Escaping Samsara

A little Ashtanga episode for your ear holes! Nothing I like better than a fine and geeky Ashtanga-based chat and what a privilege to do so with the raconteur himself, Russell Case. Russell has been practicing and teaching Ashtanga yoga for more than 25 years. A humble and refined teacher, he was given Authorization by Pattabhi Jois in 2005. Case is known for his joking spirit, and his perpetual eye toward social justice work. When Pattabhi Jois invited him to his pranayama class in 2007, he considered this distinction to be the highest grade. Russell co-hosts the Finding Harmony Podcast with Harmony Slater which is one of my favourite yoga podcasts and if you like Ashtanga you should check them out 

Sarong Vit-Kory, founded the Tevoda Organisation, an NGO based in her mother's home village in  Cambodia. She was born in a Thai refugee camp. Four years later, her family immigrated to the US and they lived in a Nashville housing project. Determined to better their prospects, Vit-Kory managed to buy her family a detached house in the suburbs by saving wages from her bar job. But her success was marred by sadness: in 2010, her sister was murdered and her father some years after. After achieving an MA in International Development she founded the Cambodian Tevoda Organisation, which supports young children in Baray Village in Takeo.In our chat we talk about transnational culture, growing up in Nashville, God and Catholocism and the spirituality of Cambodia. 

Shaila Catherine is the founder of Insight Meditation South Bay, a meditation group in Silicon Valley, and also Bodhi Courses, an online Buddhist classroom. She has been practicing meditation since 1980, with more than nine years of accumulated silent retreat experience. She has taught since 1996 in the USA, and internationally. Shaila studied with several Asian masters in India, Thailand, and Nepal, including H. W. L. Poonja, Nyoshul Khen Rinpoche, and Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, in addition to the founders of several western meditation centers including Christopher Titmuss and Joseph Goldstein. She completed a one-year intensive meditation retreat with the focus on concentration and jhana, and authored Focused and Fearless: A Meditator's Guide to States of Deep Joy, Calm, and Clarity. Shaila practiced under the guidance of Venerable Pa-Auk Sayadaw from 2006-2015, and authored Wisdom Wide and Deep: A Practical Handbook for Mastering Jhana and Vipassana to help make this traditional approach to meditative training accessible to western practitioners.In 2014, Shaila founded Bodhi Courses to develop and offer teachings in an online classroom.

What is going on in the mind of advanced meditators? How does someone who spent years as a nun see the world? Let's listen in...Buddhism, especially the Therevadha tradition which we cover a lot on this podcast, has always had female practitioners and leaders but they have historically been sidelined. So in this new series, we talk to female practitioners about their paths, starting with Willa Tania who is a former Buddhist nun in the Ajahn Chah tradition and is currently a counsellor living in New ZealandShow NotesFist spiritual experience in natureDiet and spiritual practiceRelationship between psychotherapy and BuddhismThe heart practices of Buddhism (Brahmavihara)The usefulness of guided meditations“Buddhist practices are holographic”Social Justice and anger energyWhat is Nibbana?"Joy and happiness are primary"

Lovers of technical yoga talk rejoice! In this extraordinarily geeky interview Gregor sheds light on nuances of pranayama and meditation practices described in great detail in his books. We also talk about his most recent book about the Map of Transformative States and get a glimpse into the upcoming work with a fascinating discussion on mudras. This is a great interview for everyone going deeper into the higher limbs of Ashtanga Yoga.Show notesOn Stanislav Grof and Aldous HuxleyChakras and brain circuitsOn Nadi Shodhana and types of visualisationsIsta Devata visualisation in KumbhakaSurya vs Chandra BhedanaOn relationship with the spirit worldOn Basti kriyaKundalini rising techniques and EgoMudras!Things to consider when sequencing different practicesTo find out more about Gregor's teaching, learning materials, courses and in-depth blog article visit https://8limbs.com/Check out new books by Gregor Maehle: CHAKRAS, DRUGS AND EVOLUTION: A Map of Transformative States“How To Find Your Life's Divine Purpose: Brain software for a new civilization”Head over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or  PATREON account for contributions.

Glimpses Into the Sufi World. While most hippies in the 60' went to India to find spiritually Michael Sugich went to Saudi Arabia in search of a Sufi guru and spent his life in a lesser known area of the Arab world living the spirituality of Islam. New episode is out now! Link in the bio.Show notes- First spiritual experiences and escape from show business- Remembrance of God - Vikrala- On Islam as foundation of Sufism- The only certain thing- Sharia as a safety net- Importance of guidance of a spiritual master- Working with breath in Islamic tradition, Haḍra ritual- Litanies and spending time in the company of saints- Teaching children, expectations and the modern worldBooks & Contact Signs on the Horizons: Meetings with Men of Knowledge and IlluminationHearts Turn: Sinners, Seekers, Saints and the Road to Redemption Michael's FB : https://www.facebook.com/michael.sugich-----Head over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or  PATREON account for contributions.

There's been a lot said and written about the changes female yogis go through when they become mothers. Now, for the first time, we discuss Ashtanga Yoga and fatherhood. Our guests, Mark Robberds, Prem Carlisi, and Scott Johnson have about 80 years of practice and teaching experience between them, close to 100 if you include me. Mark and I are new fathers, Scott Johnson's kids are teenagers, and Prem is a grandfather. It was really special to sit with a group of men and learn about realising the goals of yoga in family life. You can watch this episode on our Escaping Samsara Youtube channel https://youtu.be/gjKiJZQHpScShow Notes·        Becoming a father and how men experience having a baby·        How to continue a yoga practice while holding the responsibilities of family life·        How to maintain a quality relationship with your partner·        And the play of masculine and feminine in the yoga of relationshipCheck out our guests: https://www.markrobberds.com/https://stillpoint.yoga/https://www.ashtangayogabali.com/ 

Stu Girling is a yoga teacher, anatomy expert and author. He runs Love Yoga Anatomy online and on Youtube, and is the author of Illustrated Yoga Anatomy book. Thanks to everyone who sent in questions about yoga, ashtanga, avoiding injury and maintaining healthy bodies. We asked questions such as:How to return to yoga practice after pregnancy?How to do yoga asana with sciatica?Avoding ankle pain in lotus poseWhy should spiritual yogis care about anatomy?How crosstraining can stop you getting injuredWhat's with Setu Bandhasana? Find more from Stuhttps://loveyogaanatomy.com/Stu's book: https://illustratedyogaanatomy.com/Free yoga tips: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYmM9DXH1XC1ZypIDCaf1JA

Ben Goresky is a counsellor, coach and explorer of consciousness. He is involved in addiction recovery and working with men as part of the Samurai Brotherhood, a community I am also involved in. He hosts the Evolving Man podcast. As both recovered addicts we talk deeply about abuse, drug addiction and recovery. Then we delve into spiritual practices that have helped Ben on his journey before getting into the spiritual power of men's work.Find out more about Ben's coaching and online trainings here: https://evolvingman.com/

Ash Hope is a Brisbane-based Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga teacher and a student of Nancy Gilgoff. Her fascination about the body's self-healing abilities led her to study CranioSacral therapy with the Upledger Institute in Singapore. Ash explores the practice of meditation in the Zen tradition and teaches traditional Mysore style classes in her  shala in Fortitude Valley in Brisbane.Show notesSpiritual longing: From Eastern Germany to IndiaDiscovering Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga system after an injuiryOn synergetic relationship of Primary and Intermediate seriesWeekly sequencing - thoughts on rotation of seriesMeeting Nancy GilgoffEvolution of Pattabhi Jois' teaching approachOn old-school Advanced A series, teaching methodologyAshtanga pranayamaMeditation practiceMixing practices from different schoolsVisit https://www.ashtangayogacentre.com.au/ to find out more about Ash and her teaching schedule.Head over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or  PATREON account for contributions.

Michael W. Taft is a meditation teacher, bestselling author, and the host of Deconstructing Yourself podcast. From Zen temples in Japan to yogi caves in India, Michael has been meditating for over thirty five years and has extensive experience in both Buddhist Vipassana and Hindu Tantric practice. Michael authored several books, including “The Mindful Geek, Nondualism: A Brief History of a Timeless Concept”, and Ego (which he co-authored).Show notesSwitching between incompatible models of realityTaking it too farBuddhist modernismMahayana’s critique of Theravada traditionEmptiness and the Buddha natureOn Tantric practiceFeeling your way through uncharted territoryUprooting the seeds of the kleshasParallels between Tantric and Vajrayana practicesOn VipassanaMantra and deitiesTo find out more about Michael Taft visit Deconstructing Yourself website.Head over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or  PATREON account for contributions.

Phil Mistlberger is an explorer of world's philosophic and esoteric traditions, transpersonal therapist, international seminar and workshop facilitator, and author with over thirty years of experience. Phil has written 7 books looking from different angles on wide variety of teachings and teachers. He has co-founded and founded schools and communities of inner work like Samurai Brotherhood, and traveled around the world to study and teach numerous courses and workshops.Show notesSpiritual experiences and Perennial philosophyMoving from one tradition to another21st century destructed mind's dark night of the soul problem3 Dangerous MagiOn Aleister CrowleyStudying with OshoBenefits of releasing generational rage and guiltOn addiction, ethics and generational contextPremature teachingOn conditioned culture, autonomy and reality tunnelsEncounter work and men groupsVisit http://www.ptmistlberger.com/ to find more about his work.Head over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or  PATREON account for contributions.

Robert Moses has 50 years’ experience as a teacher of yoga and advaita vedanta. Robert served in the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers for 22 years. He is a founder and co-publisher of Namarupa - Categories of Indian thoughts, a magazine about the philosophies and arts of India. He is leading annual pilgrimages to sacred places of India and offering classes on Pranayama, Bandhas, Kriyas, Mudras as well as exploration of Hatha Yoga Pradipika online.Show notesFirst glimpses beyond the physical plain of existence Intense yoga practice, meditation and fastingHitchhiking through Europe"Cry, The Beloved Country" - growing up in South AfricaThe "Continuum concept" (Jean Liedloff)"You can't just have bad people in the world raising kids" (Norman Allan)Bhakti practice, subtle forms of Tridoshas - Tejas, Ojas and PranaBrahmacharya in the context of househoder pathLooking behind the bandhas Uddara - the forgotten bandhaAddendum: Where to fit a mudra practice?Discover Namarupa Magazine, classes and courses by Robert Moses.Head over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or  PATREON account for contributions.r

Thomas Van Breda is a scholar of religion specialising in the western esoteric tradition. He joins us to discuss notorious occultist Aleister Crowley and his contribution to the evolution of modern yoga. In 1901, Crowley travelled to Sri Lanka and studied what seems to be a mixture of Ashtanga and Shaivite Yoga. When he returned to the UK and started teaching. Is it possible that he was one of the first western yoga teachers ever? Or did his bombastic and strange personality only obscure these teachings?Show Notes-        We discuss the occult and rejected knowledge systems-        Crowley’s problematic personality-        How Crowley saw enlightenment and how he claimed to have attained it-        We respond to Mark Singleton’s 2010 book “Yoga Body: the Origins of Modern Posture Practice” that claims Crowley was a “black magician” who  obscured the message of yoga-        How Crowley taught asana before Krishnamacharya, the old school way-        Crowley’s experiments and achieving dyana and samadhi statesCrowley's "Eight Lectures on Yoga" PDF: http://www.metaphysicspirit.com/books/Eight%20Lectures%20on%20Yoga.pdf

Maggi Nimmo is an artist, healer and yogi based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. She teaches physical Asana, Pranayama, Self-Awareness, Samatha techniques and further meditations.She also specialises in acute and chronic pain management and includes her client’s emotional, physical and spiritual health and well-being as part of her solutions. She’s trained in The Bowen Technique, Sacro-Cranial Technique, Remedial Massage, Foot Realignment, Homoeopathy and Spiritual Counselling.Show NotesMaggi’s artworks especially sacred symbols and geometry What kingons and vedic concepts of gunas have in commonPattabhi Jois and Bikram back in the dayA non dual experience slipping into a riverHow the warrior poses are the same as walking70s Hairstyles and the subtle bodyHow “The body accepts whatever practice you choose”Different catagories of healingThe wisdom of working with the moonPranic and apanic breathing and moon daysAshtanga and aginghttp://magginimmo.com/

While his words are often like poetry and his photos stun you with their raw aesthetics, it is that space beyond the form and beyond the mind that Ty invites us to discover and out which his reflections are generously springing from. He is the wizard of most intricate thought castles, the faqir juggling heavy philosophical constructs with lightness and innocence of a child, while his fascination for exploring the ways of embodiment of the creative principle that animates all life is like a magnet that draws you deeper into inquiry in your own practice. We are absolutely delighted to have Ty on our show.Show notesFirst spiritual experiences, communion with the nature and longing for the sense of connectionIntellectual intoxication, vinyasas of thought and postures of mindSomatic exploration of breath wavesTerror of letting go of the sense of the self and the brilliance of Ashtanga VinyasaClinging to a particular idea of what your practice should beAsana as embodying the form that supports the liberated movement of creative energyFatherhood and daily practiceMixing traditions, following your heart, exploring synchronicitiesYear-long online immersion course "Into the Depth"Visit Yoga Workshop Online to find out about online classes, workshops and immersions offered by Ty. Also, check his website https://tylandrum.com/ to discover more about his teaching schedule, as well as some beautiful writing.Head over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or  PATREON account for contributions.

Mumbai-based yoga practitioner and teacher, Deepa Rao shares her experience on Yoga and Meditation with us.Show notesDeepa's first spiritual recollectionsAmulets, yantras and experience growing up in a Brahmin familiyGoenka's Vipassana, practice and studies, aleviation of the fear of darknessEquanimity and challenges of daily lifeThe story behind Trivikramasana How knowledge of mythology can help unravel deeper layers in your asana practiceUsing mantras, themes and affirmations in your practiceOn Ayurveda and diet, prana and apana vayu Yoga in modern day IndiaPracticing with an American yoga teacher in IndiaIf you want to get in touch with Deepa - visit her Instagram accounthttps://instagram.com/therowdeeHead over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or PATREON account for contributions.

We are very happy to present to you this interview with Gregor Maehle that was recorded around a year ago. Gregor’s path is a remarkable example of limitless determination to find the Truth. While not attempting to gain popularity and fame his ideas and views can be polarising, provoking and challenging. He dismisses authorities, hierarchies, guru worship and other unhealthy group dynamics. By doing so he is not only living out authentically one of the fundamental yogic attitudes of willing to know, rather than to believe, but also plays an extremely important social role that is becoming more and more scarce in today’s poisoned with political correctness world – by not sweetening up his words, pointing out things that are broken, views that are wrong and actions that are unethical he invites all of us to question our assumptions of reality, so that we can finally wake up from our ignorant slumber and experience the true joy of being.It is in sincere gratitude for his guidance on the path of Yoga that we release this interview.Show notesFirst glimpses of infinityDoer mentality, surrendering and graceWhat led Gregor to the practice of the 8-limbed YogaImmersing into teachings today vs in old timesTibetian Ngöndro, Six Yogas of Naropa, DzogchenPurification practices within the Ashtanga Yoga tradition and the mechanisms behind themWhy your meditation doesn’t workHappiness and robotic conditioningGregor’s spiritual practice and the sense of freedomBreath wavesExperience of Cosmic intelligence on different levelsThe differences and similarities of different spiritual pathsSvadharmaGregor’s observation of the modern Yoga landscapeTo find out more about Gregor’s teaching, learning materials, courses and in-depth blog article visit https://8limbs.com/Check out new book by Gregor Maehle: “How To Find Your Life’s Divine Purpose: Brain software for a new civilization”Head over to www.escaping-samsara.com to discover more episodes.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or PATREON account for contributions.

Buddhist teachings deep dive episode 2 with Leigh Brasington. Buddhist suttas, stream entry, interpretations of the jhanas, Daniel M. Ingram, 32 body types contemplations and much more. If you think this description is geeky, check out the episode to see what geeky really means

Leigh has been practicing meditation since 1985. He is the senior American student of the late Ven. Ayya Khema. He began teaching retreats in Europe and North America in 1997, and is the author of the book "Right Concentration - A Practical Guide to the Jhanas". This is first part of our in-depth exploration of different aspects of Buddhist teachings that Leigh generously took time and energy for. Show notesThe falling of the veil, spiritual hedonism and world tripThe story of Theravada nun Ayya KhemaWays to look at Pratītyasamutpāda - dependent originationFive skandhas, Eckart Tolle and taking a nap Emptiness or Śūnyatā, inherent existence and the deathlessImmortality projectLeighs process of studying the SuttasWhat are Jhanas or the stages of indestructible mindMorality, concentration, wisdomJhanas as a spectrum of concentration statesAs you go deeper the space of observer gets smallerDon't get fooled by your conceptsLeigh's and Nathan's take on the spiritual world of todayHow Buddhism translates into Western cultureHead over to www.escaping-samsara.com for the full list of references from this interview. You can find many more great references on Leigh's website.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or PATREON account for contributions.

Norway-born, Kathmandu-based KPJAYI authorised level 2 Ashtanga yoga teacher, co-founder of the first Ashtanga studio In Oslo, buddhist practitioner and scholar of Himalayan languages and Tibetan philology - Ellen Johannesen shares with us her fascinating life story as we change between buddhist and yogic perspectives exploring the path to liberation.Show notesFrom contemporary dance to yogaMovement patterns, innate animal logic and asanaThe act of balancing or playing with the forces outside of youYogic Yamas & Niyamas vs. Buddhist ParamisRegaining subtle body awareness through asana Relocating to Nepal and studying Buddhism, Himalayan languages, Tibetan philology How studying sutras and scriptures slowly changes youDependent origination and breaking the patternPractices aiming at removing samskarasReconciling Yogic and Buddhist perspectives100.000 prostrations in Bodh GayaMaking meritIf you ever in Nepal and want to practice with Ellen or just curious to find out more about her work - visit Ashtanga Nepal website.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or PATREON account for contributions.

A lover of the ancient and obscure, Forrest Knutson is a yogi householder, writer and meditation teacher. He offers many great video instructions on Kriya Yoga and meditation on his YouTube channel, as well as through his courses and trainings.Show notesSearch for Truth, "Hamsa" meditation and first spiritual experienceJoining monastic communityLahiri Mahasaya and BabajiWondering up in the hillsKriyaEnlightenment equasion, samadhi, layman vs monastic practice"Remedial teacher", heart rate variability and "3 cardial rules"Kechari MudraAnalogies with buddhist Jhana practice7 Kriyasa of Lahiri, buddhist 5 breath statesCheck out Forrest Knutson's YouTube Channel, his website and his book "Hacking the Universe: The Process of Yogic Meditation".Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PAYPAL or PATREON account for contributions.

We are beyond excited to kick off the new year with these 2 beautiful guests - Deepika Mehta and Mark Robberds. Yoga couple, Ashtanga practitioners and movement specialists, teachers and successful Instagramers, humble and curious beings on the spiritual path - which of these labels come close to who they really are? Listen in - link in the bio!Show notesDeepika's path to spirituality Relationships, practice and parenthood Pareto principle in Mark's approach to maintaining the practiceAging: Flexibility means fragility? Movement exploration rooted in the yogic tristana Benefits of a set sequence and creativity, yoga and surfingHaṭhābhyāsapaddhatiPranayama, Breathwork and Wim Hoff?James Nestor and Simon Borg-Olivier Cultural appropriation and Mula Bandha underwearMark's Instagram journeyMeditation practice and personal challenges3 new online courses Deepika Mehta – https://deepikamehta.in/Mark’s website – https://markrobberds.com/Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you!Here is our PATREON account for contributions.

Swami Jaya Devi Bhagavati is the Founder and Spiritual Director of Kashi Atlanta, a nonprofit urban yoga ashram that has served Atlanta for 21 years. She is an urban yoga monk, working to inspire people to live deeply, loving everyone along the way.Swami has studied yoga, pranayama (yogic breath), meditation, and healing in-depth since 1985. She took her monastic vows in the Saraswati lineage of Ma Jaya Sati Bhagavati and was given the title Yoga Acharya (master teacher of yoga) in 2007.She taught at the 2004 Parliament of World Religions in Barcelona, Spain, and was Grand Marshal of the 2015 Atlanta Pride Parade in recognition of decades of work with the LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS communities. In our chat, we get deep on topics such as pranayama, kundalini and karma yoga.Feel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our PATREON account for contributions.

Nathan is joined by Marc Kate and Chad Lott from "Scary Thoughts Podcast" to discuss Eckhart Tolle's "The Power of Now."Unless you've been stuck in a Twitter flame war for the last 20 years, you will know about Tolle's bestselling spiritual treatise. But is it a classic or a self-help rip off? We discuss the book, it's flaws and strengths and come to some new conclusions.We also discover Marc and Chad's meditation practices, the effect of nihilism and find out what Eckhart Tolle and Charles Manson have in common.http://scarythoughts.org/ https://failingforms.bandcamp.com/

In this episode we talk with John and Julia Scott about the practice of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, their take on different aspects of yogic teachings, personal experiences and relationships. Drishti, Pratyahara and the definition of concentrationThe story of Julia's first spiritual experienceJohn's take on Tristana and introduction of a count as a further focus dimensionThoughts on structure and meditation in yogic vs. buddhist contextAbout Advanced A / 3rd Series of Ashtanga Vinyasa yogaBreathing dimensions, count and mantra"Ayahuasca is for everyone, but not everyone is for Ayahuasca" (Danny Paradise)

Harmony Slater is Ashtanga Yoga practitioner and teacher based in Calgary, Canada. Her search for meaning led her from ballet dancing to studying philosophy, religion and psychology, travelling to China to learn Buddhist meditation and eventually meeting Sri. K Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, India. In this lively conversation we talk about her path and discuss many other topics: Entranced by Sri Yantra - first mystical experiencesDifferent internal drishtis during asana practice and the meditative aspect of it Harmony's study of the mind in academical and practical settingDarkness, addiction and the light of knowledge as a ladder for the intellect Anorexia, body dysmorphia, not good enoughThe strong remedy of Ashtanga YogaOn Pranayama and KundaliniHarmony is also a host of Finding Harmony Podcast, where she interviews many interesting yogis and fellow seekers in a very entertaining and uplifting way.

Dr. Erik Davis is an American writer, scholar, journalist and public speaker whose writings have ranged from rock criticism to cultural analysis to creative explorations of mysticism. Few people are able to talk about the spirituality with a precision and accuracy born of a commitment to always remain open to the Mystery. Erik shares his own path, describing how he maintains scientific viewpoint while also embracing the weird and unknown aspects in all religions, especially Christianity and Buddhism.We talk in detail about "the psychonaut"scientifically minded explorers who use psychedelics in an attempt to map the fringes and consciousness - places where there might still be dragons. Show Notes3.00 Spiritual and uncanny experiences occurred in Erik’s childhood bedroom7.00 Fear and fascination 14.00 How Erik spans science and spirituality19.00 Erik’s deep experience with Christian art24.00 “The weirdest year of your life”27.00 Erik on prayer and grace32. 00 “America can’t escape the shadow of puritanism”36.00 Psychonauts vs religious seekers 45.30 Psychosis as an occupational hazard57.00 Practical Buddhist ethics1.03.00 The role of a spiritual teacher1.08.00 When Erik met Ram Dass

Sebene Selassie is an African American Buddhist teacher. She has been studying Buddhism for 30 years and teaching for 10. She has worked extensively for not-for-profit organisations everywhere from the Tenderloin in San Francisco to refugee camps in Guinea, West Africa. This year, she published her first book via HarperOne titled You Belong: A Call for Connection. In this enriching conversation we tackle the kind of tough subjects that we all think about but need to talk about more. Why have women been sidelined in Buddhist lineages? How can the Dharma respond to racial strife and injustice? And how we can heal cultures of harm wherever we find ourselves. Show Notes3.00 First experiences with bhakti yoga6.00 History of women in Buddhism 10.00 Sebene's journey through Buddhist schools14.45 Kuan Yin and devotional practice19.45 The question of cultural appropriation 25.30 How studying history can aid liberation27.10 The complex problem of unconscious bias30.30 What was left out when Buddhism was exported 35.00 Good ol’ psychedelics 38.50 Ancestral healing 46.30 How we might heal racism in dharma communities55.00 It’s not about separation 57.50 Guilt vs responsibility1.00.00 “The dhamma answers its context”

David Williams is 71 years old. He began yoga practice at the age of 20. He was one of the first foreigners to travel to India in the early 1970s to learn yoga. He was the first non-Indian to learn the complete Ashtanga Vinyasa syllabus from Pattabhi Jois. He was one of the few people certified by Pattabhi Jois to teach all four asana series and the pranayama. He has practised Ashtanga Yoga daily, without interruption since 1973, perhaps longer than anyone else alive. He lives in Maui, Hawaii. His memoir of travelling the world and learning yoga, MY SEARCH FOR YOGA is available from his website, ashtangayogi.com.Show notesGetting into Yoga and choosing a life of freedomEarly influencersFirst Westerner to learn all four series of Ashtanga YogaDavid's favourite excerpt from Katha UpanishadWorking with meditation in the asana and Bandhas and Drishti in forward folds as taught by Sri KrishnamacharyaKechari Mudra and Kevala KumbhakaReal alchemy of YogaWorking with SamskarasYamas and NiyamasThoughts on pain and injury and Patthabi Jois's way of teachingKrishnamacharya, adjustments and evolution of his teaching methodologyStrong adjustments and long-time practice

This is a second interview in our two-part special with yoga teachers Mary Taylor and Richard Freeman. In our first conversation we were primarily focusing on different aspects of the Yoga practice. Now in this episode we explore the relationship between Yoga and Buddhism. We look closely at the content of both teachings to understand how they intersect, whether they are talking about same or similar things just under different angles, what is the reason between different emphasis of those, as well as how both traditions can support each other if you bring enough curiosity and create a space for a dialogue. Show notesThe relationship between Patanjali's 8 limbs and Buddha's 8 folded Path Different ways of setting the stage for compassion to arise in the yogic and buddhist traditions Yogic Samadhi vs. Buddhist Samadhi Navigating the diversity of practices References to Truth in Buddhism and Yoga, differences between solidifying authority vs. investigating authority Don't know mind The taste of Nirodha Different emphasis on purification practices in yogic and buddhist traditions Role of asana in buddhist schools and how the traditions come to communication in recent times Thoughts on the common synergy of yogic asana practice with Vipassana style meditation between yoga practitioners Pranayama, the sweetness of Kumbhaka and the right attitude

Our hearts are filled with joy and gratitude, and we are honoured to bring you a very special series of conversations with a yogic couple, who have influenced the world of modern yoga probably more than anyone else. Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor dedicated their lives to practice and study of the spiritual traditions of the East and are sharing the knowledge revealed to them humbly and graciously with their students. Show notes Mary's reflections on her first spiritual experiencesGroundedness, embodiment and the connection to the environment Dropping of the breath as the beginning of YogaThe roots of Richard's subtle body teachingsHow far away is esoteric from ordinary?Release of the soft palate and the concept of Nada AnusandhanMeditational aspects of the asana practice, subtle body alignments and how different schools of thought encompass each otherVisualisation, idolatry and guidance Role of Pranayama in removing of Samskaras and how you can make them worseAesthetics, emotionality and beautyTadagi MudraNauli in KukkutasanaSeparating grains from chaff or thoughts on finding a teacherSecret to good relationship :)Ethical aspect of romantic relationship between teacher and studentOngoing process of Ashtanga community dealing with Patthabi Jois's sexual abuseRichard's take on the modern world of yoga

Bhante Panna is an American monk living in a forest monestry near Bangkok. He has a popular Instagram (@bronthepath} where he shares his life of contemplation. In this conversation we address monkhood, spiritual powers, communing with nature, ending racism, and liberation. I know you're going to like this one!Show Notes2.50 Bhante’s spiritual awakening while climbing a mountain 11.40 The spirituality of Thailand 14.00 Bhante’s daily routine and life as a monk24.00 How celibacy has given Bhante a new sense of freedom27.00 The roots of African spirituality32.30 Discussing siddhis or extra-normal powers associated with meditation 37.40 Empathy with snakes and scorpions and chilling with Nature44.00 Black meditation matters49.50 Liberation and racial conditioning 54.00 Cultural healing in spiritual communities58.00 The spiritual landscape of the world today

Anthony "Prem" Carlisi has been practicing and teaching Ashtanga yoga for over 40 years. He learned directly from Pattabhi Jois in 1978 for several months in Southern California. In 1979, he was amongst the first small group of Western students to study with Jois in his home town of Mysore, India. He is considered one of the American pioneers of Ashtanga yoga, along with David Williams, Nancy Gilgoff, David Swenson and Tim Miller. Prem was certified to teach the primary, intermediate and advanced series of Ashtanga yoga in 1994. He also completed a four-year course of ayurvedic study in 1984 with Dr. Vasant Lad and has been studying tantric techniques since 1990. In 2007, Prem published his first book, The Only Way Out Is In, which is his commentary on the synergy of the three life sciences of Ashtanga yoga, ayurveda and tantra. He and his partner Heather "Radha" Duplex are now based primarily in Ubud, Bali for 6-8 months of the year, and 3-4 months in Kauai, Hawaii with Pineapple Yoga. They offer daily Mysore classes in both locations, as well as trainings for teachers, intensives and workshops that deepen the understanding of Ashtanga yoga, ayurveda and tantra.Show Notes1.40 First spiritual experiences with psychedelics5.50 Intersection with psychedelics and traditional spiritual practices 10.00 The practice of dying while living23.00 Tapas and purification29.30 The sudden death of Prem’s daughter and how he dealt with the grief37.30 How Prem lost his way and found it again39.30 Siddhis40.50 Advice for his younger self42.00 Importance of meditation practice50.00 Surrender and the Buddha’s “middle path”54.00 Eight limbs are a foundational practice57.00 Pranayama and when to do it60.30 Wim Hoff techniquehttps://www.ashtangayogabali.com/

Oliver is a Registered Physiotherapist, Yoga and Meditation Teacher. He is a long-term practitioner of Zen Buddhism, Ashtanga Vinyasa and Vinyasa Krama Yoga in the tradition of Krishnamacharya. He is a passionate proponent of evidence-based rehabilitation and person-centred care and loves helping people get back to moving at their best. This is a different kind of episode. This time we gathered questions of our listeners on different social media platforms and asked Oliver about his opinion. This a very practical episode that hopefully will help some of you into a safer and less painful practice. Show notesTight psoas and lower back discomfortProlapsed discs and continuing practiceStrengthening of unstable shoulder joint How to assess the seriousness of the shoulder injuryTight hamstrings and psoas and forward bendsIs grabbing your ankles during backbending safe?Hand placement in Lagu Vajrasana - ankles vs. calves?Is practicing Ashtanga 6 days a week safe? Examples of conflict between traditional way of teaching Ashtanga Vinyasa and modern physiotherapy approachHow to protect your lumber spine?Are there certain asanas that will more likely lead to injuries as the body gets older? Knee painShoulders: Strengths vs. stiffness Thigh rotation in VisvamitrasanaIf you want to get in touch with Oliver or find out more about his work visit https://www.yogicphysio.com Further references from the episodeDiscussion about sissy squats - Beard the best you can be Instagram account Lorimer Moseley's Ted talk - Why Things HurtIain Grysak - "Movement Homeopathy" in Ashtanga Yoga practiceMatthew Sweeney episodeSimon Borg-Olivier episode

This is a documentary style episode with Rumana Afroze, a wandering ascetic from Bangladesh. She is a member of Bauls, a mystical sect found in Bangladesh and West Bengal following the teachings of Lalon Shah, an influential 20th century mystic saints of the Indian subcontinent. Estimated to have composed thousands of songs, Lalon and his followers went on to influence such greats minds like Rabindranath Tagor, the Bengali poet, Allan Ginsberg and Bob Dylan. To contemporary Bangladeshis he is like Shakespeare, Martin Luther King and Ekhart Tolle rolled into one. Lalon’s songs, especially when heard in their original Bangla, are said to have the power to propel people to spiritual heights.---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

Ajahn Achalo an Australian buddhist monk and current abbot of Anandagiri Forest Monastery in North Thailand. He was born in Brisbane and ordained in the lineage of Ajahn Chah in 1996. In recent times he has created some extensive online teachings that are proving popular on meditation apps, Spotify and the like. You can find his writings and Dharma talks on the website of the monastery. In this conversation, Ajahn Achalo generously shared his thoughts on many intricate aspects of Buddhist practice. The ease and open-heartedness with which he engaged in conversation with us is something very special. Listen in.Show notesListening to the sound of the wavesFirst spiritual instruction from a hippie in a new age bookstoreFrom discovering Metta meditation to recording guided instructions for practitionersWill Metta come automatically if you practice enough Vipassana?How death mediation practice can lead to enhanced self aversionCore toolbox meditation practices, qualities of the Buddha and how to relate to themBrahma Viharas and Jhana meditation, becoming and desire energies in our practiceDangers of overestimating your results, difference between Upacara Samadhi and JhanaRole of contentment and gratitude, and the practice of celibacyThe story of the forest monkIntentions in Metta meditation and the importance of carrying them into the worldExploring teachings of different schools of Buddhism, learning from Dalai LamaThe story behind Nathan’s Maitreya tattooNew books and the story behind Ajahn Achalo’s over 3500 hrs of meditation at Bodh GayaWhat constitutes Enlightenment---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

From Ferguson to New York, and from Germany and South Africa to Australia and Brazil, Lisa Sharon Harper leads trainings that increase clergy and community leaders’ capacity to organize people of faith toward a just world. A prolific speaker, writer and activist, Ms. Harper is the founder and president of FreedomRoad.us, a consulting group dedicated to shrinking the narrative gap in our nation by designing forums and experiences that bring common understanding, common commitment and common action.Show notesLisa's Podcast about social justice and activismMilk, donuts and the first prayer at night in the middle of the Pine BarrensDeepening of the kindled interest through studies and cultureConcept of religious convictionLisa's take on slavery references in the BibleRetracing Cherokee Trail of Tears and seeking understanding in the BibleFrom the mind to the heart and how spirituality is only as powerful as you allow it to engage with the world around youHearing the soul's cry, dangers of defining people, the need for silence as a space where one can here God's voiceThe empires of lies and the need of identifying the Truth to change themThe idea of the fists and the headsPolitical activism, confrontation as spiritual act of worshipGlobal awakening and the age of transitionLisa's books, podcast, consulting group Freedom RoadMs. Harper authored 5 books. You can find out more about her work by visiting https://lisasharonharper.com/.---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

On this episode we talk to Ajahan Succito a british-born Buddhist monk and former abbot of Cittaviveka monestry in the UK. Ajahan Succito ordained in Thailand in 1976 and, along with Ajahn Sumedho, was part of a small group of monks who brought the famous forest master Ajahn Chah’s teachings to the west. Over the last four decades he has helped establish and grow three monestries in the UK and authored nine books all available for free download from his website. Show notesFirst spiritual experience through Hatha Yoga practices and recognition of deathUniversity studies, psychedelics, discovering of the Eastern spirituality, travelling to India and Thailand5th precept of abstaining from intoxicants and the use of psychedelicsBuddhist Paramis and their expression in lifeRenunciation – moving away from sensual indulgences or differentiating wants from needsWhy true equanimity is almost inconceivableFrom Dharma to cultureProblem of compartmentalisation of meditationTips on cultivating of Paramis and seeking wholesome statesThe 4 floods, body maps and experience of realitySpirituality as a natural process, environmental crisis as opportunity to awakenVisit Forest Sangha website to find all books by Ajahn Succito as well as his website to find out more about Ajahn's teachings.---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

To us Monica is an embodiment of the yogic way of living. With around 40 years of spiritual practice she is also a Doctor of Chiropractic , Yoga Therapist and co-author of “Ashtanga Yoga, Practice and Philosophy” and “Ashtanga Yoga, The Intermediate Series“. Her passion for teaching yogic anatomy unlocks this uneasy subjects to many of her students. In intensive immersions that she offers together with her husband, Gregor Maehle, Monica is also teaching chanting. Her devotion and love for the practice helps students to tap into the world of infinite beauty the moment the first OM together is chanted. We are privileged and grateful to have her on our show. Show notesMonica’s first encounters with Samsara HalahalaGlimpse into the Essence and discovery of Hridaya, the spiritual heartMeditation practice, meeting Maharaji Prem RawatStarting on the path of YogaRole of meditation in allaying the fear of deathWork and discipline in a spiritual practiceSurrendering, synchronicity and serendipityTapping into emotional scars and working with samskaras through yoga practiceYoga as a form of psychotherapy?Role of ethics on and off the mat and thoughts on teaching itEmbracing humanity and finding refuge in practice---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

Mark Togni is a Zen monk, advanced Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga practitioner and teacher. In this geeky interview Mark shared with us his insights on intersection of great amount of different practices and traditions. Show notesJourney to India and meeting his teacher Sri H.W.L. Poonja (Poonjaj, Papaji)Thoughts on the selecting the Guru and how to reconcile different philosophical views of Yoga and Buddhism - interdependent co-arising, self-inquiry10 Great Precepts and how does a Zen Monk end up practicing 4th Series of AshtangaUnified mind, passive and active Samadhis and asana practiceIntersection of 8 Limbs of Patanjali and Zen Buddhism PreceptsDifference in effects of Vipassana, Zen and Yogic Chakra / Kundalini raising meditation techniquesThoughts on selecting a GuruReconciling Zen's interdependent co-arising, Advaita's self-inquiry and Patanjali's philosophyUnraveling Samskaras through practice and Gestalt therapyIda and Pingala, and thought son effects of meditation before and after asana practiceBreathing waves and bandhas as form of response to the heaven and earth connection Effects of different Ashtanga sequences, energetic patterns and reasoningFinding a balance between Asana, Pranayama and MeditationCombining practices from different spiritual traditions Mark's thoughts on Yoga and spiritual landscape of todayMark is currently teaching in Gold Coast Yoga Center in Australia. Visit their website to find more information about his teaching. ---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

Lorraine Cavanagh is an Anglican priest, theologian and a sincere practitioner of Christian path. Her journey is about cultivating and helping others to establish personal relationship with God, outside of any dogmatic concept or structure. It’s about spirituality, and not about church. She is also a writer and a podcast host.In this interview Lorraine shares with us her thoughts on the problems of modern Christian religion, the common misunderstandings about major Christian concepts and helps us better understand some fundamental metaphors of Christianity. We speak about the practice of prayer and the importance of silence, and ask her many more quirky questions, while she kindly and lovingly shares her wisdom with us.Show notesLorraine’s remarkable experience – the choosing of the PathTrue meaning of Mission and Evangelism in ChristianityReasons and consequences of the spiritual experienceInstitutionalised religion and what increasing spirit of managerialism does to itMisunderstanding of the conecpt of ProphecyHard questions and the mechanism of prayer as a tool to address themDepression, dark night of the soul and the purpose of itMetaphor of Jesus dying and how death is not the end of the storyGod, Christ and Holy Spirit experiencesImportance of silenceDifference between contemplative life and activism?Calling, destiny, providence and the weaving togetherAbuse of power in the context of religion and the chronic loneliness of the human conditionLorraine’s booksYou can find out more about Lorraine’s work at https://www.lorrainecavanagh.net/---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

Talking to Simon Borg-Olivier is like going snorkelling with Jacque Yve Cousteau - you suddenly find yourself in a bathyscaphe at the bottom of the ocean exploring its depth and multifacetedness of creatures you never knew existed, although in our case it's the ocean of Yoga and the creatures are different angles to view mudras, kriyas, asanas, yogic breathing and the concept of movement itself. In this fascinating talk Simon takes us on a wild ride through many different angles to view the common things - from questioning the validity of the most basic instructions like lifting your arms and drawing your shoulders down in Surya Namasakara to how almost any yogic tool can cause a different outcome based on your intention and tiniest details of your technique. We speak about Simon's ideal practice routine, how to nourish yourself with practice in the hard time of Covid-19 caused isolation, how to stay connected while being isolated and physically disconnected, how to expand your meditative practice far beyond the formal time spent on the yoga matt. This interview offers you so many dimensions to explore, think and question your views and believes, and we felt very enriched, and once again mystified with all the new pieces of the yogic puzzle.Show notesLooking into drishti and physiological aspecs of chanting Simon's take on breathing practice Practice of kriyas - the intricacies of Nauli & Lauliki and dosha specific objectives Moving from the core Self isolation and how yogic tools can help: meditative states Meditative cleaning :) Thoughts on what makes a supportive practice vs. increasing stress level through activity Coping with isolation and finding a perspective in the info swamp Breathing waves geekery Ratios in Nadi Shodana and the subject of Kumbhaka Are you able to breathe into your chest in a relaxed way? 7 stages of Hatha Yoga treatise and Basti kriya as a prerequisite for mudra, asana and pranayama Important paradigm shifts to happen in modern postural yoga Kapalabhati, Bastrika, Nauli and the danger of misinterpretation of their purposes Shades of Kumbhaka Incredible hyperventilation experiment Words of caution and thoughts on selecting a teacher and teachingCheck out YogaSynergy or his personal website for more information on Simon's teaching.---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

Nicky Knoff has an incredible life story and a yoga journey that stretches over more than 50 years. Being 82 at the time when we recorded this interview, she is vibrant, full of life and excited about teaching yoga to her students. Nicky shares the story of her life with us - from growing up in a prisoner's camp in Indonesia, discovering yoga and meeting many inspirational teachers to her philosophy and approach to teaching that aims to integrate higher limbs of yoga in a holistic and balanced practice.Show notesBe here now - Nicky's childhood memories of prisoner's camp in Indonesia Discovering yoga by observing its fruits in a close friend Bikram Choudhury, BKS Iyengar, Desikachar and S. N. Goenka Why students are discouraged from doing yoga during Goenka retreats?a How Vipassana and Yoga help us confront the same issues in a synergistic way Nicky's Pranayama practice Pranayama as integral part of asana practice and how Ujayi can help during labor Ashtanga sequencing and lack of attention to Pranayama in traditional Ashtanga Vinyasa way of teaching What is to consider when designing your own asana and pranayama routine Difference in breathing patterns and their effects as taught by Desikachar, BKS Iyengar and Pathabi Jois Teaching main objective to focus on when teaching people with PTSD Nicky's approach to integration of higher limbs in her teaching to offer balanced yoga practiceYou can learn more about Nicky's teaching and access many valuable materials at https://www.knoffyoga.com/---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.

In this episode we interview Matthew Sweeney, a long-term yoga practitioner and teacher. Matthew's path of self-inquiry is a remarkable journey through different systems and approaches, from Martial Arts and Zen Shiatsu to Iyengar Yoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. A long-term absorption in yogic practices together with open-mindedness an interest in Meditation, Tantra, Gestalt Therapy, Transpersonal Therapy, Transforming Cellular Memory, Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta helped him to crystallise his understanding and develop his own authentic and honest approach to teaching. He has written several books and created DVD teaching programs , as well as many great reflections in form or free articles. He is currently based in Ubud, Bali, where he teaches courses in his beautiful shala - Vinyasa Krama Mandiram. In this episodes we go in-depth on the great variety of topics and get really geeky. Show notesRelationship between Moon Sequence & Ashtanga Primary Series. Background & Purpose.Impact of different asana practices on the state of mind - tamasic, rajastic, sattvic?Different angles to look at Vinyasa KramaSequences of Ashtanga Yoga Yamas and NiyamasMatthew's take on 8 limbs of PatanjaliFocusing on Stambha within Pranayama and MeditationDharana, Dhyana and attachment to the practicePratyahara and misunderstandings around itSelf-enquiry and Advaita VedantaPotential of higher limbs and limitations of the systemBenefits of combining different observer consciousness practicesSpirituality and technique---Check our website for more content: http://escaping-samsara.com/Enjoyed this podcast? Please, leave a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunesFeel grateful and would like to support us? Thank you! Here is our Patreon account for contributions.