Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of The Yoga Connection Podcast, Jamie and Bobbi sit down with renowned yoga teacher, author, and founder of Laughing Lotus, Jasmine Tarkeshi. Together, they dive into Jasmine’s powerful life journey—from growing up in Iran during political unrest to finding solace and purpose through dance, activism, and eventually yoga. Jasmine shares how her multicultural upbringing and personal struggles shaped her teachings and inspired her accessible approach to yoga philosophy.

You’ll hear stories about her love for cats, the power of community, and how yoga became her anchor during life’s biggest transitions. She also opens up about writing The Yoga Body and Mind Handbook and the importance of making ancient yogic wisdom digestible and relatable for modern readers.

What We Chat About:

• Jasmine’s cross-cultural childhood and immigration story

• Youth sports, cats, and the chaos of everyday life

• The power of yoga as a tool for grounding and resilience

• Finding identity and confidence through movement and punk activism

• The origin story of Laughing Lotus Yoga Center

• Making yoga philosophy accessible for all with her book and guided journal

• Jasmine’s online classes, offerings on Yoga Anytime, and what’s next

Wellness Wins of the Week:

Jamie reconnects with friends over dinner

Bobbi embraces the mantra “one day at a time”

Jasmine enjoys a much-needed staycation getaway

Connect with Jasmine:

• Website: Lotuslandyogasf.com

• Classes on Yoga Anytime — Use code JASMINE for a discount

• Books: The Yoga Body and Mind Handbook and Good Intentions: A Guided Yoga Journal

Resources Mentioned:

• The Yoga Body and Mind Handbook by Jasmine Tarkeshi

• Good Intentions: A Guided Yoga Journal

• Pema Chödrön and teachings from Tibetan Buddhism

• Rumi and Hafiz poetry in yoga classes

Stay Connected:

Follow Jamie and Bobbi for more real conversations and grounded guidance in the world of yoga and beyond.