Imagine reaching a 5,400-meter summit in the Himalayas, finding a powerful sense of pride that goes beyond the climb itself. In this episode, Michael shares insights from his journey about cultivating self-worth and finding balance between internal and external validation.

Michael explores the importance of self-compassion and how we can appreciate ourselves without relying solely on big achievements or outside approval. He suggests we aim for 70-80% of our validation to come from within, using practices like journaling, setting personal goals, and celebrating small wins. This helps build resilience, avoid burnout, and steer clear of perfectionism traps.

Michael also emphasizes the role of neurotransmitters like serotonin and oxytocin in feeling pride and accomplishment. By focusing on inner growth, he argues we can foster lasting self-confidence, letting positive emotions guide us toward personal goals. For anyone interested in building self-worth through inner growth, this episode offers practical steps to boost confidence, resilience, and joy in everyday life.Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 - Practicing Self-Compassion for Emotional Resilience

00:02:09 - Cultivating Pride: Lessons from Nepal

00:05:50 - Harnessing the Power of Pride and Growth

00:10:16 - Balancing Internal and External Validation

00:14:45 - Embracing Self-Appreciation and Compassion

00:17:52 - Cultivating Self-Appreciation Through Reflection and Skill Development

00:20:20 - Balancing Goals and Self-Worth

00:23:22 - Avoiding Burnout: Balancing Achievements and Self-Worth

00:27:43 - Building Confidence Through Self-Appreciation

00:31:11 - Celebrating Effort, Seeking Feedback, and Reflecting on Growth

00:33:05 - Avoiding Burnout: Balancing Work and Joyful Activities

00:36:23 - The Neurochemistry of Pride and Accomplishment

In this episode, Akshay Bhat, an Ayurvedic practitioner and yoga teacher, delves into the Ayurvedic principles of health and the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. He explains that Ayurveda views health as a balance between physical, mental, and spiritual aspects, emphasizing that one’s dosha is just a piece of the larger puzzle of well-being. Akshay discusses how understanding these doshas can help individuals tailor their lifestyles, diets, and routines for optimal health.

Vata, associated with movement, can lead to issues like back pain when imbalanced. Pitta, linked to fire and digestion, can cause inflammation if not balanced. Kapha individuals, with slower, heavier constitutions, may thrive on more intense exercise. The speakers highlight the importance of knowing your unique constitution to maintain a balanced lifestyle, stressing that what works for one may not work for another.

They also explore the concept of circadian rhythms and how aligning daily routines with Ayurvedic principles can promote overall health. The discussion encourages listeners to embrace their unique constitution and take steps toward better self-care through Ayurveda. Episode Chapters:00:00:00 - Ayurvedic Doshas and Yoga Practice

00:03:23 - Ayurvedic Holistic Health: Balancing Doshas and the Path to Wellbeing

00:08:15 - The Puzzle of Life: Always Something Missing

00:10:41 - The Principles of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha

00:15:47 - Understanding Vata Body Type and Personality

00:18:11 - Understanding Dosha Constitutions in Ayurveda

00:20:59 - Addressing Root Causes of Imbalance

00:22:30 - Cheetah-Like Metabolism and Exercise Needs for Pitta Types

00:25:29 - The Role of Kapha in Yoga and Fitness

00:29:37 - Understanding Your Ayurvedic Body Type

00:32:08 - Finding Your Dosha: The Value of a Doctor's Evaluation

00:34:37 - Exploring Ayurvedic Doshas for Self-Understanding

00:42:48 - Finding Your Unique Nutrition Approach

00:45:42 - Discover Your Ayurvedic Constitution

Akshay’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akshaybhatyoga/

In this episode, Akshay Bhat, a yoga teacher and Ayurvedic practitioner, explores the four pillars of life in Ayurveda: Dharma (righteousness), Artha (material possessions), Kama (fulfillment of desires), and Moksha (liberation). He emphasizes that balancing these aspects is crucial to leading a happy and healthy life. Akshay delves into how Ayurveda and yoga are interconnected, with both practices supporting spiritual growth and well-being.

Ayurveda, which dates back over 6,000 years, is not just a system for physical health but also a guide for living a purposeful life. The speakers discuss how disease is viewed as a "mistake of intelligence" in Ayurveda, and how balance across the four life pillars is key to achieving wellness.

The concept of Dharma is explored, contrasting it with Adharma, which represents a life driven by ego and negative emotions. The importance of balancing material and spiritual needs, or Artha, is highlighted, with the caution that modern society often promotes unnecessary desires. Finally, Moksha, or liberation, is discussed, with the speakers suggesting that it can be found through various activities like yoga, meditation, and creative pursuits. Each person’s path to freedom is unique, and discovering what brings a sense of expansion is essential for personal growth.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 - Ayurveda: The Four Means of Life00:04:49 - Exploring Ayurveda with Akshay Bhat

00:08:02 - The Origins and Principles of Ayurveda

00:11:22 - Exploring the Foundations of Ayurveda

00:15:14 - Mistakes of Intelligence and Psychosomatic Diseases

00:18:40 - Dharma: Balancing Inner and Outer Values

00:21:48 - Dharma, Adharma, and Holistic Health

00:23:23 - Balancing Material Possessions with Dharma

00:26:42 - Fulfilling Desires Through Conscious Presence

00:32:53 - Finding Liberation Through Various Practices

00:35:28 - Moksha: The Liberation of the Mind

00:38:15 - Finding Personal Moksha

Akshay’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akshaybhatyoga/

In this episode, the speaker dives into the concept of intuition and how it can often be clouded by fears, trauma, and conditioned behaviors. They explore the challenge of distinguishing between true intuition and reactions based on past experiences. The speaker emphasizes the importance of connecting with one's inner truth and recognizing the influence of mental and emotional patterns. By tuning into our intuition, we can achieve greater clarity and wisdom in our decision-making.

The conversation touches on common issues like control, perfectionism, and disconnection, particularly in the wellness community. The speaker highlights the value of creating safe spaces where vulnerabilities can be shared, as this fosters connection and mutual understanding. They stress that listening to our intuition, even when it’s difficult, is essential for self-acceptance and growth.

The speaker encourages listeners to sit in stillness, connect with their gut feelings, and trust their authentic voice. By cultivating curiosity and embracing the process of self-discovery, they believe we can overcome fear and deepen our understanding of intuition, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life.Episode Chapters:00:00:00 - Differentiating Intuition from Conditioning

00:02:06 - Navigating Intuition and Conditioning

00:04:57 - Navigating Intuition and Authenticity

00:09:00 - Uncovering Common Challenges and Vulnerabilities

00:11:01 - Connecting to Intuition and Grounding

00:14:24 - Refining Intuition Through Stillness

00:17:23 - Trusting Intuition and Staying Grounded

00:18:36 - Embracing Intuitive Moments with Non-Judgment

00:21:07 - Exploring the Intuition Landscape

Michael’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/

Julia, a yoga teacher, shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery, moving from a disciplined upbringing in Russia to finding her path in yoga and personal growth. After initially finding solace in yoga amidst her military family’s strict routine, Julia's practice led her to deeper experiences in Bali, where she connected with the Acro Yoga community and took a transformative trek up Mount Agung. Her story highlights the transformative power of yoga in overcoming fears and finding purpose.

Julia's journey took her across Egypt, Turkey, and Thailand, eventually leading her to Bali. In Bali, her yoga practice deepened as she started teaching even before completing her formal 200-hour teacher training. She emphasizes the importance of yoga as a practice for personal transformation, not just certifications. Yin yoga and aerial yoga became key practices that helped her release deep emotions, leading to self-discovery and a stronger connection with her body and mind.

Julia discusses balancing a busy teaching schedule with rest, emphasizing the importance of rejuvenation and manifesting new intentions through practices like yoga nidra. Her message encourages listeners to believe in the beauty of life, embrace new experiences, and let their dreams become reality.

Episode Chapters:00:00:00 - From Russia to Bali: A Yoga Journey

00:04:10 - Upbringing in a Military Family

00:06:10 - Pursuing Passion Despite Parental Pressure

00:08:40 - From Tibetan Teachings to Egyptian Practices

00:10:20 - From Ukraine to Egypt: My Journey to Freedom

00:12:42 - Finding Myself Through Yoga and Self-Exploration

00:16:03 - From Yoga to Photography: A Journey of Self-Discovery

00:19:10 - From Koh Phangan to Bali: A Yoga Journey

00:25:02 - From Dolphin Trainer to Yoga Teacher: A Transformative Journey

00:34:28 - Exploring Aerial Yoga's Unique Challenges and Benefits

00:43:14 - Aerial Yoga Strengthens Body and Mind

00:45:28 - Exploring Acro Yoga and Energy Redirection

00:50:40 - Yoga as a Path of Heart Opening and Connection

00:54:09 - Sharing My Yoga Teachings: From Aerial to Nidra

Juliya’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliya.light/

Andrea Wieser, a former Swiss banker, shares her transformative journey from the corporate world to becoming an inner guidance coach in Bali and now Hong Kong. After dealing with Lyme disease and personal challenges, Andrea found yoga, which became a powerful tool in her healing and growth. Her story reveals how yoga and personal development helped her overcome physical and emotional struggles. She emphasizes how important it is to address the nervous system and create a sense of safety, something she felt her mother lacked during illness. Through yoga and holistic practices, Andrea developed a deeper understanding of herself, which she now shares with others through coaching, retreats, and upcoming courses.

Andrea reflects on how her personal yoga practice, rather than teaching, has influenced her life and relationships. She highlights the importance of balance, inner peace, and conscious parenting. With two children, she speaks about navigating different parenting styles, the challenges of helping her son manage emotions, and fostering open communication with her daughter. Her story illustrates the power of mindfulness, patience, and allowing children to develop their own identities. Ultimately, Andrea encourages self-awareness, personal growth, and using yoga as a tool to support oneself and others through life’s challenges.

Episode Chapters:
00:00:00 - Reviewing Podcasts to Spread Yoga
00:02:53 - From Finance to Yoga: A Swiss Expat's Journey
00:05:21 - From Illness to Yoga: A Journey of Healing
00:09:53 - Discovering Holistic Health and Its Impact on Family Life
00:14:29 - Yoga Journey: From Banking to Motherhood
00:21:11 - Healing the Inner Child through Yoga and Acceptance
00:26:04 - Navigating Parenting Shifts and Teenage Challenges
00:30:14 - An 11-Year-Old's Emotional Breakthrough
00:33:48 - Navigating Trust and Empowering Teens
00:37:02 - Conscious Parenting: Planting Seeds of Awareness
00:40:04 - Navigating Parenting with Empathy and Acceptance
00:44:11 - Navigating the Balance Between Freedom and Expectations
00:48:25 - Embracing Freedom and Exploration in Parenting
00:51:08 - Parenting from the Heart: Pause, Reflect, Heal
00:54:37 - Embracing the Journey of Parenting

Andrea’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inner_transformation_is_real/

In this inspiring episode, Lisa Flynn, a heart-centered leadership coach, shares her transformative journey from discovering yoga in San Francisco to guiding others in finding their true path. Lisa reflects on how yoga helped her align different aspects of herself, allowing her to step into her purpose with ease and power. Her story takes listeners through experiences of self-discovery, including her time studying in India and serving in the Peace Corps, which deepened her understanding of aligning her values with her actions.

Lisa emphasizes the importance of welcoming all parts of oneself and allowing them to work together harmoniously. She discusses her transition from teaching yoga to becoming a coach, finding fulfillment in guiding others through personal transformation. Lisa also shares her personal journey of reconnecting with her musical talents, overcoming self-doubt, and exploring new passions with joy and curiosity.

Throughout the episode, Lisa talks about the importance of setting personal boundaries, listening to inner guidance, and the courage it takes to make life changes. She encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves and trust the process of growth. This episode offers a powerful message about self-awareness, personal development, and living an authentic life.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 - The beginning of Lisa's journey with yoga and self-discovery.

00:05:36 - Transitioning from yoga teaching to coaching.

00:10:02 - Discovering her musical talents and overcoming self-consciousness.

00:16:13 - The value of welcoming all parts of oneself.

00:23:00 - Setting boundaries and the courage to make big life changes.

00:31:33 - The importance of personal growth and the impact of self-awareness.

00:36:15 - How to embrace new opportunities and take action toward goals.

00:46:05 - The power of self-reflection and recognizing personal transformations.

00:49:52 - Offering free coaching sessions and the value of service to others.

Lisa’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelisaflynn/

Lisa’s Website: https://www.thelisaflynn.com/

Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/

Going Pro Yoga Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goingproyoga/

Going Pro Yoga 7-Day Free Trial: https://goingproyoga.com/

Join us in Bali for live trainings: https://www.elementsofpoweryoga.com/advancedtrainings

Charmaine, a mother of four and former stay-at-home mom, shares her inspiring journey from divorce to becoming a digital nomad and yoga teacher in Bali. After breaking her spine in 2014, Charmaine’s strong yoga practice helped her recover, and now she aims to share yoga’s transformative power with others. Her story highlights resilience, healing, and the empowering effects of yoga.

The discussion further delves into how yoga goes beyond physical practice, infusing one's personal and professional life with presence and intuition. The speakers emphasize embracing both pleasure and discomfort as paths to self-discovery, and the importance of slow, deep breathing in accessing higher states of awareness. They explore the connection between the throat chakra and the womb, and how creative energy flows through this link.

Listeners are encouraged to confront their fears, embrace the duality of pain and pleasure, and explore the richness of the human experience by moving towards what terrifies them. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth and the continuous journey of self-discovery.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

03:55 - Embracing Imperfections and Gratitude

07:24 - From Stay-at-Home Mom to Digital Nomad Entrepreneur

09:41 - Yoga's Transformative Impact: Breath, Intuition, and Life Integration

18:50 - Embracing Triggers for Personal Growth

23:31 - Activating Chakras Through Slow, Mindful Yoga

42:44 - Breath, Chakras, and the Home as a Mirror

44:52 - Simplifying Life Through Decluttering

45:52 - The Power of Breath: Unifying Pain and Pleasure

49:27 - Embracing the Duality of Pain and Pleasure

54:29 - Embracing Pleasure and Pain

56:24 - Embracing Discomfort for Growth

57:23 - Finding the Exciting and Fearful Spot

Charmaine’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charmainemitchell/?hl=en

Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/

Going Pro Yoga Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goingproyoga/

Going Pro Yoga 7-Day Free Trial: https://goingproyoga.com/

Join us in Bali for live trainings: https://www.elementsofpoweryoga.com/advancedtrainings