Let's Talk Yoga

What is Vishoka Meditation, and how can it help us move beyond sorrow? I sit down with Ishan Tigunait of the Himalayan Institute to discuss consciousness, breath, meditation, and the deeper purpose of yoga practice. Episode Highlights: Himalayan tradition and lineageUnderstanding consciousnessTechnique versus experienceFoundations of Vishoka MeditationMoving beyond sorrow and sufferingObstacles on the spiritual pathBody, breath, and prana awarenessSignificance of the navel centerCharacterist...

Transcribed - Published: 31 May 2026

I’m joined by Andrew McGonigle for a deep dive into Ujjayi Pranayama, the breath technique often called “ocean breath.” We explore the anatomy, nervous system effects, breath retention, and why Ujjayi is far more nuanced than most modern yoga classes make it seem. Episode Highlights: Ujjayi breath foundationsUjjayi body mechanicsInhalation versus exhalation useUjjayi in vinyasa yogaBreath literacy beyond techniqueBreath as tool, not goalNatural breath versus UjjayiUjjayi and nervous system r...

Transcribed - Published: 24 May 2026

I’m sharing the deeply personal story behind why I revamped my Pranayama Teacher Training and how grief transformed my relationship with breath, pranayama, and teaching yoga. I also dive into breath literacy, why breath is more than just a technique, why Ujjayi is often overused, and the foundational breathing principles I believe every yoga student and teacher should understand. Episode Highlights: Revamped Pranayama training launchPersonal pranayama backstoryGrief and relationship with bre...

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2026

What’s the real difference between a yoga teacher and a content creator? In this episode, I break down the subtle (but important) signs that can help you tell them apart, so you can choose how and who you learn from more intentionally. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by courses, content, or conflicting advice online, this one will help you cut through the noise. Episode Highlights: Distinguishing teachers vs content creatorsRecognizing modern yoga landscape shiftsUnderstanding intention vs i...

Transcribed - Published: 3 May 2026

Should you teach stretch or strength first in your yoga classes? In this episode, I break down a clear, practical framework for sequencing, especially for beginners. Learn how to balance flexibility, strength, and mobility in a way that builds confidence, prevents injury, and actually supports long-term progress. If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to structure your classes, this one’s for you. Episode Highlights: Stretch vs strength sequencing clarityTeaching beyond rigid formulasFlexibili...

Transcribed - Published: 19 April 2026

I sit down with Vikram Jeet Singh to explore Sankhya—the philosophical framework behind yoga—and how it helps us understand the mind, reduce suffering, and cultivate real awareness. It’s a practical, eye-opening conversation on discernment, identity, and seeing clearly. Episode Highlights: Sankhya pronunciation clarifiedWhat Sankhya is and why it matters todaySankhya as philosophy vs. psychological frameworkHow Sankhya is practiced in real lifeCore structure and framework of SankhyaThe goal ...

Transcribed - Published: 5 April 2026

What does it really mean to be a good yoga student? In this conversation, I sit down with Medha Bhaskar to explore the framework described in the Hatha Yoga Pradeepika for cultivating a meaningful yoga practice. We talk about the importance of understanding the principle before the process and how the mindset we bring to our practice shapes what we learn from it. Medha walks us through the Badhaka Tattvas (the habits that weaken a practice) and the Sadhaka Tattvas (the qualities that strengt...

Transcribed - Published: 29 March 2026

Teaching mixed level classes can feel overwhelming, especially when your students are all at different stages in their practice. In this episode, I share simple, practical ways to structure your classes, offer options, and create a more inclusive and confident teaching experience. Episode Highlights: Mixed-level classes are the norm and should be approached with that mindsetThe distinction between mixed-level and all-level classesThe importance of shifting from sequence-focused to student-fo...

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2026

Are we actually studying yoga, or just consuming it? In this episode, I explore the traditional frameworks that shaped authentic yogic learning and why modern education often skips the foundations. If you’re serious about deepening your practice beyond certifications, this conversation will shift your perspective. Episode Highlights: The difference between modern yoga education and traditional teacher-student learningWhy student qualification (Adhikari Bheda) mattered before receiving teachi...

Transcribed - Published: 22 February 2026

Hormones influence how we move, rest, recover, and show up on the mat, yet they’re rarely discussed clearly in yoga spaces. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Manasa Rao to explore what yoga teachers need to understand about the hormonal body through both modern science and yogic wisdom. We talk about stress, rhythm, pranayama, women’s hormonal cycles, and how yoga can support balance through listening and alignment without overstepping into medical advice. Episode Highlights: Are hormones...

Transcribed - Published: 8 February 2026

Sequencing doesn’t start with themes or peak poses, it starts with understanding the pose itself. In this episode, I introduce pose literacy and explain why it’s the missing link behind clearer, safer, and more intelligent sequencing. Using Downward-Facing Dog as a real example, I break down how learning to read a pose beyond alignment can completely change how you teach, sequence, and support your students. Episode Highlights: Why modern sequencing often skips the most essential stepWhat po...

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2026

A deep dive into yoga sequencing, what it actually is, why it matters, and the most common mistakes yoga teachers make when planning classes, I break down the difference between choreography and intentional sequencing, explore the role of the pranic and nervous systems, and share nine sequencing missteps to avoid for safer, smarter, and more sustainable teaching. This episode is especially relevant for yoga teachers who want to build confidence, longevity, and depth in their classes. Episode...

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2026

As we begin a new year, I’m reflecting on a question that quietly shapes every yoga teacher’s journey: why do you teach? In this episode, I share personal insights from my own path, the lessons that only time and experience reveal, and why certifications alone don’t create longevity in teaching. I also share details about the upcoming 300-hour online teacher training, live Q&A session, and important dates if you’re considering taking the next step in your practice or teaching. Episode Hi...

Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2026

This episode feels like a full-circle moment as I wrap up the final episode of 2025. Before we step into a new year, I take some time to share what’s coming up in 2026 for the Let’s Talk Yoga and Aham Yoga community. There’s a lot unfolding, from a brand-new 300-hour online yoga teacher training to in-person study and international travel, and I wanted to lay it all out clearly so you know what’s ahead and how to be part of it. After the updates, I’m joined by Rebecca from the Working in Yog...

Transcribed - Published: 29 December 2025

Inversions don’t have to be intimidating, flashy, or reserved for advanced students. In this episode, I break down the three pillars of teaching inversions and share how to approach being upside down with structure, progression, and nervous system awareness. If you’ve ever felt unsure about when, how, or why to teach inversions, this framework will bring clarity and confidence to your teaching. Episode Highlights: Why inversions were traditionally practiced as tools for regulation, not perfo...

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2025

If you’ve ever felt like you’re “winging it” when planning your yoga classes, this episode will help you fix that for good. I break down my Sequence Smarter Framework and walk you through seven simple questions that will instantly make your sequences clearer, more intentional, and easier to teach. Whether you’re new to sequencing or ready to level up your teaching, this guide will change the way you plan your classes. Episode Highlights: Why many yoga teachers struggle with sequencing and en...

Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2025

If you’ve ever felt stuck repeating the same physical cues in your classes, this episode is going to open up a whole new way of thinking about teaching. I’m breaking down what it really means to move from gross to subtle, how subtle cueing works, and why it’s the key to creating deeper, more meaningful yoga experiences. You’ll walk away with practical tools you can use right away—no fluff, no woo, just clearer teaching. Episode Highlights: Explanation of the Teach Smarter module and how this...

Transcribed - Published: 23 November 2025

After years of saying no, I’m finally bringing back my 300-hour yoga teacher training — and I can’t wait to tell you why! In this episode, I share how this new online program came to life, what makes it different, and how it’s designed to help you teach, sequence, and breathe smarter. If you’ve been craving more depth, clarity, and confidence in your yoga journey, this one’s for you. Episode Highlights: Why I decided to finally relaunch my 300-hour training after years of saying noThe gaps I...

Transcribed - Published: 16 November 2025

Our feet are our foundation, but most of us don’t give them much thought until something goes wrong. In this episode, I chat with physical therapist and movement educator Michelle Edmison about how reconnecting with your feet can transform not just your yoga practice, but your whole life. We explore foot anatomy, posture, brain-body connection, and why strong, mobile feet are key to balance and longevity. Michelle also shares practical tips you can start right away to restore strength, sensi...

Transcribed - Published: 9 November 2025

Autoimmune diseases can feel isolating and unpredictable, but yoga offers both science and hope. I sit down with yoga therapist and researcher Renu Jain to explore how stress, the gut, and the immune system are connected; and how personalized yoga, pranayama, and mindfulness can support healing from the inside out. Episode Highlights: Introduction to guest Renu Jain and her background at Kaivalyadhama.Understanding what autoimmune diseases are and how they affect the body.Exploring common sh...

Transcribed - Published: 2 November 2025

Yoga doesn’t just live on the mat; it’s how we show up in everyday life. I share 30 simple ways to live like a yogi, from practicing gratitude and silence to decluttering, serving others, and reconnecting with nature. Small daily acts that bring awareness, compassion, and joy into the ordinary. Episode Highlights: Updates on the upcoming 300-hour teacher training and free cueing workshopInspiration behind the episode: a personal 30-day mindfulness listThe cultural meaning of the word yogi an...

Transcribed - Published: 26 October 2025

When trust is broken in yoga spaces, the impact runs deep. I talk about sexual harassment, abuse of power, and misconduct in the yoga world—why silence protects harm, how to recognize red flags, and what we can do to rebuild safety and integrity in our communities. Episode Highlights: Announcements about upcoming workshops and the 300-hour online trainingReflection on recent misconduct cases in the yoga community and what they revealPersonal story of confronting harassment within Aru’s own d...

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2025

The story behind Ashtavakrasana, or Eight-Angled Pose, is as powerful as the pose itself. I share the tale of Sage Ashtavakra—born bent in eight places and mocked by many—whose wisdom and self-realization transformed both body and spirit. Discover how his journey teaches us to find strength in awkwardness, grace in imperfection, and alignment beyond the body. Episode Highlights: Announcements about upcoming online and in-studio programs at Aham YogaIntroduction to the monthly “Mythical Stori...

Transcribed - Published: 12 October 2025

Join me and Dr. Andrew McGonigle as we unpack the difference between pain and inflammation, how language and mindset shape the way students experience discomfort, and what yoga teachers can do to create safe, supportive spaces. From understanding acute vs. chronic pain to practical advice on guiding students you’ve just met, this conversation blends science with compassion to give you tools you can use in every class. Episode Highlights: Defining pain: What it is, how the brain creates it, a...

Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2025

Mindfulness and meditation often get used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. In this episode, I explain how mindfulness sets the stage for meditation, why they nourish each other like soil and roots, and how cultural context shapes our understanding of both. You’ll also learn the most common pitfalls of meditation and get simple, practical tips to build a steady practice without frustration. Episode Highlights: Why mindfulness and meditation are often confused in modern wellness cult...

Transcribed - Published: 28 September 2025

Discover the deeper meaning of Shavāsana beyond just lying down at the end of class. I share two powerful mythological stories that reveal how this pose symbolizes surrender, rebirth, and transformation, and why it deserves as much respect as any peak pose in your yoga practice. Episode Highlights: Reflecting on the popularity of mythical pose stories and listener feedbackWhy Shavāsana is misunderstood and often rushed through in modern yogaOrigin of the term and its deeper meaning: corpse a...

Transcribed - Published: 7 September 2025

I sat down with Medha Bhaskar to unpack the real value behind 200- and 300-hour yoga teacher trainings. We explored why so many programs fall short of preparing teachers, what’s often missing in modern yoga education, and how personal practice and mentorship can make all the difference. If you’ve ever wondered whether certifications alone create great teachers, this episode is a must-listen. Episode Highlights: Why Medha became interested in yoga teacher training and what inspired her journe...

Transcribed - Published: 29 August 2025

After three weeks back in India, I’m sharing my fresh perspective on the yoga scene in 2025. From bustling rooftop classes to the deep sense of community in local shalas, yoga here feels refreshingly different from the West. I talk about how access has grown, what’s stayed true to tradition, and the small cultural quirks that make practicing in India so unique. Episode Highlights: How yoga access in India has expanded dramatically since 2012The cultural and practical differences between yoga...

Transcribed - Published: 17 August 2025

While I’m still in India, I wanted to revisit one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve had on the podcast, with Judith Hanson Lasater on non-violent communication for yoga teachers. I chose to share this episode again after receiving a surprising email that made me reflect deeply on how we speak to our teachers, students, and each other in the yoga space. This conversation is a beautiful reminder of how Ahimsa and respect show up not just in our practice, but in our communication, espec...

Transcribed - Published: 10 August 2025

While I’m in India for the next few weeks, I wanted to bring back a special conversation that still feels incredibly relevant today. This episode features Vikram Singh as we talk about what it’s like to study yoga in India, how it compares to the Western approach, the value of traditional yoga education, and the unique cultural immersion that shapes the practice. If you’ve ever been curious about yoga universities, 200-hour courses in India, or finding authentic teachers in the middle of yog...

Transcribed - Published: 3 August 2025

Have you ever paused to wonder about the story behind Virabhadrasana, or Warrior Pose? It’s one of the most iconic shapes we teach and practice, yet so few know the mythological roots that give it true meaning. In this episode, I share the epic story of love, rage, devotion, and transformation that birthed this powerful pose. This tale is one I’ve wanted to tell for a long time, and I hope it brings fresh depth to your practice and teaching. Episode Highlights: The background behind creating...

Transcribed - Published: 27 July 2025

As summer heats up, there’s no better time to bring intentional breathwork into your classes, and your own practice. In this episode, I share two powerful and accessible cooling pranayamas: Sheetali and Sheetkari. These ancient practices offer immediate relief from physical and emotional heat, making them perfect for summer classes, outdoor yoga, or anytime your nervous system needs calming. If you’re a yoga teacher who wants to move beyond asana and bring more depth to your teaching, this i...

Transcribed - Published: 17 July 2025

Teaching yoga for over a decade has shown me that injury prevention is one of the most overlooked but essential parts of our practice. Yoga injuries don’t usually happen in a dramatic fall or twist, they build up quietly over time when we’re not paying attention. That’s why in this episode, I’m sharing 10 straightforward, practical tips to help you avoid injuries and keep your yoga sustainable for years to come. These insights come from my experience teaching thousands of students and runnin...

Transcribed - Published: 6 July 2025

Props often get misunderstood in the yoga world. They’re seen as crutches, shortcuts, or something only beginners need. But in this episode, I’m joined by Iyengar yoga teacher Stephanie Tencer to go deeper into the purpose and power of props. We explore how props aren’t just tools for accessibility but can become key to revealing alignment, building body awareness, and transforming your practice from the inside out. Whether you’re new to props or have been using them for years, Stephanie bre...

Transcribed - Published: 29 June 2025

To celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga, I wanted to reflect on how yoga extends far beyond the mat. In this episode, I share some of the most meaningful ways I’ve learned to live yoga in everyday life, through thoughts, actions, and awareness, not just physical poses. Over the years, I’ve come to believe that some of the most powerful yoga happens when no one is watching, and when we’re not even in a class. Whether you’re going through a joyful moment or a tough season, there’s alwa...

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025

Summer can be a tricky season to keep students engaged, studios empty out, routines shift, and the heat affects how people move and feel. That’s why I’m sharing my personal approach to summer sequencing, rooted in yoga’s energetic qualities (gunas) and years of studio experience. In this episode, I break down how to teach smarter in the heat, using simple, adaptable techniques to help your students feel balanced, not burned out. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned pro, these three met...

Transcribed - Published: 15 June 2025

As a yoga teacher, are you aware of the similarities between the Bhagavad Geeta & the Yoga Sutras Of Patanjali? Or even the vast differences between these two texts? Often discussed in isolation but never together. On the show today, long-time yoga teacher Vikram Jeet Singh gives you the clearest, concise, and thought-provoking layout of these two texts. He tells you exactly where they meet, where they diverge & where you should start and how. He takes a complex topic and mak...

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2025

Do you as a yoga teacher have clarity about what is Sanatana Dharma & Hinduism? Do you understand its link to yoga? Or are you confused about where to start understanding this topic? Have you wondered is yoga a religious practice? Savira Gupta, is a long-time yoga student, teacher, and practitioner. We've often turned to her on this podcast for her insight, knowledge, and clarity on complex, subtle topics. In this episode, Savira helps us understand Sanatana Dharma and Hinduism and the...

Transcribed - Published: 18 May 2025

In this episode, I share five important lessons I have learned from practicing yoga, which include letting go of mental and physical burdens, being kind to ourselves, and building inner resilience. These lessons are not just applicable to yoga but can be incorporated into our daily lives to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Episode Highlights: Insights on yoga poses and life lessons.Yoga poses offer valuable life lessons in different shapes5 things yoga poses teach us about naviga...

Transcribed - Published: 11 May 2025

In this episode of the Let's Talk Yoga podcast, we welcome Savitha Enner, a fellow yoga teacher from Karnataka, India. Savitha shares her unique perspective on living yogic wisdom, which she affectionately calls the "lazy person's approach." Episode Highlights: What is this lazy teacher's approach?Exploring the pursuit of sustainable inner peace through yoga practiceExploring the concept of ahimsa in yoga practicePrioritizing peace over ego in personal relationships can be challenging but r...

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2025

Mado Hesselink shares some helpful insights on dealing with this, how recognizing it can help you improve as a yoga teacher. If you’re in for some guidance, do not hesitate because we have this episode packed with tips and strategies to help you elevate as a yoga teacher. Imposter Syndrome For Yoga Teacher Highlights: Mado’s storyWhat imposter syndrome is and how to identify itNervousness and imposter syndromeIs this more common in women?Three patterns where imposter syndrome is harmfulThe m...

Transcribed - Published: 20 April 2025

As someone who's deeply passionate about Pranayama, I couldn’t wait to bring this conversation to you. I sat down with physiotherapist Michelle Edmison to take a deep dive into the anatomy and function of breathing from both a clinical and yoga-informed perspective. Michelle breaks down complex ideas with such clarity and gives us practical ways to understand and teach breath in more effective, grounded ways. If you're a yoga teacher or a breathwork enthusiast, this episode will absolutely s...

Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2025

Ever wondered how to make a single yoga pose more accessible, more challenging, or simply more engaging? As yoga teachers, it’s easy to get stuck teaching poses the same way, but the reality is that every student experiences movement differently. In this episode, I’m sharing five creative ways to offer the same pose, so you can better serve your students, whether they need more support, a deeper stretch, or a fresh approach to a familiar posture. Episode Highlights: Adopt a “Less is More” po...

Transcribed - Published: 6 April 2025

Some yoga teachers believe they should only teach the poses they can personally execute, while others argue that teaching is about more than just demonstration. Where do you stand on this? In this episode, I unpack this common debate and explore five key considerations to help you decide what’s best for your teaching journey. Episode Highlights: Teaching from direct experience: Why new teachers should focus on what they know well.Aligning with yoga ethics: How Satya (truth), Ahimsa (non-harm...

Transcribed - Published: 30 March 2025

Teaching yoga is more than just leading a sequence—it’s about truly seeing your students and understanding what’s happening on the mat. Over the years, I’ve developed an observation checklist that has helped me refine my teaching, improve my students’ experiences, and bring more depth to my classes. Today, I’m sharing five essential things every great yoga teacher should notice during class. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned instructor, these insights will help you enhance your teac...

Transcribed - Published: 23 March 2025

Marketing as a yoga teacher can feel awkward, overwhelming, or even inauthentic. If you’ve ever struggled with putting yourself out there, you’re not alone! I sat down with Alexandria Crow to dive deep into marketing and visibility for yoga teachers. We break down why so many teachers hesitate when it comes to marketing, how to shift your mindset, and the practical steps to create content that actually connects with your ideal students—without feeling like you’re performing. Episode Highligh...

Transcribed - Published: 16 March 2025

Yoga teaching is a beautiful, fulfilling journey, but let's be real—it can also be exhausting. As someone juggling multiple full-time jobs, I know firsthand what it feels like to be stretched too thin. This episode is all about yoga teachers and burnout—the sneaky ways it creeps up, how to recognize it, and, most importantly, what we can do to recover and prevent it from happening again. Episode Highlights: Understanding BurnoutFour Major Signs of Burnout:Resistance to teaching, feeling drai...

Transcribed - Published: 9 March 2025

If you've ever been curious about Aum, this episode is just for you. I’m thrilled to have Indu Arora back on the show as we dive deep into the essence of Aum—its meaning, its significance for yoga practitioners, and the difference between Om and Aum. We explore when and how each syllable should be chanted for maximum benefit and how each one plays a role in creation, sustenance, and dissolution. Indu shares how Aum exists as both a mantra and a symbol, and how these two aspects influence our...

Transcribed - Published: 2 March 2025

Pranayam Teacher Training 2026 Prana & Presence: An Immersive Week of Yoga, Stillness & Soulful Study in Southern Italy Join our mailing list Find all the resources mentioned in this episode Connect with us on Instagram Subscribe to Aham Yoga on YouTube Let’s Talk Yoga Podcast on YouTube Leave us a review and share this podcast with your friends!

Transcribed - Published: 23 February 2025

In this episode, Arundhati leads you through a full pranayama masterclass. You'll get to practice pranayama & learn about a few techniques via this episode. Episode Highlights: Defining the word ‘pranayama’Parts of respirationNadi Shodhana, the king of pranayama practicePranayama is not meant to be rushedStage 1: Preparatory practiceNasikagra MudraGuided self-practice for stage oneStage 2: Equalizing the breathGuided self-practice for stage twoHow we tend to force our breath outStage 3: ...

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025