By Harmony Slater
4.7
6262 ratings
The podcast currently has 233 episodes available.
In this thought-provoking episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater and Russell Case sit down with philosophical scholar and teacher, Dr. Shyam Ranganathan, to explore the deeper aspects of yoga philosophy, ethics, and autonomy. Dr. Ranganathan dives into the true purpose of yoga as a tool for independence, and how the practice has been shaped—and sometimes distorted—by colonial and cultural influences.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the roots of yoga, understanding how devotion to sovereignty, through practices like Ishvara Pranidhana, leads to Kaivalya, a state of autonomy. Dr. Ranganathan also touches on the challenges of decolonizing yoga, the philosophical lens necessary for true yoga practice, and the importance of questioning the cultural baggage that modern yoga carries.
Dr. Ranganathan’s reflections on the Yoga Sutras, the role of language, and how philosophy intertwines with meditation will inspire anyone looking to deepen their understanding of yoga beyond physical asana. This episode is a must-listen for both seasoned practitioners and those new to the philosophy of yoga.
Key Topics Discussed:
Connect with Dr. Shyam Ranganathan: https://www.shyam-ranganathan.info/
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, host Harmony Slater sits down with coach Alyssa Van Alstyne to discuss the intersection of women’s health, autoimmune disorders, and the powerful role that coaching plays in uncovering and healing the root causes of physical symptoms. Alyssa shares her personal journey with hyperthyroidism and how she navigated a challenging diagnosis through both medical and holistic approaches. Together, they explore the connection between mental, emotional, and spiritual health and how it impacts physical well-being.
Alyssa and Harmony reflect on their similar experiences with autoimmune disorders, revealing how deeply the mind and body are connected. They delve into the importance of receiving support, managing stress, and addressing the deeper layers of health that often go unacknowledged in traditional medicine.
If you’re navigating health challenges, autoimmune disorders, or just want to explore a more holistic approach to healing, this episode is filled with wisdom and practical insights.
Topics Covered:
Resources:
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Disclaimer: The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as such. All opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or participants are solely their own and do not reflect the views of any companies or organizations they may be affiliated with. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
In this episode of Finding Harmony, host Harmony Slater and co-host Russell Case have a deep and enlightening conversation with Cynthia Jurs, a Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhist practitioner who has spent over 30 years traveling the globe, placing sacred Earth Treasure Vases in special locations to promote healing and protection for our planet. They explore Cynthia’s spiritual journey, the origin and significance of Earth Treasure Vases (ETVs), and how meditation and spiritual practices can foster global healing.
Cynthia shares how her meeting with a 106-year-old Lama in the Himalayas led to her life’s mission of healing the Earth through this sacred practice. The conversation delves into the power of synchronicities, the role of meditation, and the importance of honoring indigenous traditions and locations. Cynthia also reveals personal stories of magical moments from her global pilgrimages, including powerful encounters with nature, such as queen bees and whales. The discussion brings forth the sacred connection between humanity and the Earth, encouraging listeners to play their part in global healing.
If you're feeling drawn to reconnect with the Earth, join Cynthia for her monthly Full Moon meditations and other healing practices offered by the Gaia Mandala Global Healing Community.
What You’ll Learn:
- The story behind Earth Treasure Vases and their spiritual significance.
- The intersection of Tibetan Buddhism, Earth healing, and indigenous practices.
- How sacred objects and meditation practices can bring healing energy to the planet.
- Cynthia’s personal encounters with spiritual synchronicities while placing the vases.
- The importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies for Earth’s healing.
- Ways to participate in global healing through community meditation and offering practices.
Connect with Cynthia Jurs:
- Learn more about Cynthia’s work and her Earth Treasure Vases at [gaiamandala.net](https://gaiamandala.net)
- Join Cynthia’s monthly Full Moon Meditations and stay connected through the Gaia Mandala community
- Check out Cynthia’s book: Summoned by the Earth: Becoming a Holy Vessel for Healing Our World
Upcoming Events:
- Join Cynthia at her retreat in upstate New York at the end of September.
- She will be giving a talk at Tibet House in New York City during the Full Moon. Visit [https://www.summonedbytheearth.org/live-events) for more information.
Other ways to connect with Cynthia
https://earthtreasurevase.org/about-us/founder/
https://gaiamandala.net/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20yAjtjxPPY&t=4s
https://gaiamandala.net/practice
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
In this gem of an episode, Harmony and Russell dive deep into the philosophy of Tibetan Buddhism with the wise and joyful Hector Marcel, President of the Three Jewels Outreach Center in New York City, Tibetan Buddhism Teacher, and Meditation Expert. Hector shares his journey from Argentina to Australia and eventually to New York City, where he discovered Tibetan Buddhism. This conversation is full of laughter, wisdom, and thought-provoking ideas about karma, suffering, reincarnation, and the power of meditation.
The discussion touches on the misconception that spiritual practices will eliminate suffering and explains how enlightenment can be found by transforming how we experience life’s challenges. Hector emphasizes the importance of facing our negative karmas, the mind-body connection, and why joy is integral to moving through suffering.
Key Topics Discussed:
Join Hector Marcel & Three Jewels:
Connect with Harmony (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater and Bobbi Paidel, host of the Curious Yogi podcast, dive deep into a compelling journey of self-discovery and transformation. From a remote town in Alberta to an ashram in India, Bobbi shares how yoga helped her overcome scoliosis, addiction, and mental health struggles. Her story is a testament to the power of dedicated practice, spiritual teachings, and a life-altering shift toward meditation, pranayama, and asana.
They discuss finding balance between Eastern and Western practices, navigating spiritual awakening, and living with grace amidst life's chaos. Bobbi's insights reveal how even the simplest routines, like creating a "Toilet Temple," can anchor us in moments of stillness and clarity. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a curious seeker, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on embracing life's challenges with an open heart.
Key Topics Discussed:
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
More about Bobbi:
Originally from western Canada, Bobbi is a yogi with more than 20 years of in-depth experience. She has devoted her life to living and sharing the spiritual principles of yoga sadhana as taught by her Guru in the Advait Vedant tradition. Bobbi has spent more than ten years living primarily in northern India, where she has immersed herself in the yogic lifestyle.
Along with being a registered yoga teacher (Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Meditation), Bobbi is also a certified Ayurvedic Yoga Massage practitioner and experienced in pilates (mat) and alignment-based bodywork. She shares extensive knowledge of body mechanics from a lifetime of competitive dance training and a bachelor’s degree in dance.
Bobbi is a space holder for Y12SR (Yoga of the 12 Step addiction recovery), the host of a Curious Yogi Podcast, and the co-founder of Positive Lamb Foundation - a registered charity supporting children affected by HIV in India. Bobbi teaches with authenticity and respect to the yogic traditions, while adding her light-hearted flair, making her classes joyful and accessible for all.
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bobbipaidel/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/bobbipaidelyoga
Website: http://bobbipaidel.com
In this episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater and Russell Case sit down with Shane Scaglione, an eclectic and passionate yogi, beat poet, and world traveler. Shane shares his fascinating journey from his early days in New York, through his experiences living in India, and his deep dive into yoga and beat poetry. Shane's story is filled with unique encounters—from his time with beat poets and karate experts to his immersion in Ashtanga Yoga and his transformative years studying with Richard Freeman. Join us as we explore the confluence of cultures, disciplines, and philosophies that have shaped Shane's path and discover how the principles of yoga continue to guide his eclectic life.
Key Topics Discussed:
Resources and Links:
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
In this episode, Harmony and Russell chat with Arbely Rubalcava, a yoga teacher with a rich background in rhythmic gymnastics and over a decade of Ashtanga Yoga practice. Arbely shares her journey from competing in rhythmic gymnastics at a young age to discovering Modo Yoga in Montréal, which became a transformative practice for her. At 19, she traveled to Kerala, India, to complete a 500-hour Modo Level 1 teacher training, and later transitioned to Ashtanga Yoga, studying under Sharath Jois in Mysore. Arbely talks about the challenges of teaching yoga internationally, leading teacher trainings across various countries, and the emotional and physical toll of constant travel. Her story highlights the discipline required in both gymnastics and yoga, the importance of breath and meditation, and the evolution of her teaching practice over the years.
Key Discussion Points:
About the Guest: Arbely Rubalcava is a dedicated yoga teacher with over 1000 hours of yoga education and more than a decade of experience in practicing Ashtanga Yoga. Born in Mexico and raised in Montréal, Arbely’s journey began with rhythmic gymnastics, leading her to discover the healing power of yoga. After completing a 500-hour Modo Level 1 teacher training in Kerala, India, at the age of 19, Arbely has since traveled the world teaching yoga, leading teacher trainings, and continuing her own education. Her approach to teaching is compassionate yet firm, and she believes yoga can be made accessible to anyone, regardless of their background or experience level.
Connect with Arbely:
Join the Conversation: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends. Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast for more insightful conversations and stories that inspire.
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
In this episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony and Russell reconnect with their Sanskrit and chanting teacher, Dr. M.A. Jayashree, who has spent a lifetime immersed in the study and teaching of ancient yogic wisdom. This insightful conversation dives deep into the transformative power of Sanskrit sounds in yoga practice, exploring how these sacred vibrations can influence spiritual growth and inner transformation.
Join us as we discuss the significance of mantra, the role of chanting in traditional yogic practices, and how these ancient sounds can be a pathway to deeper spiritual awareness. Our guest shares her personal journey of growing up in India, her experience as a woman studying and teaching Sanskrit, and the profound impact that chanting has had on her life and the lives of her students.
Key Topics:
Jayashree Anandampillai
Dr. M.A. Jayashree is a retired Professor of Sanskrit, currently the director of Anantha Research foundation, Mysore, an institution engaged in foundational research work in the field of ancient sciences of India and also in the field of Sanskrit and Indian culture.
She holds a doctorate degree in Sanskrit from Bangalore University on the topic, “Concept of Mind in Indian philosophy” completed under the guidance of Prof K. T. Pandurangi.
She has many books, monographs and papers to her credit in the fields of Sanskrit, Ancient Sciences, Indian history, Culture, Music and so on. She holds a vidvat (master) degree in Carnatic classical music and is a Performing Musician. She is an accomplished artist in Mysore school of painting. She is the Vidwatpramukh for ItihasaSankalanaSamiti, Karnataka chapter.
She has a large following of overseas students to learn Yoga Sutras of Maharshi Patanjali and Srimad Bhagavadgita. She has conducted many workshops on chanting of Yoga Sutras and Bhagavad Gita, given lectures on Yoga Philosophy and taught Sanskrit in an easy way in many parts of the world like Hong Kong, Thailand, America & Europe. She has also given several sessions in the “Evolution – Asia Yoga Conference ” in Hong Kong for 3 consecutive years. She has produced many CDs and books as learning aids in the traditional method of oral chanting in the name ‘Srutiparampara’
Dr. M.A. JAYASHREE is from from Mysore, Karnataka, in Southern India. She was born and brought up in a traditional Indian brahman family environment. After starting her studies in the scientific field, she became more and more involved in the understanding of Indian philosophy and scriptures. This led her to achieve a deep knowledge of both Yoga and Sanskrit, which she speaks fluently. Dr. M.A. JAYASHREE took her PhD in Sanskrit, of which she has become a popular teacher by working in several educational institutions of Mysore (College and University) alongside her private tuition to Yoga students. She has also studied the traditional Indian music system, and her wonderful voice has allowed her to become a recognized singer. She has featured several CDs on Veda, Yoga Sutra, Sloka and Sanscrit poems. Dr. M.A. Jayashree, along with her brother Prof. M.A. Narasimhan are the founders of the Anantha Research Foundation, Sanskrit & Yoga Research Foundation, Mysore, whose purpose is to bring the wisdom of traditional Indian teachings to contemporary students all over the world.
Links to chanting:
https://open.spotify.com/track/28Pax7cpc8H1vUMrabDLHJ
https://open.spotify.com/album/54d1Oqhs1v2SyCmWXinXPi?uid=ab9a130b86bada14a636&uri=spotify%3Atrack%3A28Pax7cpc8H1vUMrabDLHJ
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
In this episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of pranayama and breathwork with the esteemed yoga teacher and breathwork practitioner, Stephen Thomas. With over 25 years of experience teaching yoga across the globe, Stephen offers profound insights into the practice of pranayama and its impact on mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.
Key Topics Discussed:
About Stephen Thomas:
Stephen Thomas is a dedicated yoga teacher and breathwork practitioner with over 25 years of experience teaching yoga globally. Based in Bern, Switzerland, he runs a studio called Svarupa, where he offers classes in yoga, pranayama, and breathwork. Stephen’s teachings draw from various traditions, including the Kovalayananda lineage, the Bihar school, and influences from the Himalayan and Tibetan traditions. He is known for his deep understanding of the subtle aspects of pranayama and his ability to guide students towards a balanced and harmonious life.
Special Offer:
Harmony offers a free breathwork practice for stress reduction. Learn how to reduce overwhelm and anxiety in under two minutes with her free download. Visit Harmony Slater’s Website to access this valuable resource.
Connect with Harmony:
Join us for this enlightening conversation and discover how the practice of pranayama can transform your life, bringing more clarity, peace, and balance into your daily routine. Tune in now and breathe your way to a healthier, more harmonious life!
Feel free to adjust any details or add more information as needed!
About Stephen Thomas:
Stephen [eng] is an experienced Yoga teacher and practitioner. He leads classes, Teacher Trainings, Workshops and Immersions. His teaching is rooted in the traditional Yoga practices. His philosophical background is influenced by studies in Yoga as well as Buddhism.
Stephen is long term student of O.P. Tiwari of Kaivalyadham, India – a master in the science of Pranayama and Ayurveda. He combines that foundation with over 20 years of study and exploration in the fields of Alignment based Asana. He has spent these decades refining an evolution of practice that has spanned many years in Ashtanga Vinyasa, Anusara and his love of Iyengar’s approach. He teaches in a way that understands the value of transformation through effort and dedication without imposing Dogma.
Stephen teaches at his own studio, SVARUPA in Bern and as a senior teacher at AIRYOGA in Zurich. He is a father and dedicates his time to family life, writing, documenting and researching Yoga. He also works one-on-one with many students and helps to mentor teachers in the community.
Quotes:
- “To know something is to have a relationship to it over a long period of time.”
- “The practice itself will become the teacher.”
- “There’s so much gathered through shared karma and shared experience.”
Connect with Stephen
Svarupa Website: https://svarupa.com/about-svarupa/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephen.svarupa/
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Join Harmony Slater as she sits down with Stephen Thomas to discuss the profound changes in the yoga world over the past 25 years. From the early days of in-person classes to the rise of online platforms, discover how the practice and teaching of yoga have evolved. (Note: This thoughtful conversation continues next week, as Stephen and Harmony delve into a rich conversation about breathwork and pranayama.)
In this episode, we discuss:
Changes in the Yoga Industry: Reflecting on the significant shifts in yoga teaching from the early 2000s to today.
Impact of Online Yoga: How the pandemic and online platforms have transformed yoga practice and instruction.
Teacher Training Boom: Exploring the rise and influence of yoga teacher training programs.
The Role of Yoga Studios: The evolving importance of physical yoga studios as community hubs.
Dedication and Consistency: The necessity of long-term dedication to truly understand and master yoga.
Stephen's Journey: Insights into Stephen Thomas's personal yoga journey, including his experiences teaching in North America, Asia, and Europe.
About Stephen Thomas:
Stephen [eng] is an experienced Yoga teacher and practitioner. He leads classes, Teacher Trainings, Workshops and Immersions. His teaching is rooted in the traditional Yoga practices. His philosophical background is influenced by studies in Yoga as well as Buddhism.
Stephen is long term student of O.P. Tiwari of Kaivalyadham, India – a master in the science of Pranayama and Ayurveda. He combines that foundation with over 20 years of study and exploration in the fields of Alignment based Asana. He has spent these decades refining an evolution of practice that has spanned many years in Ashtanga Vinyasa, Anusara and his love of Iyengar’s approach. He teaches in a way that understands the value of transformation through effort and dedication without imposing Dogma.
Stephen teaches at his own studio, SVARUPA in Bern and as a senior teacher at AIRYOGA in Zurich. He is a father and dedicates his time to family life, writing, documenting and researching Yoga. He also works one-on-one with many students and helps to mentor teachers in the community.
Quotes:
- “To know something is to have a relationship to it over a long period of time.”
- “The practice itself will become the teacher.”
- “There’s so much gathered through shared karma and shared experience.”
Connect with Stephen
Svarupa Website: https://svarupa.com/about-svarupa/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephen.svarupa/
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
The podcast currently has 233 episodes available.
10,187 Listeners
2,504 Listeners
286 Listeners
561 Listeners
79 Listeners
1,217 Listeners
4,027 Listeners
6,622 Listeners
586 Listeners
306 Listeners
3,726 Listeners
689 Listeners
15 Listeners
163 Listeners
45 Listeners