Somatic Primer Podcast

On today's episode I once again had the pleasure to speak with Tibetan Doctor Nashalla Gwyn Nyida.Dr. Nashalla  began the study of Tibetan Medicine in 1999 and treating  in 2004. She is the director of the Nyinda Clinic of Tibetan Medicine & Holistic Healing Clinic in Boulder, Colorado.This is my second in a series of interviews with Dr. Nashalla about the tibetan concept of the subtle body. If you haven't heard our first interview please go back and listen to season four episode 6. There we cover the first part of the subtle body, the channels. In this second interview we discuss wind or lung energy. This second interview is part one of two due to the technicality of the topic. The first part  of the interview is the setup for understanding wind or lung energy and the second part is the more technical description as to what that exactly is.  I will post the second part of this interview next.To find our more about Dr. Nashalla please visit her website: https://www.holistic-health.org/Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. You can visit us on Youtube or at our website somaticprimer.com. Or at our online learning platform on Patreon.As always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode!Support the showSupport the show

On today's episode I once again had the pleasure to speak with Tibetan Doctor Nashalla Gwyn Nyida.Dr. Nashalla  began the study of Tibetan Medicine in 1999 and treating  in 2004. She is the director of the Nyinda Clinic of Tibetan Medicine & Holistic Healing Clinic in Boulder, Colorado.This is my second in a series of interviews with Dr. Nashalla about the tibetan concept of the subtle body. If you haven't heard our first interview please go back and listen to season four episode 6. There we cover the first part of the subtle body, the channels. In this second interview we discuss wind or lung energy. This second interview is part one of two due to the technicality of the topic. The first part  of the interview is the setup for understanding wind or lung energy and the second part is the more technical description as to what that exactly is.  I will post the second part of this interview next.To find our more about Dr. Nashalla please visit her website: https://www.holistic-health.org/Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. You can visit us on Youtube or at our website somaticprimer.com. Or at our online learning platform on Patreon.As always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode!Support the show

On today's episode I had the pleasure to speak with Alexander Teacher Penelope Easten Penelope has been teaching the Alexander Technique since 1989. She also trained in Reiki, nutrition, and craniosacral therapy. Her book “Twelve Fundamentals of Integrated Movement” offers a theoretical framework of how integrated movement occurs. In this episode we discuss her studies with Margaret Goldie, an original student of F.M Alexander, and what made Miss Goldie such an impressive teacher. We also discuss how Iain McGilchrist's work on the Left & Right brain hemispheres pertains to the Alexander Technique an much morePenelope has a Book Study Club starting in May for her book Twelve Fundamentals of Integrated Movement. Find out more at her website: https://alexandertechniqueinfo.orgTo find our more about Somatic Primer please visit us at:https://Somaticprimer.comhttps://Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning Platform Somatic Primer on PatreonPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation.Support the show

Brad Kearns is a New York Times bestselling author, former national champion and world-ranked professional triathlete.Brad is the host of the B Rad podcast and he has written twenty books on diet, health, peak performance, and ancestral living.  His newest book Born to Walk, he coauthored with Mark Sisson. It's an aggressive takedown of the running boom and an important recalibration of our modern approach to total body fitness and longevity. To find out more about Brad, Listen to his podcast and purchase his book please visit:https://bradkearns.comTo discover more about us at Somatic Primer please visit:To find our more about Somatic Primer please visit us at:https://Somaticprimer.comhttps://Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning Platform Somatic Primer on PatreonPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.Support the show

On today's episode I had the pleasure to speak to Dr. Shin Lin. Shin Lin, PhD, is a world-renowned expert on Tai Chi and a 12th generation heir of Chen Style Tai Chi designated by Grandmaster Chen Zheng-Lei of China's Chen Family Village, where Tai Chi originated.He is a longtime chair of biophysics at Johns Hopkins and professor of biological sciences and biomedical engineering at UCI, where his Laboratory for Mind-Body Signaling and Energy Research applies modern biophysical technologies to study the benefits of Tai Chi/Qigong on mind-body functions and body energy measured as heat, light and electricity. The result of his studies, are used to formulate models to explain the beneficial effects of these practices  on health and healing at the cellular, and molecular levels. Please visit Somatic Primer:You can visit at our website: Somaticprimer.comFor upcoming live courses: Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning Platform @ Somatic Primer on PatreonPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.Support the show

Mark helps individuals and organizations improve their performance and well-being through the mind-body connection. He has  trained in martial arts, mindfulness, and various somatic disciplines. Mark has also taught and consulted in over 50 countries, including working with the UN and humanitarian projects in war zones.Mark has written several best-selling books - Embodiment: Moving Beyond Mindfulness; and has trained many embodiment coaches. He also hosts The Embodiment Coaching Podcast which is a weekly podcast for everyone who is interested in Embodiment and the body. The podcast contains in-depth explorations of embodiment topics with expert guests from around the globe.Links to Marks Channel and Webistes:www.embodimentunlimited.comThe Embodiment ChannelThe Embodiment PodcastThank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. You can visit us on Youtube or at our website somaticprimer.com. Or at our online learning platform on Patreon.As always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode. Support the show

Dr. Nashalla Gwyn Nyinda, Menpa TMD, MA Acu, LMT began the study of Tibetan Medicine in 1999 and treating with permission in 2004. With a foundation in multiple Asian healing systems she was encouraged by her root teacher, Very Venerable Thrangu Rinpoche to continue her Tibetan medical studies in India at the Chagpori Institute Clinic. Her published work on Tibetan healing modalities and Buddhism can be found on Academia or Research Gate websites. She founded the Sowa Birthing Method ™ to help reduce medical interventions and Postpartum Depression for new and expectant mothers. She is the director of the Nyinda Clinic of Tibetan Medicine & Holistic Healing Clinic in Boulder, Colorado USA and the president of Chagpori US,https://www.holistic-health.org/To find our more about Somatic Primer please visit us at:https://Somaticprimer.comhttps://Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning Platform Somatic Primer on PatreonPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.Support the show

Joseph Houseal is founder and director of Core of Culture, a Chicago-based non-profit organization dedicated to safeguarding intangible world heritage with an emphasis on endangered dance and movement traditions in the healing, meditation, and martial arts. After a decades-long international career as a dancer, choreographer, and director, including work as artistic director for singer Chaka Khan, Houseal began working with ancient Asian dance traditions and has spent the past 25 years working in cultural preservation of sacred dance traditions in the Himalayas and beyond. His work has been shown in 14 museums worldwide and is part of 5 permanent museum collections. The Bhutan Dance Collection is the most widely accessed collection within the Jerome Robbins Dance Division, New York Public Library, for more than 11 years. A contributor to Ballet Review in New York, for 34 years, Houseal writes a monthly column for Buddhistdoor Global. His book, Buddhist Dances, Movement & Mind, will be published by Motilal Banarsidass, in 2025.Discover Joseph's work here:https://coreofculture.org/https://www.buddhistdoor.net/column/ancient-dances/To find our more about Somatic Primer please visit us at:https://Somaticprimer.comhttps://Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning Platform Somatic Primer on PatreonPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.Support the show

Naomi Worth is a scholar and practitioner of yoga and Tibetan Buddhism. She has a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia, and helped found the Contemplative Sciences Center. Naomi tells us about her time in Mysore studying Ashtanga yoga and her travels to Dharmsala to study with the Tibetan Buddhist community. She also shares her retreat experiences in the practice of Tibetan Yoga at Namdroling.She has written several papers on these topics including, The Body as a Vehicle to Enlightenment: A Brief History of Physical Practices in Haṭha Yoga and Tibetan Buddhist TantraShe is currently teaching high school in New York City.quantumyouth.orgNaomi's websiteNaomi's publications on Academia.eduOur website: Somaticprimer.comFor upcoming live courses: Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning PlatformPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation.As always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode Support the show

C.P. Ong is a 20th-generation Chen Family Taijiquan lineage disciple of both Chen Xiaowang and Chen Zhenglei. He has also studied extensively with Zhu Tiancai.He first began his Taiji studies in 1972 learning the Guang Ping Yang Style from Master Y.C. Chiang in Berkeley, CA. He is also a student of vipassana (insight) meditation and has attended several intensive meditation retreats in Buddhist monasteries in Yangon, Myanmar. He is the author of Taijiquan—Cultivating Inner Strength. He received his Ph.D. in Mathematics from U.C. Berkeley in 1973 and is currently the executive Vice-President, USA Wushu-Kungfu Association.C.P. Ong's WebsiteYou can visit us @Our website: Somaticprimer.comFor upcoming live courses: Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning Platform @ Somatic Primer on PatreonPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.Support the show

C.P. Ong is a 20th-generation Chen Family Taijiquan lineage disciple of both Chen Xiaowang and Chen Zhenglei. He has also studied extensively with Zhu Tiancai. He first began his Taiji studies in 1972 learning the Guang Ping Yang Style from Master Y.C. Chiang in Berkeley, CA. He is also a student of vipassana (insight) meditation and has attended several intensive meditation retreats in Buddhist monasteries in Yangon, Myanmar. He is the author of Taijiquan—Cultivating Inner Strength. He received his Ph.D. in Mathematics from U.C. Berkeley in 1973 and is currently the executive Vice-President, USA Wushu-Kungfu Association.C.P. Ong's WebsiteYou can us @Our website: Somaticprimer.comFor upcoming live courses: Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning Platform @ Somatic Primer on PatreonPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.Support the show

On today's episode I had the pleasure to speak to Dr. Shin Lin. Dr Lin is Professor Emeritus, Developmental & Cell BiologySchool of Biological Sciences. He is also a Chen Tai Chi linage holder and lifetime practitioner.In his Laboratory Dr LIn studies changes in physiological functions and bioenergy levels associated with the ancient mind-body practices of Qigong and Tai Chi. The result of his studies, are used to formulate models to explain the beneficial effects of these practices  on health and healing at the cellular, and molecular levels. Please visit Somatic Primer:You can visit at our website: Somaticprimer.comFor upcoming live courses: Vidyamethod.comOur Online Learning Platform @ Somatic Primer on PatreonPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.Support the show

Don Hanlon Johnson is a professor at CIIS in San Francisco and the founder of the first graduate degree program in Somatics. He is the author of a body of literature on the intersections among bodily experience, the natural world, spirituality, social justice, and health.Don Hanlon Johnson  began his training with Dr. Ida Rolf and joined Thomas Hanna as a contributing editor of his journal Somatics, To find out more about his work please visit https://donhanlonjohnson.com. To find out more about my work or take lessons please visit http://somaticprimer.com Please visit our online learning platform on Patreon at Somatic Primer.Please enjoy the show.Support the show

Wasentha Young is a lifelong practitioner of Tai Chi, Qigong, and Meditation. She is a founding board member of the Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors. Wasentha was a student of Grandmaster William CC Chen. Master Young received formal training in Buddhist and Taoist meditation respectfully from Trungpa Rinpoche and Gia-Fu Feng in addition to achieving a masters degree in Transpersonal Studies.To visit her school please visit: https://peacefuldragonschool.com/instructors/To Support the Podcast Please Visit:Somatic Primer on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/user?u=63954666Vidya Method & Somatic Primer Courses:Meditation https://vidyamethod.com/meditation/Somatics & Tai Chi lessons at: https://somaticprimer.comPlease like and follow if you enjoyed the episode.Support the show

Born in Casablanca, Morocco, Jean-Louis Rodrigue is a movement director, acting coach, and senior teacher of the Alexander Technique. For over 40 years, he has worked professionally in Los Angeles and New York in theatre, film, television, and digital media; his unique approach to character movement and improving the levels of performance has brought international recognition.Click here to get a copy of his new book on the Alexander Technique: Back to the BodyTo Find our more about Jean-Louis and his work please visit:https://alexandertechworks.com/about-alexander-techworks/Somatic Primer on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=63954666Vidya Method & Somatic Primer Courses:Meditation https://vidyamethod.com/meditation/Somatics & Tai Chi lessons at: https://somaticprimer.comPlease like and follow if you enjoyed the episode.Support the show

Yogi Sivadas was born into the traditional Ayurvedic and Yoga practices of Kerala. As a teenager, he left home to continue his quest for deeper knowledge, traveling throughout India and the neighboring countries. After more than twelve years of exploring throughout India gaining spiritual wisdom he founded the Kailash Tribal School of Yoga and Holistic Healing at Mcleodganj in 2000. Through the Kailash Tribal School of Yoga and Holistic Healing he fulfills his passion for globally sharing his knowledge and his holistic approach to life.More about Yogi Sivadas: Kailash SchoolThank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show. If you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.Vidya Method & Somatic Primer CoursesNew Courses https://vidyamethod.comTai Chi https://vidyamethod.com/tai-chi-group...Meditation https://vidyamethod.com/meditation/Our Online Learning Platform https://www.patreon.com/user?u=63954666One on One Somatic/Tai Chi lessons please visit: https://somaticprimer.comAs always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode!Support the show

Alexandra holds a BFA/Dance (University of MI), MFA/Dance (University of WI at Milwaukee), and CMA (Certified Movement Analyst) in Laban Movement Analysis/Bartenieff Fundamentals (LIMS). She is on faculty at Princeton University, Rutgers University, and The Laban/Bartenieff Institute for Movement Studies, and guest teaches nationally and internationally. To find out more about Alexandra please visit: https://www.alexandrabellerdances.org/free-resourcesAfter the podcast please visit our online learning platform on Patreon. We have weekly taiji and somatic classes there as well as articles and extended content from the podcast.Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.You can visit us on our website Somaticprimer.com.Support the show

This Week's Episode of the Somatic Primer Podcast: Ven. Robina CourtinOrdained since the late 1970s, Ven. Robina has worked full time since then for Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche's FPMT. Over the years she has served as editorial director of Wisdom Publications, editor of Mandala Magazine, executive director of Liberation Prison Project, and as a touring teacher of Buddhism. Her life and work with prisoners have been featured in the documentary films Chasing Buddha and Key to Freedom.https://robinacourtin.comFor Buddhist Studies & Meditation please visit our website www.vidyamethod.com After the podcast please visit our online learning platform on Patreon. We have weekly taiji and somatic classes there as well as articles and extended content from the podcast.Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe.You can visit us on our website Somaticprimer.com.Support the show

On this episode I had the pleasure to speak with taiji teacher Robert Chuckrow. He has studied  (Taiji),  (Qigong),under masters such as Cheng Man-ch'ing, William C.C. Chen, Elaine Summers. He has written four books on T'ai Chi: The Tai Chi Book, Tai Chi Walking, Tai Chi Dynamics, and Tai Chi Concepts and Experiments.https://www.chuckrowtaichi.com/https://www.youtube.com/@dsfgnk4/videosI'd like to let listeners know that I have new courses beginning in September for Buddhist Studies, Somatics and Taiji. If you're interested in our live courses you can visit our website Vidyamethod.com to find our full lists of upcoming classesAfter the podcast please visit our online learning platform on Patreon. We have weekly taiji and somatic classes there as well as articles and extended content from the podcast.Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. You can visit us on Youtube or at our website Somaticprimer.com. As always thank you for listening. Support the Show.

Sam F.S. Chin is the co-founder of the art I Liq Chuan / Zhong Xin Dao system.Master Sam Chin was profoundly influenced by Buddhist meditation. Combining mindfulness and awareness with the traditional martial art his father had taught him Master Chin developed what would become I Liq Chuan.I Liq Chuan is the art of cultivating consciousness based on Tai Chi and Chan (Zen) principles of non-assertion, non-resistance, harmony of yin and yang, oneness and the present moment.Sam Chin:https://iliqchuan.com/After the show we continue the conversation on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=63954666To Find Our More About Our New Courses:Buddhist Courses https://vidyamethod.comTai Chi & Somatic Classes https://vidyamethod.com/tai-chi-group...Weekly Meditation https://vidyamethod.com/meditation/Our Online Learning Platform https://www.patreon.com/user?u=63954666One on One Somatics & Tai Chi lessons please visit: https://vidaymethod.comThanks for listening! Support the Show.

Lama Losang (Dr. David Bole) is a fully ordained monk, he completed his traditional three-year retreat in 2004. Lama Losang is also an acupuncture physician, a Tai Chi teacher, and holds a Ph.D. in Psychology. He teaches wellness and Buddhism around the country. He has recently published a book titled, The Golden Eight-Petaled Lotus, Book One: Wisdom & Compassion. For more information about Lama Losang please visit: https://www.ktcgainesville.orgThank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show. If you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. You can visit us at our Patreon, on Youtube or at our website somaticprimer.com. As always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode!Support the Show.

Cyndi Lee began teaching meditation 30 years ago with the blessing of her root guru, the great Tibetan master, Gelek Rinpoche. Cyndi is known for integrating yoga asana and Tibetan Buddhism.  From 1998-2012, she founded and ran the renowned OM yoga Center. OM yoga Center was the first NYC studio to offer Buddhist meditation classes.  Cyndi is the author of several books including: Yoga Body Buddha Mind. She is also a regular contributor to Yoga Journal & Lion's Roar.To find out more about Cyndi please visit https://www.cyndilee.com I have new courses beginning in September for both Buddhist Studies and Taiji. Please go to Somaticprimer.Com or Vidyamethod.com to find out more. Please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. You can visit us at our Patreon, on Youtube.As always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.Support the Show.

My guest this week is Embodiment teacher Will Johnson. Will Johnson has been a Buddhist practitioner and Rolfer for more than forty years.  He and his wife live in Costa Rica,  where they have created the Hollow Bamboo Retreat Center. Will has written several books including Breathing Through the Whole Body:  The Buddha's Instructions on Integrating Mind, Body, and Breath.To find out more about Will visit https://www.embodiment.netPlease consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. You can visit us at our Patreon, on Youtube or at our website somaticprimer.com. Support the Show.

James Nestor is an author and journalist His  book, Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, was an international bestseller. James is currently hosting breathing workshops and he is working on a new book. To find out more about James please visit https://www.mrjamesnestor.com/Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show. If you would like to become a supporting member please visit https://somaticprimer.comDon't forget to follow us on Patreon & Youtube As always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode Support the Show.

In this weeks episode I had the pleasure to sit down with Matteo Pistono.Matteo Pistono is a writer, meditation teacher, and conscious breathing guide. His new book is Breathe How You Want to Feel: Your Breathing Tool Kit for Better Health. Matteo has authored numerous books including Meditation: Coming To Know Your Mind, Fearless in Tibet and In The Shadow of the Buddha. He teaches conscious breathing and meditation to individuals and groups in-person as well as online. https://www.matteopistono.comI have a few new openings for those of you interested in learning about and practicing Somatics, Tai Chi, Qigong, or meditation. Please go to Somaticprimer.com to inquire and I'll be in touch.Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. As always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode! Support the Show.

In this weeks episode, I had a conversation with Tsering Dorje. Tsering studied Buddhism in both monastic and academic settings for the past twenty years. He translates ancient Hatha and Vajrayana texts. His focus is on  the body-oriented yogas  in Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism. Tsering has a Newsletter on substack where he posts his translations. Below is the link to his substack if you'd like to find out more.https://tsering.substack.comI have a few new openings for those of you interested in learning about and practicing the embodied arts of Somatics, Tai Chi, Qigong, and Meditation. Please go to Somaticprimer.com to inquire and I'll be in touch.Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. Please like and subscribe. Support the Show.

In this week's episode, I had a conversation with my friend and breath coach Mike Maher. Mike is a breath work instructor, and researcher.Mike is the founder of YouTube's Number One Breathwork channel –TAKE A DEEP BREATH, and the host of the Breathwork Podcast ,The Breathcast.Mike trains people online with his popular breath-work program  Functional Breathing Essentials and he's just started a group breathing practice as well. Mike's website & Youtube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@TAKEADEEPBREATHhttps://www.takeadeepbreath.co.ukThank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation. Please like and subscribe. Somaticprimer.comPatreonYoutubeAs always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode. Support the show

In this weeks episode, I had the pleasure to speak with Michael Sheehy.Michael Sheehy is a meditation researcher and scholar of Tibetan Buddhism. He is a Research Assistant Professor and Director of Research at the Contemplative Sciences Center at the University of Virginia.Michael studied extensively in Asia, including three years training in a Buddhist monastery in the nomadic Golok region of far eastern Tibet and more than twelve years conducting fieldwork to preserve rare manuscripts with monastic communities across the Tibetan plateau. His research on Tibetan lucid dreaming practices was featured in National Geographic. His forthcoming book is on the history and philosophy of the  Jonang tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. His current book project weaves practices of attention, imagination, and embodiment from Tibetan meditation manuals with contemporary discourses on mind, body, culture, and ecology.You can find out more about Michael and his work on his website https://michaelrsheehy.comThank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if you are not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and don't to forget to like and subscribe. Discover more about us and our ongoing courses at Somaticprimer.com & Vidyamethod.comAs always thank you for listening and enjoy the episode Support the show

Willa Baker has a doctorate from Harvard University. She is the Founder and director of  The Natural Dharma Fellowship in Boston, MA, and its retreat center in the mountains of, NH. She is a dharma teacher and lineage holder in the Tibetan Buddhist Kagyu lineage .  Willa lived as a monastic for twelve years  and has also completed two three-year retreats. Willa is author of several books including The Wakeful Body: Somatic Mindfulness as a Path to FreedomFind our more about Lama Willa:https://naturaldharma.orgRewilding the Soul: Finding Refuge in an Earth Based Lineage The Wakeful Body (Online Course)Explore our Classes:https://somaticprimer.com/Please subscribe & like.Support the show

Drew Leder a professor of Western and Eastern Philosophy at Loyola University Maryland.  Dr. Leder's work focuses on the embodied experience. He asks us to reconsider the Cartesian mind-body dualism that underlies much of contemporary Western medicine, and proposes a more holistic, yet rigorous, alternative.He has written several books on these topics including The Absent Body, and his latest  book The Healing Body: Creative Responses to Illness, Aging, and Affliction Find out more at https://www.drewleder.com/https://somaticprimer.com/https://vidyamethod.com/Remember to subscribe for more great conversations on embodiment, meditation,  somatics and more... Support the show

In this weeks episode, I speak with Joseph Alter. Joseph S. Alter is the Director of the Asian Studies Center and Professor of Anthropology at the University of Pittsburgh. He is also the editor of The Journal of Asian Studies (2021 – 2025).  His research is on environmental health, the globalization of Asian medical knowledge and the cultural history of Yoga's development in India. In the discussion professor Alter made references to Geoffrey Samuel & Livia Koan both of whom have been guests on the show. To hear there episodes follow the links below.Episode 6 & 7 Season Two: Geoffrey Samuel Phd: Embodiment & Tibetan Buddhism Episode 18 Season One:  Livia Kohn, Ph.D: Daoyin, Daoism, & SomaticsThank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if youre not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and please subscribe. For classes & private lessons go tosomaticprimer.comvidyamethod.comfollow our Patreon Support the show

My guest today, is Veronica Rottman. Veronica has a somatics and dance background. She studied Somatic Experiencing with Peter Levine as well as Somatic Attachment Therapy. Her passion is in Birth Work where she teaches a speciality Yoga for the pelvic floor, + prenatal/postnatal yoga)Listeners can find about more about her and her work at Waking Womb where she teaches classes and workshops.To find our more about the Podcast visit Somatic PrimerFor Meditation & Somatic Embodiment Classes please visit Vidya MethodThank for listening and I hope you enjoy the episode.Support the show

Welcome to season 3 of the Somatic Primer Podcast. In this week's episode, I speak with Stuart Olson. Stuart is the founder, of Sanctuary of Tao. he is an author and translator of over thirty works on Taoist Philosophy, Taijiquan, Qigong, and Taoist internal practices.We discuss his translation of the Jade Emperor's Mind Seal Classic: The Taoist Guide to Health, Longevity, and Immortality. The Jade Emperor's Mind Seal Classic teaches that one can attain immortality through the cultivation of the three treasures of jing (sexual and physical energy), qi (breath and vital energy), and shen (spirit and mental energy).Find our more about Stuart Olson https://www.valleyspiritarts.com/Follow us on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/user?u=63954666 For this weeks extended episode Stuart tells us about his time doing a bowing pilgrimage that lasted for two and a half years. If you're interested in his journey with that practice then head on over to the patron to listen.https://somaticprimer.com/https://vidyamethod.com/Please consider giving us a five star rating on Apple podcast so more people can find our show. Thank you for listening and I hope you enjoy the episode.Support the show

Georges Dreyfus is  Professor of Religion at Williams College, Massachusetts. His focus is in the fields of Indian Buddhist philosophy, philosophy of mind, and cognitive processes. At the age of 20, Dreyfus left his native home of Switzerland and backpacked across Eastern Europe through Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan to India. He traveled to Dharamsala where he first encountered Tibetan Buddhism. Captivated by its philosophy, he entered a monastery and began the studies that lasted for 15 years. In 1985 he would be the first Westerner to receive the Geshe Lharampa degree, the highest available within the Tibetan scholastic tradition.He is author of several books including, The Sound of Two Hands Clapping: The Education of a Tibetan Buddhist Monk, and Recognizing Reality: Dharmakirti's Philosophy and Its Tibetan Interpretations.Dr. Dreyfus and Bryson discuss:His journey from Switzerland to IndiaHow he came to be a Buddhist monkThe daily life of a Buddhist monkThe Philosophy of Conscious in BuddhismMeeting the Dalai LamaThe Path of Meditation vs. ScholarshipTibetan Debating Systemand much more...Remember to subscribe to the Somatic Primer Podcast  for more engaging conversations. Please give us a 5-star rating in Apple Podcasts if you enjoy our show. Thank you for listening!Support the show

In this episode, I speak with Dr. James Mallinson about his time living in India living with the sadhus, meeting his guru, and his pioneering research on the history of yoga.Dr. James Mallinson is  is a professor of Sanskrit at the University of Oxford. He was previously a Reader in Indology and Yoga Studies at SOAS University of London. His research focuses on the history and current traditional practice of yoga.He co-authored with Mark Singleton the  Haṭha Yoga Project, a five-year six-person research project on the history of Hatha Yoga.James spent many years living in India with the Sadhus and at the 2013 Kumbh Mela was awarded the title of Mahant. His ordination as a Mahant, is the first time a westerner had received this honor. It was documented in a BBC film entitled West Meets East.  Watch here: East Meets WestAgain, I want to thank listeners who support the podcast, we really couldn't do it without your support. Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoy the show.Support the show

My guest today is Rick Olderman. Rick is a sports and orthopedic physical therapist, Hanna somatic practitioner and author. Rick has spent years developing his approach for treating chronic pain. Rick has written a series of books called “Fixing you” and his most recent book "Solving the Pain Puzzle" to help people with chronic pain and injuries.  Rick is also is the host of the podcast Talk about Pain.Rick's Podcast, Talk about Pain Podcasthttps://rickolderman.com/Type in "talk25" for a 20% discount for listeners of the Somatic Primer Podcast.Please consider giving us a five star rating wherever you listen to your podcastsWe hope you enjoy the episode!Support the show

In this episode Tim Cartmell returns to discuss his book Xing Yi Nei Gong: Xing Yi Health Maintenance and Internal Strength Development.  Tim explains the basic principals of Nei Gong and how to apply them. We discuss the similarities of Nei Gong, the Alexander Technique and how these ideas can benefit people in athletics and daily life.Application for Somatic Restructuring Lessons https://somaticprimer.com/contact/Tim Cartmell Episode #4 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1927632/10239868If you enjoyed the episode please consider giving us a five star rating  in Apple Podcasts. Thank you!Support the show

Jason Birch is a scholar of medieval Hatha yoga and a founding member of SOAS's Centre for Yoga StudiesJason  is a senior research fellow for the ‘Light on Hatha Yoga' project.  He is well known for his important paper on the meaning of haṭha in early Haṭhayoga, which has reshaped our understanding of the origins of this term by locating it within Buddhist literature. He is the co-founder of the open-access platform for yoga research The Luminescent, and a founding member of the peer-reviewed Journal of Yoga Studies. The Luminescent is an independent collaborative hub for scholars, researchers, teachers and practitioners of Yoga.https://www.theluminescent.org/Support the show

Professor of Anthropology, Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology, School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford Fellow of Green Templeton College, OxfordElisabeth Hsu's research contributes to the fields of medical anthropology and ethnobotany; language and text critical studies; and the history of science, technology and medicine in China and beyond. It concerns Chinese medicine, and East Asian and traditional and pre-twentieth century medicines more generally; the transmission of knowledge and practice; body and personhood; treatment modalities and their efficaciousness; pulse diagnosis; touch, pain, feelings and affect, cognition and emotions, and sensory experience.  What the Visualisation of Efficacious Movement (Shi 勢) Tells Us about the Composition of the Yijin Jing 易筋經 (Canon for Supple Sinews)Support the show

Alex Scrimgeour is a licensed acupuncturist and massage therapist based in London, UK. He has over twenty years experience as a practitioner of qigong and meditation. He  Received a BSc. in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Diploma in Tuina (Chinese Massage Therapy) from the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine.Alex completed clinical internships in Vietnam's largest teaching hospital, the Institute of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City. He understudied with renowned Dien Chan (Facial Reflexology) expert Tran Dung Thang in HCMC. Alex recently published a book "Facial Reflexology for Emotional Well-being" about the history and practice of Vietnamese Dien Chan and its Chinese analogs.To find out more about Alex please visit https://www.alexscrimgeour.com/If you would like to support the Somatic Primer Podcast please visit https://www.somaticprimer.com Support the show

Esther Gokhale  studied biochemistry at Harvard and Princeton and, later, acupuncture at the San Francisco School of Oriental Medicine. After experiencing crippling back pain during her first pregnancy and unsuccessful back surgery, Gokhale began her lifelong crusade to vanquish back pain. Her studies at the Aplomb® Institute in Paris and years of research in Brazil, India, Portugal and elsewhere led her to develop the Gokhale Method, a unique, systematic approach to help people find their bodies' way back to pain-free living. Gokhale's book, 8 Steps to a Pain-Free Back, has sold over 300,000 copies and has been translated into ten languages. Find out more @ https://gokhalemethod.com/For our classes Somaticprimer.com & Vidyamethod.comSupport the show

Bryson Newell is the host of The Somatic Primer Podcast. The platform is a continuing education program that uses his experience in meditation and the somatic arts as the basis for the show. The show explores various approaches and understanding of the body-mind complex.Bryson has studied and taught various systems of meditation, Neigong, and Somatics. Additionally he completed retreats for the Tibetan Buddhist practices of the Drikung Kagyu Ngondro and The Five Fold Path of Mahamudra. His practices and teachings focus on the inner principles inherent in these systems. He created Somatic Restructuring to clearly define the “means whereby” of Somatics so practitioners can develop systematically through their own efforts. His Somatic Restructuring lessons are internal somatic education classes that teach people how to find freedom through conscious internal movement principles.He has written several articles including his most recent one "Filling the Mind with Sky"https://www.ultraphysical.us/p/filling-the-mind-with-skyYou can find out more about him at https://vidyamethod.comhttps://substack.com/@brysonnewell?utm_source=edit-profile-pageSupport the show

Shifu Yan Lei was born in 1973 to a traditional family in the Xin Jiang province of China. He began his martial arts life at the age of fourteen when he travelled to the other side of China to train in the Shaolin Temple in Henan province.His Master, the Shaolin Abbot, Shi Yong Xin gave him the name Lei – meaning thunder – and he became a 34th generation fighting disciple. When he was eighteen he travelled to different Kung Fu schools to learn additional Kung Fu and Qigong skills from famous masters.He was invited to the West to teach authentic Shaolin martial arts.and to teach at the Shaolin Temple in the UK. Shifu Yan Lei is the author of Instant Health: The Shaolin Qigong Workout For Longevity, and the new book, Instant Fitness: The Shaolin Kung Fu Workout. He teaches private classes and seminars around the world. He also plays a martial artist in the feature film The Turtle And The Sea which won Best Local Picture at the Birmingham Film Festival. Find our more about Shifu Yan Lei https://www.shifuyanlei.co.ukSupport the show

John Loupos, is the owner of the Jade Forest Kung Fu/ Tai Chi training facility and the Pain and Mobility Clinic in Ma. He has been studying martial arts since 1966. His  martial arts training includes; Okinawan Karate and Praying Mantis styles of Kung Fu, As well as Yang style Tai Chi, Ba Gua,and qigong practices.  He is a Certified Hanna Somatic Educator and a member of the Board of Directors for the Association for Hanna Somatic Education. John has written several books on Tai Chi Chuan and on Somatics. His most recent book was The Sustainable You—Somatics & the Myth of Aging. He is currently working on a next book exploring the relationship between Somatics, Neurophysiology, and Tai Chi Chuan.Find out more about John at https://jfkungfu.comIntroduction to Buddhism & Meditation course please visit https://somaticprimer.comSupport the show

Conor Heffernan is professor of Physical Culture and Sport studies at the University of Ulster in Northern Ireland. His work focuses on health and body cultures in Ireland, Europe and Indian bodybuilders in the early 20th century. Outside of academia, Conor is a regular contributor to health and fitness websites as well as his own history of fitness website Physical Culture Study.Books: The History of Physical Culture in IrelandWebsite: physicalculturestudy.comWe hope you enjoy the episode. If you did, please subscribe. For Somatic Restructuring lessons and other classes please visit somaticprimer.comSupport the show

David Robert Loy is a retired professor, writer, and Zen teacher in the San bo Zen tradition of Japanese Zen Buddhism. He  is one of the founding members of the new Rocky Mountain Ecodharma Retreat Center, near Boulder, Colorado. Davids essays and books have been translated into many languages. His articles appear regularly in the pages of major journals and Buddhist magazines including Tricycle, Lion's Roar, and Buddhadharma,He lectures nationally and internationally focusing primarily on the encounter between Buddhism and modernity and eco dharma.Presently he is offering talks and workshops on latest book Ecodharma: Buddhist Teachings for the Ecological Crisis”Friday morning David leads an online meditation followed by a dharma talk starting at 8:00am Colorado [mountain] time. It's free and everyone is welcome. David's website https://www.davidloy.orgEcodharma Retreats please visit http://www.rockymountainecodharmaretreat.org/For Somatic Restructuring lessons please visit  https://somaticprimer.comSupport the show

Dr. Wendi Weimar is a biomechanics professor and the Director of the Sport Biomechanics Laboratory in the School of Kinesiology at Auburn University. Dr. Weimar's research is focused on the function of the lower extremity with specific interest in gait dynamics. She has worked with professional athletes, and Olympians. She  consults with collegiate and several professional sports teams in the United States. Her Biomechanics Laboratory provides movement analyses speed and agility camps as well as pre-season preparation camps. These camps focus on the development of body control, understanding the role of vertical and horizontal forces and understanding the role of the position of the center of gravity with regard to foot position. Thank you to all the listeners who are supporting the show and if youre not already then please consider supporting the show with a monthly donation and please subscribe!For more information please visit http://somaticprimer.comSupport the show

Frank Zane has won all of bodybuilding's major titles including Mr. Olympia (3 Times), Mr. Universe (3 Times), Mr. World and Mr America. Frank is one of the leading experts on bodybuilding and active aging. He has been named as one of the “Top 10 Legends of Bodybuilding” and also was awarded “The Best Physique of All Time” by Muscle and Fitness Magazine.Frank is considered by many to be an exemplar of aesthetics and physical proportion in the history of the sport. He has been inducted into both the Bodybuilding Hall of Fame and the Muscle Beach Hall of Fame. He is one of only three people in the history of professional bodybuilding ever defeat Arnold Schwarzenegger. To find out more about Frank Zane please visit,  https://frankzane.comTo Resister for our Buddhism & Meditation course please visit, https://somaticprimer.comPlease consider supporting our work with a monthly donation. We hope you enjoy the show.Support the show

James Earls is a writer, lecturer, and bodyworker, specializing in Myofascial Release and Structural Integration. He specializes in blending movement with manual therapy creating a new functional approach to bodywork.James'  first started practicing bodywork over 25 years ago. He has studied with Thomas Myers, Art Riggs, and Gary Gray. James worked alongside Tom Myers to co-author “Fascial Release for Structural Balance”James' blend of movement and fascial understanding led to the publication of his well-received “Born to Walk”, an introduction to the interconnected mechanics of the body, and the more recent book 'Understanding the Human Foot'.Find our more about James Earls https://www.borntomove.com/Introduction to Buddhism & Meditation  somaticprimer.comPlease subscribe & Support the Show!Support the show

Thomas Kasulis is a professor emeritus of comparative studies and University Distinguished Scholar at The Ohio State University, Kasulis has taught and lectured around the world, having established himself as a foremost interpreter of Japanese thought and culture.He has written numerous books and scholarly articles on Japanese religious thought and western philosophy, including Zen Action/Zen Person, described in the “Times Literary Supplement” as “one of the most clear and perceptive accounts of Zen available.” He co-edited a three-volume series comparing Asian and Western ideas of self in different cultural arenas: Self as Body in Asian Theory and Practice, Self as Person in Asian Theory and Practice, and Self as Image in Asian Theory and Practice.The Body: By Yasuo Yuasa https://sunypress.edu/Books/T/The-BodyFor Somatic Restructuring lessons please visit somaticprimer.comWe hope you enjoy the episode. If you did, please subscribe!Support the show

Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming (楊俊敏博士) has a M.S. in Physics from Tamkang College in Taipei Xian and a  Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University. He started his Gongfu (Kung Fu) training at the age of fifteen under the Shaolin White Crane (Bai He) Master Cheng, Gin Gsao (曾金灶). In thirteen years of study (1961-1974) under Master Cheng, Dr. Yang became an expert in the White Crane style of Chinese martial arts. With the same master he also studied White Crane Qin Na (or Chin Na), Tui Na and Dian Xue massages, and herbal treatment.At the age of sixteen, Dr. Yang began the study of Taijiquan (Yang Style) under Master Kao, Tao (高濤). Dr. Yang's tai chi can be traced back to the Yang family through Master Kao's teacher Yue, Huanzhi (樂奐之), an indoor disciple of Yang, Chengfu (楊澄甫). After learning from Master Kao, Dr. Yang continued his study and research of Taijiquan with Master Li, Mao-Ching (李茂 清) and training partner Mr. Wilson Chen in Taipei. Master Li learned his Taijiquan from the well-known Master Han, Ching-Tang, and Mr. Chen learned his Taijiquan from Master Chang, Xiang-San. In 1982, he established Yang's Martial Arts Association (YMAA) in Boston, MA. YMAA has since grown into a network of 30 schools in over 15 countries. Dr. Yang has traveled the world teaching at seminars and training camps.Since 2005, Dr. Yang has resided in northern California where he trained a group of disciples in a multi-year comprehensive training program. Today, he continues to author books and teach seminars online and around the world.https://yangjwingming.comhttp://somaticprimer.comSupport the show