Ep 195 Eddie Stern - From Ashtanga to Exploration

www.eddiestern.com | @eddiestern

Eddie Stern discusses his evolving relationship with yoga, moving from a strict Ashtanga practice to a more holistic approach that incorporates various elements of yoga, spirituality, and personal well-being. He emphasizes the importance of community, the role of the temple in his spiritual life, and the need to adapt practices to suit individual needs. Eddie also reflects on the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern science, advocating for a personalized yoga experience that fosters growth and self-discovery

Key Points

· Eddie's yoga practice has evolved significantly over the years.

· The temple serves as a vital space for spiritual expression.

· Transitioning from Ashtanga allowed Eddie to explore a more holistic approach to yoga.

· Community and relationships play a crucial role in the yoga journey.

· Listening to one's body is essential for a sustainable practice.

· Eddie integrates scientific research into his yoga teachings.

· Personal growth is a continuous journey in yoga and life.

· Diversity in yoga practices is important for individual needs.

· Eddie emphasizes the importance of joy and creativity in practice.

· The future of yoga lies in embracing change and personal exploration.

Adam discusses the pervasive issue of systemic abuse within the yoga community, particularly in Ashtanga yoga. He explores the impact of hierarchy and control, the role of language in perpetuating abuse, and the various forms of psychological and physical abuse that can occur in yoga spaces. Adam emphasizes the need for accountability among teachers, the importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue, and the necessity for change within the community to address discrimination and gaslighting. He concludes with a call to action for teachers and students alike to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment in yoga.

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga

"Language can mean different things to different people."

Key Points

• · Systemic abuse exists in the yoga world, particularly in Ashtanga.
• · Hierarchy and control can lead to psychological and physical abuse.
• · Language used in yoga can have different meanings and implications.
• · Psychological abuse is often more prevalent than physical abuse.
• · Discrimination and ableism are significant issues in yoga spaces.
• · Teachers have a responsibility to create safe environments for students.
• · Gaslighting and denial are common responses from teachers when confronted with abuse.
• · There is a lack of accountability and transparency in yoga teaching.
• · Creating avenues for feedback is essential for improvement.
• · We must encourage open dialogue to address these issues.

Explore Beryl Bender’s journey into yoga, her experiences with Ashtanga, and the evolution of Power Yoga. Beryl shares her insights on the importance of mindfulness, the intersection of yoga and meditation, and the moral responsibilities of yogis in today's world. They discuss the challenges of aging in practice, the significance of teaching philosophy, and the need for activism in the yoga community. Beryl's optimistic outlook on life and her dedication to her practice shine through as she reflects on her past and future aspirations.

www.power-yoga.com | @berylbenderbirch

Key Points

· Beryl's early curiosity about life's big questions led her to yoga.

· Her first yoga class was Kundalini yoga with Yogi Bhajan.

· Beryl was inspired by Norman Allen's Ashtanga practice.

· Power Yoga was created to make yoga accessible to athletes.

· Beryl modified Ashtanga to suit the needs of her students.

· The practice of yoga is about learning to pay attention.

· Aging brings challenges, but Beryl remains optimistic and dedicated.

· Activism and yoga are intertwined; yogis have a moral obligation to speak out.

· Beryl emphasizes the importance of meditation in yoga practice.

· She has no regrets and believes everything happens for a reason.