Michelle Cassandra Johnson explores the kleshas—the five afflictions that cause suffering—within the framework of modern challenges ranging from racial injustice to climate change. Through personal stories, insights on yoga philosophy, and practical advice, Michelle offers a roadmap for understanding and addressing the root causes of suffering both individually and collectively. This conversation will inspire yoga practitioners and activists alike to engage deeply with their practice and strive for personal and social transformation.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

00:00 Introduction to the kleshas

2:10 Levity as sustenance for deep work

04:45 Why Michelle chose to write about the kleshas

06:55 A primer on the kleshas

14:36 How the kleshas confront our assumptions

16:32 Pain and the kleshas

24:35 The kleshas and social change

42:14 Teaching the kleshas in yoga

EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES:

Michelle Cassandra Johnson

Book: Illuminating Our True Nature

Illuminating Our True Nature Book Club

Illuminating Our True Nature Course: The Five Afflictions

Illuminating Our True Nature Gathering and Practice

Follow Michelle on Instagram @skillinaction

LINKS AND RESOURCES:

Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource 

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Learn more about the Impact Club

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Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe