Higher Love with Megan

Yoga's Crossroads: Navigating Appropriation vs. Appreciation with Georgie Edwards


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In this episode, I delve into the complexities of cultural appropriation versus appreciation in the yoga space with Georgina Edwards, a yoga teacher, and teacher trainer. Georgie shares her personal journey of discovering yoga, exploring her Sri Lankan heritage, and becoming a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusivity in wellness spaces.

We discuss the nuances of cultural appropriation, the importance of ongoing learning and self-reflection, and the power of community in creating a more welcoming and accessible yoga world.

Join us as we challenge the status quo and explore how we can all contribute to a more conscious and inclusive yoga community.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cultural appropriation in yoga is a complex issue with no easy answers, requiring ongoing learning and self-reflection.
  • Yoga teachers have a responsibility to uplift marginalized voices and create more diverse and inclusive spaces.
  • Yoga is more than just the physical practice (asana); exploring other aspects like meditation, chanting, and self-inquiry can deepen one's understanding and appreciation.

Episode Highlights:

  • (02:41) Georgie's journey into yoga and exploring her Sri Lankan heritage.
  • (09:54) The complexities of cultural appropriation versus appreciation in yoga.
  • (18:57) The importance of being an eternal student and approaching yoga with humility and curiosity.
  • (28:21) The need for compassion and understanding in navigating cultural appropriation.
  • (36:22) How to respond when someone is triggered or upset in a yoga class.
  • (40:32) Encouraging practitioners to explore different aspects of yoga beyond the physical practice.
  • (44:24) Honoring the sacredness of yoga and moving away from commodification.
  • (50:30) The evolving landscape of yoga and the importance of embodiment and intuition.
  • (56:30) The importance of play and rest in yoga and activism.

About the Guest:

  • Instagram: @georgie.francesca

Episode Links:

  • Trauma Talks program:https://compassionprisonproject.org/
  • Book "Rest is Resistance" by Tricia Hersey:
  • Charity All Our Relations:

Connect with Megan:

  • Instagram: @‌HigherLove_withMegan
  • Website:www.higher-love.com

Podcast Music:

  • Good For You by THBDhttps://soundcloud.com/thbdsultan
  • Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0
  • Free Download / Stream:http://bit.ly/2PgU6Mu
  • Music promoted by Audio Libraryhttps://youtu.be/-K_YSjqKgvQ⁠.

This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk). If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!

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Higher Love with MeganBy Megan Cooper