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Bernie Clark is a renowned yoga teacher and author with a deep expertise in Yin Yoga. With several influential books, such as "Your Body, Your Yoga," "Your Spine, Your Yoga," and "Your Upper Body, Your Yoga," Bernie has extensively researched the intersection of anatomy and yoga practice. A student of many disciplines, including the teachings of Paul Grilley and Stuart McGill, Bernie advocates for a functional approach to yoga that emphasizes the importance of understanding individual anatomical differences and the body's unique needs. His insights have made significant contributions to the understanding of yoga as both a science and an art.

Visit Bernie: https://yinyoga.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Divergence in Yoga Practices: Bernie Clark discusses the importance of understanding individual anatomical differences, which suggests a shift from aesthetics towards a functional understanding of yoga.
• Stability Before Mobility: Emphasizing Stuart McGill's teachings, the episode highlights the necessity to prioritize stability for safe movements before exploring mobility under load during yoga practice.
• Functional vs. Aesthetic Yoga: Bernie advocates for a functional approach to yoga that focuses on individual intention and sensation rather than uniformity in physical appearance.
• Pain Interpretation: Discussion on the complexities of pain, urging caution with definitive causes of pain in yoga practice, emphasizing inquiry and personal awareness over standard adjustments.
• Insightful Realizations: Bernie shares reflections on the overemphasis on extreme poses and the cultural fascination with flexibility, urging a more balanced, health-centric approach to yoga.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

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Daniele Salvitto is an accomplished performer, yoga teacher, and former professional dancer known for his work with prestigious organizations like Cirque du Soleil and Disney Cruise Line. Originally from Italy, Salvito began his dance career at the age of 18, quickly rising to perform worldwide. Today, he resides in France, where he teaches various styles of yoga, including Dharma and Ashtanga, alongside other disciplines like aerial acrobatics and flexibility. His unique approach blends his profound understanding of movement with yoga philosophy, nurtured under the guidance of renowned teachers such as Sri Dharma Mittra.

Visit Daniele: https://www.instagram.com/danielesalvitto/

Key Takeaways:

• Daniele's professional journey exemplifies the union of artistry and discipline, from dance to yoga.
• The pivotal role of Ashtanga yoga in Daniele's life, aiding recovery and enhancing his athletic abilities.
• Insights into Daniele's teaching philosophy, which integrates yoga with dance, acrobatics, and meditation.
• The significance of mentoring relationships, emphasizing his bond with Sri Dharma Mittra.
• Balancing Eastern yoga philosophies with Western scientific principles, Daniele bridges these worlds seamlessly.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Send us Fan Mail

Miriam Zernis is a seasoned yoga practitioner and kirtan leader based in Connecticut. Originally from New York City and raised in Florida, Miriam transitioned from a 22-year career at ABC News, where she reached the position of senior editor, to a life dedicated to yoga and spiritual practices. Her journey into yoga began with a deep interest in Sivananda and Jivamukti yoga teachings, leading her to become a respected yoga teacher. Miriam also founded "Sita's Light," a kirtan band that emphasizes community building and spiritual connection through music and chanting.

Visit Miriam here: https://sitaslight.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Miriam Zernis transitioned from a high-stress career in news editing to embrace yoga and kirtan, highlighting the transformative power of spirituality.
• New York’s diverse yoga scene in the early 2000s provided Miriam with a rich tapestry of styles and philosophies, fundamentally changing her life path.
• Miriam’s dedication to kirtan led to the formation of "Sita's Light," focusing on the healing power of music and the importance of fostering community through shared spiritual experiences.
• The conversation explores the impact of commercialization on yoga, advocating for a return to authentic practices that emphasize traditional teachings and community.
• Miriam underscores the value of starting small in spiritual endeavors, emphasizing grassroots community gatherings as a foundation for growth and healing.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Send us Fan Mail

Jack Westerholt is a dedicated yoga practitioner and instructor based in Dallas, Texas. As a passionate advocate for a holistic yoga practice inclusive of asanas, pranayamas, and meditation, Jack integrates a wealth of knowledge from spiritual texts such as the Bhagavad Gita into his teachings. He has been influenced by renowned teachers like Dharma Mittra and explores various facets of yoga, including Bhakti and Jnana paths. Jack is also actively involved in the vibrant yoga community at YogaZama and brings a rich background in marketing and advertising into his approach to yoga education.

Visit Jack here: https://www.instagram.com/jackwesterholt/

Key Takeaways:

• Integration of Spiritual Study: Jack underscores the role of texts like the Bhagavad Gita in deepening yoga practice, emphasizing the Jnana path or the knowledge path.
• Holistic Practice Approach: Incorporating meditation, pranayama, and asanas, Jack maintains that a balanced practice enhances spiritual and personal growth.
• Power of Devotion: Jack discusses Bhakti Yoga and the joy of serving the divine within and outside us, highlighting how devotion removes ego and expectations.
• Teaching Challenges and Rewards: The episode explores the diverse experiences and growth gleaned from teaching yoga in different environments, emphasizing authenticity and patience.
• Personal Growth and Reflection: Jack shares insights on self-improvement, focusing on the continuous journey of being better each day while letting past challenges serve as lessons.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Native Yoga Toddcast, Todd sits down with Mika Britt, Aurora Stoll, and Nati Eckersley of the Gi Squad Podcast to explore the powerful crossover between yoga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Together they unpack how these two practices share deep roots in discipline, respect, and community while offering complementary tools for body control, balance, and mental focus.

The conversation highlights the real advantages of cross-training yoga and grappling: improved flexibility and mobility for BJJ, stronger core stability, better injury prevention through clear communication on the mat, and the confidence that comes from consistent practice. The guests also share how the belt system in jiu-jitsu mirrors personal growth, teaching perseverance and resilience that transfer far beyond the gym—especially for women seeking empowerment through self-defense skills.

This episode sets the stage for an upcoming collaborative Yoga for Grapplers class designed to blend the strategic movements of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the strength, flexibility, and recovery benefits of yoga.

Visit the Gi Squad here: https://www.youtube.com/@GiSquadPodcast

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Send us Fan Mail

Andrei Ram is a distinguished yoga practitioner and instructor with a rich history in both the arts and sciences. He holds a background in contemporary dance and choreography, and has studied biology. His profound journey into yoga was significantly influenced by his experiences with Native American philosophies in Colombia, where he was raised. Andrei has spent more than three decades exploring and teaching yoga, emphasizing pranayama—the art of breathing. He has been deeply influenced by Sri Dharma Mittra and has devoted himself to uncovering the essence of yoga practices and translating eastern philosophies into applicable contemporary wisdom. Andrei is currently based in Rome and is actively promoting a new book titled "Prana Nidra."

Visit Andrei here: http://innerparadise.org/ & https://prananidra.co/

Key Takeaways:

• Integration in Yoga: Andrei emphasizes the idea of yoga as a practice that integrates all aspects of life, from breathing to spiritual understanding, based on personal perception and context.
• Prana Nidra Concept: He introduces "Prana Nidra" as a middle practice, providing crucial rest for the energy systems, which consequently rests the mind and body.
• Reinterpreting Yama & Niyama: Andrei proposes a shift in understanding core yoga principles—such as seeing Yama as 'caring' rather than 'restriction', fostering a more nurturing approach.
• Importance of Conscious Breathing: Highlighting breathing as an art form, Andrei stresses the need for caring consciousness to cultivate prana (life force), impacting a refined and artistic way of living.
• Spiritual and Practical Coherence: Emphasizing coherence in yoga practice and life, Andrei advocates for the integration of spiritual insights into daily actions and interactions.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Enjoy new Native Yoga Center classes uploaded everyday on our online learning hub. Use code FIRSTMONTHFREE at checkout. https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Send us Fan Mail

Mounia Hammouda is a Moroccan yoga instructor and the founder of Shidomind Yoga, based in Casablanca. With a rich background in high-level executive roles across multinationals in Morocco, New York, Canada, and West Africa, Mounia transitioned from the corporate world to follow her passion for yoga. She possesses deep expertise in yoga philosophy, having studied extensively in India at the esteemed Yoga Institute in Mumbai. Mounia is an advocate for personal transformation, emphasizing the balance between mind, body, and spirit, and she is dedicated to promoting the depth and authenticity of yoga beyond its commercialized image.

Visit Mounia: https://shidomindyoga.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Mounia Hammouda transitioned from a high-stress corporate life to teaching yoga, seeking deeper meaning and personal growth.
• She believes yoga is a profound tool for cultivating spiritual and personal transformation, beyond its commercialized perception as a physical activity.
• Morocco’s vibrant culture and rich history have played an influential role in Mounia’s spiritual exploration and teachings.
• Yoga has deepened Mounia's faith in God, providing her with greater insight and comfort in her spirituality.
• Shidomind Yoga emphasizes the mental and spiritual benefits of yoga, fostering a holistic approach to personal development.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Send us Fan Mail

Nikunja Vilasi Das is a dedicated practitioner and teacher in the field of Bhakti Yoga. Born in California, he was introduced to yoga at an early age, with his mother being a yoga teacher. He currently resides in Miami, Florida, where he serves at the Sacred Vedic Arts Bhakti Yoga center. Nikunja Vilasi Das is committed to spreading the teachings of Bhakti Yoga, integrating his diverse experiences in various yoga disciplines, including Hatharaja Yoga and Kriya Yoga. He holds reverence for his spiritual masters and strives to bridge traditional yoga practices with contemporary life.

Visit Nico: https://www.nicoyoga108.com/

Key Takeaways:

• Bhakti Yoga is centered around the devotion to Krishna and the practice of chanting the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra as a means of purification and self-realization.
• Nikunja Vilasi Das argues that while modern yoga practices can become overly materialistic, true growth involves spiritual discipline and guidance from a realized master.
• Understanding the role of Bhakti Yoga as the most accessible form of yoga today, particularly due to its simplicity and ability to foster a personal relationship with the divine.
• The Hare Krishna Maha Mantra serves as a direct connection to divine consciousness, engaging all senses in spiritual practice and offering a profound experience of inner peace.
• Being around and learning from a realized spiritual guide like Sri Dharma Mittra can profoundly impact one's spiritual evolution, promoting authenticity in practice versus performative stereotypes.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Send us Fan Mail

Rane Bowen is a seasoned software and web developer with over 20 years of experience in the technology sector. Originally from New Zealand, Rane now resides in Melbourne, Australia, where he combines his passion for technology and yoga. He is the co-host of the Flow Artist Podcast alongside his wife, Jo Stewart, a yoga teacher and author. Rane is the creator of innovative platforms like Sound Made Scene and Guest Made Simple, designed to enhance the podcasting experience. He is also a yoga teacher who has used yoga as a tool for healing and personal growth.

Visit Rane: https://gardenofyoga.com.au/

Key Takeaways:

• Rane Bowen has a rich background in software development and utilizes his skills to enhance podcasting through AI-driven tools like Sound Made Scene.
• His experience as a yoga teacher and cancer survivor gives him a unique perspective on combining technology with holistic practices.
• The advances in AI are transforming industries, but Rane underscores the importance of using these tools responsibly and creatively.
• Platforms like Sound Made Scene and Guest Made Simple aim to simplify the podcasting process by automating tedious tasks and improving workflow.
• Rane highlights the significance of approaching tech innovations with both optimism and skepticism to balance progress with ethical considerations.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin 

Send us Fan Mail

Jeremy Engels is a distinguished professor of communication and ethics at Penn State University, specializing in rhetoric. He is acclaimed for his exploration of the intersections between yoga, mindfulness, and community building. Jeremy is a prolific author whose works include "Living Namaste: A Practical Guide to Yoga, Mindfulness, and Building Community" and "On Mindful Democracy". His academic and personal journey incorporates a deep engagement with yoga, meditation, and the foundational principles of rhetoric, making him a unique voice in the fields of philosophy and mindfulness.

Visit Jeremy: https://jeremydavidengels.com/

Key Takeaways:

• The embodiment of "Namaste" involves recognizing and honoring the divine within ourselves and others, promoting harmony and community.
• Engaging in yoga and mindfulness practices can alleviate loneliness and cultivate a sense of belonging and connection within communities.
• Jeremy's experience as a rhetoric professor highlights the powerful role of language in shaping human interactions and nurturing democratic values.
• Bridging philosophical concepts with physical practices like yoga fosters a balanced approach to addressing personal and societal challenges.
• The pursuit of understanding complex philosophical and ethical principles can significantly impact personal development and community well-being.

Check out: 👇
8IN8 Ashtanga Yoga for Beginners Course Online- Learn 8 Limb Yoga in 8 Days - Get FREE coupon code for a limited time only (Regular price $88) https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Practice with Native Yoga Online - New classes EVERY day - Use Code FIRSTMONTHFREE https://nativeyogacenter.teachable.com/p/today-s-community-class

Subscribe to Native Yoga Center and view this podcast on Youtube.

Thank you Bryce Allyn for the show tunes. Check out Bryce’s website: bryceallynband.comand sign up on his newsletter to stay in touch. Listen here to his original music from his bands Boxelder, B-Liminal and Bryce Allyn Band on Spotify.

Please email special requests and feedback to [email protected]

https://info.nativeyogacenter.com/8in8-ashtanga-yoga-for-beginners-8-limbs-in-8-days/

Support the show

Native Yoga website: here
YouTube: here
Instagram: @nativeyoga
Twitter: @nativeyoga
Facebook: @nativeyogacenter
LinkedIn: Todd McLaughlin