The Yoga Connection

What if the key to managing stress isn't doing more—but learning to listen to your body?

In this episode of The Yoga Connection Podcast, Jamie and Bobbi sit down with licensed clinical social worker Erin Hotz to explore the powerful connection between the nervous system, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. Erin shares practical, accessible tools that can help calm anxiety, reduce overwhelm, and create more resilience in everyday life.

Together, they discuss how our bodies communicate through physical sensations, why our emotions are valuable sources of information, and how simple practices like box breathing and humming can help regulate the nervous system.

The conversation also dives into parenting, introducing the concept of "good enough" parenting, the importance of repair over perfection, and how childhood experiences continue to shape our adult responses. Erin explains the often-overlooked trauma response of fawning and offers compassionate insight into recognizing and healing these patterns.

Whether you're a parent, yoga practitioner, caregiver, or simply someone looking for practical ways to navigate life's stressors, this episode offers encouragement, education, and tools you can begin using today.

Connect with Erin Hotz

• Website: https://erinhotzcounseling.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/erinhotzcounseling

Resources Mentioned

• Are You Mad at Me? by Meg Josephson
• Box Breathing Technique: https://www.healthline.com/health/box-breathing
• Mindfulness Resources: https://mindful.org
• Parenting Resources: https://childmind.org

nervous system regulation, nervous system, stress management, anxiety, emotional regulation, breathwork, box breathing, mindfulness, mental health, therapy, licensed therapist, parenting, good enough parenting, child development, fawning response, trauma responses, body awareness, self-care, yoga, wellness, emotional resilience, Yoga Connection Podcast

The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical or mental health care. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need individualized support, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Episode Description:

In this episode of The Yoga Connection Podcast, Jamie and Bobbi reflect on a recent workshop experience and the powerful connection between yoga philosophy and everyday life.

Together, they explore the cycle of awareness, growth, and surrender, and discuss what it means to truly live the practice both on and off the mat. From rediscovering creativity and navigating life transitions to finding balance between effort and rest, this conversation offers practical insights for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with themselves and their practice.

Whether you're new to yoga philosophy or have been studying it for years, this episode serves as a reminder that growth begins with awareness and that peace often comes when we learn to let go.

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Reflections from a recent yoga philosophy workshop

• The cycle of awareness, heat, and peace

• How yoga invites self-study and personal growth

• Balancing activity, productivity, and surrender

• Rediscovering creativity and passions outside of yoga

• Practical ways to cultivate mindfulness and grounding

Sound Bites:

"Living the practice is so simple yet so impactful."

"Surrender and peace are often missing from my cycle."

"Yoga invites you to notice what's going on inside."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Workshop Recap

00:02 Personal Updates and Travel Plans

02:38 Creative Exploration and Rediscovering Art

05:16 Insights from the Workshop on Awareness and Peace

07:49 The Cycle of Awareness, Heat, and Peace

10:23 Struggles with Surrender and Grounding in Practice

14:17 Navigating the Challenges of Teaching Yoga

15:37 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Yoga

17:54 Embracing the Philosophy of Yoga

20:50 The Importance of Personal Growth and Connection

23:06 Wellness Wins: Exploring New Practices

24:59 Finding Balance in Life and Wellness

Resources + Links:

The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron: https://www.amazon.com/Artists-Way-Julia-Cameron/dp/0143129252

Keri Kugler Workshops: https://www.kerikugler.com

Andrew Huberman Podcast: https://hubermanlab.com/

Keywords:

yoga philosophy, mindfulness, personal growth, yoga practice, self-awareness, wellness, surrender, creativity, yoga podcast, mindfulness practices, yoga sutras, personal development

Disclaimer:

The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.

Episode Description

After a little time away from the microphone, we're back and catching up on everything that's been happening behind the scenes.

In this episode, we reflect on recent life changes, the power of community, and what we're learning about balance in a season of growth. We talk about making room for multiple passions, setting boundaries, and creating space for the things that matter most.

As always, we kick things off with Mat Chats—where we unroll our mats and talk about what's going on in our lives—plus a few wellness wins along the way.

Disclaimer

The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.

We're still not officially back… but we're having too much fun not to keep going.

In this episode, we're diving into what makes a retreat feel truly special—not just the schedule, but the experience. We talk about creating "pockets of magic" in everyday life, the role of creativity in well-being, and why stepping outside your routine can shift everything.

We also share more details about our upcoming Spring Day Yoga Retreat—a full day designed to help you root, rise, expand, and radiate alongside an incredible community.

But before we get into all of that, we kick things off with Mat Chats—where we unroll our mats and talk about what's going on in our lives—plus a few personal wellness wins along the way.

If you've been craving connection, creativity, or just a reset, this one's for you.

Spring Day Yoga Retreat 📍 Sunflower Hill Farm Sunday, May 31, 2026 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM

Theme: Root • Rise • Expand • Radiate

• 4 Yoga Practices designed to guide you through a full arc of movement and restoration
• Community-building experiences to deepen connection
• Book club discussion featuring Big Magic
• Unstructured outdoor time to explore, rest, or connect
• Lunch provided
• Dinner + drinks to close out the day

This retreat is designed to help you reconnect to yourself, feel supported in community, and leave energized and restored.

Sign up here: https://namaste-stl.com/retreat/spring-day-yoga-retreat/

• Why retreats create meaningful shifts in mental health and perspective
• The idea of "pockets of magic" and how to create them in daily life
• The connection between creativity and overall well-being
• How community supports growth and transformation
• What to expect from the Spring Day Retreat experience

• "Creative minds need an outlet for their ideas."
• "Disruption of flow creates magic."
• "We are all the same at the end of the day."

00:00 Introduction to The Yoga Connection Podcast 02:49 Mat Chats: Life Updates and Reflections 05:30 Exploring Creativity and Inspiration 08:19 The Magic of Community and Connection 10:43 Details of the Upcoming Day Retreat 13:23 Wellness Wins and Personal Reflections

• Big Magic https://www.amazon.com/Big-Magic-Creative-Living-Beyond/dp/1594634726
• Sunflower Hill Farm https://sunflowerhillfarm.com
• Spring Day Retreat Signup https://namaste-stl.com/retreat/spring-day-yoga-retreat/

retreats, creativity, community, wellness, yoga, self-care, personal growth, spring, mindfulness

The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.

Episode Description:

In part two of this special Spring Day Retreat series, Jamie and Bobbi are joined by members of the teaching team for a conversation centered around teaching styles, personal growth, and the power of community.

They dive into how different approaches to yoga can support students in unique ways, why retreats create space for deeper connection, and how personal wellness evolves through different seasons of life.

This episode is a reminder that there's no one "right" way to practice—just the way that meets you where you are.

Spring Day Yoga Retreat Details:

Sunday, May 31, 2026 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Sunflower Hill Farms

Theme: Root • Rise • Expand • Radiate

Join us for a full day of yoga, connection, and restoration featuring four guided practices, community experiences, meals, and time to reset.

Investment: $250

Sign up: https://namaste-stl.com/retreat/spring-day-yoga-retreat/

What We Cover in This Episode:

• How different yoga teaching styles support different students
• Why retreats offer a deeper level of connection and growth
• The role of community in sustaining a wellness practice
• Personal wellness wins and evolving self-care routines
• The importance of strong, intentional instruction

Sound Bites:

"Feeling confident in my body is empowering." "Taking care of my body as an example." "Yoga is about community and connection."

Chapters:

00:00 Spring Break Reflections and Family Life 04:26 Exploring New Teaching Styles 08:43 Embracing Change in Parenting 10:38 The Importance of Retreats and Community 16:00 Collaborative Teaching and Class Dynamics 16:21 Intentional Teaching and Class Balance 17:19 Community and Connection Through Movement 18:16 The Importance of Resetting and Learning 20:07 Wellness Wins: Personal Growth and Achievements 22:01 Strength and Confidence in Wellness Practices 23:46 Navigating Aging and Body Awareness 26:05 Nutrition and Wellness Adjustments 27:44 The Value of Connection and Support in Wellness

Resources + Links:

Sunflower Hill Farms: https://sunflowerhillfarms.com Spring Day Yoga Retreat: https://namaste-stl.com/retreat/spring-day-yoga-retreat/

Keywords:

yoga, yoga retreat, wellness, community, teaching styles, personal growth, mindfulness, Sunflower Hill Farms, self-care, connection

Disclaimer:

The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.

Episode Description:

In part one of this special two-part series, Jamie, Bobbi, Keri, and Becky come together to talk all things community, growth, and the power of showing up.

They share personal wellness wins, reflect on seasons of change, and give a behind-the-scenes look at what you can expect at the upcoming Spring Day Yoga Retreat at Sunflower Hill Farms.

From meaningful connection to intentional movement, this conversation highlights how yoga extends far beyond the mat—and why community is often the missing piece in personal growth.

Spring Day Yoga Retreat Details:

Sunday, May 31, 2026 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Sunflower Hill Farms

Theme: Root • Rise • Expand • Radiate

Join us for a full day of yoga, connection, and restoration featuring four guided practices, community experiences, meals, and time to reset.

Investment: $225

Sign up: www.namaste-stl.com

What We Cover in This Episode:

• The role of community in building a sustainable yoga practice
• Personal wellness wins and navigating different life seasons
• What makes retreat experiences different from studio classes
• A preview of the Spring Day Retreat at Sunflower Hill Farms

Sound Bites:

"You gotta find stuff to fill that space." "Just showing up is half the battle." "Saying no without apology is empowering."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Spring Day Retreat 02:29 Personal Updates and Life Changes 05:07 Celebrating Achievements and Growth 07:48 Transitioning Roles and Responsibilities 10:17 The Importance of Community in Yoga 12:56 Experiencing Connection and Inclusivity 15:20 Details of the Spring Day Retreat 18:00 Wellness Wins and Personal Reflections

Resources + Links:

Sunflower Hill Farms: https://sunflowerhillfarms.com Yoga Connection Retreats: https://yogaconnectionretreats.com

Keywords: yoga, yoga retreat, wellness, community, mindfulness, personal growth, Sunflower Hill Farms, yoga podcast, self-care, connection

Disclaimer:

The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.

Keywords

Yoga Connection Podcast, Jamie Fuller, Bobbi Baker, life changes, yoga, personal growth, final episode, reflections, new beginnings, friendship

Summary

In this final episode of the Yoga Connection Podcast, hosts Jamie Fuller and Bobbi Baker reflect on their journey together, discussing the shifts in their lives and priorities. They explore the importance of being present, the lessons learned from yoga, and the acceptance of change. As they prepare to close this chapter, they express gratitude for their friendship and the connections made through the podcast, while looking forward to new beginnings and opportunities ahead.

Takeaways

This is our last episode, and it's bittersweet. Life changes require us to pivot and adapt. Yoga teaches us to notice when something feels off. It's important to be present with family and loved ones. The podcast has been a surprising and fulfilling journey. Acceptance of change is crucial for personal growth. Yoga can be a hobby again, not just a profession. Nothing we do defines our worth or identity. Friendship and support are vital during transitions. We can always reconnect and continue our journey together.

Sound bites

"It's our last one, yes!" "Nothing I do defines me." "It's okay to pivot."

Chapters

00:00 Farewell to the Yoga Connection Podcast 04:07 Navigating Life Changes and Priorities 07:09 The Essence of Yoga Beyond the Mat 09:10 Embracing New Beginnings 12:48 Finding Balance and Purpose 16:40 A Heartfelt Goodbye and Future Possibilities

Disclaimer: The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.

Keywords

Yoga, Health, Wellness, Fitness, Community, Body Image, Personal Growth, Nutrition, Group Fitness, Mental Health

Takeaways

The importance of community in fitness and wellness. Acknowledging fear as a normal part of trying new things. Personal growth is a continuous journey, not a destination. Movement should be enjoyable and tailored to individual needs. Yoga can help with focus and mental clarity. Group fitness can enhance happiness and well-being. It's essential to listen to your body and adjust accordingly. Surrendering to uncertainty can lead to new opportunities. Cooking for family can be a rewarding wellness win. Finding joy in movement is crucial for long-term health.

Summary

In this episode of the Yoga Connection Podcast, Jamie Fuller and guests Amy Lesher and Bobbi Baker share personal stories and insights about health, wellness, and the importance of community in fitness. They discuss their journeys through various fitness modalities, the challenges of body image, and the mental health benefits of movement. The conversation emphasizes the significance of connection, overcoming fear, and embracing uncertainty in personal growth. Listeners are encouraged to find joy in movement and to appreciate the role of community in their wellness journeys.

Sound bites

"Yoga can help with focus and mental clarity." "You have to give it the good old college try." "Cooking for family can be a rewarding wellness win."

Chapters

00:00 Mat Chats: Life Updates and Personal Stories 00:48 Body Image and Mental Health: Navigating Self-Perception 25:45 Finding Balance: Movement and Mental Well-Being

Disclaimer: The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.

Keywords

Rachel Sauter, Leopard Boutique, social media, fashion, self-expression, business growth, women empowerment, confidence, personal well-being, balancing life, change, flexibility, yoga, wellness, community, collaboration, personal growth, self-care, health, fitness

Summary

In this episode of the Yoga Connection Podcast, Jamie Fuller welcomes Rachel Sautter, owner of Leopard Boutique, to discuss her journey in the fashion industry, the impact of social media on personal well-being, and the importance of confidence in self-expression through fashion. Rachel shares her experiences as a business owner, the challenges of balancing work and personal life, and the lessons learned from expanding her boutique. The conversation emphasizes the significance of women supporting each other and the power of self-acceptance in both fashion and life. In this engaging conversation, Rachel Sauter, Jamie Fuller, and Bobbi Baker explore themes of personal growth, flexibility in life and parenting, the journey to embracing yoga, the importance of community and collaboration among women, and their individual wellness wins. They share insights on how to adapt to change, the benefits of yoga at any age, and the significance of supporting one another in business and health journeys.

Takeaways

Rachel Sautter has been passionate about owning a boutique since childhood. Social media can negatively impact mental health and self-perception. Women often struggle with accepting compliments and self-confidence. Fashion should be about personal expression rather than trends. Balancing business and personal life is a daily challenge for many women. It's important to give oneself grace during overwhelming times. Owning a single location can be more beneficial than multiple locations. Building a supportive community among women is essential. Dressing well can enhance confidence and self-image. Business growth requires a shift in mindset and focus on various metrics. You can always change and grow. Flexibility in parenting can lead to happiness. Yoga philosophy helps in focusing on what works for you. Many people initially dislike yoga but find value later. Self-care doesn't have to be intense; it can be gentle. Yoga is a lifelong practice that can adapt with age. Women are increasingly prioritizing their fitness and wellness. Building connections with uplifting people is essential. Reassessing dietary habits can lead to better health outcomes. Community events foster collaboration and support among women.

Sound bites

"Some days are harder than others." "It's easy to simplify things." "Nobody has ever figured out." "This is still working." "I love this." "I can do all of it." "I need more fiber." "This is so great."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rachel Sauter and Leopard Boutique 02:56 Navigating Social Media and Personal Well-being 06:01 The Journey of Leopard Boutique 12:04 Fashion as Self-Expression and Confidence 14:56 Balancing Business and Personal Life 20:02 Lessons Learned in Business Growth 20:06 Embracing Change and Flexibility 23:08 The Journey to Yoga 27:04 The Lifelong Benefits of Yoga 30:32 Building Community and Collaboration 32:53 Wellness Wins and Personal Growth

Disclaimer: The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.

Keywords

Ariana Jahja, GLOWE, leadership, coaching, self-awareness, wellness, organizational change, personal growth, yoga, community

Takeaways

Ariana is a lead executive coach at GLOWE, focusing on leadership and wellness. The importance of self-awareness in personal and professional growth. Navigating change in organizations requires compassion and understanding. Creating psychological safety in the workplace is essential for effective communication. Self-care practices are crucial for those in supportive roles. The Enneagram can help individuals understand their personality patterns. Ariana emphasizes the need for alignment and attunement in leadership. Cleaning out physical spaces can lead to mental clarity and wellness. Community and connection are vital for personal and professional fulfillment. Books like 'The Body Keeps the Score' and 'Becoming Better' are recommended for self-development.

Summary

In this episode of the Yoga Connection podcast, Jamie Fuller and Bobbi Baker welcome Ariana Jahja, a lead executive coach at GLOWE. The conversation explores Ariana's journey into coaching, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of compassion in navigating organizational change. They discuss personal updates, self-care practices, and the significance of community and connection in personal growth. The episode also highlights recommended resources for self-development and the impact of creating psychological safety in the workplace.

Sound bites

"You got it. 10 out of 10." "This is like the worst thing you can do." "We're all going through this together."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:35 Mat Chats: Personal Updates and Life Events 03:34 Ariana's Introduction and Background 07:28 Understanding GLOWE: Leadership and Coaching 13:31 The Importance of Compassionate Communication 17:56 Ariana's Journey: From Bosnia to Coaching 19:14 Journey to Glow: Finding Purpose 20:15 Self-Care in Supportive Roles 23:15 Managing Overthinking and Anxiety 24:18 Transformational Business Practices 25:41 Book Recommendations for Self-Development 28:56 Wellness Wins: Personal Growth and Reflection

Disclaimer: The Yoga Connection is a production of Yoga Media LLC. The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Yoga Media LLC or its partners. This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding any personal decisions or health-related concerns.