Before handstands, before breathwork, before any of it, yoga begins with how we live. In this episode of On the Mat, Leah introduces the foundational ethics of the yoga practice: the Yamas and Niyamas, as taught in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. You'll hear the mythic origin story of the sage Patanjali, explore what it really means to live in alignment with yogic values, and dive deep into the first (and arguably most important) yama: Ahimsa, or non-violence.

Ahimsa asks us to do more than avoid harm. It calls us to become agents of peace in the way we think, act, rest, eat, speak, and move through the world. Leah explores how this principle applies not only to our relationships and the planet, but also to how we treat ourselves, on and off the mat.

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Yoga isn’t just about touching your toes - it’s a rich, multidimensional practice with deep roots and even deeper purpose. In this episode of On the Mat, Leah peels back the layers of the practice to explore its deeper meaning beyond the mat. From the root of the word “yoga” to the concept of union and the Eight-Limbed path, you'll learn why yoga is so much more than stretching. We’ll also dive into the different yogic paths from the Bhagavad Gita (karma, bhakti, jnana, and raja) and how yoga can be a deeply personal, spiritual, and transformative journey. Whether you're brand new or years into your practice, this is the episode that grounds you in the purpose behind the poses.

Follow Leah on Instagram: @onthematwithleah

Follow Leah on Substack: https://substack.com/@onthematwithleah 

In this opening episode of On the Mat, Leah shares the story of how yoga first found her, how the practice evolved from movement to a way of life, and what ultimately led her to become a teacher. You'll hear about the inspiration behind this podcast, what to expect in future episodes, and how this space can support you in deepening your own relationship with yoga, on and off the mat. Whether you're a long-time practitioner or have never set foot in a studio, this is where our journey together begins.

Welcome to On the Mat, a podcast for yoga practitioners who are ready to take their practice beyond the studio and into the heart of everyday life. Hosted by yoga teacher Leah Oren, each episode explores the deeper layers of yoga philosophy and spirituality, inviting you to live your practice with more intention, awareness, and grace.

Whether you're just beginning your yogic journey or are a dedicated yogi looking to reconnect with the roots of the practice, this podcast offers thoughtful conversations, guided reflections, and grounded inspiration to support your path - on and off the mat

Subscribe now! New episodes out every other Friday