The Veda Lounge Podcast

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Mel and Averie welcome Beth B. Allegra for a tender and honest conversation about grief: how it moves through us, how it changes us, and what it means to be in relationship with it. Whether through death, divorce, loss or change, grief often lives in the window of transition. Beth shares her background and what first drew her to this work, and together they explore grief on both the micro and macro levels, and what true permission looks like when we no longer have to carry grief alone.

The conversation explores a whole-person approach to grief that looks beyond diagnosis or pathology. Beth shares the work she does to support people navigating grief, the power of art in grief work and meeting grief as it is. They discuss grief as an ongoing, changing process rather than something to fix. Through the lens of yoga therapy, narrative therapy and examples, Beth reflects on the power of our relationship with grief, and how shifting from asking “why” to asking “what” can help us create our own meaning and grow through adversity.

The episode also explores the intersection of a holistic framework within academic and conventional approaches along with how these things overlap with Yoga Therapy. Beth discussees yoga therapy’s role in interdisciplinary mental health care, the importance of building capacity for regulation, and how the individual is the active ingredient in all healing. From loss and transition to meaning, presence and growth, this conversation is an invitation to meet grief as a companion that can teach us how to live and love more fully.

For more about MelMarie Yoga visit www.melmarieyoga.com

ABOUT BETH: 

Beth is a resident Yoga Therapist and movement professional with a lifelong passion for understanding the body and how it moves. Her relationship with movement began early—she likes to joke that it started with her first unassisted steps at seven months old. Today, Beth specializes in creating therapeutic workshops and wellness programs that integrate yoga therapy, mindfulness, and embodied self-care. She collaborates with healthcare providers, organizations, and individuals to offer personalized support in both group and one-on-one settings. Her work is rooted in the belief that movement can be a powerful pathway to healing, resilience, and connection. Through yoga therapy, education, community outreach, and program development, Beth is dedicated to helping others cultivate greater well-being and a more compassionate relationship with themselves. Learn more about Beth at https://www.bethballegra.com/ and connect with her on Instagram at @bethballegra 

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Mel and Averie explore what it means to contribute to the spaces, communities, and conversations we care about—even when imposter syndrome, comparison, resistance, or questions of adequacy make us wonder whether we belong there at all. They reflect on advocacy, meaning, and the possibility that our unique, multifaceted experiences are not something we need to overcome before contributing, but part of the value we bring.

The conversation explores where meaningful contribution actually begins: starting as you are, research literacy, access and identifying where you can be of service. They explore the value of building relationships and finding your people to foster collective impact that grows from genuine connection. Mel and Averie discuss why comparison can distract us from our own path and how advocacy extends beyond large platforms or formal leadership into the everyday ripple effects in the ways we teach, share, question, and show up.

The episode wraps up with some Q&A questions deepening the conversation into how Mel worked through resistence to yoga in unconventional settings. The other questions invited reflection around revisting beliefs they held when they first began teaching and how experience has reshaped their understanding of yoga, contribution, and impact. Averie shares what she is learning through the reminder that just because something is hard doesn't mean it isn't right, while Mel reflects on integrating into a new community and the role yoga has played in navigating that transition internally. From research and advocacy to belonging, relationships, and the courage to participate, this conversation is an invitation to consider what creates a movement—and how simply choosing to contribute to the changes we hope to see can become part of our practice.

For more about MelMarie Yoga, visit melmarieyoga.com

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Mel and Averie explore the deeper teachings of Venus around relationships, values, and the karmic exchanges that shape our lives. With Venus retrograde as a backdrop, they consider what happens when we can no longer outrun the needs of the heart, and how cycles of reflection can become opportunities for greater self-awareness, inquiry, and transformation.

The conversation explores both our relationships with other people and our relationship with the things we value, the choices we make, and the deeper mechanics supporting the lives we are creating. Mel and Averie discuss the insertion points where inquiry becomes possible through yoga: noticing our energetic shortcuts, where we tend to "patch" things up, how we respond to intensity, and what our practices reveal about our own “dial tone” of challenge.

They also unpack the practice of befriending the metaphorical edge—learning how to stay curious in places of discomfort rather than immediately moving away from them. From Venus and values to the yamas and niyamas, this conversation is an invitation to widen how you date the depths of yourself.

For more about MelMarie Yoga visit www.melmarieyoga.com

WELCOME BACK TO THE VEDA LOUNGE PODCAST- Season Two is Here!

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Mel and Averie return for the beginning of Season Two with an honest conversation with some life updates and what is shaping this next chapter. They share updates on the Illuminate Compass, Mel’s forthcoming book, *Yoga Therapy for the Military Community*, and some gems in between. 

The conversation begins with some thoughts on the power of manifestation, discussing changing environments and culture, and what it means to remain conscious in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. Mel and Averie explore AI as a tool: one that can support creativity, organization, and possibility, while also requiring discernment. They reflect on the risk of creative erasure when we allow a tool to replace the human process, voice, practice, and lived experience that makes our work meaningful.

They also share some of the genesis and “tea” behind the unfolding of Mel’s military-community work, her gratitude for the people who opened doors along the way, and some tipcs on making yoga sustainable within organizations. Whether you are navigating a changing professional landscape, building something of your own, or considering how to use AI with more intention, this conversation offers a grounded place to begin.

For more about MelMarie Yoga visit www.melmarieyoga.com

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Mel sits down with Lando Esteban, owner of House of RhtyhOM  to explore his transformative journey into yoga and somatic breath work. Lando shares how he first came to yoga through navigating severe back pain, the pivotal moments that led him to deepen his practice, and the experience of opening his own yoga studio, House of RhythOM. Together, they discuss the uniqueness of yoga across different cities, the many styles that shape the practice, and the power of music and playlists in creating an immersive yoga experience.

The conversation expands into the benefits of somatic breath work and somatic practices as a whole, an approach that Lando has personally integrated into his teaching and personal practice. He shares his journey into somatic regulation, nervous system insights, and how breath work can be a profound tool for self-awareness and transformation. They explore the sensory experience of breath work, the sacred nature of crying as pranayama, and the importance of riding discomfort rather than resisting it. Lando also opens up about a deeply transformational realization he gained through breath work, illustrating the potential for emotional release, healing, and nervous system recalibration.

This episode breaks down somatic work into its inherent simplicity, emphasizing the importance of accessibility, nervous system hygiene, and practical ways to integrate these tools into daily life. Mel and Lando discuss debunking the idea of "arrival," meeting yourself where you are, and embracing the wisdom that already exists within. By shifting away from self-judgment and over-complication, they highlight how breathwork and yoga offer a profound yet practical path to regulation, self-discovery, and well-being. Whether you're new to somatic practices or deepening your understanding of yoga and breathwork, this episode offers insight into the power of these tools to support healing, presence, and personal evolution.

For more about House of RhythOM go to:
https://houseofrhythom.com

Connect with them on Instagram: 
@houseofrhythom | @landoesteban 

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Mel and Averie sit down with Eva ZobianWolf to explore the depth of yoga, energy medicine, and the process of transformation through practice. Eva shares her journey into yoga teacher training, discussing the importance of creating supportive spaces and navigating the duality of Capital Y Yoga and little y yoga—the deep philosophical roots versus the more physical practice.

The conversation unfolds into the regulatory power of yoga, exploring how movement and breath work help develop nervous system regulation, emotional processing, and sensory management tools. Eva offers insight into working with energy medicine, including Reiki, and how these modalities bridge the gap between subtle body mechanics and tangible healing experiences. She shares a powerful story about her husband’s health experience and how she applied sound bowls and energy work to support his well-being, including the profound possibility of impact of pre-surgical practices.

This episode also highlights the need for deeper research in energy medicine while acknowledging the transformational phenomenons that occur through these practices. Mel, Averie, and Eva discuss yoga as an accessible practice for all, challenging the notion of exclusivity and reinforcing that yoga belongs to everyone. Whether you're a yoga teacher, energy worker, or someone exploring deeper self-care practices, this episode offers wisdom, practical tools, and inspiration for integrating these teachings into your life.

Eva ZobianWolf is a Yoga Therapist, Nurse and Educator at MelMarie Yoga and offers Reiki and services through Eva Zee Wellness. Join Eva for classes and training at www.melmarieyoga.com and connect with her on social media: @evazeewellness

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Jill Lemke joins Mel and Averie for a fascinating discussion on meditations, shamanic journeying, and soul connection. Jill shares her personal path into this work, her training in Peruvian and core shamanism, and how it led her to explore Norse cosmology and a deeper connection to Spirit. You will witness Mel have her own experience of a profound synchronicity that really exemplifies the magic of it all. They explore the power of meditation, symbolism, and working with the unseen in deepening self-awareness and self knowing.

The conversation expands to discuss meditation journeys, past life regressions, and the importance of honoring one’s process in connecting with our own soul experiences. Averie shares how many of these tools are a framework for self study that have also been pivotal in her journey. The conversation expands as they reflect on how life experiences serve as initiations, often leading to profound transformations that shift our paths. 

They discuss the moments that seem too “weird” to share—yet hold the most significant insights. Jill also introduces the foundations of mediumship and energy work, offering a grounding perspective on how we can integrate these tools into daily life. This episode is an invitation to explore the unseen, your intuition, and embrace the evolving journey of self-discovery.

For more about Jill Lemke: 

Jill is a Meditation Teacher, Psychic Medium, Past Life Regression Therapist, Reiki Master, and Shamanic Practitioner in Green Bay, WI. Her practice is focused on bringing forward healing on a soul level through the awareness of blocks/trauma that we hold onto through the course of life.
www.findyourki.org 

Listen to her meditation podcast: Breaking Beyond Guided Meditation 

For more about MelMarie Yoga visit www.melmarieyoga.com

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Mel and Averie sit down with Hannah Nicholson to explore her inspiring journey into homeopathic medicine and its profound potential to balance the body. Hannah shares her personal path into this ancient modality and provides a clear and insightful introduction to what homeopathy is, its fascinating history, and how it differs from allopathic medicine.

The conversation deepens as they dive into the potentization process of creating remedies, the trials and research supporting homeopathy, and its unique perspectives on health and wellness. Hannah introduces the concept of German New Medicine and discusses how symptoms can awaken deeper meanings and new ways to connect with our balances and imbalances. Together, they explore how homeopathy, human design, and natal charts intersect to create a more intuitive and personalized approach to healing.

This episode celebrates the value of ancient modalities and intuition in discerning the best paths to well-being. They discuss the importance of integrating personal wellness practices into daily life, the role of homeopathy in empowering individuals, and how to work with Hannah to explore its benefits. Whether you're curious about homeopathy, seeking alternative ways to support your health, or looking to deepen your relationship with your body, this episode offers a thoughtful and enlightening conversation on homeopathic medicine.

For More Information on Hannah and this work:

Work with Hannah, Learn More About GNM & Homeopathy: https://www.hannahnicholson.com

Pregnancy, Postpartum, & Birth Course: https://www.hannahnicholson.com/homeopathy-for-pregnancy-birth-postpartum

Potentization Study Referenced in Podcast: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167732224005932

Additional Homeopathy Research: https://www.hri-research.org/hri-research/

For more about MelMarie Yoga:
www.melmarieyoga.com

In this episode of the Veda Lounge Podcast, Mel and Averie sit down with Nasreen Allen, a prenatal yoga teacher and doula, to explore the profound connection between yoga and pregnancy. Nas shares her personal journey into yoga, what led her into prenatal yoga and the new realizations that shaped her perspective on prenatal wellness.

The episode deepens as they explore the unique benefits of prenatal yoga, the structure of a typical prenatal yoga class, and how yoga teachers can safely adapt classes for pregnant students. Averie shares the value she discovered in prenatal yoga. Nas explains the role of a doula in offering personalized support during childbirth and how this sacred work creates a stronger sense of empowerment and connection for mothers. Mel shares her own birthing experience with a doula, reflecting on the transformative power of support during such a pivotal time.They also addresses some of the biggest questions around prenatal yoga including the topics of twists, hot yoga, implications of being reclined and more.

This conversation offers a blend of practical wisdom, heartfelt stories, and expert guidance, making it a must-listen for yoga teachers, expecting mothers, and anyone seeking insight into the holistic approaches to pregnancy and childbirth.

LEARN MORE- 
Nasreen Allen (pronounced Nass-reen), a 500-hour RYT, glides between yoga educator, holistic health coach, and birth doula. Her passion ignites, empowering women through life's transitions – from pre-conception dreams to the bloom of pregnancy and the tender postpartum journey. Seeking clients to join her on this path, she offers a haven of services. Discover more, including the 85-hour prenatal yoga certification, at www.naturallynasreen.com

For more about MelMarie Yoga:
www.melmarieyoga.com

Learn Vedic Astrology:
https://www.melmarieyoga.com/vedic-astrology-certification

Become a Yoga Therapist: 
https://www.integrativeyogatherapystudies.com

Melissa Aguirre, C-IAYT and Director of the Integrative Yoga Therapy Studies program explains how Yoga Therapy is a powerful asset to health and proactive wellness. She begins with context and understanding what is yoga therapy then explores how Yoga Therapy principles mirror standard health models. Aguirre goes into ways Yoga Therapy can collaborate with health care and the benefits of Yoga Therapy. 

Get Nerdy. Awaken Empowered. Find Your Cozy. 

For more visit www.melmarieyoga.com