Keen on Yoga Podcast

Adam Keen

Adam Keen engages in a deep level of discussion with Ashtanga yoga teachers as well as others involved in inquiry, wellness, diet, or simply people he finds interesting. The in-depth discussions and honest conversations are often surprising. Prepare to have your thoughts expanded. If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us you can do so by liking, sharing, rating and donating at https://keenonyoga.com/donate/

  1. 20 HR AGO

    Elizabeth Kadetsky – The Cultural Dynamics of Yoga

    Elizabeth Kadetsky discusses her book 'First There Is A Mountain', detailing her experiences with Iyengar Yoga and the cultural dynamics surrounding it. She reflects on her journey to writing the book, her experiences in India, and the complexities of dietary practices within the yoga community. The discussion also touches on the historical context of Hindu nationalism, Iyengar's legacy, and the evolution of yoga practices over time. Kadetsky shares her insights on the nuances of yoga culture, the impact of her research, and her current approach to yoga. www.elizabethkadetsky.com | @ekadetsky LISTEN Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga  Key Points ·      Elizabeth Kadetsky is a writer and professor at Penn State. ·      Her book 'First There Is A Mountain' was published in 2004. ·      Kadetsky's first trip to India was in 1997, leading to her research on Iyengar Yoga. ·      Iyengar Yoga emphasizes alignment and the use of props. ·      Dietary practices in yoga can reflect cultural and communal identities. ·      Kadetsky experienced cultural shock when practicing yoga in India compared to the West. ·      Iyengar's influence on yoga is significant but complex, involving historical and cultural dynamics. ·      The rise of Hindu nationalism has impacted the perception of yoga in India. ·      Kadetsky sees her book as a reflection of its time, capturing a specific moment in yoga history. ·      Her current yoga practice focuses more on meditation and breath rather than strict physical exercise.

    59 min
  2. 7 SEPT

    Adam Keen – Healing Through Touch in Yoga

    Ep 241 Adam Keen – Healing Through Touch in Yoga Adam explores the complex and evolving role of touch in yoga practice. He discusses the historical context of touch in yoga, the healing potential of positive touch, and the challenges of safeguarding both students and teachers in a modern environment where boundaries have shifted. Keen emphasizes the importance of understanding good touch versus bad touch, advocating for a respectful and sensitive approach to physical interaction in yoga classes. He concludes with a call for thoughtful engagement with touch, recognizing its significance while also acknowledging the risks involved. www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga   LISTEN Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga   Key Points ·      Touch in yoga has evolved significantly over the decades. ·      Modern boundaries around touch have made it a contentious issue. ·      Positive touch can aid in healing from past negative experiences. ·      Consent cards and verbal agreements have limitations. ·      Good touch should feel affirming and supportive, not corrective. ·      Teachers must navigate touch with sensitivity and respect. ·      Physical adjustments can sometimes lead to injury or discomfort. ·      Building a relationship with students is essential before using touch. ·      Feedback mechanisms are crucial for ensuring safe touch practices. ·      Touch should enhance the yoga experience, not detract from it.

    43 min
  3. 31 AUG

    Tias Little – Yoga of the Subtle Body

    Ep 240 Tias Little – Yoga of the Subtle Body Adam speaks with Tias Little about the intricate relationship between yoga, anatomy, and the subtle body. Tias shares his extensive experience in yoga and meditation, discussing the importance of understanding the physical and energetic anatomy of the body. They explore various topics including the significance of the feet, the midline, bandhas, the psoas and diaphragm connection, the adrenal system, and the role of the heart in feeling. Tias emphasizes the need for humility in practice and the importance of fluid dynamics for longevity, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of Samadhi and the journey inward.  www.prajnayoga.com  | @prajnayoga Book: Yoga of the Subtle Body: A Guide to the Physical and Energetic Anatomy of Yoga YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga   Key Points ·      The subtle body is a crucial aspect of yoga practice. ·      Understanding anatomy enhances the practice of yoga. ·      The feet serve as the foundation for the entire body. ·      The midline connects the ground to the sky, embodying balance. ·      Bandhas are about engagement and release, not just holding. ·      The psoas and diaphragm are interconnected in movement and breath. ·      The adrenal system plays a significant role in our energy levels. ·      Cultural reflections on yoga can inform our practice. ·      The sacrum is central to many yoga postures and movements. ·      Fluid dynamics in the body are essential for health and longevity.

    1h 7m
  4. 24 AUG

    Ep 239 Caroline Williams – Unlocking the Mind-Body Connection

    Carolyn Williams, a science journalist and author speaks about the intricate connections between the mind and body, particularly focusing on interoception, the gut-brain axis, and the role of movement in mental health. They explore how our internal body signals influence our emotions, the importance of the vagus nerve, and the impact of hypermobility on anxiety. Carolyn shares insights from her research and personal experiences, emphasizing the need for daily movement and the potential for creativity through physical activity. The discussion highlights the evolving understanding of these concepts in both scientific and cultural contexts. www.carolinewilliams.net  | @carolinewilliams_science YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga   Key Points  ·      The mind and body are interconnected, influencing each other constantly. ·      Interoception is the awareness of internal body signals and is crucial for emotional regulation. ·      Experiments show that expectations can alter physical sensations, impacting mental health. ·      The gut plays a significant role in our overall health and emotional well-being. ·      The vagus nerve is more complex than previously thought, with many sensory functions. ·      Hostage negotiators use their sensitivity to body signals to make decisions in high-pressure situations. ·      Movement is essential for mental health and can enhance creativity. ·      Hypermobility can lead to anxiety due to physiological responses to movement. ·      Strength training can improve self-efficacy and confidence in one's body. ·      Daily movement snacks can enhance overall well-being and prevent sedentary behavior.

    1h 8m
  5. 17 AUG

    Adam Keen – Exploring Krishnamacharya's Legacy

    Adam explores the legacy of Krishnamacharya, the father of modern yoga, and the impact of his teachings on contemporary practices. He discusses the influence of Krishnamacharya's students, Pattabhi Jois and BKS Iyengar, and how their interpretations differ from his original teachings. Keen emphasizes the importance of understanding the context in which Krishnamacharya taught and how his methods evolved over time. He also delves into the innovations in yoga postures and the myth surrounding the Yoga Karunta, highlighting the multifaceted nature of Krishnamacharya's legacy and its implications for modern yoga practice. www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga  PODCAST Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Key Points ·      Krishnamacharya is considered the father of modern yoga. ·      His teachings were popularized by his students, Pattabhi Jois and BKS Iyengar. ·      Krishnamacharya's teaching methods evolved significantly over his lifetime. ·      The context of his teachings was influenced by the political climate of India. ·      His legacy is often associated with performative yoga demonstrations. ·      Krishnamacharya's later teachings focused on therapeutic practices. ·      The myth of Yoga Korunta serves to authenticate modern yoga. ·      Truth in yoga history is a shifting concept. ·      Ashtanga Yoga's rigid structure limits the evolution of practice. ·      Understanding the context of Krishnamacharya's teachings is crucial for modern practitioners.

    36 min
  6. 10 AUG

    Dr Louise Newson - Navigating Menopause

    Dr Louise Newson, a GP and menopause specialist, discusses the complexities of menopause and perimenopause, including symptoms, hormonal impacts on mental and physical health, and the importance of informed choices regarding hormone replacement therapy (HRT). She emphasizes the need for women to understand their bodies and advocate for their health, while also addressing common misconceptions about HRT and the role of lifestyle factors in managing hormonal health. The conversation also touches on the significance of testosterone for both men and women and the benefits of yoga in maintaining hormonal balance. Instagram - @menopause_doctor Latest Book:  The Definitive Guide to the Perimenopause and Menopause Website - Dr Louise Newson Podcast - The Dr Louise Newson Podcast - Podcast - Apple Podcasts Clinic - Newson Health - Home Balance app - Balance - Balance app LISTEN ON PODCAST Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Key Points ·       Menopause is defined as the cessation of periods for one year. ·       Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase leading up to menopause. ·       Hormonal changes can lead to a variety of physical and mental health symptoms. ·       Mental health symptoms are often exacerbated during perimenopause. ·       Testosterone plays a crucial role in mood and physical health for both genders. ·       Women often face misinformation regarding HRT and its risks. ·       Bone health is significantly impacted by hormonal changes during menopause. ·       Patients should seek multiple opinions regarding hormonal treatments. ·       Lifestyle factors, including exercise, can influence hormonal health but are not a substitute for HRT. ·       Knowledge about hormonal health is essential for both women and men.

    42 min
  7. 3 AUG

    Adam Keen – The Yoga Teacher's Dilemma: Performer or Educator?

    Adam shares his personal journey of recovery following a hip replacement surgery, reflecting on the challenges and insights gained during the process. He delves into the role of yoga teachers, discussing the pressure to perform and the misconception that teachers must be the best practitioners in the room. He emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive environment for students, where they can explore their own practice without the burden of comparison. He advocates for a shift in perspective regarding the validity of teachers, highlighting that their worth should not solely be based on physical ability but rather on their capacity to guide and support their students. The conversation culminates in a call for honesty and compassion within the teaching community, encouraging teachers to embrace their humanity and the realities of aging and injury. www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga  YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Key Points ·      Recovery from surgery is a gradual process. ·      Yoga teachers should focus on teaching, not performing. ·      The pressure to be the best can hinder effective teaching. ·      Idealizing teachers can create unrealistic expectations for students. ·      Teaching should prioritize individual student growth over performance. ·      Aging and injury are natural parts of a teacher's journey. ·      Teachers should not feel like frauds for their physical limitations. ·      Kindness and care are essential qualities in teaching. ·      Students need space to explore their practice without pressure. ·      The essence of yoga is about being present and authentic.

    25 min
  8. 27 JUL

    Stuart Sarbacker – Tracing the Path of Yoga

    Adam interviews Stuart Ray Sarbacker, a scholar and practitioner of yoga, discussing his journey into Ashtanga yoga, the definitions and roots of yoga, and the evolution of yoga traditions from Brahminical to Buddhist influences. They explore the distinctions between yoga and Buddhism, the relevance of modern asana practice, and the goals of yoga, particularly focusing on the concept of Samadhi. Stuart also shares insights into his upcoming work on the relationship between yoga and psychoactive substances.  www.liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/directory/stuart-sarbacker LISTEN ON PODCAST Apple podcast:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN   WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga   SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/   FOLLOW ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga   Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga   Key Points ·       Stuart Ray Sarbacker has a deep academic and personal connection to yoga. ·       Ashtanga yoga has been transformative for Sarbacker, shaping both his practice and scholarship. ·       Yoga can be defined as a mind-body discipline that enhances human capacities. ·       The concept of tapas is integral to the development of yoga practices. ·       Yoga's roots can be traced back to Brahmanical and Shamanic traditions. ·       The emergence of Buddhism and Jainism contributed significantly to yoga's evolution. ·       Yoga and Buddhism share similarities but differ in their views on self and existence. ·       Modern asana practice can benefit from Buddhist mindfulness techniques. ·       The goals of yoga include both the pursuit of powers and liberation from suffering. ·       Sarbacker's upcoming book will explore the relationship between yoga and psychoactive substances.

    1h 3m

About

Adam Keen engages in a deep level of discussion with Ashtanga yoga teachers as well as others involved in inquiry, wellness, diet, or simply people he finds interesting. The in-depth discussions and honest conversations are often surprising. Prepare to have your thoughts expanded. If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us you can do so by liking, sharing, rating and donating at https://keenonyoga.com/donate/

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