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 

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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

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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  

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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

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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.

Ep 223 Keen on Yoga Podcast - Ian Whicher

Ian Whicher shares his insights on the Yoga Sutras, emphasizing the importance of self-study, compassion, and the nature of the mind. He challenges traditional interpretations of chitta vritti nirodha, presenting it as a means of liberation rather than mere cessation. The discussion explores the interplay between Purusha and Prakriti, the role of ego, and the responsibilities of yoga practitioners in the world. Whicher's unique perspective encourages a deeper understanding of yoga as a path to authentic living and engagement with life.

www.umanitoba.ca/arts/ian-whicher 

LISTEN ON PODCAST

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

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Key Points

·      Yoga is not about withdrawing from life but engaging with it.

·      Chitta Vritti Nirodha is a liberating cessation of the mind's confinement.

·      The self is already liberated; we just need to realize it.

·      Understanding the mind's nature is crucial for true happiness.

·      Duality in teachings serves as a concession for understanding non-duality.

·      Asmita, or ego, is an activity rather than an entity.

·      The practices of yoga purify the mind and enhance discernment.

·      Engaged yoga emphasizes responsibility in our interactions with the world.

·      Suffering can be a teacher if we learn to face it consciously.

·      The essence of yoga is about aligning with our true nature.

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga 

Adam delves into the nuances of Ashtanga Yoga, discussing the balance between traditional practices and modern adaptations. He emphasizes the importance of vinyasa, the role of the diaphragm in breath control, and the need for practitioners to amend their practices to suit individual needs while still respecting the core principles of Ashtanga. The conversation highlights the evolution of yoga practices over time and the significance of both collective and individual experiences in yoga.

LISTEN ON PODCAST

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

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 Key Points

·      You're free to amend the practice and still practice traditional Ashtanga.

·      Vinyasa is the heart of Ashtanga, focusing on diaphragm use.

·      Tradition is a moving target that must evolve with time.

·      Recognizing the process of the diaphragm is crucial in practice.

·      The body and mind are intertwined; both must be considered in yoga.

·      Collective practice is important, but individual needs should be prioritized.

·      Use Hatha Yoga as a tool for change in consciousness.

·      The way you stretch matters more than just achieving the posture.

·      Practitioners should be allowed to make the practice their own.

·      Consistency in practice is beneficial, but variation is equally important.

Renowned Ashtanga yoga teacher David Swenson talks to Adam about his new book, 'Only Dead Fish Go with the Flow.' They explore the development, adventures, and inspirations behind his memoir, which offers a candid look into Swenson's life and yoga journey. Swenson shares anecdotes from his early life in Texas, his struggles and successes, his deep dive into Ashtanga yoga under legendary teachers, and his diverse pursuits including surfing and the Hare Krishna movement. 

The episode also covers his teaching philosophy, his challenges with the mainstream Ashtanga community, and his unique approach to life and yoga. Listeners get an intimate view of Swenson's personal and professional evolution, and the episode concludes with insights into his future plans and the continuing influence of his book.

Book Link: https://onlydeadfishflow.com/ 

Get 15% off during Presale with Code ODF15 (May / June 2025 Delivery)

IG: @davidswensonashtanga

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

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www.keenonyoga.com  | @adam_keen_ashtanga

"It's a text for modern life."

Adam explores the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing its relevance to modern life and the importance of understanding karma yoga, dharma, and the complexities of action and desire. He discusses the historical context of the text, the metaphor of the civil war, and the interplay between desire, emotion, and perception. Adam also highlights the significance of personal experience and autonomy in spiritual practice, advocating for a practical approach to the teachings of the Gita. 

https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga

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Key Points

·      The Bhagavad Gita is a practical text for modern life.

·      Karma yoga emphasizes action in the world rather than withdrawal.

·      Understanding the context of the Bhagavad Gita enriches its teachings.

·      The civil war metaphor illustrates the complexity of human desires.

·      Desire and emotion cloud our perception of reality.

·      Karma and dharma are interconnected in our actions and responsibilities.

·      Acting according to one's nature leads to fulfilment of dharma.

·      Desire creates a cycle of action and consequence.

·      The mind-body connection is crucial in spiritual practice.

·      Personal experience is the ultimate guide in understanding spiritual truths.

www.simonborgolivier.com  | @simonborgolivier.com

Adam speaks with Simon Borg-Olivier, a qualified physiotherapist and expert in applying anatomy to yoga. They discuss Simon's book, 'Applied Anatomy and Physiology of Yoga,' focusing on safe and effective stretching techniques, the importance of active movement in yoga, and the role of breath and bandhas. Simon emphasizes the need to shift from a workout mentality to a work-in approach, promoting a practice that fosters love, connection, and natural breathing.

New book:  'Applied Anatomy and Physiology of Yoga

for a 30% discount email [email protected]

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 feeling of stretch is not as important as flexibility.

·      Active movement is crucial for safe stretching in yoga.

·      Flexibility can be achieved without the sensation of stretch.

·      Bandhas play a significant role in stabilizing the body during practice.

·      Breath control is essential for effective yoga practice.

·      Pranayama should focus on breathing less, not more.

·      Natural breathing is what you do in your sleep.

·      Yoga should promote a sense of love and connection within the body.

·      Avoid overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system during practice.

·      Shift the focus from workout to work-in for better health.

www.keenonyoga.com  | @adam_keen_ashtanga

"Not everything can be our yoga."

Adam explores the essence of yoga, discussing what differentiates it from mere stretching and how it affects consciousness. He delves into the distinctions between classical and Hatha yoga, emphasizing the importance of spinal stimulation and the right tension in yoga practices. Adam also addresses the significance of breath and the need to break free from past conditioning to achieve a clearer perception of reality. Ultimately, he defines a 'line in the sand' for modern yoga practices, advocating for a mindful approach to yoga that fosters self-awareness and personal growth.

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

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Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Key Points

·      Yoga is about affecting positive change in consciousness.

·      Classical yoga focuses on stillness and cessation.

·      Hatha yoga involves physical practices to stimulate the mind.

·      The spine plays a crucial role in yoga practices.

·      Right tension in the body is essential for effective yoga.

·      Breath control is vital for creating internal pressure.

·      Yoga can help break free from past conditioning.

·      Mindfulness in yoga allows for clearer perception of reality.

·      Not everything can be considered yoga; it must stimulate the spine.

·      The practice of yoga should be approached with the right dosage.