What is a spiritual practice? How does it work? How will it improve my life? How will deepening my self-care transform me? What strategies can I use to improve my life, increase my health, and create wellness? How can craft a life that I love? The Finding Harmony Podcast gets to the root of all these questions. Each episode is full of inspiration, humour, honest observations, and actionable steps that you can integrate to enhance your experience of self-love, develop a connection to Spirit, and create a life you truly love.
Join Harmony Slater and Russell Case as they welcome Cindy Lusk, PhD, an experienced yoga teacher and meditation expert, to delve into the profound journey of yoga and meditation. This episode offers deep insights into the interplay of yoga disciplines, meditation practices, and personal growth. Cindy shares her unique experiences transitioning from Ashtanga to Anusara yoga, her profound meditative practices, and the life lessons learned along her spiritual journey. Discover how yoga and meditation can transform personal challenges into pathways for profound inner growth and spiritual awakening.
Key Topics Covered:
Guest Bio:
Cindy Lusk, PhD, is an acclaimed author and yoga teacher, known for her book "Align and Refine: The Journey of Yoga and Meditation." With a journey that began in 1985, Cindy has explored various dimensions of yoga, including Ashtanga and Anusara, and has taught numerous courses in yoga philosophy. She is also an authorized teacher of Neelakantha Meditation. Cindy’s approach integrates deep academic understanding with practical experience, offering students a comprehensive path to spiritual and personal development.
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Exciting Quotes from the Episode:
Suggested Links for This Episode:
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This episode features an insightful conversation with hosts Harmony Slater and Russell Case and featured guest, Sam Silversides, a dynamic new voice in the Ashtanga Yoga community. This riveting discussion bridges the gap between the rich traditions of Ashtanga Yoga and the contemporary practices of today. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, Sam’s experiences and insights are sure to inform and inspire.
In This Episode:
Key Takeaways:
About Sam Silversides:
Sam Silversides has been a student of yoga since 2010. His journey into the depths of Ashtanga Yoga began after five years of practice, following a pivotal meeting with Ashtanga luminaries Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor. Sam’s teaching philosophy weaves traditional Ashtanga principles with a modern approach, making it accessible and relevant to today's practitioners.
Connect with Sam:
https://www.instagram.com/samsilversides/
https://www.tiktok.com/@silversidesyoga?_t=8kGda3uDioS&_r=1
https://www.youtube.com/@samsilversides3275
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1962204/
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Anouk Prop shares her inspirational journey from working as a psychologist to becoming a trauma therapist and yoga teacher. She recounts how traditional Hatha yoga initially interested her, but as she delved deeper, she discovered the power of Ashtanga. Anouk's experiences in India revealed the potential of yoga in healing trauma. This realization led her to shift her career focus, integrating yoga practices into her therapeutic approach. Anouk highlights the importance of trauma sensitivity, presence, and the power of touch within the context of yoga teaching. She also discusses her current work with individual therapy clients and trauma-sensitive yoga classes.
In this episode:
List of Resources Mentioned in Episode:
Calls to Action:
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https://www.instagram.com/anoukprop/
https://www.facebook.com/anouk.prop
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SPECIAL APRIL PROMO!
How to Enter
In this compelling episode of the Finding Harmony podcast, we meet Alex Medin, a man who has lived through an extraordinary life of transformation. From his early days as a boxer, to his deep immersion in Sanskrit studies, to his groundbreaking work with inmates and addicts, Alex's journey is a testament to the power of yoga as a tool for healing, self-discovery, and service.
Key Points and Themes:
Yoga for Trauma and Transformation: Alex shares how his own struggles led him to explore yoga's capacity to heal deep wounds, both for himself and others.
Yoga in Prisons: Discover how Alex's work in prisons ignited his passion for using yoga as a vehicle for rehabilitation and personal growth.
Building a Haven: Learn about the incredible story behind Nosen Retreat Center in Norway, a sanctuary Alex founded to offer hope and healing to those in need.
The Mindfulness of Boxing: Explore the unexpected parallels between the focus and presence required in boxing and the transformative power of yoga practice.
The Bhagavad Gita as a Guiding Force: Alex shares how the wisdom of this ancient text has shaped his life's work
Guest Bio: Alexander Medin has been teaching yoga for 28 years. He was certified by the legendary Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in 2002, an honor achieved by only 33 individuals. He holds an MA in Sanskrit and Indian Religions (SOAS 2004) and has had the privilege of traveling the world teaching yoga. He is the founder of Puro Yoga, the Back in the Ring Foundation, and Nøsen Yoga and Mountain Hotel.
Call to Action:
Visit Nosen Retreat Center: Learn more about Alex's work and the transformative programs offered at Nosen. https://www.nosenyoga.no
Join Harmony's Norway Retreat: Experience the power of yoga and nature firsthand. Sign up for Harmony's upcoming retreat at Nosen Retreat Center.
Discover the “Gangster Yoga” and "Back in the Ring" Projects: Learn more about how you can support these missions: https://www.nosenyoga.no/en/community-projects
Did you like this episode with Alex?
You can hear more of his story in episode 68!
** If you or someone you love needs support with addiction. Find helpful suggestions here: https://drugabuse.com/addiction/hotlines/ **
SPECIAL APRIL CHALLENGE!!!! WIn a 1:1 session with Harmony!
How to Enter
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With Sumanth Gopinath
Embark on a musical voyage that transcends borders and eras with our esteemed guest Sumanth Gopinath, professor of music and grassroots folk musician. Celebrate Russell's birthday and delve into a heartfelt discussion that weaves together the threads of Indian and North American folk music traditions. Through Sumanth's personal narrative, we explore how the echoes of our upbringing resonate in the music we love, and how shared experiences and diverse backgrounds create a rich tapestry of cultural identity.
Peel back the layers of music theory's evolution with us, as we engage with the compelling transformation from academic pursuits to the frontlines of labor union activism. Sumanth's anecdotes reveal the intimate connections between the professionalization of music theory, the political economy that shapes the discipline, and the influence of collective action in shaping both academia and society. Together, we shine a spotlight on the need for music education to embrace a broader spectrum of cultural narratives, enriching our understanding of music's role in our lives.
Join us for a profound conversation that tackles the delicate balance between cultural appreciation and appropriation. We navigate the complex terrain of global influences on personal expression, examining how our intentions, critiques, and relationships inform the way we engage with the world's diverse musical heritage. In an increasingly interconnected community, we emphasize the importance of approaching cultural exchanges with mindfulness and respect, ensuring that our artistic expressions contribute to a more understanding and harmonious world.
About Sumanth:
Sumanth Gopinath is Associate Professor of Music Theory at the University of Minnesota TwinCities. He has written or co-edited books on the ringtone industry (TheRingtoneDialectic:Economy and Cultural Form, 2013), mobile music studies (The Oxford Handbook of Mobile Music Studies, 2014), and the music of Steve Reich (Rethinking Reich, 2019). He is the leader of the independent Americana band The Gated Community.
Songs from this episode:
DivorceDress https://www.tiktok.com/music/Divorce-Dress-6887761471078434818?lang=it
To the Sea Once More https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=naRvG4scQyw
The Life from My Eyes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UX-vKf8Bywk
Christmas Special https://thegatedcommunity.bandcamp.com/album/wont-you-believe-me-2
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In today's episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater and Russell Case explore a deeply relatable topic: the intersection of motherhood and a dedicated yoga practice. Joining them is Bibi Lorenzetti, a seasoned Ashtanga yogi, mother, and owner of the Newburgh Shala in New York. Together, they explore the complexities, the triumphs, and the inherent imperfections of maintaining a meaningful practice amidst the ever-evolving demands of parenting.
Here are some of the themes discussed in this insightful episode:
This episode offers a refreshing and honest perspective on motherhood's impact on a dedicated yoga practice. Whether you're a parent, a yogi, or simply seeking balance in life, you'll discover valuable insights and a sense of shared experience within this conversation.
Important Links:
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We'd love to hear your thoughts! What resonated with you the most from this episode? Share your experiences and reflections in the Finding Harmony Community!
Sometimes, the most profound transformations begin with a single breath. That's the journey I shared with Adam Keen as we discussed the ancient art of pranayama and its profound effects on our nervous system and personality. Imagine finding clarity and calmness in the chaos of daily life; pranayama offers that and so much more. It's a practice that not only enhances focus and energy but also helps reduce anxiety, paving the way for a harmonious internal state that positively influences our interactions with others. Join us as we navigate the art of breathwork and its potential to lead us to a more conscious and peaceful existence.
Breath - so automatic, yet so powerful. This episode takes you behind the science of breath control, exploring how practices like pranayama can stimulate the vagus nerve and usher our bodies from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest. We delve into the historical wisdom of yogis and the physiological benefits they sought to harness, from breath retention to the roles of nitric oxide and CO2. These elements are crucial in improving oxygen uptake, dilating blood vessels, and reducing inflammation, translating to tangible health benefits such as lowered blood pressure and relief from asthma symptoms.
Understanding the intricacies of pranayama is key to reaping its benefits, and we break down the importance of gradual progression and expert guidance. Whether you're starting out with gentle breathwork or exploring the mystical depths of advanced techniques, we provide insights for every step of your journey. Moreover, we share how my own strategies for managing stress and inflammation have been influenced by pranayama, and we even touch on how personalized exercises helped my mother overcome breathing anxiety. So, take a deep breath and let's explore how these ancient practices can uplift your well-being today.
This interview was shared with us from the Keen On Yoga Podcast.
Want to hear more from Adam? Check out our Keen on Adam episode from 2021
About Adam:
Adam Keen has been practising yoga since 1999 and teaching since 2004. He is one of only a few students to have completed the Advanced A series in Mysore with Sharathji and received Level 2 Authorisation in 2012. Equally at home teaching all levels, he gives all students attention and interest.
You can find him at https://www.keenonyoga.com/ or on instagram at instagram.com/keen_on_yoga
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Thank you for listening! Join us next time as we delve deeper into the world of yoga and self-discovery on the Finding Harmony Podcast.
Today, we're tackling Russell’s thought-provoking question about Jesus Christ with Religious Scholar and Certified Ashtanga teacher, Dr. John Campbell. As the conversation turns to "Are we searching for our own personal Jesus in yoga teachers?" Harmony Slater, John, and Russell explore the tendency to idolize instructors, seeking external validation and solutions rather than cultivating our own inner power. This episode will challenge your assumptions and open doors to a more authentic yoga practice.
Key Takeaways:
Now it's your turn!
About Our Guests:
John Campbell:
John Campbell is a scholar of Indo-Tibetan Buddhism and holds a PhD in Religion from Columbia University. He has been a Fulbright Fellow and has taught at Columbia University and the University of Virginia, where he co-founded the Contemplative Sciences Center for research and teaching centered on contemplative methods and traditions. He is currently working on a multi-volume translation from Sanskrit and Tibetan of commentaries on the Guhyasamaja Tantra, a Buddhist scripture.
He began practising yoga and meditation thirty years ago, and has since then taught yoga, meditation, and contemplative philosophy worldwide. A longtime practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, he is also one of the few Certified teachers of Ashtanga Yoga.
He lives in Newburgh NY with his wife, children, and assorted animal friends.
>>> You can find him teaching at the Newburgh Yoga Shala
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Thank you for listening! Join us next time as we delve deeper into the world of yoga and self-discovery on the Finding Harmony Podcast.
Join Harmony Slater and Elizabeth Ball as they delve into the nuances of the Ashtanga Yoga practice and how it can evolve, using online and in person resources to support you through life's inevitable changes. In this episode, they explore the challenges of the traditional Mysore-style format and uncover the power of adapting your practice to better suit your individual needs, both on and off the mat. If you're navigating transitions in your life or seeking a more sustainable approach to Ashtanga, this episode offers valuable insights and guidance.
Show Notes:
Special Announcement: Finding Harmony Retreat in Lisbon
Harmony Slater is thrilled to announce a special 'Finding Harmony' retreat in the vibrant city of Lisbon, Portugal, hosted in collaboration with Elizabeth Ball at Ashtanga Yoga Lisbon.
What to Expect:
Dates: May 24th - 28th
More Information and Registration:
Visit https://ashtangayogalisbon.com/ashtanga-yoga-immersion-harmonyslater-may-2024
for full retreat details, pricing, and to register. Early bird discounts are available for a limited time!
Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in yoga, connect with a vibrant community, and experience the magic of Lisbon!
Elizabeth’s Links
Website: https://ashtangayogalisbon.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethannball/
Special Coupon code for Finding Harmony Listeners: HARMONY15
This coupon offers them 15% off their monthly Membership for a 4 month or 6 monthMembership plan-valid foruse until the end of March 24
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About Elizabeth Ball:
Elizabeth is a highly-respected and well-loved Ashtanga yoga teacher, based in Lisbon, Portugal. Withover a decade of experience, Elizabeth launched her teaching business in 2020 and has crafted a unique teaching method that blends her deep understanding of yoga and scientific principles. She's known for her clear, focused and grounded approach, and creating a space that helps empower herstudents to embrace yoga as a tool for optimising overall health and wellbeing. Elizabeth dedicated ten years to training and building Lisbon's premier Ashtanga yoga school, and has received Authorisation to teach Ashtanga yoga from its current lineage holder, Paramaguru R. Sharath Jois, hailing from Mysore, India.
In 2023, Elizabeth founded Ashtanga Yoga Lisbon (AYL), and her dedication to making Ashtanga yogaaccessible for all led to the creation of the AYL online Yoga Membership in 2024. This community-led platform is loved by its students and designed to reach a global audience and share the practice of yoga.
This week, we're thrilled to have Paula Vital, a lawyer turned mindfulness coach and yoga therapist, as our guest. With a rich background that spans continents, careers, and cultures, Paula shares her transformative journey from a high-achieving lawyer to a beacon of mindfulness and balance. Learn about her experiences from the turmoil of Argentina's Dirty War to the high-stress corridors of law firms, and finally, to her profound work in mindfulness and yoga therapy. Paula offers invaluable insights into integrating mindfulness into daily life, transcending the boundaries between work and personal well-being, and the universal quest for inner peace and purpose.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Guest Bio:
Paula Vital is an accomplished lawyer, mindfulness coach, and yoga therapist who has dedicated her life to helping professionals find balance, clarity, and joy through mindfulness and yoga. With an extensive background in high-stakes legal work, Paula uniquely understands the pressures facing today's professionals. Her journey from a successful career in law to mindfulness and yoga therapy is a testament to the transformative power of these practices.
Connect with Paula Vital:
Special Offer for Listeners:
Paula is offering a free worksheet on her website titled "Three Steps to Turn Stress into Your Superpower." This practical guide is designed to help you navigate stressful situations with mindfulness and resilience. Download it today to begin transforming your approach to stress and challenges.
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Dive into an enchanting episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, where Harmony Slater and co-host Russell Case explore the multifaceted world of Sevket Recep. From professional tennis aspirations to the discovery of yoga in the vibrant streets of Miami and the tranquil coasts of Turkey, Sevket shares his transformative journey. Unpack the magic of Turkey's yoga scene, the allure of its culture, and how a passion for juggling parallels the practice of yoga. Join us for a tale of personal growth, cultural exploration, and the unexpected paths to finding harmony.
Introduction:
Sevket's Journey:
Exploring Turkey Through Yoga:
The Magic of Istanbul's Cats:
Finding Harmony in Juggling:
Closing Thoughts:
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