Enlightened Anatomy with Matthew Huy

Matthew Huy

Enlightened Anatomy is a deep-dive into the worlds of anatomy, physiology, and science to inspire yoga teachers, yoga practitioners, and general movement nerds who want the latest science-based knowledge on exercise, health, and mindfulness. Hosted by long-time yoga teacher and co-author of the popular book The Physiology of Yoga, Matthew Huy  is on a mission to help yoga teachers feel more confident by truly understanding anatomy and physiology. Tune in to hear scientists, authors, and top-level movement teachers discuss topics such as fascia science, lower back pain, hypermobility, posture, breathwork, and pain science! Every week, through solo and interview episodes,  This podcast is all about you, dear listener, going through the transformation of being confused by all of the different views and opinions out there to becoming a flourishing teacher or practitioner with the latest science-based information. Whether you’re an experienced teacher or a novice yogi  with a curiosity about the wonders of the human body, you’ll enjoy learning from this podcast.

  1. FEB 9

    13: The Pure Yogi Myth

    Join the free workshop: subscribepage.io/yoga-money. In this episode of the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast, Matthew Huy explores the myth of the “pure yogi” — the unspoken belief that spiritual integrity and financial success are somehow incompatible. This episode steps slightly outside anatomy and physiology to look at how yoga shows up in our everyday lives as teachers, particularly in how we relate to money, pricing, and worth. The conversation is still research-informed, drawing on yoga history, sociology, and psychology to unpack where these ideas come from and why they persist in modern yoga culture. Matt discusses how colonial reinterpretations of yoga, Western romanticisation of asceticism, and modern wellness culture have collectively stripped yoga of its social and economic context, leaving many teachers feeling guilt or shame around charging for their work. This episode also connects to a free workshop Matt is hosting on Thursday, February 12th, Why Making Money Feels Weird. You can learn more at matthewhuy.com or via the show notes. If you’re listening after that date, the workshop is available as an evergreen resource at matthewhuy.com. References & Further Reading Bunderson, J. S., & Thompson, J. A. (2009). The call of the wild: Zookeepers, callings, and the double-edged sword of deeply meaningful work.  Brown, B. (2012). Daring greatly. De Michelis, E. (2004). A history of modern yoga.  Flood, G. (1996). An introduction to Hinduism. Singleton, M. (2010). Yoga body: The origins of modern posture practice. White, D. G. (2014). The yoga sutra of Patañjali: A biography. Support the show Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher. For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

    15 min
  2. 12: Twists & detoxes, shoulderstands & thyroids

    JAN 7

    12: Twists & detoxes, shoulderstands & thyroids

    This episode, extracted from a recent webinar, focuses on whether twists detoxify the liver and whether shoulder stands stimulate the thyroid gland. Matt explores liver functions, the science behind detox diets, and the role of the thyroid gland in the body's endocrine system. The episode also highlights the significant health benefits of exercise, including yoga, in reducing systemic inflammation and supporting overall health. Learn about future webinars by joining Matt’s newsletter: https://www.matthewhuy.com/5-truth-bombs. 00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast 00:05 Repurposed Webinar Overview 01:31 Twists and Detoxification Claims 02:22 Understanding the Liver's Role in Detoxification 06:09 Debunking Detox Diets 09:38 Yoga and Detoxification: The Evidence 15:46 Shoulder Stand and the Thyroid Gland 23:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Support the show Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher. For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

    27 min
  3. 11: Are emotions stored in the hips?

    11/27/2025

    11: Are emotions stored in the hips?

    Matt explores the popular claim that emotions and trauma are stored in the hips. Drawing on his background as a yoga teacher and anatomy educator with a master's in exercise science, he reviews scientific evidence to debunk this myth. The episode discusses how oversimplified views on trauma can create unnecessary fears and misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of precise language in yoga teaching. Additionally, Matt explains the real impacts of trauma on the brain and nervous system and considers why certain yoga poses might evoke emotional responses. The episode concludes with practical advice for yoga instructors on how to create a supportive environment without reinforcing unscientific beliefs. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:13 Exploring Emotions and Trauma in the Hips 01:44 The Science Behind Emotions and Trauma 02:13 Common Misconceptions and Their Impact 04:25 Origins of the Emotions-in-Hips Theory 05:36 Understanding Trauma and Its Effects 08:07 Yoga's Role in Addressing Trauma 19:59 Practical Advice for Yoga Teachers 23:38 Conclusion and Personal Stories Support the show Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher. For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

    29 min
  4. 10: Do chakras, kundalini, and prana exist?

    02/08/2025

    10: Do chakras, kundalini, and prana exist?

    Host Matt Huy discusses the abstract concepts of kundalini, chakras, prana, and nadis. These are often considered “subtle energies” in yoga but they do not align with scientific findings. Using Bertrand Russell's teapot analogy, Matt explains the need for critical thinking and the burden of proof. He compares these concepts to love—a real yet abstract idea. While acknowledging the spiritual benefits individuals experience in yoga, Matt explores whether these energies are physical entities and he emphasizes an approach integrating current scientific knowledge with traditional practices. Support the show Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher. For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

    18 min

  5. 12/19/2024

    9: Holger Cramer on yoga injuries and yoga for depression

    Matt welcomes Dr. Holger Cramer, a leading researcher in complementary and integrative medicine, to discuss the scientific evidence behind yoga's impact on health. They explore Dr. Cramer's extensive research on yoga's benefits for cancer patients, low back pain, asthma, and its role in mental health, particularly depression. The conversation delves into the safeness of yoga, comparing injury rates with other forms of exercise, and the complexities of studying yoga scientifically. Dr. Cramer emphasizes the importance of systematic reviews and meta-analyses in consolidating available evidence while addressing the challenges inherent in yoga research. The episode concludes with a peek into ongoing studies on post-COVID fatigue and the potential future direction of yoga research. Support the show Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher. For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

    1h 3m

  6. 11/16/2024

    8: Jules Mitchell on yoga butt, foot-on-knee and stretching science

    Resources mentioned: Buy Jules’ book: https://amzn.to/48Hmtd2 Jules’ website: https://www.julesmitchell.com/ Follow Jules on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julesyoga/ Join Matt’s email newsletter: https://www.matthewhuy.com/5-truth-bombs Host Matthew Huy interviews Jules Mitchell, author of Yoga Biomechanics, who shares her background in yoga and biomechanics, discussing the integration of scientific principles into yoga practice. The conversation delves into the definition and application of biomechanics in yoga, the significance of tissue mechanics, and the influence of stretch tolerance on range of motion. They also explore the latest research on stretching, hypertrophy, and pain management, and discuss the implications for yoga teaching. Jules emphasizes the importance of research literacy and practical application for yoga teachers. Additionally, she provides insights into managing hamstring tendinopathy and the role of load in tissue recovery. The episode concludes with a discussion on the value of integrating scientific knowledge into yoga while maintaining the magic and experiential aspects of the practice. 00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast 00:27 Meet Jules Mitchell: Journey into Biomechanics 05:27 The Importance of Biomechanics in Yoga 07:06 Understanding Forces and Tissue Mechanics 11:41 Debunking Myths: Foot Placement in Tree Pose 18:18 The Role of Science and Research Literacy in Yoga 28:26 Diving into Stretching Research 30:09 Pain and Stretch Tolerance 33:51 Exploring Hypertrophy 39:50 Understanding Hamstring Tendinopathy 48:24 Yoga Teacher's Role in Managing Tendinopathy 50:03 Closing Thoughts and Resources Support the show Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher. For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

    56 min

  7. 09/20/2024

    7: Libby Hinsley on why you gotta know anatomy & physiology

    Host Matt Huy interviews Dr. Libby Hinsley, an experienced physical therapist, yoga teacher, and hypermobility specialist. They discuss Libby’s background, her work with hypermobility syndromes, and her approach to teaching anatomy to yoga teachers. Key topics include the importance of understanding anatomy for yoga practitioners and teachers, common misconceptions about body mechanics, the role of pain in yoga practice, and the benefits and considerations of yin yoga for hypermobile individuals. Libby provides insights on how yoga teachers can empower their students through informed anatomical knowledge and reflective practice. Resources mentioned: Bone photos from the Grilley website: https://paulgrilley.com/bonesLibby Hinsley’s website: https://libbyhinsley.com/Libby Hinsley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libbyhinsleypt/ 00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast 00:26 Meet Dr. Libby Hinsley: Yoga Teacher and Physical Therapist 01:30 Libby's Journey: From Yoga Teacher to Physical Therapist 03:57 The Importance of Anatomy Knowledge for Yoga Teachers 12:03 Understanding Pain and Its Implications in Yoga 18:17 Hypermobility and Yoga: A Nuanced Discussion 18:44 The Role of Yin Yoga for Hypermobile Individuals 26:48 Debunking Myths: What Yoga Teachers Should Stop Saying 31:58 Debunking Myths About Back Pain and Yoga 32:54 The Fear of Spinal Flexion in Yoga 36:12 Understanding Anatomy for Better Yoga Practice 37:52 Decoding Common Yoga Cues 43:39 The Importance of Individual Anatomy in Yoga 48:38 Empowering Yoga Students Through Self-Discovery 55:11 The Role of Anatomy in Yoga Teaching 58:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Support the show Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher. For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

    1h 3m

  8. 08/30/2024

    6: How your body adapts to yoga -- and exercise in general

    Matt delves into how the human body adapts to yoga and exercise. Reflecting on past misconceptions from his early teaching days, he clarifies a range of physiological adaptations, such as muscular hypertrophy, neural, cardiovascular, and connective tissue responses. Drawing on historical and scientific insights, including his personal experiences and education, Matt explains how repeated exposure to exercise leads to beneficial adaptations, including increased strength, coordination, and efficiency. He emphasizes the empowerment that comes from understanding these changes and promotes an active lifestyle. The episode also differentiates between adaptations and the broader benefits of exercise and touches on the physiological effects of pranayama. Support the show Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher. For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.

    26 min
See All (13)

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Enlightened Anatomy is a deep-dive into the worlds of anatomy, physiology, and science to inspire yoga teachers, yoga practitioners, and general movement nerds who want the latest science-based knowledge on exercise, health, and mindfulness. Hosted by long-time yoga teacher and co-author of the popular book The Physiology of Yoga, Matthew Huy  is on a mission to help yoga teachers feel more confident by truly understanding anatomy and physiology. Tune in to hear scientists, authors, and top-level movement teachers discuss topics such as fascia science, lower back pain, hypermobility, posture, breathwork, and pain science! Every week, through solo and interview episodes,  This podcast is all about you, dear listener, going through the transformation of being confused by all of the different views and opinions out there to becoming a flourishing teacher or practitioner with the latest science-based information. Whether you’re an experienced teacher or a novice yogi  with a curiosity about the wonders of the human body, you’ll enjoy learning from this podcast.

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