Yoga Therapy Hour with Amy Wheeler

Amy Wheeler
  • 4.9 (55)
  • Courses
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to "The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast," a harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, brought to life by Amy's expertise in psychology and public health. With over 100,000 downloads, this podcast delves deep into the principles of yoga therapy, offering expert interviews, practical solutions, and profound insights into real-life challenges. From its inception, the first four seasons have been instrumental in elevating the domain of yoga therapy, emphasizing the pivotal role of lifestyle medicine in addressing both our mental and physical well-being. As we transition into Season 5, 6 & 7, Amy broadens the horizon, reaching out to the masses. Here, listeners will unravel how yoga therapy, when intertwined with lifestyle engineering, can serve as a powerful tool for holistic healing, touching the realms of the mind, body, and spirit. Subscribe now and be part of a transformative journey that bridges the essence of embodied mental health with the spirit's depth. Join Amy in redefining mental and physical wellness. Also, leave us a review if you are enjoying the podcast and consider supporting us at the Optimal State & Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon page -https://www.patreon.com/yogatherapyhour Go to www.TheOptimalState.com for more details on how to improve your mental and emotional health!

  1. 1d ago

    The Niyamas and the Neuroscience of Inner Regulation: Creating the Conditions for Change

    Episode Description In this episode, Dr. Amy Wheeler continues the Season 10 exploration of the Eight Limbs of Yoga as a regulatory framework, turning inward toward the Niyamas—the personal disciplines that shape how we care for ourselves and engage in inner work.  Rather than presenting the Niyamas as a checklist of ideals, this conversation reframes them as practices that create the internal conditions for nervous system regulation, clarity, and meaningful change. At the heart of this episode is a grounded inquiry: What happens when we reduce internal noise, increase awareness, and release the need to control everything? Through both classical teachings and modern neuroscience, Amy explores how daily practice (sādhana) supports a shift from overwhelm and reactivity toward steadiness, discernment, and trust. Key Themes Explored The Niyamas as Inner Regulation The Niyamas are not about perfection or moral pressure. They are about how we stabilize the internal environment so that clarity and integrity can naturally arise. You Cannot Offer What You Do Not Embody Our internal state directly shapes our professional presence. When we are cluttered, overwhelmed, or unreflective, it impacts how we show up with others.  From Discipline to Daily Practice The Niyamas are lived through small, consistent actions—organizing our space, pausing for reflection, regulating the body, and observing the mind. Top-Down and Bottom-Up Regulation True transformation includes both: Working with the mind (top-down)Working with the body and physiology (bottom-up)Yoga therapy offers a unique bridge between these two approaches.  The Niyamas Through a Neuroscience Lens Śauca (Clarity and Purification) Reducing allostatic load—our chronic stress burden—by organizing our external and internal environments. Less clutter leads to less cognitive overload, allowing the mind to settle and the prefrontal cortex to function more effectively.  Santoṣa (Contentment) A present-moment orientation that shifts the brain’s predictive bias. As regulation increases, the brain becomes less focused on past threat and more open to possibility, safety, and “I am okay right now.”  Tapas (Disciplined Effort) The steady repetition that builds new neural pathways. Tapas is neuroplasticity in action—choosing new responses, reinforcing them over time, and gradually reducing reactivity.  Svādhyāya (Self-Study) Developing meta-awareness and interoception—the ability to observe thoughts, emotions, and sensations without immediately reacting. This creates a pause where new choices become possible.  Īśvara Praṇidhāna (Surrender) Releasing excessive control reduces sympathetic overactivation and increases tolerance for uncertainty. When we soften the need to control everything, the nervous system becomes more flexible, resilient, and open to possibility.  Clinical Insight When people struggle with the Niyamas, it is rarely a lack of discipline or integrity. More often, it reflects: High allostatic load (chronic stress)Nervous system dysregulationLimited access to internal safetyFrom this perspective, the work is not to try harder, but to create conditions where regulation is possible. A Practical Reframe Instead of asking: Am I doing the Niyamas correctly?We might ask: What is increasing my internal noise?What helps my system settle?Where can I reduce load, even slightly?From there, the Niyamas begin to emerge rather than be forced. Integration with the Yamas The Yamas (social disciplines) and Niyamas (personal disciplines) function as a continuous loop: Inner regulation supports relational clarityRelational harmony reduces internal stressTogether, they create a self-reinforcing cycle of regulation, discernment, and well-being.  Reflection for Listeners Take a moment to reflect: Where in your life is there unnecessary cognitive or sensory load?What helps you return to a sense of “okayness” in the present moment?Where might you benefit from more effort—and where might you need to release control? Closing The Niyamas invite a steady relationship with yourself. Not as a project to fix— but as a system to support. As internal noise decreases and awareness increases, regulation becomes more accessible, Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com   Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804   The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158   School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health   Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy   Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices   Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification   #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool   New Book Coming Out August 10th, 2026    https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Therapeutic-Yoga-Integrative-Health/dp/1032888628/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RFZ3L5MCCNPH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I7harQDOLulfRbd3dx2vVa5VUZa840PHcWB7dDiT3_bB2nravzO7_9Xs9shMhcy2Iwu0wtTA1PxeUG4TTugEQJuK_OEpvzQ-OyVvtsUkXsc.ViqLrL-EQPX7s09wZF6_2eCpLCimHa7Ohfbw-F7Yuk4&dib_tag=se&keywords=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheeler&qid=1775224796&sprefix=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheele%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

    The Niyamas and the Neuroscience of Inner Regulation: Creating the Conditions for Change

  2. Jul 17

    Santoṣa: Meeting Life Without Resistance

    In this conversation, Amy sits down with Colleen Carroll for a thoughtful exploration of Santoṣa—often translated as contentment, but experienced as something much more nuanced. Rather than presenting contentment as a passive or idealized state, this episode examines it as a living practice—one that unfolds in the middle of uncertainty, chronic pain, changing identities, and the natural fluctuations of life. Together, they explore how the human tendency to strive, fix, and move away from discomfort can obscure what is already present. Through personal stories and clinical insight, they reflect on how contentment is not something we achieve once and for all, but something we return to—again and again—with awareness and discernment. In This Episode, We Explore What Santoṣa really means beyond the idea of “being content” The relationship between striving, dissatisfaction, and the nervous system Why contentment is not complacency—and how to recognize the difference How chronic pain and life disruption can become entry points into practice The role of awareness in seeing what has always been available How external environments (beauty, ritual, home space) can support internal regulation The importance of titration (krama) when working with distress or trauma Contentment as a doorway into mindfulness rather than an endpoint The role of relationships and co-regulation in shaping our experience of contentment Discernment in relationships—when to stay connected and when to create space Key Reflections from the Conversation Contentment is not the absence of difficulty. It is the capacity to remain in relationship with what is present, without immediately trying to change it. There is a subtle but important shift from striving for happiness to recognizing moments of ease already available. This shift often requires a willingness to pause and observe rather than act. For many, contentment becomes most accessible not in ideal conditions, but in moments of limitation—when the usual strategies no longer work. These moments can reveal new pathways of awareness, including a more honest relationship with the body and mind. The practice of Santoṣa is not about overriding pain or difficulty. Instead, it involves titrating attention—moving gently between what is challenging and what is supportive, building capacity over time. External environments can play a meaningful role. Beauty, order, ritual, and sensory experiences can help orient attention toward steadiness, making internal awareness more accessible. Relationships matter. Contentment can be supported through connection, but also disrupted through environments that do not align with one’s values or nervous system needs. Discernment becomes part of the practice. Contact Colleen  www.colleencarrollyoga.com   Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com   Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804   The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158   School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health   Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy   Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices   Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification   #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool   New Book Coming Out August 10th, 2026    https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Therapeutic-Yoga-Integrative-Health/dp/1032888628/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RFZ3L5MCCNPH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I7harQDOLulfRbd3dx2vVa5VUZa840PHcWB7dDiT3_bB2nravzO7_9Xs9shMhcy2Iwu0wtTA1PxeUG4TTugEQJuK_OEpvzQ-OyVvtsUkXsc.ViqLrL-EQPX7s09wZF6_2eCpLCimHa7Ohfbw-F7Yuk4&dib_tag=se&keywords=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheeler&qid=1775224796&sprefix=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheele%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

    Santoṣa: Meeting Life Without Resistance

  3. Jul 10

    Daily Practice, Inner Guidance, and the Living Experience of Sādhana with Lee Mejewski

    Episode Overview In this conversation, Amy sits down with Lee to explore the role of daily practice—sādhana—as a living, evolving process rather than a fixed routine. Together, they reflect on what it means to cultivate steadiness in the mind, nervous system, and heart, and how consistent practice becomes a pathway toward deeper self-understanding, inner guidance, and connection to something greater than oneself. The discussion moves beyond technique and into lived experience—how practice shapes perception, builds trust, and gradually shifts one’s relationship to stress, identity, and life decisions.  Key Themes Explored Sādhana as a Living Practice Rather than a checklist or obligation, sādhana is described as something that evolves over time—from structured daily sessions to an ongoing state of awareness woven throughout the day. From Effort to Integration Lee shares how practice can begin as something we do and gradually become something we are—an orientation toward presence, clarity, and responsiveness in daily life. Stability Through Routine Both Amy and Lee reflect on how consistent routines support nervous system regulation, especially in contrast to the disruption that comes with travel and constant change. The Role of Direct Experience Sustained practice is not maintained through discipline alone, but through experience. When individuals feel the shift—greater calm, clarity, or ease—they naturally return to practice. Witnessing vs. Identifying A central shift in practice is the movement from being immersed in thoughts and emotions to observing them. This creates space for discernment and choice. Inner Guidance and Trust Lee describes a deepening relationship with an internal “voice” or guidance system that develops through consistent practice. Trust is built gradually, through experience rather than belief. Different Pathways of Awareness The conversation acknowledges that inner guidance can arise in different ways—auditory, somatic, intuitive, or visual—depending on the individual. Spiritual Practice and Health Outcomes The episode highlights emerging research showing that spirituality and consistent inner practice are associated with improved physical, mental, and social health outcomes. Education and Responsibility in Yoga Therapy A key tension explored is whether sādhana should be optional or foundational within yoga therapy training. The conversation points toward a shared responsibility among educators to model and transmit its value. Therapist Presence as Intervention The qualities of the therapist—presence, compassion, equanimity, and self-awareness—are described as central to client outcomes, often more influential than specific techniques. Notable Reflections Daily practice can begin with structure, but over time becomes integrated into how we live and relate to each moment. The shift from “What do I want?” to “What is being asked of me?” reflects a deepening of trust and perspective. Even brief practices—such as 5–10 minutes of meditation—can create measurable physiological and emotional shifts. We cannot guide others beyond our own level of awareness; our personal practice directly shapes our clinical impact.  Practical Takeaways Begin with what is accessible: even short, consistent practices can create meaningful change.Anchor practice to a consistent time and place when possible to support continuity.Notice the effects of practice—not just during, but in how you relate to others and your environment.Allow your practice to evolve rather than holding it to a fixed structure.Approach sādhana as a lifelong relationship, not a temporary intervention. Closing Reflection This episode invites a quiet reconsideration of what it means to practice. Rather than striving for the “right” method or perfect routine, the conversation points toward something more steady: a willingness to return, to listen, and to stay in relationship with oneself over time. From that place, both clarity and direction begin to emerge. Learn More About Lee Lee is the founding director of Yoga for Health Institute, where she leads therapeutic yoga programs, professional trainings, and international retreats. Her work includes long-standing student communities and specialized offerings such as the Beyond Cancer retreat program, supporting individuals in navigating health challenges through consistent practice and inner development. You can learn more about her work here: www.yogaforhealth.institute Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com  📚 New Book Coming August 10, 2026! Dr. Amy Wheeler's and Marlysa Sullivan new book, Applying Therapeutic Yoga in Integrative Health: A Guide for Re-Imagining Well-Being, will be released on August 10, 2026 and is available for pre-order now on Amazon. Bridging the timeless wisdom of yoga with modern neuroscience, psychology, and integrative healthcare, this practical guide explores how therapeutic yoga can support well-being beyond symptom management. Whether you're a healthcare professional, yoga therapist, or simply passionate about holistic health, this book offers evidence-informed tools for fostering balance, connection, and lasting transformation. Pre-order your copy today on Amazon and be among the first to read it when it launches. Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804   The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158   School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health   Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy   Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices   Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification   #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool

    Daily Practice, Inner Guidance, and the Living Experience of Sādhana with Lee Mejewski

  4. Jul 3

    Ahimsa in Action: What Aging Teaches Us About Kindness and Strength

    Episode Overview In this conversation, Amy Wheeler sits down with yoga therapist and educator Ashley McKeachie to explore the lived experience of ahimsa—non-harming—as it unfolds in real time with aging bodies and evolving nervous systems. Ashley shares how her work with older adults (ages 55–95+) has reshaped her understanding of yoga therapy, shifting from performance and outcomes toward presence, pacing, and relational care. What emerges is a grounded and practical view of yoga as a system that supports resilience, dignity, and connection across the lifespan. This episode offers a clear lens into how yoga philosophy becomes actionable—not as theory, but as daily practice. About Ashley McKeachie Ashley McKeachie is a yoga therapist, educator, and department chair at Saddleback College’s Emeritus Institute in Southern California. She teaches large-scale classes in yoga, balance, mobility, and wellness for older adults, integrating yoga therapy, breathwork, and philosophy into accessible, community-based education. Her work centers on helping individuals build confidence, regulate their nervous systems, and maintain independence through thoughtful, adaptable practices. Key Themes in This Episode Ahimsa as a Lived Practice Ahimsa moves beyond the idea of “non-violence” and becomes a daily inquiry: How am I treating myself right now?Am I pushing, or am I listening?Is this choice supporting stability or creating strain?For Ashley’s students, ahimsa often begins with self-permission—to slow down, to rest, and to shift lifelong patterns of over-effort. Aging and the Nervous System Working with a population ranging from their 50s to mid-90s, Ashley highlights: The persistence of “push through” mentalitiesThe challenge of changing patterns that have “worked” for decadesThe opportunity to reintroduce softness, pacing, and awarenessRather than decline, she often observes: Increased strength and balanceImproved confidence and postureGreater emotional regulation and clarity Breath as a Foundational Tool One of the most consistent takeaways from her students: “You’ve taught me how to breathe.” Breath becomes: A tool for managing medical procedures and stressA way to regulate the nervous system in real timeA lifelong skill that extends far beyond the classroom The Role of Sangha (Community) Ashley emphasizes that community is not secondary—it is essential. In her classes: Students learn each other’s namesGroup work is intentionally structuredSocial connection is actively facilitatedFor many older adults facing isolation, this becomes a primary source of: BelongingEmotional supportContinued engagement with life Slowing Down as a Therapeutic Strategy Ashley’s teaching approach prioritizes: Slow pacingChoice and autonomyExploration rather than performanceThis creates: A sense of safetyReduced fear of movementIncreased willingness to participate A Dream Unplanned Ashley reflects on her professional path—from training younger yoga students to working with older adults—and describes her current role as: “A dream I didn’t even know I had.” Her experience highlights an important thread: Direction mattersEffort mattersAnd there are moments where something larger organizes the path forward Practical Takeaways Listeners may consider: Where am I pushing when I could be listening?What would ahimsa look like in my daily routines?How can I support both independence and connection as I age—or support others who are aging?Am I allowing enough time for stillness and internal awareness? Resources & Where to Find Ashley Saddleback College Emeritus InstituteFree or low-cost classes for adults 55+Many online options available across multiple statesRancho La Puerta (Mexico)Wellness retreats where Ashley teaches periodicallyFocus on nervous system balance, nature, and immersive learning Closing Reflection This conversation invites a steady reframing: Ahimsa is not passive. It is not avoidance. It is an active, moment-to-moment discernment— a willingness to support life, rather than override it. And in many ways, the later years of life offer a clear mirror: what we practice consistently is what carries us forward.

    Ahimsa in Action: What Aging Teaches Us About Kindness and Strength

  5. Jun 26

    The Yamas and the Neuroscience of Trust: From Survival to Steady Ground

    What does it mean to trust that life will work out—not as a belief, but as a lived, embodied experience? In this solo episode, Dr. Amy Wheeler explores the intersection of the Yamas—the ethical foundation of yoga—and the neuroscience of safety, regulation, and predictive processing. Rather than approaching ethics as a set of rules to follow, this conversation reframes them as natural expressions of a regulated, supported nervous system. At the center of this inquiry is a simple but powerful question: Can we live in alignment with our values when we feel unsafe? Drawing from yoga philosophy, polyvagal theory, and lived experience, Amy offers a grounded perspective on why ethical behavior becomes more accessible when the body feels steady—and why it often breaks down in states of survival. Key Themes Explored Ethics as a State, Not a Rulebook The Yamas are not imposed from the outside. They emerge when the system is regulated, resourced, and supported. Ahaṅkāra and the Survival Response The drive to secure, control, and protect—while necessary—can narrow perception and disrupt our ability to act with clarity and integrity.  The Nervous System and Trust A flexible, regulated nervous system supports connection, openness, and discernment. When dysregulated, the system shifts toward threat detection, reactivity, and contraction.  Predictive Processing and Learned Safety The brain continuously predicts what will happen next based on past experience. Trust is not naïve—it is built through repeated experiences of support, repair, and resilience.  From Fear-Based Reactivity to Possibility Through intentional practice, the mind can shift from worst-case predictions toward openness, receptivity, and grounded optimism. The Yamas Through a Nervous System Lens Ahimsa (Non-harming): Begins internally. A regulated system reduces reactivity, blame, and harsh self-judgment.Satya (Truthfulness): Requires humility and discernment. When fear and ego soften, truth becomes less about being right and more about being aligned.Asteya (Non-stealing): Trust reduces grasping. When we feel supported, we are less likely to take what is not ours—ideas, credit, or energy.Brahmacharya (Moderation): Regulation is sustained through balance. Excess and depletion disrupt clarity and ethical consistency.Aparigraha (Non-grasping): Letting go of fear-based holding creates space for discernment, freedom, and right timing. Clinical Insight Ethical challenges in yoga therapy—and in healthcare more broadly—are often not failures of character. They are reflections of nervous system states. When practitioners are exhausted, unsupported, or operating in survival mode, their window of tolerance narrows, and ethical clarity becomes harder to access.  This reframing invites a shift from judgment to understanding, and from rules to regulation. A Subtle Reorientation As safety becomes more embodied: The breath becomes more adaptableThe heart rate more flexibleSocial engagement comes onlineAmbiguity is interpreted with more generosityThe future is no longer predicted as threat, but as possibility From this place, trust is not forced—it emerges. Reflection for Listeners Consider where your system feels: Steady and openContracted and protectiveHow might your ethical responses shift depending on that state? And what practices help you return to a place where clarity, connection, and trust are more available? Closing This episode offers a reframe that may feel both grounding and challenging: That living the Yamas is not about trying harder—but about creating the internal conditions where they can naturally arise.

    The Yamas and the Neuroscience of Trust: From Survival to Steady Ground

  6. Jun 19

    Regulating the Inner Landscape: Mala Cunningham on Anxiety, Awareness, and the Nervous System

    In this episode, Amy sits down with Mala Cunningham, a pioneer in integrating yoga therapy with mental health care. The conversation offers a steady and thoughtful exploration of how yoga therapy supports individuals living with anxiety, depression, and chronic stress, not by bypassing these experiences, but by helping people build the capacity to be with them differently. Mala brings decades of clinical experience into a grounded discussion on the relationship between the nervous system, attention, and perception. She outlines how anxiety is not simply something to eliminate, but something to understand through the body, breath, and patterns of awareness. Rather than focusing on symptom reduction alone, she emphasizes cultivating regulation, resilience, and a more stable inner environment. A central theme throughout the episode is the role of interoception. Mala describes how developing awareness of internal sensation creates a bridge between unconscious reactivity and conscious choice. This process supports individuals in recognizing early signs of dysregulation and responding with practices that restore steadiness rather than amplify distress. Amy and Mala also explore the clinical application of yoga therapy within mental health settings. They discuss the importance of meeting clients where they are, respecting pacing, and building trust through consistent, accessible practices. The conversation highlights how simple, well-sequenced interventions can support profound shifts over time when applied with clarity and care. Mala reflects on the importance of collaboration across disciplines and the need for language that resonates within clinical environments while maintaining the integrity of yoga’s therapeutic roots. This episode offers a clear and practical lens for clinicians, students, and practitioners who are working at the intersection of nervous system regulation, emotional health, and yoga therapy. It invites a steady approach to practice, one that values consistency, discernment, and the gradual cultivation of inner stability. Key Themes Explored Understanding anxiety through the lens of the nervous systemInteroception as a foundation for self-awareness and regulationThe role of attention in shaping internal experienceBuilding capacity rather than eliminating symptomsClinical pacing, safety, and therapeutic relationshipIntegrating yoga therapy into mental health care settingsCollaboration between yoga therapists and licensed clinicians Practical Takeaways Small, consistent practices often create more sustainable change than complex interventionsAwareness of internal sensation is a skill that can be developed over timeRegulation begins with recognizing early cues in the bodyTherapeutic progress is not linear; it requires patience and discernmentSupporting the nervous system is foundational to emotional resilience Connect with Mala Cunningham Website: https://www.cardinalpointyoga.comPrograms and trainings in yoga therapy and mental health Connect with The Yoga Therapy Hour Website: www.TheOptimalState.comExplore courses, certifications, and clinical training opportunitiesListen to more episodes focused on yoga therapy, emotional intelligence, and integrative health

    Regulating the Inner Landscape: Mala Cunningham on Anxiety, Awareness, and the Nervous System

  7. Jun 12

    Loving the Fire: Reinvention, Inner Power, and Living Your Yoga

    In this episode, Amy sits down with Deborah Santana—author, philanthropist, and lifelong spiritual practitioner—for a conversation that explores what it means to live from inner sovereignty. While many may recognize her through her 34-year marriage to Carlos Santana, this conversation clarifies something more essential: Deborah Santana has lived a deeply self-directed life shaped by spiritual inquiry, service, and the willingness to begin again. Her memoir, Loving the Fire, becomes the thread through which we explore transformation—not as an abstract idea, but as a lived experience of loss, identity shift, and conscious rebuilding. Key Themes Explored 1. Early Life and the Roots of Inner Strength Deborah reflects on her upbringing in San Francisco, shaped by a family that quietly modeled independence and devotion. Her father, Saunders King, was a respected musician who chose presence over fame—offering an early model of values rooted in family rather than recognition. Her childhood was also grounded in spiritual diversity, moving between Pentecostal, Lutheran, and contemplative spaces. This early exposure created a foundation of spiritual curiosity that would later evolve into a lifelong meditation practice. 2. Identity, Culture, and Awareness Deborah shares her experience growing up in a multicultural environment, where belonging felt natural—until moments of racism revealed deeper social realities. These experiences did not define her, but they did shape her awareness. Over time, they became part of the “fire” she would learn to walk through rather than avoid. 3. The Fire: Loss, Transition, and Reinvention A central moment in Deborah’s life—and in this conversation—is her decision to leave a long-term marriage and step into the unknown. She describes this period with clarity: A sudden shift from a full, externally defined life into silenceThe loss of roles, identity, and structureThe necessity of sitting with herself, without distractionRather than rushing to rebuild, she allowed a period of stillness: Studying the work of Wayne Dyer and Thich Nhat HanhEngaging in self-inquiry through Al-Anon principlesReturning to yoga and meditation as stabilizing practicesThis was not framed as breakdown, but as disassembly for the purpose of reorganization. 4. Loving the Fire: A Different Relationship to Challenge The central teaching of Deborah’s memoir is simple, but not easy: Life is not happening to us—it is happening for us. She describes fire not as destruction, but as a condition for renewal. Like a forest that regenerates after burning, human life can reorganize into something more aligned—if we stay present through the process. This reflects a core principle in yoga therapy: We do not eliminate discomfortWe change our relationship to itWe allow it to inform growth 5. Spiritual Practice as a Stabilizing Force Deborah has maintained a meditation practice since her early twenties. During times of transition, this inner relationship became her anchor. She describes moments of: Deep peace in solitudeHeightened perception in natureA sense of connection beyond identityThese are not framed as extraordinary experiences, but as natural outcomes when external roles fall away and attention returns inward. 6. Rebuilding with Intention Following this period of reflection, Deborah began to rebuild her life in alignment with her values: Founded the nonprofit Do A Little, inspired by Desmond TutuProduced documentary films to support global humanitarian effortsWorked with organizations connected to Nelson MandelaBecame a founding donor of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and CultureHer work consistently centers on women, girls, and collective well-being. 7. Education and Lifelong Learning In her 50s, Deborah pursued a master’s degree in Women’s Spirituality at the California Institute of Integral Studies. This experience reflected a pattern throughout her life: Learning as a form of self-developmentIntegrating intellect with lived experienceValuing wisdom traditions alongside modern inquiry 8. Global Perspective and Humility Travel—particularly to Africa—played a significant role in reshaping her worldview. She describes: A felt sense of humanity’s originsA reorientation away from individual-centered thinkingA deep respect for cultural wisdom beyond the U.S. lensThis aligns with a therapeutic perspective: healing often expands when we move beyond our habitual frame of reference. 9. Current Work: Courage and Empathy Deborah is currently involved in developing the Courage Museum in San Francisco, a project focused on: Understanding violence as a learned behaviorTeaching empathy as a skillCreating immersive experiences like “Empathy Mirrors,” where individuals witness and feel others’ lived experiencesThe intention is clear: violence can be unlearned, and empathy can be cultivated. Clinical and Philosophical Reflections This conversation offers several points of integration for yoga therapists and healthcare providers: Transformation often begins with disruption of identityStillness and reflection are not passive—they are reorganizing forcesSpiritual practice provides continuity when external roles dissolveGrowth requires both self-inquiry and self-responsibilityMeaning emerges not by avoiding difficulty, but by engaging it with awareness Closing Reflection Deborah Santana’s life illustrates a steady principle: We are not defined by our roles, relationships, or accomplishments. When those fall away, what remains is the foundation we build from. Her story is not about reinvention as performance. It is about returning to something more essential—and choosing, from that place, how to live. Learn More Loving the Fire by Deborah SantanaAvailable via her website and major booksellersUpcoming events and book tour information available online

    Loving the Fire: Reinvention, Inner Power, and Living Your Yoga

  8. Jun 5

    Understanding Human Suffering: The Five Kleśas and the Return to Our True Nature

    In this solo episode, Amy Wheeler explores one of the most important psychological teachings in the yoga tradition: the five kleśas, described in Chapter 2 of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. These teachings help explain why human beings experience suffering even when they are sincerely trying to live well. Drawing from both Sāṅkhya philosophy and the Yoga Sūtra, Amy walks listeners through the deeper roots of suffering, beginning with the distinction between puruṣa (the witnessing consciousness) and prakṛti (the body, mind, senses, and the manifest world). When these two are confused, the mind becomes entangled in patterns of misperception, attachment, aversion, and fear. These patterns are what Pātañjali calls the kleśas. Throughout the episode, Amy explains how these ancient teachings remain remarkably relevant today. The kleśas show up in modern life as over-identification with our roles, addiction to approval or stimulation, avoidance of discomfort, fear-driven decision making, and the constant pressure to control life so that we feel safe. Rather than presenting yoga as a way to avoid suffering, Amy emphasizes that the deeper aim of yoga is to understand suffering clearly. Through practices such as movement, breath regulation, meditation, and ethical reflection, the practitioner gradually loosens the grip of these patterns and begins to remember their deeper nature. The episode concludes with a reflection on one of Amy’s favorite teachings from the Yoga Sūtra: Yoga Sūtra 1.3, which describes the moment when awareness returns to its true nature and the seer rests in its essential state. In This Episode Amy explores: • Why human beings suffer even when they are trying to live well • The philosophical foundation of the Yoga Sūtra in Sāṅkhya philosophy • The distinction between puruṣa (the witnessing consciousness) and prakṛti (the manifest world) • How misperception leads to psychological suffering • The five kleśas described in Yoga Sūtra 2.3 • How the kleśas appear in modern life and clinical practice • Why yoga is fundamentally relational and practiced through human interaction • How meditation helps return awareness to clarity and discernment • The deeper meaning of Yoga Sūtra 1.3 and the experience of resting in one’s true nature The Five Kleśas The five kleśas are the underlying causes of suffering described by Pātañjali. Avidyā — Misperception The root kleśa. Avidyā occurs when we confuse the changing contents of experience with our deeper nature. Asmitā — Misidentification Over-identifying with personality, roles, reputation, or thoughts rather than recognizing the witnessing awareness behind them. Rāga — Attachment Clinging to experiences that feel pleasurable or validating, believing they will resolve deeper unease. Dveṣa — Aversion Avoiding experiences that feel painful or uncomfortable, which can lead to defensiveness, withdrawal, or emotional reactivity. Abhiniveśa — Fear of Loss The deep instinct to cling to life, identity, control, and stability. This fear can appear even in those who are wise and experienced. Key Yoga Sūtras Referenced Yoga Sūtra 2.3 Avidyā-asmitā-rāga-dveṣa-abhiniveśāḥ kleśāḥ These five are the causes of suffering. Yoga Sūtra 2.5 Avidyā is mistaking the impermanent for the permanent, the impure for the pure, pain for pleasure, and the non-self for the self. Yoga Sūtra 1.3 Tadā draṣṭuḥ svarūpe ’vasthānam Then the seer rests in its true nature. Why This Matters for Yoga Therapy The kleśas are not simply philosophical ideas. They describe patterns that appear frequently in modern life and clinical settings, including: • psychological distress • relational conflict • addiction and compulsive behavior • over-identification with roles or reputation • fear-based decision making • difficulty tolerating discomfort Therapeutic yoga practices—movement, breathwork, attentional training, and ethical reflection—help practitioners gradually recognize and soften these patterns. As clarity develops, individuals often experience greater nervous system stability, increased self-awareness, and a deeper capacity to observe thoughts and emotions without becoming completely defined by them. Reflection Questions from the Episode • What if the goal of yoga is not to become someone different, but to remember who we truly are? • Where in your life do you notice attachment to approval, comfort, or certain emotional states? • Where do you notice aversion or avoidance when something feels uncomfortable? • Can you sense the difference between the changing experiences of the mind and the steadiness of the witnessing awareness behind them? Final Reflection The teachings of the kleśas remind us that suffering is not simply a personal failure or something to eliminate at all costs. It is part of the human condition. Yoga invites us to understand it, learn from it, and gradually see through the patterns that amplify it. When the mind becomes clearer and less entangled in these patterns, the seer begins to rest in its true nature. From that place, life can be lived with greater steadiness, compassion, and freedom. School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health   Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy   Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices  https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices   #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool     Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification   Amy’s website: www.TheOptimalState.com   Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158   The Optimal State Mobile App https://optimalstateapp.com

    Understanding Human Suffering: The Five Kleśas and the Return to Our True Nature
See All (253)

4.9
out of 5
55 Ratings

About

Welcome to "The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast," a harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, brought to life by Amy's expertise in psychology and public health. With over 100,000 downloads, this podcast delves deep into the principles of yoga therapy, offering expert interviews, practical solutions, and profound insights into real-life challenges. From its inception, the first four seasons have been instrumental in elevating the domain of yoga therapy, emphasizing the pivotal role of lifestyle medicine in addressing both our mental and physical well-being. As we transition into Season 5, 6 & 7, Amy broadens the horizon, reaching out to the masses. Here, listeners will unravel how yoga therapy, when intertwined with lifestyle engineering, can serve as a powerful tool for holistic healing, touching the realms of the mind, body, and spirit. Subscribe now and be part of a transformative journey that bridges the essence of embodied mental health with the spirit's depth. Join Amy in redefining mental and physical wellness. Also, leave us a review if you are enjoying the podcast and consider supporting us at the Optimal State & Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon page -https://www.patreon.com/yogatherapyhour Go to www.TheOptimalState.com for more details on how to improve your mental and emotional health!

Information

You Might Also Like