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In this episode of the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast, Matthew Huy explores the myth of the “pure yogi” — the unspoken belief that spiritual integrity and financial success are somehow incompatible. This episode steps slightly outside anatomy and physiology to look at how yoga shows up in our everyday lives as teachers, particularly in how we relate to money, pricing, and worth. The conversation is still research-informed, drawing on yoga history, sociology, and psychology to unpack where these ideas come from and why they persist in modern yoga culture.

Matt discusses how colonial reinterpretations of yoga, Western romanticisation of asceticism, and modern wellness culture have collectively stripped yoga of its social and economic context, leaving many teachers feeling guilt or shame around charging for their work. This episode also connects to a free workshop Matt is hosting on Thursday, February 12th, Why Making Money Feels Weird. You can learn more at matthewhuy.com or via the show notes. If you’re listening after that date, the workshop is available as an evergreen resource at matthewhuy.com.

References & Further Reading

Bunderson, J. S., & Thompson, J. A. (2009). The call of the wild: Zookeepers, callings, and the double-edged sword of deeply meaningful work. 

Brown, B. (2012). Daring greatly.

De Michelis, E. (2004). A history of modern yoga. 

Flood, G. (1996). An introduction to Hinduism.

Singleton, M. (2010). Yoga body: The origins of modern posture practice.

White, D. G. (2014). The yoga sutra of Patañjali: A biography.

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

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This episode, extracted from a recent webinar, focuses on whether twists detoxify the liver and whether shoulder stands stimulate the thyroid gland. Matt explores liver functions, the science behind detox diets, and the role of the thyroid gland in the body's endocrine system. The episode also highlights the significant health benefits of exercise, including yoga, in reducing systemic inflammation and supporting overall health.

Learn about future webinars by joining Matt’s newsletter: https://www.matthewhuy.com/5-truth-bombs.

00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast
00:05 Repurposed Webinar Overview
01:31 Twists and Detoxification Claims
02:22 Understanding the Liver's Role in Detoxification
06:09 Debunking Detox Diets
09:38 Yoga and Detoxification: The Evidence
15:46 Shoulder Stand and the Thyroid Gland
23:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

Matt explores the popular claim that emotions and trauma are stored in the hips. Drawing on his background as a yoga teacher and anatomy educator with a master's in exercise science, he reviews scientific evidence to debunk this myth. The episode discusses how oversimplified views on trauma can create unnecessary fears and misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of precise language in yoga teaching. Additionally, Matt explains the real impacts of trauma on the brain and nervous system and considers why certain yoga poses might evoke emotional responses. The episode concludes with practical advice for yoga instructors on how to create a supportive environment without reinforcing unscientific beliefs.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:13 Exploring Emotions and Trauma in the Hips

01:44 The Science Behind Emotions and Trauma

02:13 Common Misconceptions and Their Impact

04:25 Origins of the Emotions-in-Hips Theory

05:36 Understanding Trauma and Its Effects

08:07 Yoga's Role in Addressing Trauma

19:59 Practical Advice for Yoga Teachers

23:38 Conclusion and Personal Stories

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Host Matt Huy discusses the abstract concepts of kundalini, chakras, prana, and nadis. These are often considered “subtle energies” in yoga but they do not align with scientific findings. Using Bertrand Russell's teapot analogy, Matt explains the need for critical thinking and the burden of proof. He compares these concepts to love—a real yet abstract idea. While acknowledging the spiritual benefits individuals experience in yoga, Matt explores whether these energies are physical entities and he emphasizes an approach integrating current scientific knowledge with traditional practices.

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

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Matt welcomes Dr. Holger Cramer, a leading researcher in complementary and integrative medicine, to discuss the scientific evidence behind yoga's impact on health. They explore Dr. Cramer's extensive research on yoga's benefits for cancer patients, low back pain, asthma, and its role in mental health, particularly depression. The conversation delves into the safeness of yoga, comparing injury rates with other forms of exercise, and the complexities of studying yoga scientifically. Dr. Cramer emphasizes the importance of systematic reviews and meta-analyses in consolidating available evidence while addressing the challenges inherent in yoga research. The episode concludes with a peek into ongoing studies on post-COVID fatigue and the potential future direction of yoga research.

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

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Resources mentioned:

Buy Jules’ book: https://amzn.to/48Hmtd2
Jules’ website: https://www.julesmitchell.com/
Follow Jules on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julesyoga/
Join Matt’s email newsletter: https://www.matthewhuy.com/5-truth-bombs

Host Matthew Huy interviews Jules Mitchell, author of Yoga Biomechanics, who shares her background in yoga and biomechanics, discussing the integration of scientific principles into yoga practice. The conversation delves into the definition and application of biomechanics in yoga, the significance of tissue mechanics, and the influence of stretch tolerance on range of motion. They also explore the latest research on stretching, hypertrophy, and pain management, and discuss the implications for yoga teaching. Jules emphasizes the importance of research literacy and practical application for yoga teachers. Additionally, she provides insights into managing hamstring tendinopathy and the role of load in tissue recovery. The episode concludes with a discussion on the value of integrating scientific knowledge into yoga while maintaining the magic and experiential aspects of the practice.

00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast

00:27 Meet Jules Mitchell: Journey into Biomechanics

05:27 The Importance of Biomechanics in Yoga

07:06 Understanding Forces and Tissue Mechanics

11:41 Debunking Myths: Foot Placement in Tree Pose

18:18 The Role of Science and Research Literacy in Yoga

28:26 Diving into Stretching Research

30:09 Pain and Stretch Tolerance

33:51 Exploring Hypertrophy

39:50 Understanding Hamstring Tendinopathy

48:24 Yoga Teacher's Role in Managing Tendinopathy

50:03 Closing Thoughts and Resources

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

Host Matt Huy interviews Dr. Libby Hinsley, an experienced physical therapist, yoga teacher, and hypermobility specialist. They discuss Libby’s background, her work with hypermobility syndromes, and her approach to teaching anatomy to yoga teachers. Key topics include the importance of understanding anatomy for yoga practitioners and teachers, common misconceptions about body mechanics, the role of pain in yoga practice, and the benefits and considerations of yin yoga for hypermobile individuals. Libby provides insights on how yoga teachers can empower their students through informed anatomical knowledge and reflective practice.

Resources mentioned:

• Bone photos from the Grilley website: https://paulgrilley.com/bones
• Libby Hinsley’s website: https://libbyhinsley.com/
• Libby Hinsley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libbyhinsleypt/

00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast

00:26 Meet Dr. Libby Hinsley: Yoga Teacher and Physical Therapist

01:30 Libby's Journey: From Yoga Teacher to Physical Therapist

03:57 The Importance of Anatomy Knowledge for Yoga Teachers

12:03 Understanding Pain and Its Implications in Yoga

18:17 Hypermobility and Yoga: A Nuanced Discussion

18:44 The Role of Yin Yoga for Hypermobile Individuals

26:48 Debunking Myths: What Yoga Teachers Should Stop Saying

31:58 Debunking Myths About Back Pain and Yoga

32:54 The Fear of Spinal Flexion in Yoga

36:12 Understanding Anatomy for Better Yoga Practice

37:52 Decoding Common Yoga Cues

43:39 The Importance of Individual Anatomy in Yoga

48:38 Empowering Yoga Students Through Self-Discovery

55:11 The Role of Anatomy in Yoga Teaching

58:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

Matt delves into how the human body adapts to yoga and exercise. Reflecting on past misconceptions from his early teaching days, he clarifies a range of physiological adaptations, such as muscular hypertrophy, neural, cardiovascular, and connective tissue responses. Drawing on historical and scientific insights, including his personal experiences and education, Matt explains how repeated exposure to exercise leads to beneficial adaptations, including increased strength, coordination, and efficiency. He emphasizes the empowerment that comes from understanding these changes and promotes an active lifestyle. The episode also differentiates between adaptations and the broader benefits of exercise and touches on the physiological effects of pranayama.

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

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In this episode, Matt interviews Bernie Clark, author of Your Body Your Yoga and other books, discussing his journey into yoga, his influential works on yin yoga, and his deep dive into human anatomy and variations. They address the scientific and experiential aspects of Yin Yoga, the importance of stress and rest on tissues, and the dynamic nature of pain and recovery. They also touch on the evolution of yoga therapy and the nuances of teaching yoga with a focus on individual variations. The episode includes insights into how anatomical differences impact yoga practice and refutes common misconceptions with a critical and informed approach.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Your Body Your Yoga by Bernie Clark
• Bone Photos from the Paul and Suzee Grilley Website
• That infamous Callaghan and McGill study about flexion/extension on dead pig spines

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:11 Bernie Clark's Journey into Yoga

02:34 Discovering Yin Yoga and Human Variation

03:47 The Importance of Anatomy in Yoga

14:07 Challenges and Evolution in Yoga Teaching

23:54 Yoga Therapy and Scientific Validation

32:53 Understanding Muscle Tension: Hypertonic vs. Hypotonic

33:11 The Role of the Immune System in Muscle Stiffness

33:51 Hormonal Influences on Fascia and Injury Risks

34:22 Tension vs. Compression: Limits of Flexibility

35:02 Personal Experiences with Compression and Injury

36:35 The Reality of Physical Limitations in Yoga

37:47 Debunking Myths: Yoga and Bone Structure

38:57 The Debate on Fascia and Yin Yoga

40:35 Targeting vs. Isolating Fascia in Yoga

42:00 The Science Behind Long-Held Yoga Poses

51:04 Stress and Recovery: The Key to Tissue Health

57:25 The Controversial Credit Card Analogy

01:04:56 Final Thoughts and Current Endeavors

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

Matt is joined by craniosacral therapist and author Nikki Kenward. They discuss Nikki's journey, including her traumatic scuba diving accident, her work in craniosacral therapy, and her innovative concept of post-traumatic gut disorder. The conversation dives deep into the anatomy and physiology of the gut, touching on the enteric nervous system, neuroplasticity, and the interconnectedness of body systems. Nikki also shares practical tips for improving gut health and the importance of fun, play, and creativity in maintaining a healthy nervous system.

Follow Nikki on Instagram @Nikki.Circus and check out her YouTube channel 'Colon to Cosmos' for further insights and resources. 

Resources mentioned: 

• 'It's All in the Gut' and 'Overcoming Chronic Digestive Conditions: Release the Visceral Layers of Post-Traumatic Gut Disorder' by Nikki Kenward
• 'Molecules of Emotion' by Candace Pert
• 'The Body Keeps the Score' by Bessel Van der Kolk.

00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast
00:27 Meet Nikki Kenward: A Multifaceted Healer
01:28 Nikki's Vibrant Lifestyle and Circus Adventures
03:53 Understanding Craniosacral Therapy (CST)
06:35 Nikki's Traumatic Scuba Diving Experience
11:51 The Aftermath: PTSD and Gut Disorders
17:49 Healing and Growth: Overcoming Trauma
20:12 The Enteric Nervous System: The Second Brain
24:02 The Gut-Brain Connection
24:36 Serotonin and Dopamine in the Gut
24:57 Microbiota and Mental Health
25:53 The Enteric Nervous System
29:24 Impact of Trauma on Gut Health
31:35 Emotional Memory in Cells
38:10 Epigenetics and Gut Health
41:37 Practical Tips for Gut Health
44:17 The Role of Yoga and Play
45:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Support the show

Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.