Yoga Inspiration

We are, by nature, discriminating beings. We develop taste — for art, food, fashion, architecture. We learn to tell what is real from what is imitation, what is durable from what is fleeting. We become connoisseurs of culture, cuisine, aesthetics.   So what happens when that same discriminating capacity is turned inward?   This is what yogic philosophy demands. It says: if you can be discerning with worldly things, how much more precious — how much more urgent — is it to become a connoisseur of consciousness?   Instead of savoring flavors, we savor states of mind. Instead of curating experiences, we curate clarity. Instead of acquiring possessions, we acquire purity — śuddhi. And instead of merely enjoying the world, we seek to understand the enjoyer — the bhoktā — and realize its unity with the impeller, preritā.   The Yoga Sūtras speak of viveka-khyāti — the dawning of discriminative wisdom — as the final stage before liberation (YS 2.26–2.28). This viveka is not cynicism, nor cold analysis. It is the ability to discern puruṣa from prakṛti, the eternal from the transient, the seer from the seen.   Haṭha Yoga trains the body and prāṇa to become instruments of precision. But the real fruit of yogic effort is the flowering of this inner viveka: the clear, unmistakable knowledge of who we are and what we are not.   And this is where the teachings of the Upaniṣads and the Gītā converge: in showing us how to become refined enjoyers — not those trapped by the senses, but those who, through purification, become capable of tasting the divine in everything.   The yogin becomes, in this light, not a renouncer of life, but its most discerning participant — one who recognizes the unity of all three and acts accordingly, with wisdom, love, and purpose.   So let us ask ourselves: in the vast buffet of worldly things, we often become sophisticated. Can we become as refined, as nuanced, as discerning in the domain of the sacred?   Let us become connoisseurs of the spirit — cultivating taste not only for truth, but for the way it reveals itself subtly, mysteriously, intimately — in the breath, in silence, in scripture, and in selfless action.   To know Brahman, the Upaniṣad says, is to know everything worth knowing. That knowledge is not collected. It is tasted.   And the one who tastes it, becomes — śuddhir bhoktā — the purified enjoyer of the eternal.   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.   Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!   Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

In the sacred journey of yoga, the figure of the guru—the teacher, the revealer—is not merely someone who instructs us in techniques. The guru is the light that removes darkness, the presence that dispels confusion, and the voice that calls us back to the Self. The Sanskrit word guru itself is formed from gu, meaning darkness, and ru, meaning remover. The guru is not the source of light—but the one who points us toward it, until we recognize it within.   Grace, or kṛpā, is not a transaction. It's not earned. It flows freely, when the heart becomes soft enough to receive it. The final verse of the Guru Stotram offers this reflection:   dhyānamūlaṁ guror mūrtiḥ pūjāmūlaṁ guror padam  mantramūlaṁ guror vākyam mokṣamūlaṁ guror kṛpā   The root of meditation is the Guru's form. The root of worship is the Guru's feet. The root of mantra is the Guru's words. And the root of mokṣa, liberation itself—is the Guru's grace.   This grace isn't limited to moments of instruction or dramatic realization. It flows in silence. It is in the way the teacher holds space. It is in the presence that awakens something long forgotten. It is in the unspoken transmission of śakti—spiritual energy—that begins to shift the very axis of the student's life.   This is the dance of grace and effort. The student bows, asks, serves—and the guru, moved by love, offers the truth that sets us free.   So what is our work as students, as seekers on this path? It is to recognize grace, to receive it with reverence, and to never forget that the true guru is not limited to any form. The ultimate guru-tattva lives in the heart of all beings—as śraddhā (faith), as viveka (discernment), as that subtle inner pull toward the light.   In honoring the guru, we honor the light of wisdom itself—formless, eternal, and infinitely compassionate.   Tasmai śrī gurave namaḥ — Salutations to that glorious Guru.   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.   Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!   Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

Many of us come to yoga seeking relief. Relief from pain, from restlessness, from uncertainty. And sometimes we find it. But over time, what we discover is more lasting than relief. We discover presence. We discover steadiness. We discover a kind of joy that doesn't have to shout. It only has to be. So we practice. Not to get rid of pain, but to know it. To meet it with clarity and care. And in that meeting, we find something remarkable: joy is still possible.   It is a joy that knows sorrow. A happiness that is not threatened by difficulty. This is the depth of saumanasya. Saumanasya is defined by Patañjali as cheerfulness—it could also be translated as “mental clarity,” “gentle gladness,” or even “spiritual contentment.” But this is not about putting on a smile or chasing a feeling. It's the natural radiance of a mind that has become unentangled. In Pāli, the same word appears as saumanassa, and it's spoken of as a kind of mental vedanā—a feeling tone that arises not from external stimulation, but from deep, internal stillness.   It's not the kind of joy that explodes in celebration or depends on everything going our way. It's the joy that arises when the striving quiets down. When the noise fades. When the heart is unburdened. And perhaps most beautifully, it's a joy that does not replace suffering, but includes it.   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.   Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!   Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

In the closing prayer of the Ashtanga practice, we chant: svasti prajābhyaḥ pari-pālayantāṁ, nyāyena mārgena mahīṁ mahīśāḥ, gobrāhmaṇebhyaḥ śubham astu nityaṁ, lokāḥ samastāḥ sukhino bhavantu. These ancient words are an offering — a prayer for all beings to be protected, for the rulers of the earth to walk the path of righteousness, for all sacred beings to be blessed, and for every living soul across all worlds to experience happiness and freedom. The final invocation, Oṁ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ, repeats the call for peace three times — for peace in the outer world, peace within ourselves, and peace in the unseen cosmic realms.   This spirit of universal love is the very heart of yoga. In Sanskrit, the word for this love is prema — drawn from the root pri, meaning “to love” or “to gladden.” Prema is not an ordinary affection tied to desires; it is a pure, selfless love that flows naturally into service — seva. In the Bhakti Sūtras, it is said: sa tu prema-rūpā — “True devotion takes the form of pure love.” When we step onto our mats each morning, struggling and surrendering through the rhythm of breath and movement, we are invited into this deeper practice: not merely to perfect poses, but to offer every breath, every effort, as an act of prema — love — and seva — service — to all life.   Thus, Ashtanga yoga becomes more than personal discipline; it becomes a ritual of the heart. Every vinyāsa is an offering. Every challenge faced with patience is a prayer. Every fall and every rise is an act of love made visible. Through this spirit, we fulfill the timeless prayer: lokāḥ samastāḥ sukhino bhavantu — “May all beings everywhere be happy and free.”   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.   Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!   Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com  

As we go deeper on the spiritual path—whether through yoga, meditation, or self-inquiry—we often discover a paradox: We feel more peace… but we also feel more pain. The highs become transcendent. The lows, unbearable. We start to feel everything more intensely. This intensity is not a mistake. It is the heart of the path.   The Buddha says: you have felt more grief than the ocean holds water. This isn't just poetry. It's a spiritual earthquake. This is not to depress us, but to awaken us—to stir our hearts. This stirring is known in Buddhism as saṁvega.   This feeling—though unsettling—is a sacred catalyst. It's what Prince Siddhartha felt when he saw old age, sickness, and death. It's what every sincere practitioner eventually encounters: not just the suffering of the world, but the raw truth of our entanglement in it.   You begin to see the pain in pleasure—how even joy is tinged with impermanence.   You see the subtle violence of craving, the ache beneath distraction.   Your old ways of coping no longer work.   This is grace, not failure. Because only when we see duḥkha clearly, can we begin to walk a path beyond it. These are cracks in the illusion. And through those cracks, truth pours in. The practice is not to patch them up, but to stay open.   Yoga gives us a container:   Asana: to ground the body as emotion rises   Prāṇāyāma: to stabilize the nervous system as old energy releases   Meditation: to witness pain without collapsing into it   Bhakti: to open the heart in devotion rather than despair   And ultimately, viveka—discernment—so that we can feel the pain of the world without losing our place in it.   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.   Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!   Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

Sometimes we may not understand why it is necessary to engage in strong practice. This talk dives into how the effects we put into asana practice cultivate a powerful internal fire of purification. This was a talk given after a 4 day immersion with Kino and Tim in Bangkok.   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.   Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!   Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

Kino and Tim discuss how to honor the lineage in the absence of our teachers. They further dive into the definition of what constitutes merit in the practice of Yoga. Ending with a Q&A that captures the spirit of the conclusion of their first week of teaching in Bali   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.   Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!   Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

Why yoga? Anyone who has practiced for a decade, two decades, or even a lifetime knows that the answer to this question is anything but simple—or perhaps so simple that words fail to capture it.   Some truths can only be understood through embodied knowledge, a form of wisdom that arises not from intellectual effort but from deep receptivity. Yoga is a path of insight, not just the accumulation of facts or information, though it does not reject them. It is a path of Vijñāna—a deeper knowing, an awakened consciousness, a means of direct realization.   There are realms beyond what the mind can grasp, mysteries that logic cannot solve. But what the mind cannot know, the spirit can perceive, and the soul can experience.   This is why lifelong practitioners return to their mats, day after day, year after year. All who have touched this special knowledge—not of the intellect, but of the soul—are called them back, again and again, to what was once glimpsed in moments of deep practice.   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.   Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!   Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

Join Kino and Tim as they explore Tristhana, the foundational framework of Ashtanga Yoga that unites breath, body, and mind. Whether you are new to the practice or have been teaching for years, this episode offers a deeper look at how these three elements work together to cultivate presence, focus, and transformation.     Breath serves as the bridge between body and mind, asana creates embodiment and healing, and focused awareness sharpens the mind, leading to profound inner growth. Through years of dedicated practice, these principles become the gateway to peace and awakening.     Kino and Tim also examine key Yoga Sutras that contextualize the Tristhana method within yoga's spiritual tradition, bringing historical depth and meaning to the practice. This discussion will expand your understanding of Ashtanga Yoga and provide practical insights to integrate into your journey.     Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com.     Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here!     Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga     Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

Astrology is more than just predictions. Join Kino and Gahl for a conversation about spirituality, past lives, and how astrology can help guide us along our journey Gahl Sasson makes Kabbalah, astrology and psychology engaging, illuminating, and fun. His book, A Wish Can Change Your Life, (published by Simon & Schuster and co-written with Steve Weinstein), blends wisdom and metaphors from cultures across history and the entire world into an innovative blueprint for personal transformation and material enrichment. His second work, Cosmic Navigator, is the essential reference guide to understanding your astrological makeup. He recently published a book on the astrology of 2018, 2019, and 2020. Thousands have enthusiastically embraced his fresh and stimulating approach to spirituality in lectures and workshops in the United States, UK, Argentina, France, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Singapore, Hong Kong, Moscow, Mexico, Bulgaria, Turkey, and Israel. He is a contributor to the Huffington Post, and Astrology.com, and has been named “Los Angeles' Best Astrologer” by W Magazine. He is a guest lecturer at USC, Tel Aviv University, and teaches at Esalen, Omega Institute, University of Judaism, and the Open Center in NYC. He has appeared on CNN, ABC News, KTLA-TV Los Angeles to name a few. In 2017 his academic article, Symbolic Meaning of Names in the Bible was published by the Journal of Storytelling, Self, & Society. He currently resides in Los Angeles.   Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com. Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here! Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com    

With set sequences, rules, and repetitions, Ashtanga is often seen as a devotion to discipline. But if you look closely, it is a delicate orchestration where breath, movement, and focus unite to reveal the clarity within. In today's episode, we reflect on the purpose behind the method, exploring how every inhale, every exhale, and every asana carries intention. Ashtanga challenges us to set aside rebellion, ego, and the need to control, humbling us and inviting trust in the wisdom of the practice rather than forcing outcomes. Through this lens, Ashtanga becomes more than a physical discipline - it transforms into a mirror for self-awareness and growth. By trusting the method and surrendering to its wisdom, we create space for inner stillness to emerge. Join us as we commit to cultivating presence, humility, and the quiet strength to return to the mat, again and again.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Mary Taylor and Richard Freeman join us to share timeless insights exploring how impermanence and interconnectedness form the foundation of a meaningful life. With wisdom rooted in years of spiritual practice, they reflect on the paradox of happiness – not as something to chase but as a natural state revealed through presence and self-awareness. Our conversation invites us to look beyond rigid structures and external validations, embracing tools like meditation and community to uncover the essence of joy. It's not about perfection or mastery but about showing up for the practice of being present with ourselves and others. In this shared space of connection, we find the courage to hold life's grief and beauty side by side. Through their reflections, Richard and Mary remind us that happiness is not static but a living tradition within us, nurtured by intention and care.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

The lineage of Ashtanga has always been a living tradition carried forward by devoted practitioners. But what happens when the Guru who once held the lineage are no longer present? Without an Acharya to guide us, the responsibility shifts to each of us – to show up, to practice, and to nurture the teachings within ourselves. And it's not about perfection or mastery. It's about presence. The simple act of stepping onto the mat, even amidst doubt or difficulty, keeps the fire of the tradition alive. Through practice, we honor not only the teachers who came before but also the community and future generations who will carry the lineage forward. Perhaps the greatest contribution we can make is to trust in the practice itself. By staying consistent and cultivating fertile ground within, we allow the teachings to flourish ensuring their vitality for years to come.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Ashtanga Yoga is more than a personal ritual - it's a living tradition carried forward by generations of teachers and students. Those who came before us made sacrifices to do so and as yogis, we share a responsibility in keeping the lineage alive. So in this episode, we explore what it means to honor our teachers. Not through idolization, but by asking: How do we sustain a lineage that has given us so much, even amidst personal loss and change? What can we learn from those who sacrificed everything to preserve these teachings? This conversation invites us to look within, embrace the urgency of the moment, and recommit to our practice as an act of devotion and gratitude. Through stories, reflections, and timeless wisdom, we find inspiration to step onto the mat again and again, trusting that yoga will guide us forward, as it always has throughout the lineage. Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more.   Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Ashtanga Yoga reminds us that practice is not about perfection, it's about presence. And while this truth features throughout life's ups and downs, let's take a moment to reflect on this through the lens of accessibility. There is, after all, great power in offering adaptations that make the practice available to all bodies and abilities… And what does it mean to stay connected to practice through aging, injury, or self-doubt anyway? How can accessibility deepen - not dilute - our connection to the essence of yoga? This conversation invites us to embrace the transformative power of breath, movement, and intention, discovering that the perfect body for practice is simply the one we have today. Let's celebrate, together, accessible Ashtanga Yoga and the resilience it inspires, both on and off the mat.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

While our practice connects us to a lineage of timeless teachings, its essence is deeply personal and woven into our breath, our movement, and our awareness. It's here within this space that we begin to understand the true source of the practice - our being - and the resilience it cultivates both on and off the mat.  Yet, the journey is not always easy. Life's challenges whether physical, emotional, or circumstantial often test our dedication to this presence. And so, this episode explores the hidden knowledge beneath the surface of everyday distractions, urging us to recommit to practice even amidst challenges. With patience and faith, we learn that the seeds of yoga - when tended with care - can grow into the firm ground of transformation guiding us through life's impermanence and uncertainty. What keeps you returning to the mat? Together we reflect on the effort and grace required to sustain the practice and honor the lineage that grounds us.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

As we honor the life and teachings of Sharath Jois, we are reminded of the deep roots and enduring spirit of the Mysore yoga tradition. This episode invites us to reflect on the profound relationship between teacher and student – a connection built on humility, surrender, and a flow of wisdom passed through generations. Grief, like yoga, requires us to sit with discomfort, to embrace impermanence, and to find strength within ourselves and our communities. Through this shared loss, this memorial guides us in exploring how the light of the lineage shines brightest when carried forward with gratitude and reverence. Let us come together to hold space for healing, honor Sharath Jois's legacy, and celebrate the path of yoga.    Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

As Lebanon endures yet another wave of conflict, Hala speaks candidly about the heartbreak of leaving her homeland to protect her young son while holding fast to her role as a guide and healer for her community. Her journey reminds us that yoga is a practice far beyond the mat – it's a call to connect, to serve, and to hold space even in the most difficult of times. In this conversation, Hala opens a window into the life of Lebanon's vibrant, yet fragile, yoga community. She describes the ongoing work of providing meals, essentials, and a compassionate presence for displaced families, emphasizing that real change often begins in taking care of one another. As we listen, Hala's story invites us to consider our own role in cultivating peace – both within and beyond. This is a powerful reminder of the resilience, compassion, and unwavering hope that yoga can inspire, no matter the circumstances. Share your support: SupportLRC – Donate, Save Lives Hala's Instagram (@yogiinbeirut)  

Yoga is an invitation to meet ourselves just as we are, embracing both the ease of sukha and the discomfort of dukkha with presence and patience. It's a practice that calls us to observe the fluctuations of the mind – our desire for comfort, our resistance to pain – and, through each cycle of breath, to cultivate a quiet resilience that meets both without reaction. Much like life's trials, yoga also asks us not to escape struggle but to soften into it; to find calm not by denying difficulty but by welcoming it with grace. Each breath, each moment on the mat, is a reminder of impermanence - a gentle guide urging us to let go of attachment and rest in acceptance. But this journey doesn't end with our own growth. Each time we come to the mat, we contribute to a shared peace that ripples beyond ourselves, inviting compassion and unity for all beings. So, join us today as we breathe, honoring the timeless connection that we share.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

Perfection is enchanting—but it promises an end destination that doesn't exist. Yoga, if you listen carefully, asks us to turn inward, embracing tapas - disciplined effort - not as a demand for perfection but as a gentle guide through life's ups and downs.  Let's be humbled by the reminder that yoga is not a performance after all. It's a daily ritual that meets us exactly where we are. It's a letting go of comparisons, whether to others or our past selves. And through the heat of disciplined practice, we burn away our inner obstacles, confront our inertia, and find solace in the simple act of standing on the mat with breath, body, and mind. So without perfection, what does success look like in our practice? It's through tapas we discover the quiet strength that lies within. This is the heart of yoga—a transformative journey that asks us to meet ourselves every single day.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

In a world where we often seek certainty, clear answers, and the comfort of knowing, yoga offers a humbling reminder: truth is rarely as simple as it seems. It's in this awareness of our behavioral patterns we can take the opportunity to question our reality… Or maybe we don't get a choice. It's easy to assume that our view of the world is objective but by returning again and again to our mats, the spaciousness we create will show us that our minds are constantly filtering, predicting, and reshaping what we see based on past experiences and ingrained patterns.  So what do we do when the construct of our mind is in question? Satya invites us to step into the uncomfortable space of not knowing—to acknowledge that our perceptions are often skewed and our truths subjective.  Satya can lead us closer to authenticity, greater self-awareness, and a profound connection to the truth that transcends our individual experience. This is not just about practising on the mat but learning to navigate the world with a heart open to all that we don't yet understand.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

For many, the allure of yoga is wrapped in ideals of achievement – perfect poses, precise counts, and the polished image of a seasoned yogi. Yet, the heart of the practice invites us to embrace something far deeper. Being a student means showing up with an open mind, being willing to stumble, and finding peace in not knowing the big answers. It means recognizing that every teacher - no matter how experienced - is also a student on an endless path of discovery. Without a hierarchy to climb or a race to win, yoga becomes a refuge where we learn to soften into our imperfections and accept the messiness of our own journey. This episode encourages us to connect with the true purpose of our practice – not to become an expert or to display our abilities, but to heal, grow, and nurture our connection to something greater.  Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Self study offers a bridge between practice and self-understanding, yet in a world where achievement is often measured by what we know or what we can do, Swadhyaya gently redirects us toward a more introspective path. Here, memorization becomes an act of devotion - a way to internalize the teachings, grounding our practice in respect and humility. But humility in yoga isn't about diminishing ourselves; it's about creating space to truly learn. When we approach the practice with an open heart, we honor the lineage of those who have come before us, allowing their wisdom to guide us. It's this active engagement with respect that transforms our practice into a mirror, reflecting our deepest truths. As we move through sequences, Swadhyaya encourages us to look beyond the physical and into the self too. Because the real work begins when the physical falls away—when the ease of youth gives way to the challenges of age or injury. It's in these moments that yoga truly becomes a mirror, showing us who we are when external measures of success no longer apply.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Life has a way of challenging us - pushing us to the edge of our comfort zones - and it's in those moments that we often find our true strength. Ashtanga yoga practice mirrors this perfectly, presenting us with both physical and emotional hurdles that test our discipline and resolve.  It's time to delve into the heart of what it means to engage with tapas and accept that it's not about forcing ourselves beyond our limits, but rather about embracing the challenges we encounter with a steady and balanced approach. It's this inner fire that's cultivated through consistent practice where we learn to face discomfort with grace, using each struggle as a stepping stone toward deeper self-awareness and growth. In this episode, we explore the lessons of tapas—the disciplined effort that fuels transformation. By meeting challenges with a harmonious mindset, we not only advance in our practice but also navigate life's difficulties with greater ease. Whether it's the burn of a difficult asana or the heat of an emotional challenge, the lessons of tapas remind us that true growth is born from facing our struggles with patience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to our path.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

From the first step onto the mat to the deeper journey inward, Ashtanga offers more than just physical transformation. It introduces us to the yamas, the ethical principles that lay the foundation for a truly holistic practice. These yamas - non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, ethical conduct, and non-attachment - invite us to reflect on our actions, thoughts, and interactions both on and off the mat. In this episode, we explore how these principles plant seeds of mindfulness, nurturing our path towards inner peace and clarity. By embracing the yamas, we uncover opportunities for self-compassion, introspection, and connection with the deeper essence of yoga. It's in these moments of ethical living that we meet the real essence of our practice, transcending beyond physical postures. How present are the yamas in your daily life? Together let's explore how living with integrity and compassion not only enhances our experience in the shala but also leads us toward a more enlightened existence.  Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

How often do we consider the profound impact of consistency in our yoga practice? Because it's in moments of resistance and wavering minds that we can witness the full loving force of yoga. It is here where we receive an invitation. And every time we RSVP “yes”, we open up our capacity for growth… We start to see that Ashtanga invites us to move beyond the physical into a journey with spiritual essence and how each session on the mat becomes a mirror. And as reflections of our strengths and vulnerabilities surface, we're again met with another opportunity to give up and succumb to our comfort zones.  Yet let us not forget that the striving for self realization is enormous pressure to put onto our practice too. Feeling out of balance? Cue our yoga teachers' wisdom–the kind of wisdom that while challenging, is essential for our growth…   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

Walk far enough down the yogic path and it will soon become clear that the guidance of a teacher and the support of our communities is invaluable. On Guru Purnima Day, we pause to reflect on the profound impact of our gurus and mentors who illuminate our journey.  Yet, while this path is often illuminated by such wisdom, it is not without its challenges. Personal struggles—whether physical, emotional, or circumstantial—are intrinsic to the journey. These hurdles, when met with the right guidance, transform into profound opportunities for growth and deeper understanding. Which mentors have inspired you to sustain the light of yoga in your life? Through shared stories and reflections, we celebrate the interconnectedness of our practice and the timeless wisdom passed down through generations. So join us and tune in to pay tribute to the teachers who have illuminated our paths, the lineage that grounds us, and the unwavering effort required to keep the flame of yoga alive.  Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more.   Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

The truth is, we each have a library's worth of past experiences and conditioning that can cloud our vision, trapping us in looping thoughts. And while that sounds uncomfortable, this is the instinctive reality of the human mind. Every day we face the urge to judge.  Meanwhile, discernment (or Viveka) offers a different path. One of turning inward, reflecting deeply, and distinguishing between what is true and untrue, relevant and irrelevant.  This process is slow and deliberate - deserving of patience, dedication, and deep questioning. Abd if we focus on our breath and embrace meditation, we thin out the incessant chatter of the mind, creating space for discernment to arise and for judgment to dissolve. The ultimate mastery of mind. This is not a lesson in differences though. Rather, this is an invitation to ask ourselves: How often do we allow our minds to snap to judgment missing the opportunity for true insight?   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

​​Meditation holds the promise of transformation, but its path is not always straightforward. For some, it is a retreat from the chaos of daily life–a space to recharge. For others, it is a crucible, challenging the mind and revealing its deepest patterns.  No matter what experience we affix onto the practice, meditation invites us to sit with ourselves, observe the mind's incessant chatter, and confront the impermanence of our thoughts and emotions. This practice is not about escaping discomfort but embracing it, learning to detach from fleeting emotions and reducing our suffering.  And what if with careful guidance, we could all find a sanctuary within ourselves amidst the chaos of life? The dualistic nature of meditation could be the answer we seek, so, let's take a closer look.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more.   Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

Many come to the mat believing yoga will erase all suffering, bringing perpetual bliss and prosperity. Yet, the true essence of yoga offers something more profound and enduring. It's time to explore the ancient wisdom that yoga imparts, teaching us to embrace the inevitable changes and hardships with grace, wisdom, and compassion. Because it's not about achieving a flawless practice or a pain-free life but about cultivating an inner state of peace and acceptance. As we navigate the misconception that yoga will solve all our problems, we reflect on the real purpose of our practice. How do we remain content in the face of adversity? How do we let go of the ego-driven chase for external validation? Through the lens of spiritual abundance, we learn to find joy and contentment in the present moment, recognizing that true fulfilment comes from within. Join us as we unpack these teachings and discover how to apply them both on and off the mat, fostering resilience and a deeper understanding of our true selves. Whether you've been practising for a decade or just a day, this episode invites you to renew your contract with yoga, embracing its transformative power with humility and devotion.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Sadhana allows the waters of spiritual practice to simmer within us, gradually revealing the light within. It teaches us the value of patience and perseverance, emphasizing that the journey of yoga is a lifelong pursuit.  Because truly, yoga is not something that can be mastered in a weekend, a month, or even a year. While a year of practice can establish a solid foundation, true understanding and transformation require a lifetime of dedication. Sadhana nurtures our physical, spiritual, psychological, and emotional well-being enough to unveil deeper layers of the self–ones that kindle growth and wisdom from our truth. And in daily life, through skilful, mindful action we learn to engage in tasks that free us from illusion and suffering. Because that might just be the hardest part. To step off the mat and encounter irritations and heartbreak? It is in these moments that our true work begins—translating the insights of sadhana into our everyday experiences, fostering resilience and a deeper understanding of this precious life.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

As we delve deeper into this yogic path, we appreciate the practice not just for physical prowess, but for emotional and spiritual resilience too. Whether we're striving to show up daily despite life's demands or digging deep to overcome generational trauma, commitment is key to our growth. But what about once we're on the mat? How easily do our thoughts wander with our curious senses? By exploring the foundational principles of Ashtanga yoga, such as Tristana—the integration of breath, movement, and focus—we learn to navigate our practice with greater awareness and intention, no matter how painful it is to resist temptations. Soon enough, our awareness blooms and yoga begins to encourage our truth to unfurl. By understanding these deeper layers, we transform past discomforts into present strengths. Discipline is no longer just about the practice; it becomes a dedication to ascend in all areas of our lives. Let's explore how to move beyond the discomfort of the mind, body, and senses, together.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

As life progresses—with its inevitable busyness, ageing, or delving into the role of teacher—finding time for personal practice becomes even more crucial. We must continually adapt, acknowledging that our physical abilities might change and accepting these shifts not as setbacks but as opportunities to deepen our understanding of yoga's true essence. It's about evolving our practice to fit our changing lives, ensuring that it remains a steadfast source of support and reflection. This episode invites us to reflect on the constancy of change and the persistence required to sustain a yoga practice. We explore how to hold space for our personal growth on the mat, recognizing that the practice of yoga is less about achieving perfection and more about embracing life's journey with grace and resilience. We also explore the delicate dynamics within the yoga community, where competition and jealousy can sometimes overshadow mutual success. It's crucial to cultivate 'mudita' or sympathetic joy, celebrating the achievements of others as affirmations of possibility, rather than a path toward division. Join us as we discuss how the discipline of yoga can be a profound tool for life transformation, guiding us through personal introspection and community interactions with compassion and humility.  Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

The first time we step onto a yoga mat is the first step on an unexpected journey towards transformation. As we immerse ourselves deeper, repeating movements and dedicating our energy, we witness a shift in our lives but more notably, we encounter the humanness of frustration, shame and blame. Yet, it is in these moments where yoga reveals its subtler spiritual layers offering us tools not just to perform but to persevere and transform. These reflections, often sparked by realizing our teachers' humanity or our own limitations, might tempt us to stray from the path. Doubts can arise, shadows can appear more comforting, and the myth of perfection might seem like a shattered promise. However, embracing these human elements is not an admission of defeat but a deeper initiation into yoga's true purpose. We must remember that advancing through series or mastering more complex poses doesn't necessarily equate to spiritual progress. True advancement comes from recognizing that perfection is not the goal of yoga—embracing our humanity is.    Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Without a doubt, yoga is an invitation for introspection and growth. It holds a mirror to who we truly are and generously serves as our unwavering support throughout the trials of life. But as we move through this journey, how often do we consider our contribution to the yoga community? Much like the unwavering support of our own practices guiding us through arduous human experiences, community parallels as the backbone of yoga's presence in society. It's truly in the embrace of a supportive community that the true essence of yoga blossoms.  And in this moment, who do we consider responsible for togetherness in yoga? It's not solely the teacher's guidance or the student's perseverance that fosters connection, but the intersection of both that forms a sense of belonging, a sense of sangha.  So next time we dive into our asanas with devotion, let's extend that outwards to the yogi on the mat next door, open up the space for deeper connection - for more togetherness - and consider community a loving duty for us all.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

Yoga does change your life if you tend to the practice every day. But is it compassionate enough to show up on the mat when your body is begging you for a break?  You get to choose: you could show up to your Ashtanga practice once a week giving your everything or you could show up every day with just 50% - even 10% - of what you've got. With this decision, you get the invitation to reflect upon what brought you to Ashtanga in the first place. Because if spiritual transformation is what you seek, you must release the shackles of perfectionism and validation. So let's talk about this road to consistency and explore how samadhi greets you when you return every day with humility. After all, when we live in a world that's conditioned us to want more, why not release the chase for applause for our impressive string of asanas? Why not allow Ashtanga to bring us back down to earth - not just from the busyness of modern life, but to settle the ego?   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

The belief that one metaphorical door closing is the chance for another one to open couldn't speak to Katy Scherer's story more. When pregnancy placed a sudden limitation on her running career, a redirection emerged that she never expected; she traded laces for bare feet and the gravel beneath them for a yoga mat. But this isn't a conversation about life's surprises, this is in fact an exploration of Katy's wisdom of the breath.  Her initiation into yoga offered incredible gifts of community and well-being, but it profoundly guided Katy towards a deeper connection to oneness and, ultimately, her journey of guiding others along the path of pranayama. Through candid discussions on body awareness and the recognition of bodily limitations, this conversation explores the profound potential for self-discovery that lies within the practice of pranayama and breathwork. So join us - but not before taking a nourishingly deep inhale-exhale.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

From summer camp serendipity to university days solace, yoga can meet us in the most unsuspecting times. It plants tiny seeds of inspiration into our awareness so that our yogic journeys can fully bloom when the time is right. And it's in these moments - where many of us find yoga's healing qualities as a soothing balm to insomnia or back pain - that we meet the real essence of yoga. The deeper dimensions offer opportunities for self-compassion, introspection, and connection with the breath, with oneness. It's the devotion to this essence of yoga that nurtures teachers with not just the connection to oneness but the vision of that nature too. Isn't yoga for everyone? And do we really need to categorize our practices to achieve that? Tune in to this episode and immerse yourself in thoughts of diversity, ashtanga versus vinyasa and audience Q&A.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Limitlessness and opportunity – the inertia of pacy modern life can serve as fuel for realising our purpose in this lifetime. But much like this two-month immersion in Mysore that serves as a grounding balance to our proactive compulsions, finding the right teacher will surely keep us all on the right track. At the very least, it will help us avoid complete burnout. Yet while living in a world of endless possibilities, this can also be a tricky endeavour in itself. When there are many gurus in arms reach - whether digitally or a plane ride away - it inevitably raises the questions: How do you find your teacher? How do you know they're right for you? Everyone has teachers along their path, but not all of us are willing to acknowledge them. Whether that's perfectionism rearing its head or a case of warped expectations, the only thing that matters is ensuring they meet our needs, our values.  So teachers and life-long students, settle into this dharma talk that arose after two months in Mysore - the truth that arose when the desire for action was extinguished. Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

If we expect somehow to only show up for our practice when things are feeling good and do a good job from the external standards, then we'll lack the kind of spiritual fortitude that's really required. And, in this modern age, it's all too easy to lose our grip of patience when immediacy permiates our every chance to make a decision. We may be fortunate to live in a world of advancements that better our lives but, if our desire for convenience takes precedence, we risk weakening our spiritual edurance. We risk hardening our hearts when faced with difficulty. We must also ask: if our default understanding of endurance is to bring presence and perspective to adversity, where does that leave us when things are going well?  Spiritual endurance goes beyond ‘pushing through' and instead offers a chance to deepen our yoga journey, to enrich our lives way beyond the mat.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

As we journey on the spiritual path, we seek answers for our ever questioning minds. What is the meaning of life? What is my purpose? Can I really be bothered to do primary series today? Healthy questioning offers us meaningful personal growth but it is indeed part of the practice to remain the observer of thoughts. Once we step into the rabbit hole questioning ourselves, our yogi paths, and even our teachers, it is during those moments we must decide whether we are truly cultivating fertile ground for faith. From dropping the notion of romanticism to the benefits of a dynamic practice - let's dive in and explore the gifts available to us during challenging times. Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

What brought you to yoga? For many, the instant access to other people's lives online fuels them to chase aspirational goals. But where does a path lit up by comparison lead? For instance, to be excitedly motivated by the idea of mastering a headstand or flexibility draws in so many people to yoga - this would be fine if our self-perception didn't become so easily warped in the pursuit of perfection. The truth is, the perfect practice is the one where you show up. And the perfect body is the one you already have. So to remain in touch with the true essence of yoga, arrive with compassion for yourself and your students and be prepared to ask yourself: Why am I really on the mat today?   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

This conversation with Maya Gross will leave us not surprised at how transformative Ashtanga yoga has been in her life's journey but enamoured with how she transmutes her own learnings into soothing offerings for the world.  When discussing the current turmoil in the Middle East, her compassionate outlook and advice are met with global support. And then there's all of this compressed for social media - a space that requires careful considerations at this time, or any time for that matter. Lean into Maya's spiritual tools for peace promotion and tap into the knowing that a plea for world peace is one for inner peace too. In fact, that's where it begins.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Openly, vulnerably and courageously, Dina Gandor shares her experience as a Palestinian Yogi throughout this conversation. Her journey began with practising asanas with a VHS tape in her bedroom at 15 to now, a Jivamukti Yoga certified yoga teacher and bodyworker based in Duba leading community classes and worldwide retreats. Tapping into her belief that yoga is a practice of liberation and that liberation is about the elevation and healing of all beings, Dina's mission for women's remembrance of their strength is needed now more than ever. To let in the very real, authentic details of her personal story and to inspire you to continue the work of yoga, enter this interview with an open heart and a curious mind. For further information and resources on the topics mentioned in the episode, please access them below.   Resources (books written by both Palestinian and Israeli acclaimed historians): The 100 Years' War on Palestine by Rashid Khalidi The Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine + The Biggest Prison on Earth by Ilan Pappe Gaza in Crisis by Naom Chomsky and Ilan Pappe Palestine Academy's Palestine 101 online course All Out for Palestine Digital Action Toolkit by the Palestine Feminist Collective Death toll raised to 21,000 Website for the SIM cards   Terms According to the UN Genocide Convention:  The current definition of Genocide is set out in Article II of the Genocide Convention: Genocide means any of the following acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such:  (a) Killing members of the group; already 15,200 have been killed in Gaza alone, 6,600 of which are children -- and violence and killing also happening also in the occupied West Bank, which is not ruled by Hamas (b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group; consistent images and videos coming out of Gaza prove this is true  (c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part; the blockade on Gaza and the control of its food, fuel, electricity, medication etc pertains to this clause accurately  (d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group;  (e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group Reference (un.org)   Occupation: In international humanitarian law, a territory is considered occupied when it is actually placed under the authority of the adverse foreign armed forces. The occupation extends only to the territory where such authority has been established and can be exercised. (From the International Red Cross)    For background:  Military Presence and Control: Israel maintains a significant military presence in the Palestinian territories, particularly in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) control checkpoints, strategic locations, and border crossings, restricting the movement of Palestinians and exerting authority over key areas. Settlement Construction: Israel has been involved in the construction and expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, which are considered illegal under international law. These settlements often result in the displacement of Palestinian communities, changing the demographic and geographic realities on the ground. Separation Wall: The construction of the Israeli West Bank barrier, also known as the separation barrier or the wall, has further separated Palestinian communities and hindered their access to agricultural land, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. While Israel argues that it is a security measure, critics argue that it serves as a de facto border, annexing Palestinian territory. Restrictions on Movement: Palestinians face various restrictions on their movement, both within the territories and internationally. Checkpoints, roadblocks, and barriers limit the ability of Palestinians to travel freely, affecting daily life, economic activities, and access to essential services. East Jerusalem Annexation: Israel's control and annexation of East Jerusalem have been a contentious issue. The international community does not recognize Israel's sovereignty over East Jerusalem, which Palestinians consider the capital of their state. However, Israel has continued to expand its presence in East Jerusalem through settlement construction and policies that alter the demographic composition of the city.  

No matter how much passion we have for our yoga practice, it's our relationship to discipline that profoundly shapes our experience. And, even if two people had the same passion for yoga yet one was regimented and the other was averse to consistency, neither one of them will have a perfectly smooth journey. But isn't finding balance the point? Isn't an opportunity to dive deeper into our being the essence of the practice itself?  Along with Tim, in this episode we explore powerful tools that support our personal approach to devotion. From community to obsession, let's uncover the challenges and solutions to showing up on our mats consistently.  After all, why wouldn't we want to cultivate the opportunity to meet our truest selves?   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more.   Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Whether it is morally correct to pursue wealth, business, or even simply charging for services has perhaps been a question on many wellness practitioners mind. It's this question weaves its way throughout this episode as we explore both the philosophical and the practical side to running a spiritual business. It's improtant to acknowledge that this inner conflict is deeply rooted yet we must remember that there are two types of yogis - the one that takes monastic vows and the one who follows the householder path. The latter liberates us from the conflict and shows us that we can live life however we want - even seeking prosperity - so long as we remember our yogic principles. That doesn't mean it will be easy, though. Let's dive into honest conversations about trial and error, building yourself a strong network, and shifting your focus away from ego with fellow yogi, Beatriz Yepes.    Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

At the heart of our yoga practice, we engage mindfully with asanas to awaken the whispers of our subconscious and dive into layers unseen. Yet what is central to the symphony of ashtanga is the tristana method – a trilogy of asana, breath, and gaze. While it may be a simple structure for the mind to understand, truly how many years does mastery take? Along with Tim, in this episode we explore how the interplay between conscious and subconscious worlds through tristana isn't a mere detail; it's the essence that anchors us in the rich traditions of yoga. We also meditate on the truth that with enough daily dedication, we can cultivate an inner sanctuary to welcome the merging of these worlds. To feel real peace. To bring ourselves home. How is your journey of anchoring in tristana going? Let's delve into the weaving together of the body, breath, and consciousness.   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.

Can you remember day 1 of your yoga journey? How compelling the practice was even when your body was exhausted? That's dedication, right? In this episode, world-renowned and trailblazing yoga teacher, David Swenson, reminds us that the essential awareness of push and pull with yoga can be almost non-existent at the beginning, especially if you're like David who likens his younger yogi self as an overly-keen labrador… While it can be hard to distinguish the line between pushing on and pulling back, a good teacher will empower you to think for yourself and develop enough body awareness to make the call. And to lean ever so slightly more inward, let's also not forget that the ultimate goal of yoga extends beyond physical abilities.  We are not merely our bodies and part of the yogic path is about avoiding self-identification with external achievements. Instead, yoga offers the chance to cultivate humility, empathy, and the willingness to share the positive energy gained through practice–if you listen carefully enough.  Throughout this conversation, we explore both perspectives found within a yoga class and emphasise that students should have the intention of respect for the teacher's expertise and the discipline of yoga. While the student may be on a seeker's journey, the path of a yoga teacher is not always easy either…   Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

How often do we contemplate the profound connection between the practice of yoga and life itself? There's an intricate reflection of our existence that unfolds as we delve into the depths of our yoga practice - a mirror that unveils the habits and patterns ingrained within us. Much like a session with a psychologist, we bear witness to whether they nurture positivity and bear fruitful outcomes or carry the potential for harm.  But gaining this sacred knowledge all depends on the attitude we bring to the mat. Whether we seek shortcuts, succumb to self-doubt, or strive for perfection, yoga unveils a profound truth: our worthiness lies not in flawless performance or superficial outcomes, but in the profound act of wholeheartedly surrendering ourselves.  It is in devotionally baring our vulnerabilities, our weaknesses, strengths, and everything in between, that we discover our truth. To get there, you can ask two questions: “can I give everything I have to every breath?” and “what can I learn from this situation?” By dedicating ourselves to the practice, by offering our very being to it, we infuse it with reverence and devotion, and that's when it becomes a sanctuary where transformation unfolds. Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.  

In New Age teachings, there's the idea that we can be our own gurus. But since life is not as simple as one step forward after another, yoga traditions teach us that we do in fact need someone further along the path to guide us along the way. But which guidance is right for us?  You may find that a true yoga teacher is someone who can sit with the vast knowledge of instructions and create a safe space for the spiritual journey. Whereas a guru is someone who removes the darkness from one's path and has a heavy fullness of spiritual vibration that brings wholeness and wisdom. They hold space to awaken our inner Buddha. So when opening up this conversation of tradition, lineage and guidance, what's left to say about our own spark of divinity, New Age guilt and journeys full of challenges? It's time to bring attention to the importance of tradition, lineage, and respect for the role of a teacher or guru in the yoga tradition by appreciating the fine balance between questioning and challenging our lineage.  Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on Instagram @kinoyoga. Visit my blog at Kinoyoga.com to learn more. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at info@kinoyoga.com. If you want to share what you've learned on your yoga journey, you could be invited to guest spot on The Yoga Inspiration Podcast.