Ever feel like someone else’s success means you’re falling behind? You're not alone.

In this episode, we explore the emotional trap of comparison—and how it often leads to scarcity thinking, self-doubt, and isolation. Whether you're a yoga teacher, creative, or entrepreneur, it’s easy to wonder, “Am I doing enough?” But comparison, when left unchecked, can shrink our sense of possibility and worth.

Instead, this episode invites a mindset shift: from competition to community, and from scarcity to shared abundance. You’ll hear reflections on the yogic philosophy of aparigraha (non-attachment), the neuroscience of social comparison, and how genuine inspiration can rewire the brain for creativity and courage.

With real-life metaphors (like running behind a pace-setter), affirmations, and somatic practices, this episode encourages you to celebrate others without dimming your own light. Because someone else’s success isn’t your loss—it’s proof of what’s possible.

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Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:23 Scarcity vs. Enoughness

00:05:09 Shifting the Comparison Lens

00:09:41 Yogic Philosophy: Aparigraha

00:11:19 Science: Fear & the Brain

00:14:48 Isolation vs. Collective Growth

00:17:46 Real-Life Example: Physio Teamwork

00:19:56 Comparison as Pace, Not Threat

00:22:29 Sangha & Shared Success

00:24:22 Hormones: Cortisol vs. Oxytocin

00:25:17 Embodied Reflection Practice

00:27:49 Reflective Questions

00:30:20 Closing Meditation

00:32:28 Bonus Reflections

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📚 Mentions & Resources:

• Yogic concept: Aparigraha (non-attachment)

• Yogic concept: Sangha (community)

• Science: Amygdala activation, cortisol, oxytocin

• Metaphor: Running behind a pace-setter
  

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

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

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Tags: scarcity mindset, abundance, comparison trap, yoga philosophy, community, growth mindset, personal development, aparigraha, neuroscience, enoughness, self-worth, inspiration, collaboration

What if starting over wasn’t a sign of failure… but an act of courage?

This episode dives deep into the emotional and psychological journey of beginning again—whether it's a new habit, role, relationship, or mindset. It explores how fear of failure often blocks us from saying “yes” to new opportunities, and how adopting a beginner’s mindset can help us stay curious, resilient, and open to growth.

Through personal reflection and a story about volunteering at a yoga festival, the speaker shares how keeping a simple “Courage Journal” helped transform habitual “no’s” into brave “yes’s.” The episode weaves together yogic philosophy (like svadhyaya and abhyasa), Zen teachings (shoshin), and neuroscience (neuroplasticity) to illustrate how starting fresh isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom in action.

You’ll be guided through reflection prompts and a short breath-based meditation to reconnect with the idea that it’s not only safe to begin again—it’s brave.

💡 A gentle, powerful reminder: you don’t have to be perfect to begin. You just have to begin.

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Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:35 Emotional contrast: Fear vs. Curiosity

00:06:00 The Courage Journal story

00:12:34 What is curiosity and wonder?

00:14:34 Yogic and Zen perspectives on beginner's mind

00:15:45 Brain science and neuroplasticity

00:20:00 Judgment vs. Trust in the Process

00:24:16 The illusion of control

00:27:24 Growth isn’t linear

00:30:01 Releasing the pressure to be good

00:31:28 Abhyasa & Vairagya – non-attachment and effort

00:33:41 Adaptability as strength

00:34:50 Affirmations: “It’s safe to be a beginner”

00:37:38 Closing meditation

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📚 Mentions & Resources:

• Zen Buddhism: Shoshin – beginner’s mind

• Yoga Philosophy: Svadhyaya, Abhyasa, Vairagya

• Neuroscience: neuroplasticity, growth mindset

• Movie: Yes Man (Jim Carrey)
  

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

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

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Tags: beginner’s mindset, courage, self-growth, personal development, yoga philosophy, fear of failure, neuroscience, abhyasa, non-attachment, curiosity, starting fresh, emotional intelligence, mindset shift

What if stress, overwhelm, and the pressure to “push through” are signals—not signs of weakness, but invitations to slow down?

In this powerful episode, Ethan Brown shares his personal experience with burnout and anxiety, including the moment that made him step away from teaching yoga and return to healing.

Ethan talks candidly about the illusion of perfection, especially for yoga teachers, and the fear of being seen as “not spiritual enough” when experiencing mental health struggles. He opens up about seeking help, the role of therapy, and how honoring his nervous system became the most spiritual act of all.

This conversation unpacks the dangers of spiritual bypassing, the power of nervous system awareness, and how rest and boundaries are critical for long-term resilience. It’s a raw and affirming listen for anyone who’s ever felt the pressure to perform, to always be okay, or to be someone they’re not.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:45 Ethan's burnout journey

00:09:20 Anxiety and identity

00:14:58 Breaking the pattern of perfection

00:20:16 The moment he paused teaching

00:26:50 Nervous system & embodiment

00:33:22 Yoga teachers and shame

00:39:45 Rest as resistance

00:46:30 The return to authenticity

00:52:05 Tools for coming home

00:58:30 Closing reflections

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📌 Mentions

• Ethan Brown’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethpraylove/

• Ethan’s Substack: https://substack.com/@ethprayreflections?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page
  

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

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

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Tags: yoga and mental health, burnout recovery, nervous system healing, spiritual bypassing, anxiety and embodiment, yoga teacher journey, authenticity, emotional regulation, rest and resilience, trauma-informed yoga

Do you speak to yourself the way you speak to a friend?

In this episode, you'll be invited to gently explore the way you treat yourself—especially during moments of failure, doubt, or pressure. It’s a powerful reminder that self-compassion is not weakness; it’s wisdom in action.

The conversation centers around the contrast between self-criticism and self-kindness, especially for teachers, facilitators, or anyone in a leadership role. You’ll learn how the voice of the inner critic often disguises itself as motivation, but usually leads to burnout, disconnection, or shame. Instead, the episode highlights self-kindness as a skill—a grounded, conscious act that fuels resilience and real presence.

From a yogic lens, this is the practice of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Svadhyaya (self-study). From a neuroscience view, it’s about regulating your nervous system to create safety and clarity. And from a practical level, it’s about building a relationship with yourself that is rooted in respect, care, and steady truth.

This episode will leave you reflecting on how you lead, love, and live—from within.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:01:44 Self-Criticism vs Self-Kindness

00:04:16 Ahimsa and the Inner Voice

00:06:48 Inner Punishment vs Inner Presence

00:08:58 Leadership Through Self-Compassion

00:11:07 Svadhyaya and Regulating the Nervous System

00:13:35 Presence Over Perfection

00:16:07 Leading from Self-Kindness

00:18:44 Breath and Mantra Practice

00:21:04 Reflective Prompts and Closing

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📌 Mentions & Resources

Yogic Concepts:

• Ahimsa (non-violence)

• Svadhyaya (self-study)
  

Reflective Prompts (shared in episode):

• When I notice self-criticism arise, what could I say instead?

• What small act of kindness could I offer myself today?

• How does self-compassion strengthen my ability to hold space for others?

• When have I extended compassion to others—and how can I offer that to myself?

• What parts of me are asking for understanding, not judgment?

• I choose presence over perfection—what does that feel like in my body?

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

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

  
  

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Tags: self-compassion, leadership, yoga philosophy, ahimsa, svadhyaya, personal growth, nervous system, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, authenticity, presence

What if you didn’t have to earn belonging—because it was already inside you?

This episode explores the difference between seeking approval and trusting your own worth. So many of us shrink ourselves, wear masks, or change who we are just to feel accepted. But belonging isn’t something we gain from others—it’s something we remember within ourselves.

The conversation dives into the idea that molding yourself to please others can feel safe in the moment, but over time it pulls you further from your truth. Drawing from yogic philosophy (Asmita, Satya, and Santosha) and neuroscience, the episode shows how authenticity and self-compassion lead to stronger relationships, inner peace, and true resilience.

Through journal prompts, gentle breathing practices, and reflective mantras, you’ll be guided back to the part of you that knows: I am already enough. I belong to myself. This episode is for anyone who’s tired of performing and ready to live in integrity with who they truly are.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:03:42 Seeking Approval vs. Inner Worth

00:08:16 Yoga Lens: Asmita and Atman

00:10:53 Scientific View: Self-Compassion & Belonging

00:13:39 Reflective Prompts: What Are You Hiding?

00:16:44 Performing vs. Integrity

00:22:08 Neuroscience of Authenticity

00:25:50 Belonging Lives Within

00:28:11 Final Reflection Prompts

00:29:45 Closing Mantras & Breathwork

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📌 Mentions & Resources

• Previous Episode: Inner Critic vs. True Self (recommended for context)
  

• Yogic Concepts:
  

• • Asmita (false identity)

  • Atman (soul, true self)

  • Satya (truthfulness)

  • Santosha (contentment)
    

• Reflective Prompts (shared in episode):
  

• • Where have I mistaken external approval for true belonging?

  • What parts of myself have I hidden to be accepted?

  • What would it feel like to let them be seen?

  • What does my body feel like when I’m rooted in my truth?

  • What small act can I take today to honor my belonging from within?

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

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

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Tags: belonging, self-worth, integrity, asmita, satya, santosha, self-compassion, authenticity, inner critic, approval seeking, yoga philosophy, personal growth, nervous system, emotional health, true self

Have you ever heard a voice inside you whisper, “You’re not good enough”?

This episode is a gentle and powerful reminder that your inner critic is not who you really are. It explores how that harsh inner voice—the one that tells you you’re not ready, smart enough, or worthy—can sound convincing, but it isn’t the truth of your being. That voice comes from fear and old patterns, not from your deepest self.

Using both yoga philosophy and neuroscience, the episode explains the idea of Asmita (false identity), which is when we mistake our thoughts, labels, or past mistakes for who we are. But underneath the noise is your true self—calm, compassionate, and clear. The path forward isn’t to silence the critic completely, but to stop letting it run your life.

With reflection prompts, breath practices, and mantras, you’ll learn how to shift your focus from fear to inner wisdom. This episode is an invitation to come home to yourself—one small breath at a time.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:06 The Inner Critic Speaks

00:04:54 The Idea of Asmita

00:05:47 Fear and the Brain

00:07:00 You Are Not Your Thoughts

00:10:55 False Identity vs. Inner Wisdom

00:13:18 New Neural Pathways

00:16:04 Breath + Mantra Practice

00:18:48 Reflective Journaling Prompts

00:22:51 Key Takeaways

00:25:34 Closing Mantras

00:27:50 Final Reflections

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Concepts from Yogic Philosophy:

• Asmita (false identity)

• Purusha (pure consciousness)

• Atman (soul)
  

Referenced Book or Movie:

• Inside Out (Pixar film about emotions)
  

Reflective Prompts Shared in the Episode:

• “What roles or thoughts am I mistaking for my true self?”

• “Where has my inner wisdom already guided me?”

• “When does my inner critic speak the loudest?”

• “What evidence do I have that I am growing—even with fear present?”

• “If I trusted my true self 5% more, what small choice might I make?”
  

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

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

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Tags: inner critic, self-worth, yoga philosophy, asmita, self-doubt, identity, imposter syndrome, true self, self-compassion, self-awareness, personal growth, inner wisdom, breathwork, mindset, confidence

📌 Mentions & Resources

What’s really keeping you stuck—fear of regret or fear of change?

In this powerful episode, the emotional journey of letting go reaches its final stage. It explores the tension between attachment and freedom, and regret versus relief—those final moments of decision when you’re standing at a crossroads.

Attachment feels safe because it’s familiar, even when it’s no longer helping us grow. Freedom feels light and open but can be scary because it invites change and uncertainty. When we let go—whether of a role, a relationship, or a routine—we often fear regret. But what usually follows is a sense of relief, clarity, and renewed energy.

This episode combines insights from neuroscience and yoga philosophy, especially Aparigraha (non-attachment) and Ishvarapranidhana (surrender to something greater), offering real tools to navigate the fear of change. You’ll be invited to reflect on what you’re clinging to, and what you might gain by letting it go—even if it’s uncomfortable at first.

Let this episode be the gentle push you need to move toward more space, more ease, and more self-trust.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:02:20 Attachment vs. Freedom

00:05:29 Nervous System and Change

00:08:43 Yogic Lens: Aparigraha

00:10:47 Letting Go as a Life Practice

00:14:24 Living in the Present

00:18:53 Fear of Regret vs. Relief

00:23:36 Svadhyaya & Self-Study

00:25:06 Ishvarapranidhana: Trust in the Unknown

00:26:26 Practice and Mantra

00:28:00 Conscious Decision Making

00:29:48 Closing Reflections

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📌 Mentions & Resources

• Previous Episode Mentioned:

• • Part 1: Pushing Forward or Letting Go: Hope vs Grief

  • Part 2: When Pride Gets in the Way
    

• Yogic Philosophy Concepts:

• • Aparigraha – non-attachment

  • Ishvarapranidhana – surrender/trust in the higher self

  • Svadhyaya – self-study
    

• Breath + Mantra Practice (timestamp ~26:36):

• • Inhale: “I trust myself.”

  • Exhale: “I release what no longer serves me.”
    

• Suggested Reflection Prompts:

• • What am I clinging to, and what is it costing me?

  • If I had permission to choose freedom, what would that look like?

  • What’s keeping me stuck—fear of regret or fear of change
    

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

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

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Tags: attachment, freedom, letting go, non-attachment, yoga philosophy, emotional growth, regret, surrender, trust, neuroscience, nervous system, self-reflection, svadhyaya, aparigraha, ishvarapranidhana

What if your pride is holding you back from growing into who you're meant to become?

This episode explores the emotional tug-of-war between pride and humility—and how these internal forces show up when we’re faced with tough decisions, like whether to keep pushing forward or finally let go.

Pride can give us confidence, but it can also isolate us, especially when it turns into fear of failure or needing to “look strong.” Humility, on the other hand, isn’t about weakness—it’s about being honest with ourselves, even when it’s uncomfortable.

We also dive into identity vs. disorientation—what happens when we let go of a role or relationship that once defined us. It can feel like losing a part of who we are, but it’s often the first step toward finding clarity and creating something new.

With reflections from yoga philosophy and neuroscience, this episode invites you to slow down, get real with yourself, and ask the hard questions—so you can meet the version of you that’s ready to emerge.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction

00:01:33 Pride vs. Humility

00:05:52 Neuroscience and Pride

00:07:02 Yogic Lens: Aparigraha and Ishvarapranidhana

00:08:07 Reflection Practice

00:08:51 Identity vs. Disorientation

00:10:13 Ego Death and Freedom

00:10:52 Self-Inquiry and Svadhyaya

00:14:15 Mantra: I Am Becoming

00:14:24 Integration and Reflection

00:16:23 Preview of Next Episode

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📌 Mentions & Resources

• Previous Episode Mentioned:

• • Part 1: Pushing Forward or Letting Go: Hope vs Grief

  • Ep# 155: Cultivating True Confidence: Building Pride and Self-Acceptance
    

• Future Episode Mentioned:

• • Part 3: Attachment vs. Freedom & Regret vs. Relief
    

• Yogic Philosophy Concepts:

• • Aparigraha (non-attachment)

  • Ishvarapranidhana (surrender to the divine)

  • Svadhyaya (self-study)
    

• Book Mentions:

• • Live the Life of Empowerment by Kefah Bates

  • Buddha - His Life and Teachings
    

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

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

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Tags: pride, humility, identity, ego, emotional growth, self-inquiry, svadhyaya, yoga philosophy, surrender, letting go, transformation, nervous system, integrity, self-awareness