbYARmzZA2XImxMY9txiuBk7x3QQZlLVMVuLkmxNcPUTV9

LISTEN ON PODCAST

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

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

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Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Key Notes

·       Yoga is the study of self and reality.

·       The body creates consciousness, making it central to practice.

·       Rituals in yoga enhance the experience and create community.

·       Community in yoga can sometimes overshadow individual practice.

·       The future of yoga lies in the hands of practitioners, not texts or gurus.

·       Science and yoga can coexist, but yoga also explores the experiential.

·       Myths in yoga often conflate physical ability with spiritual attainment.

·       Potentiality in yoga encourages exploration beyond traditional practices.

·       The context of a yoga practice influences its effectiveness.

·       Yoga should be a discipline that encourages questioning and personal growth.