Integral Yoga Podcast

This conversation explores the importance of simplicity and authenticity in spiritual practice, emphasizing the value of honoring diverse paths while staying true to one’s own. It touches on balancing technology with awareness, fostering meaningful dialogue across traditions, and speaking truth with love. The discussion highlights how creativity can deepen spiritual growth and the role of discernm...

In this episode, Kansas Carradine explores the balance between personal spiritual practices—like yoga, meditation, and retreats—and the call to engage with the world’s needs. She shares insights on cultivating inner stillness, self-compassion, and mindful presence as essential ways to recharge and show up more fully in service to others. Drawing from her experiences as a mother, traveler, and eque...

In this episode, Avi speaks with Cathy Woods, a lifelong yogini, equestrian, and creator of "Body, Mind, Equine," a program that blends yoga and horsemanship. Cathy shares how yoga principles—breath, body awareness, and mindfulness—enhance the rider’s connection with their horse, improving communication and overall experience in the saddle. She discusses the deeper parallels between yoga and ridin...

In this heartfelt and reflective conversation, Swami Asokananda shares his incredible life journey—from his Brooklyn upbringing in a non-religious Jewish family to his path of spiritual awakening and leadership. He recounts transformative moments, including early struggles with identity, his experiences with yoga and meditation, and the pivotal influences of mentors and life-changing practices. Sw...

Freddy Jackson, founder of the Love No Ego Foundation, shares his mission to help youth aged 10-18 develop self-awareness and emotional resilience by overcoming societal pressures and the influence of ego. Freddy explores the distinction between thinking less of oneself and thinking of oneself less, advocating for a balance between self-awareness and selflessness. Freddy also discusses the import...

In this episode, Tara Eschenroeder delves into the concept of "rewilding" as a return to our natural, instinctual state of being. She defines rewilding as reconnecting with the innate wisdom within us, much like how trees grow or fireflies communicate effortlessly. Tara shares her practices for rediscovering this inner compass, including journaling, movement, discussion, and time in nature, all ai...

In this episode Līlā Śakti Mayī, and Avi dive into the profound connection between humility, self-care, and the power of Sanskrit. The discussion focuses on how language can embody intention and emotion, highlighting that every language carries sacredness. They emphasize that true humility is about recognizing one's inherent value without harsh self-criticism or rigid expectations. This self-aware...

In this insightful episode, Swami Karunananda reflects on her extraordinary life journey, beginning with her childhood in Brooklyn where she demonstrated remarkable early abilities, such as speaking at six months old and reading at three. She shares a pivotal moment from her sixth grade when she asked herself what she wanted to do with her life, deciding then to help others relieve their suffering...

In this podcast episode, Carroll Ann Friedmann shares the story behind her book "Practicing the Yoga Sutras," which stemmed from a decade-long journey of chanting and studying the sutras. Friedmann recounts her initial inspiration in India, where she was taught the art of chanting. This practice continued back home in Charlottesville, where she formed a dedicated chanting group with her...

The discussion centers on the concept of Dharma, or life purpose, and explores how individuals can discover and align with their true calling. The conversation delves into the importance of listening to the heart rather than the mind, emphasizing activities that bring joy and love, such as community engagement and connecting with nature. Dominique and Avi discuss the balance between selfless servi...

Concept of Peace : Siva discusses peace as a profound state of consciousness that goes beyond the absence of conflict. It involves a sense of awe and connection with the beauty of creation and the presence of the divine in the world. Path to Peace and Creativity : Siva shares that his journey to inner peace began in childhood through imaginative play. As an adult, he continues to achieve this stat...

Daniel Scruggs shares his mission with Peace Culture Music, focusing on educating and inspiring through rare musical instruments and artifacts. He reflects on his personal journey, including struggles with dysgraphia and attention issues, which fueled his passion for music and culture. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing uniqueness, connecting with ancestors through music, and...

In this episode of the Integral Yoga Podcast, Mataji shares insights into her life journey and spiritual path. Born in Washington DC on April Fool's Day, she considers her birth a blessing. Reflecting on her childhood, Mataji recalls her cheerful disposition and love for quiet introspection and learning. She discusses her upbringing in a household that valued curiosity, art, and science. Mataji al...

The podcast delves into the profound spiritual journey of Snehan Born, tracing his path from early experiences in church to a lifelong quest for truth and enlightenment. Through encounters with various religious traditions, philosophical explorations, and travels worldwide, Snehan embarks on a quest to understand the deeper meaning of existence. Snehan grapples with existential questions, confront...

Rachel discusses her philosophy of "Let's Do Less," advocating for slowing down in today's fast-paced world. She emphasizes the power of doing less for self-care and healing, particularly in trauma work. Rachel explores the intersection of presence, genuine connection, and identity in self-care practices. She highlights the importance of being mindful of one's biological experiences and emotions w...

The conversation delves into the profound impact of communal singing and the healing power of sound vibration, emphasizing the significance of discovering one's authentic voice. It explores experiences in group singing settings, highlighting the importance of encouragement and support for individuals to overcome fear and judgment. Reflections on practices like meditation and cold therapy underscor...

Heather Mason, the founder of the Minded Institute, shares her compelling journey from personal mental health challenges to becoming a leading advocate for yoga therapy integration into healthcare systems. Drawing from her own experiences and the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness meditation, Mason emphasizes the need for alternative approaches to mental health treatment beyond medicatio...

In this enlightening episode, Michelle Jacobi shares her captivating journey into the world of yoga. Starting as a professional dancer in New York with a keen interest in philosophy, Michelle stumbled upon yoga for its profound background rather than its physical aspect. During this conversation she recalls a transformative experience at the Uptown Integral Yoga Studio, and how it triggered a deep...

This dialogue between James and Avi takes a deep dive into the states of unified consciousness and the challenges of maintaining an expanded awareness amidst the daily nuances of life. Explore the concept of 'inner yes' as a guiding force in decision-making, where the body's sensations become a compass for mindful choices. Witness James' reflections on maturity, humility, and the ever-evolving exp...

In this episode, Govind Das shares profound reflections on his recent visit to India, marking his 21st journey to the country. He emphasizes the spiritual richness of sacred places like Rishikesh and Vrindavan, contrasting them with the materialistic focus of big cities. The conversation delves into the significance of rituals and practices in connecting with the divine, emphasizing the challenge...

Prakash explores yoga as unity, emphasizing its role in bringing people together. She delves into Raja yoga, focusing on the study of yoga sutras, advocating for individual reflection and practical application of yogic principles. Capen addresses the challenge of self-judgment, advocating for a sense of humor in the pursuit of balance. She discusses the tendency to rank individuals in the spi...

This podcast episode features a conversation with Jess Frey about her recent silent retreat experience and the idea of "coming home" to oneself. Jess and Avi delve into finding a balance between self-improvement and helping others. They discuss the concept of emotional armor and authenticity, highlighting the practice of pausing. The conversation also explores the importance of community in person...

Lakshmi has dedicated 16 years to the prison project, using Gurudev's teachings to help incarcerated individuals transform their lives. She speaks about the punitive U.S. prison system, its role in drug issues, and stresses the importance of kindness. The U.S. prison system's flaws are discussed, with the need for rehabilitation highlighted, given the high recidivism rate. Lakshmi shares her...

Graham Schweig sits down with Avi Gordon in a conversation that covers the importance of yoga, gratitude, and selflessness in reconnecting with one's heart and embracing life's conditioning forces. They discuss the transformative power of yoga in turning inward to confront inner conflicts and suffering, ultimately leading to self-awareness and growth. The role of the guru in guiding and reinforcin...

Renowned kirtan artist Govind Das speaks with Avi Gordon about turning the mind into an "altar to God", making the transition to heart-centered living, the importance of understanding and accepting one's humanness while striving for spiritual progress, and much more. In his freshman year of college, in 1989, Govind Das was introduced to the practice of meditation and the spiritual culture of the e...