Understanding Yourself and Your Practice Through the Prism of Gunas

Understanding Yourself and Your Practice Through the Prism of Gunas

The gunas podcast
Solo Episode

Understanding Yourself and Your Practice Through the Prism of Gunas

In this solo discussion episode, we’ll explore the three intertwined modes that constitute our very existence, the Gunas. This enlightening discussion will offer a fresh perspective on the intense sensations and fluctuations experienced in a yin practice, allowing you to cultivate a deeper understanding of your own nature.

But we don’t stop at the yoga mat. Imagine applying these timeless lessons to your everyday life – finding meaning in the changing seasons, and adopting an attitude of curiosity and joy instead of fixating on a particular state or rejecting others. Fascinating, isn’t it? We also delve into the intriguing biological component of this experience, using the stress-strain curve of connective tissues as an analogy.

For those among us grappling with pain, we offer a unique perspective on its understanding and a potential path to alleviate it. So, if you’re curious about how ancient philosophy intertwines with contemporary yoga and life, join us on this journey of discovery.

Get your FREE Practice Gallery Workbook: https://yoga.mandyryle.com/greatest-hits-practice-gallery-gallery-workbook/

Ready to apply your practice to healing your pain issue? Schedule a FREE discovery call to chat about your options: https://yoga.mandyryle.com/appointments/

The Relationship between Yin Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine

The Relationship between Yin Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Yin Yoga for Neck Pain
A Conversation with Josh Summers

Harmonizing Body and Mind: The Relationship between Yin Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine

In this episode we peel back the layers of Eastern wisdom with our esteemed guest, Josh Summers.  Seasoned Yin teachers and novice practitioners alike will benefit from Josh’s perspective in this fascinating discussion.

Josh generously shares his insights on how Yin Yoga, when melded with TCM, can prepare the mind and body for deeper meditation. But we also recognize the challenges teachers face when trying to assimilate and impart this knowledge. Josh gives some great advice for teachers  who wish to honor this philosophy with authenticity while staying within their scope of practice.

In the final stretch of our conversation, we delve into the potent biopsychosocial model of pain in Chinese Medicine. We discuss how it addresses physical pain, often rooted in emotional trauma, and honors both physical and inner subjective experiences. We also illuminate how the practice of Yin Yoga can enhance the function of our integrated systems, improve circulation, reduce stress, and foster feelings of peace and joy. Lastly, but certainly not least, we examine the power of storytelling in Yin Yoga. Join us for this engaging conversation with Josh Summers, as we explore Yin Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Harnessing the Power of the Five Elements in Your Practice and in Your Life

Harnessing the Power of the Five Elements in Your Practice and in Your Life

Dr Melissa West
An Interview with Dr Melissa West

Harnessing the Power of the Five Elements in Your Practice and in Your Life

Join us as we unravel the intriguing five element theory with Dr. Melissa West, a pioneer of Yoga on YouTube since 2009. Learn how to apply this theory to your everyday life and to your Yin Yoga practice. This podcast will provide some great insights for you on how we might live more in harmony with the seasons and throughout each stage of life.

 

As our enlightening dialogue progresses, we navigate through the fascinating complexities of the fire element season and its unique divergence from Ayurveda. Armed with Dr. West’s insightful knowledge, we’ll shed light on how these elemental associations can enhance not just our Yoga practice, but our overall well-being. But it doesn’t stop there! We also dive into the practicalities of the five element theory, discussing how it can inform our personality traits and elemental constitutions.

Wrapping up our conversation, we steer towards Eastern philosophies and the ultimate pursuit of balance. We’ll hear from Melissa on how the energies of the elements shift throughout the day and throughout our lives, and why it’s crucial to embrace these changes. And for all you budding Yoga teachers out there, we cap things off with some invaluable tips on teaching yin authentically. So, ready for a transformative journey guided by the wisdom of Dr. Melissa West? Tune in and let’s explore the power of the five element theory together!

Should Yin be Deep or Mild?

Should Yin be Deep or Mild?

Should Yin be Deep or Mild

Yin Education

Should Yin be Deep or Mild?

A debate that rages on. Some students swear by the benefit of of deep and intense duration stretch. Some by a milder attitude for the length of the hold.

Though I think it’s clear that I personally favor the latter, I also think that it depends on your goal for practice. So let’s first consider the goals and then some of the evidence. 

This is a very informative episode that just may transform your practice and/or teaching. 

So pop those earbuds in and have a listen!

 

Yin & Yoga Philosophy: Acceptance

Yin & Yoga Philosophy: Acceptance

Free Yin Yoga Practice

Yin & Yoga Philosophy

Acceptance

While you marinate in juicy poses targeting the hips, we will explore a the duality of resistance and acceptance. You will have an opportunity to discover how these qualities manifest themselves in your tissues, in your poses and indeed in your entire experience of self. 

We will not dogmatically attempt to annihilate resistance, rather, I will teach you how to view this struggle with compassion and show you a way to be with your suffering as taught in Classical Yoga philosophy. 

This is a very powerful practice and it feels great too.

Props needed: Bolster, blanket and a sandbag or two if you have them. (if not it’s totally fine!

 

Chair Yin for Travel Aches and Pains

Chair Yin for Travel Aches and Pains

Yoga for Chronic Pain

Chair Yin

For Travel Aches and Pains

Many of my clients experience a pain flare after travel. Pain is so complex and multifaceted, so there is never any one reason that it rears it’s ugly head. This practice is a quick and accessible practice that you can do just about anywhere in a chair. I’ve chosen the stretches we all crave when we’ve been sitting in a car or airplane as well as regulation practices to help you calm your nervous systems to get some perspective or even relief. Often, when pain is flaring in a travel situation, it’s because we have some anxiety and we aren’t moving very much. This practice addresses both issues.  

Props needed: a chair 🙂