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  • Freddy Jackson, founder of the Love No Ego Foundation, shares his mission to help youth aged 10-18 develop self-awareness and emotional resilience by overcoming societal pressures and the influence of ego. Freddy explores the distinction between thinking less of oneself and thinking of oneself less, advocating for a balance between self-awareness and selflessness. Freddy also discusses the importance of embracing fear and surrendering to reality rather than resisting it, fostering growth, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for life. Personal anecdotes illustrate his dedication to nurturing relationships with family and loved ones, emphasizing presence and meaningful connections. He reflects on the transformative power of love in overcoming challenges, celebrating differences, and living with purpose.


    --

    Freddy is an inspirational and transformational lecturer and speaker, social-emotional learning (SEL) mentor, health and wellness trainer, educator, author, and founder of The Love No Ego Foundation.


    Freddy's Love...No Ego philosophy serves as the foundation for success, strengthening the motivation needed for change, igniting intuitions, identifying and removing egotistical behaviors, minimizing stress and conflict, and facilitating valuable, purposeful, and practical action steps that enable participants to grow and perform better than their everyday pressures despite their chosen industry.


    Domestically, as well as internationally, Freddy has delivered powerful, engaging, and relevant presentations, mentored, consulted, and conducted workshops for individuals, teams, and organizations, improving insight, sustainability, and resiliency.


    WEBSITES:

    https://www.lovenoego.org/

    https://www.mrlovenoego.org/


    SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS/HANDLES

    https://www.instagram.com/mrlovenoego/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/thelovenoegofoundation/

    https://www.facebook.com/MrLoveNoEgo/

    https://www.youtube.com/@mrlovenoego

    https://www.tiktok.com/@mrlovenoego


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  • In this episode, Tara Eschenroeder delves into the concept of "rewilding" as a return to our natural, instinctual state of being. She defines rewilding as reconnecting with the innate wisdom within us, much like how trees grow or fireflies communicate effortlessly. Tara shares her practices for rediscovering this inner compass, including journaling, movement, discussion, and time in nature, all aimed at peeling back layers of societal conditioning and distraction. She emphasizes the role of childlike play and curiosity as pathways to reconnect with our wild, intuitive selves, drawing inspiration from the way children approach life with imagination and openness.


    The episode also explores the importance of acknowledging and transforming inherited generational patterns, finding balance between disciplined practices and devotion to one’s higher self, and embracing community as a space for authentic connection and growth. Tara’s insights inspire listeners to embrace curiosity, rediscover their wildness, and live with greater authenticity and joy.


    --


    Tara (Becky) Eschenroeder is a 500-hour E-RYT, RCYT, YACEP, certified coach, self-published author, and an inspiring yogi recognized among the top three yoga instructors by Richmond Magazine. Rooted in Asheville, NC, Tara leads workshops, retreats, and classes nationwide, empowering students to listen within and trust their unique paths. With credentials in Psychology, Elementary Education, and coaching, her approach blends studied expertise with intuitive guidance, offering a space for exploration, self-discovery, and authentic expression. A Lululemon Ambassador and advocate for yoga's transformative power, Tara’s teaching, mentoring, and life reflect her Dharma as a vessel of love, trust, and inspiration.


    Website: http://greatabidingyoga.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/becky.eschenroeder and https://www.facebook.com/greatabidingyoga/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatabidingyoga/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Ad7lwBuG1GcQZqae7XDUA

    Insight Timer: https://insig.ht/hKogenxtanb

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3T2AROCSEIe3hktXqDPqOp

    Newsletter signup: https://greatabidingyoga.com/contact#subst


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  • In this episode Līlā Śakti Mayī, and Avi dive into the profound connection between humility, self-care, and the power of Sanskrit. The discussion focuses on how language can embody intention and emotion, highlighting that every language carries sacredness. They emphasize that true humility is about recognizing one's inherent value without harsh self-criticism or rigid expectations. This self-awareness cultivates compassion, allowing us to acknowledge our emotional pain while embracing our needs. Ultimately, the episode illustrates that genuine self-care stems from empathy toward ourselves, empowering us to better support others and create enriching connections with the world around us.


    --


    Līlā Śakti Mayī received her B.A. and M.A. in Sanskrit from the University of Virginia. She has studied the mechanics of the Sanskrit language alongside sacred Sanskrit literature for a decade. Her scriptural focus has largely revolved around the Bhagavad Gītā, and she recently contributed heavily to a new publication entitled Bhagavad Gītā Concordance: A Comprehensive Word Reference with English and Sanskrit Indexes by Dr. Graham Schweig (Columbia University Press, 2024). She is currently working on a similar reference work for the Yoga Sūtras. For the past several years, she has also studied nonviolent communication through NYCNVC. Līlā Śakti Mayī teaches the Sanskrit language and courses in Sanskrit scripture, but her greatest joy is bridging this ancient wisdom with the modern theory and practice of nonviolent communication. In her teaching, she illuminates the powerful harmony between the two, inspiring and empowering others towards deeper self-connection grounded in the heart.


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  • In this insightful episode, Swami Karunananda reflects on her extraordinary life journey, beginning with her childhood in Brooklyn where she demonstrated remarkable early abilities, such as speaking at six months old and reading at three. She shares a pivotal moment from her sixth grade when she asked herself what she wanted to do with her life, deciding then to help others relieve their suffering. Her path led her from a focus on academics and science to an unexpected spiritual awakening through yoga and philosophy, inspired by the presence of her guru. Through personal stories, Swami Karunananda discusses the importance of service, the interconnectedness of all beings, and the profound power of following one's inner guidance to make a meaningful contribution to the world.


    --


    Swami Karunananda has had 50 years’ experience teaching all aspects of Yoga. She designed and conducts teacher training programs in Raja Yoga and in Meditation. She served as president of Satchidananda Ashram in California and in Virginia, and as director of the San Francisco and Santa Barbara Integral Yoga Institutes. She compiled and edited The Lotus Prayer Book and Enlightening Tales as told by Sri Swami Satchidananda. Her book, Awakening: Aspiration to Realization through Integral Yoga, makes the Yoga teachings accessible and provides inspiration and guidance for the spiritual journey.


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  • In this podcast episode, Carroll Ann Friedmann shares the story behind her book "Practicing the Yoga Sutras," which stemmed from a decade-long journey of chanting and studying the sutras. Friedmann recounts her initial inspiration in India, where she was taught the art of chanting. This practice continued back home in Charlottesville, where she formed a dedicated chanting group with her students. Through regular discussions and deep exploration of the sutras, Friedmann began documenting her insights, writing consistently each morning for several years. The conversation highlights the organic development of her book, the discipline required for such a long-term project, and the profound impact of yoga on personal growth and community building.


    --


    Carroll Ann (Prashanti) Friedmann, BA, MDiv, E-RYT500, was educated at Vanderbilt University, Princeton Theological Seminary, and the University of Virginia. From 2007–2012, she received Yoga training at the Integral Yoga Academy at Satchidananda Ashram–Yogaville (Buckingham, Virginia). From 2013–present she has studied at the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute with Saraswathi Jois and the Anantha Research Foundation with Dr. M. A. Jayashree and Sri M. A. Narasimhan in Mysore, Karnataka, India.


    She currently studies and practices Yoga under the guidance of Richard Freeman, MaryTaylor, Ty Landrum, and other classical teachers. She and her husband, Liam Buckley, are devotees of Sri Swami Satchidananda. They have four adult children and live in Charlottesville, Virginia, where they own and direct Ashtanga Yoga Charlottesville and the Ivy Yoga School. They teach asana, pranayama, meditation, chanting, philosophy, and hold an annual Yoga teacher training.


    To find out more and order a copy of "Practicing the Yoga Sutras," you can visit Carroll's website: practicingtheyogasutras.com


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  • The discussion centers on the concept of Dharma, or life purpose, and explores how individuals can discover and align with their true calling. The conversation delves into the importance of listening to the heart rather than the mind, emphasizing activities that bring joy and love, such as community engagement and connecting with nature. Dominique and Avi discuss the balance between selfless service and personal well-being, highlighting the necessity of setting boundaries to prevent burnout. They examine the relationship between the mind and the heart, proposing that while the mind operates based on past experiences, the heart guides toward new possibilities and deeper fulfillment. The episode also touches on societal pressures and the challenges of maintaining faith and peace in the face of financial and practical uncertainties. Ultimately, the podcast encourages listeners to follow their heart and live a life true to their inner purpose, despite external expectations and obstacles.


    --


    Dominique Aramati has been practicing yoga for over 15 years, is a dedicated kirtaniya, and an outdoor enthusiast. She first came to Yogaville as an infant to visit her grandmother, Aurelie Knapik, who was a part of Yogaville’s community for over 20 years. In addition to her spiritual pursuits, she has explored various hobbies including non-fiction writing, large-scale abstract painting, hiking, snowboarding, skateboarding, and surfing. She enjoys spending as much time outdoors as possible and loves to share this passion with others. Dominique graduated from James Madison University’s School of Media Arts & Design in 2016, majoring in Journalism and Creative Writing, with elective coursework in art history and environmental science. Before Yogaville, she traveled extensively along the East Coast in a Sprinter Van, working for ENO (Eagles Nest Outfitters), and spent seven seasons working at ski resorts while teaching yoga. She now owns her own digital marketing company: Hawk Intuitive, where she provides an array of marketing support. Dominique continues to deepen her spiritual practice through kirtan, connecting with nature, and fostering meaningful relationships with others.


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  • Concept of Peace: Siva discusses peace as a profound state of consciousness that goes beyond the absence of conflict. It involves a sense of awe and connection with the beauty of creation and the presence of the divine in the world.


    Path to Peace and Creativity: Siva shares that his journey to inner peace began in childhood through imaginative play. As an adult, he continues to achieve this state through creative endeavors such as music, art, and writing, viewing life itself as an art form.


    Illusions and Materialism: He talks about the illusions of the material world (Maya) and how they can be distracting and distressing. Engaging in creative activities helps transcend these illusions and connect with a deeper reality.


    Spiritual Practices: Emphasizing non-violence (Ahimsa), Siva highlights the importance of cultivating love, kindness, and compassion. He also discusses the need to understand different perspectives and resolve conflicts through reconciliation and understanding.


    Role of Music and Nature: Siva reflects on how music and nature have been central to his life and well-being. Immersing oneself in nature and creative pursuits helps maintain balance and counter the disturbances of modern, materialistic life.


    --


    Stephen (Siva) Longfellow Fiske


    Born into a musical and artistic family in New York City, Stephen was a natural in singing and acting, and

    performed in school plays and musicals from elementary school through college. He wrote poems and

    songs in his head and on paper before becoming a self-taught guitarist at the High School of Music and

    Art during the folkmusic era of the 60’s. After attending Civil Rights Marches in New York City, Stephen

    travelled to Washington DC in August, 1963, to take part in the Great March on Washington where

    Martin Luther King Jr. gave the “I Have A Dream” Speech which greatly impacted Stephen towards his

    peace and justice activism. Greatly influenced by the songs of freedom and equality and the call for

    social justice of the Civil Rights Movement, Stephen developed his own unique folk music style, and

    while in college, did his first public performances in the Greenwich Village coffee houses, such as

    Gerde’s Folk City and the Bitter End. After college, he travelled to San Francisco where he became the

    lead singer and writer with an acid-rock band, “The Bycycle.” The Bycycle became booked by a major

    agency and performed with such acts as Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young, Taj Mahal, Canned Heat, and

    Jimi Hendrix. When the band broke up, Stephen began his solo career and over the years has written

    hundreds of songs and produced a dozen albums of his music. He has performed widely across the U.S.

    and overseas, has sung and done voice-overs on commercials, and his music has been in films and video

    soundtracks. An award-winning songwriter, his songs have been covered by such well known artists as

    Jose Feliciano and Luther Vandross. Stephen has been primarily an independent artist selling his

    products directly to his audiences and keeping a contact list. He is an engaging performer who loves to

    interact with his audiences and encourages people to sing-along. Accompanying himself on acoustic

    guitar, he is a peace and environmental activist whose timely message in song, stories, and poetry have

    made him a popular performer, always warmly and enthusiastically received by his audiences.

    --

    Jerusalem Prayer Project

    Stephen Fiske Music


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  • Daniel Scruggs shares his mission with Peace Culture Music, focusing on educating and inspiring through rare musical instruments and artifacts. He reflects on his personal journey, including struggles with dysgraphia and attention issues, which fueled his passion for music and culture. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing uniqueness, connecting with ancestors through music, and fostering curiosity and wonder in life.

    --

    Daniel Scruggs is a world citizen, professional musician and experienced educator who is on a mission to educate, inspire and unite. He has traveled extensively throughout the United States and internationally as a student and educator of human cultures and global music making traditions. 


    These journeys have provided him opportunities for learning immersion in twenty four countries throughout five continents. Throughout his travels, Daniel has collected hundreds of rare musical instruments, as well as cultural artifacts, curiosities and unique geological wonders from around the world. This collection forms the basis of his interactive educational programs. 


    Daniel spent eight years in formal music studies and performance with the prestigious Colonial Williamsburg Fife and Drum Corps, earning a foundation in rudimental drumming and marching. Upon graduation from the corps he continued formal music studies in percussion at the College of Charleston in South Carolina and Arabic Language immersion in Sana’a Yemen. Daniel earned a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. 


    Daniel’s interest in peace studies, culture and specialized learning methods led him to embrace the Montessori method of education. He has shared his one-of-a-kind cultural education programs in pre-schools, grade schools, colleges, hospitals, retirement communities, with students with special needs and learning disabilities, refugees from war torn countries, combat veterans, on two Native American reservations and with hundreds of educators and thousands of children throughout seven countries. 


    He has created and led workshops for teachers and students in the United States, Canada, Egypt, Ghana, Cuba, and Ethiopia. Many of these interactive adventures feature professional “djembe” style drums for everyone to play. 


    More can be found on the Peace Culture Music with Daniel Scruggs Youtube channel and PeaceCultureMusic.Com 


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  • In this episode of the Integral Yoga Podcast, Mataji shares insights into her life journey and spiritual path.


    Born in Washington DC on April Fool's Day, she considers her birth a blessing. Reflecting on her childhood, Mataji recalls her cheerful disposition and love for quiet introspection and learning. She discusses her upbringing in a household that valued curiosity, art, and science.


    Mataji also delves into her spiritual journey, influenced by encounters with Swami Satchidananda and her Catholic background. Throughout the conversation, Mataji emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and cultivating love and understanding in a rapidly changing world.


    --

    Swami Gurucharanananda, lovingly called Mataji, is a senior sannyasi (monk) and disciple of Gurudev, Sri Swami Satchidanandaji Maharaj. She lives at Yogaville and serves on the Sannyas Board. Mataji is a guided meditation leader and Hatha Yoga teacher, an inspiring speaker, Integral Yoga® mentor, and private retreat guide. She loves to offer pujas (worship service), read Sri Gurudev’s teachings at lunch, and play the violin as a wake-up call in the dorms! In 2014 she was awarded the Swami Satchidananda Lifetime Service Award


    Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/6rIahfE98wM


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  • The podcast delves into the profound spiritual journey of Snehan Born, tracing his path from early experiences in church to a lifelong quest for truth and enlightenment. Through encounters with various religious traditions, philosophical explorations, and travels worldwide, Snehan embarks on a quest to understand the deeper meaning of existence. Snehan grapples with existential questions, confronts personal privileges and challenges, and ultimately finds solace and guidance through Integral Yoga. 


    Through anecdotes and reflections, the podcast explores themes of spiritual evolution, transformation, and the universal search for meaning in life.


    Watch on Youtube


    ---

    Snehanji has over four decades of experience with yoga. He resides at the Integral Yoga Institute of San Francisco, where he serves as Swami Ramananda's assistant, teaches yoga classes and is a lead teacher trainer at all levels. Snehan is certified in all levels of Integral Yoga Hatha and has received additional certifications in Pranayama, Meditation, Raja Yoga and Stress Management from Integral Yoga. He has also received teacher training from yoga master Sri Dharma Mittra of the Dharma Yoga Center, Manhattan and has also studied with Sharon Gannon and David Life from Jivamukti Yoga Center, Manhattan. Snehan has studied Bhakti Yoga globally with Jai Uttal and Govind Das. Chanting mantra and playing the harmonium are part of his regular practice and classes. 

    Snehan has lived and traveled extensively within India and practiced with many teachers there. He has taught yoga all over the US as well as in India, Nepal, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Japan and Europe. 


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  • Rachel discusses her philosophy of "Let's Do Less," advocating for slowing down in today's fast-paced world. She emphasizes the power of doing less for self-care and healing, particularly in trauma work. Rachel explores the intersection of presence, genuine connection, and identity in self-care practices. She highlights the importance of being mindful of one's biological experiences and emotions while navigating personal growth and well-being.


    --


    Rachel Jensen is a Licensed Massage Therapist, certified Health Coach through Duke University, 200 and 300 HR certified Integral Hatha Yoga Teacher, and is currently pursuing her certification in Somatic Experiencing- a body-based approach to dealing with trauma created by Peter Levine.


    A Licensed Massage Therapist for 18 years, Rachel is passionate about finding the connections between modern science, trauma research and the ancient practices of yoga, touch, and movement. In a practice focusing on trauma informed bodywork, especially as it applies to chronic conditions of pain, stress, anxiety, and disease, Rachel has seen first hand the way somatic practices like yoga and massage can encourage and support a client’s healing journey.


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  • The conversation delves into the profound impact of communal singing and the healing power of sound vibration, emphasizing the significance of discovering one's authentic voice. It explores experiences in group singing settings, highlighting the importance of encouragement and support for individuals to overcome fear and judgment. Reflections on practices like meditation and cold therapy underscore the journey towards fearlessness and acceptance. Through personal anecdotes and insights, the conversation underscores the transformative potential of music and self-expression, ultimately advocating for the cultivation of a supportive and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore and embrace their musical abilities.


    --


    Exploration of the mind, self-inquiry, and a search for deeper spiritual meaning set Narada Williams on a journey that led him to Yoga. His pursuit of teacher training brought him to Satchidananda Ashram-Yogaville in 2014, where he completed his 200-hour Integral Yoga training with Satya Greenstone. He taught Hatha Yoga classes in Radford, VA, while completing his degree in Tourism and Special Events Management. He returned to his spiritual home, Yogaville, in 2017 to teach and serve. A father and husband, Narada seeks to live a dedicated life, find joy in every moment, and recognize life for the divine miracle it is.


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  • Heather Mason, the founder of the Minded Institute, shares her compelling journey from personal mental health challenges to becoming a leading advocate for yoga therapy integration into healthcare systems. Drawing from her own experiences and the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness meditation, Mason emphasizes the need for alternative approaches to mental health treatment beyond medication. She underscores the importance of social prescribing, highlighting how socialization can have tangible physiological benefits on health. Mason's advocacy extends to promoting the inclusion of yoga therapy in healthcare protocols and providing training for healthcare professionals, envisioning a future where yoga becomes a recognized and accessible tool for mental well-being.


    --


    Heather is an internationally renowned yoga therapy school, and the Yoga in Health Care Alliance, focused on bringing yoga into the UK’s NHS. She holds master’s degrees in Buddhist Studies, in Psychotherapy, Medical Physiology, and has extensive training in Neuroscience. Heather has been teaching yoga since 2001 and has specialized in the use of yoga therapy for mental health populations since 2007. She designed and taught an elective on yoga at the Boston University School of Medicine and created and taught the bioscience course the MUIH launched its MA in yoga therapy. Actively focused on the integration of yoga into healthcare, in 2018 Heather helped create an All-Party Parliamentary Group, “Yoga in Society”. Heather has also co-authored “Yoga and Mental Health” and “Yoga on Prescription”. In 2023 Heather and co-director Elaine Collins developed the first yoga therapy psychotherapy course in the world. This course is accredited by the NCIP.


    --

    Links:


    https://www.themindedinstitute.com

    IG: @themindedinstitute

    Facebook: @Themindedinstitute

    Youtube: @Themindedinstitute

    Twitter: @MindedInstitute

    Linkedin: The Minded Institute


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  • In this enlightening episode, Michelle Jacobi shares her captivating journey into the world of yoga. Starting as a professional dancer in New York with a keen interest in philosophy, Michelle stumbled upon yoga for its profound background rather than its physical aspect.


    During this conversation she recalls a transformative experience at the Uptown Integral Yoga Studio, and how it triggered a deep connection to herself and the interconnectedness of life. Michelle delves into the integral yoga system, highlighting its power to bring balance, self-awareness, and healing. Her story serves as an inspiration, emphasizing the profound impact yoga can have beyond the physical, guiding listeners on a journey of self-discovery and well-being.


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  • This dialogue between James and Avi takes a deep dive into the states of unified consciousness and the challenges of maintaining an expanded awareness amidst the daily nuances of life. Explore the concept of 'inner yes' as a guiding force in decision-making, where the body's sensations become a compass for mindful choices. Witness James' reflections on maturity, humility, and the ever-evolving exploration of consciousness.


    In a thought-provoking twist, the conversation contemplates individuals as waves of light, with thoughts and emotions influencing the vibrations they emit. Dive into the exploration of undesirable emotions, the art of staying with discomfort, and the transformative power of embracing the unknown. The concept of freedom takes center stage, intertwined with practices like meditation and conscious breathing.


    As the episode unfolds, the speakers share a unique exchange of energy, expressing gratitude and reflecting on conscious choices during a birthday celebration. This episode offers insights into conscious living, emotional exploration, and the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit.


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  • In this episode, Govind Das shares profound reflections on his recent visit to India, marking his 21st journey to the country. He emphasizes the spiritual richness of sacred places like Rishikesh and Vrindavan, contrasting them with the materialistic focus of big cities. The conversation delves into the significance of rituals and practices in connecting with the divine, emphasizing the challenge of letting go of attachments and ego-driven narratives. Govind Das also discusses the essence of strength and courage, rooted in acknowledging a higher power and being open to divine guidance. Overall, the episode explores the deep spiritual culture of India and the transformative power of surrender and daily practices.


    Govind Das on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7G35TSwUM8xttVQyxIlCmu?si=GdjdQ2roS6OQzjq-dx0pNQ


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  • Prakash explores yoga as unity, emphasizing its role in bringing people together.

    She delves into Raja yoga, focusing on the study of yoga sutras, advocating for individual reflection and practical application of yogic principles.


    Capen addresses the challenge of self-judgment, advocating for a sense of humor in the pursuit of balance. She discusses the tendency to rank individuals in the spiritual realm and underscores the value of openness to diverse perspectives.


    Prakash Capen (KAY-pen) left behind her career in broadcasting when she realized her real passion — to serve by teaching yoga. Over the years, she was Director of the Integral Yoga Institutes in Washington DC, Boston, and San Francisco. In San Francisco, Prakash served as Director of Life Enhancement for the AIDS/HIV Study Group, taught a popular weekly meditation & yoga program for people with AIDS/HIV, worked with Dr. Dean Ornish‘s program for reversing heart disease, and began hospice service. A professional writer and editor, Prakash now focuses on concerns for those with chronic illness and disabilities, and, also, teaches application of yoga in daily life


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  • This podcast episode features a conversation with Jess Frey about her recent silent retreat experience and the idea of "coming home" to oneself.


    Jess and Avi delve into finding a balance between self-improvement and helping others. They discuss the concept of emotional armor and authenticity, highlighting the practice of pausing. The conversation also explores the importance of community in personal growth and self-discovery, with an emphasis on healthy community characteristics.


    Additionally, the conversation touches on setting intentions and having a flexible Guiding Light in one's life journey, the power of gratitude, and the difference between compliments received in the mind and heart.


    The discussion underscores the value of presence, love, and connection, while recognizing the multifaceted nature of human experience.


    ---

    Jess is a Kripalu Yoga educator, truth blazer, life coach, artist, and lover of life, intimacy, connection. Jess has been connected to Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health for 15 years and facilitates yoga, ayurveda, and silent meditation retreats as well as designs and develops curriculum content for Kripalu's experiential programs and workshops.


    With an enthusiasm for personal and professional development, she also provides mentorship to the organization's teaching staff. Jess is devoted to the process of compassionate inquiry, self-discovery, and the art of living yoga in everyday life. She stewards and facilitates connectivity, curiosity, and co-creates brave spaces for all beings.


    She believes community offers a pathway to learning, healing, and individual and collective transformation. Together is how WE find our way. Her passion and expertise lie in post-traumatic growth, addiction recovery, embodied presence, creativity, and exploring ways to live the truth of one's self. With more than 20 years of personal practice, professional development, and leadership, Jess is known for her authenticity, heart, motivation, and depth.


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  • Lakshmi has dedicated 16 years to the prison project, using Gurudev's teachings to help incarcerated individuals transform their lives.


    She speaks about the punitive U.S. prison system, its role in drug issues, and stresses the importance of kindness.


    The U.S. prison system's flaws are discussed, with the need for rehabilitation highlighted, given the high recidivism rate.


    Lakshmi shares her journey from a Catholic upbringing to studies in anthropology, a rebellious phase, and her return to spirituality through yoga. 


    She reflects on the challenges of absorbing spiritual teachings, quieting the mind and staying open to learning.


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  • Graham Schweig sits down with Avi Gordon in a conversation that covers the importance of yoga, gratitude, and selflessness in reconnecting with one's heart and embracing life's conditioning forces. They discuss the transformative power of yoga in turning inward to confront inner conflicts and suffering, ultimately leading to self-awareness and growth. The role of the guru in guiding and reinforcing inner wisdom is highlighted. The conversation also touches on the significance of choices, trust in the process, and the power of supportive relationships. Self-care and selflessness are explored as interconnected aspects of spiritual practice, promoting both personal well-being and the capacity to serve others.


    Bio:

    Dr. Schweig is Distinguished Teaching and Research Faculty at the Center for Dharma Studies of the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. Schweig earned the master’s degree in religious studies at University of Chicago Divinity School, a master’s of theological studies in history of religions and a master’s of theology in comparative religion from Harvard University Divinity School, and earned his doctorate in comparative religion from Harvard. Schweig joined the faculty of Christopher Newport University (CNU) in the fall of 2000. Prior to coming to CNU, he was a teaching fellow at Harvard University, lecturer at University of North Carolina and Duke University, and while teaching at CNU, he was for two years, Visiting Associate Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Virginia. He has been recognized several times for excellence in teaching, including CNU's annual Alumni Faculty Award for Teaching and Mentoring (2013), and has delivered over three dozen invited lectures at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC for over fourteen years. He has also given lectures widely in the US and in Europe, and has been invited to be a consultant on doctoral dissertation committees or a doctoral dissertation examiner in the US, Europe, India, and Australia. He has conducted yoga workshops, offered seminars and given lectures around the US and Europe for well over 20 years. In addition to his academic endeavors, Dr. Schweig has been a student of many traditional teachers of yoga, and is recognized by Yoga Alliance at the highest level of E-RYT 500 and YACEP. He has travelled to India thirteen times, once for a year on a Smithsonian Institution funded grant, and has been a practitioner of traditional and heart-centered yoga for over 50 years.


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