The Better Yoga Podcast

In this enlightening episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, host Kari Harendorf welcomes Dr. Ismita Itkarkar, an Ayurvedic Doctor, to discuss the complexities of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) through the lens of Ayurveda. The conversation delves into the multifaceted nature of PCOS, exploring its symptoms, causes, and the holistic approach Ayurveda offers in treating this condition. Dr. Itkarkar e...

Most weight loss strategies ignore the powerful connection between your stress levels, hormonal balance, and body’s self-protection mechanism — Kapha. But what if the secret to sustainable weight health is understanding why your body holds onto weight in the first place? In this episode, renowned Ayurvedic expert Larissa Hall Carlson joins Kari Harendorf to reveal how stress, life transitions, and...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, host Tiger Bye welcomes Jacko, a former professional rugby player and master of the Oxygen Advantage breathing technique. They discuss Jacko's journey from professional sports to breath training, emphasizing the importance of breathing for both physical and mental performance. Jacko shares insights from his upcoming book, "Breathe Smarter, Run...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, Tiger Bye welcomes Abby Straw, a licensed independent social worker and Co-Executive Director of the nonprofit Taking Back Ourselves. Together, they explore the intersection of trauma-informed therapy and body-based practices, emphasizing the importance of integrating mindfulness and yoga into healing processes. Abby shares her journey in recognizing the...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, host Kari Herendorf speaks with yoga teacher Ben Kalra about the evolution of yoga practice, the importance of integrating yoga philosophy into daily life, and the relevance of ancient texts like the Yoga Sutras and the Bhagavad Gita in modern times. They discuss the balance between being and doing, the significance of personal practice, and how to apply...

In this conversation, Dr. Meghan Teed discusses the the basics of scoliosis and how to care for the condition. She then delves into the complexities of having a scoliosis, emphasizing that individuals often have multiple curves, including a primary curve and compensating curves that are frequently overlooked. She stresses the importance of a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses all curv...

In this episode, Kari Harendorf answers questions and explores the principles of Ayurveda and how they relate to yoga and digestive health. She discusses specific yoga asanas that can alleviate bloating and gas, the importance of understanding root causes of digestive issues, and the significance of seasonal eating. The conversation also covers how to implement simple Ayurvedic practices and offer...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, Kari and Larissa explore the transition into Vata season, discussing the importance of balancing practices, dietary adjustments, and self-care routines to align with the changing seasons. They emphasize the significance of understanding Ayurveda and how it can help individuals navigate the challenges of colder months, including dryness and overwhelm. The...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, Tiger Bye speaks with Perrin White, a Speech Language Pathologist, Orofacial Myologist, and breath coach, about the importance of breathwork, tongue posture, and the emotional aspects that accompany physical healing. They discuss the integration of Eastern and Western practices, the journey to understanding orofacial myofunctional therapy, and the signif...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, host Kari Harendorf interviews Dages Juvelier Keates, a senior Katonah Yoga® teacher, writer, and somatic educator. They discuss the evolution of Dages's personal yoga practice, her journey to Katonah Yoga®, and the influence of her academic background on her teaching. The conversation delves into the role of metaphor in teaching, the use of props i...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, Kari answers questions addressing various aspects of yoga practice, self-care, and Ayurveda. She discusses how to incorporate mini yoga practices into busy schedules, the importance of specific asanas for longevity, and the role of Ayurveda in promoting longevity. The conversation also touches on the significance of grounding practices, digestion, and co...

In this episode of the Better Yoga podcast, Tiger interviews Josie Schweitzer, an innovative Senior Katonah Yoga® teacher. They discuss Josie's evolving yoga practice, her transition from a hairdressing career to yoga, and how she connects physical practice with life themes. Josie shares her experiences with imposter syndrome, the importance of creativity, and her journey into Katonah Yoga®....

In this episode of the Better Yoga podcast, Kari Herendorf and Larissa Hall Carlson discuss Pitta dosha and how to manage it during the summer season. They explore the characteristics of Pitta, the importance of balancing fire and water elements, and practical tips for maintaining wellness through diet, lifestyle, and self-care practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for rest, cooling food...

In this episode of the Better Yoga podcast, Tiger engages in a deep conversation with Alessandro Romagnoli, a doctor of psychotherapy and sports psychology. They explore Alessandro's daily mindfulness practices, his journey into psychology, and the cultural perspectives on mindfulness and spirituality. The discussion delves into the concepts of attachment and detachment, the importance of com...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, host Kari Harendorf speaks with Dr. Asavari Mamavikar, a Doctor of Ayurveda, about the increasing prevalence of autoimmune diseases and the holistic healing practices of Ayurveda. They discuss daily rituals, the journey into Ayurveda, and how personalized medicine can address the root causes of health issues. Dr. Mamavikar shares insights on the unique a...

In this episode of the Better Yoga podcast, host Tiger Bye speaks with Chuck McGee III, a type one diabetic and traumatic brain injury survivor, about his journey into breathwork. Chuck shares how he discovered the benefits of breathwork and how it transformed his life, leading him to teach others. The conversation explores the importance of foundational breathing techniques, the integration of th...

In this conversation, Abbie Galvin shares her journey from a culturally Jewish upbringing to her exploration of various spiritual practices, ultimately leading her to yoga. She discusses the evolution of her yoga practice, emphasizing the significance of home practice as a means of self-cultivation and personal growth. The conversation delves into the concepts of implicit and explicit experiences...

In this episode of the Better Yoga Podcast, Kari Harendorf and Larissa Hall Carlson delve into the intricate relationship between Ayurveda and yoga. They explore how Ayurveda serves as a comprehensive system of medicine that emphasizes living in harmony with nature, understanding the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), and integrating these principles into yoga practice. The conversation highlights t...

In this episode of the Better Yoga podcast, Tiger Bye interviews Patrick McKeown, a leading expert in breathing techniques and the creator of the Oxygen Advantage®. They discuss the importance of breathwork in daily life, the common misconceptions surrounding breathing, and the differences between functional breathing and traditional techniques. Patrick shares insights on how breath affects mental...

In this episode of the Better Yoga podcast, Kari Harendorf interviews Nevine Michaan, the founder of the Katonah Yoga® method. They discuss the transformative power of yoga, the importance of daily practice, and the integration of various yoga traditions. Nevine shares her personal journey in yoga, emphasizing the significance of breath work, gratitude, and the use of metaphors in deepening one&ap...

Welcome to the Better Yoga Podcast, your go-to space for exploring the transformative power of yoga, breathwork, and Ayurveda. Through engaging conversations, practical tips, and fresh perspectives, we bridge ancient mind-body practices with the modern science that supports them. Join leading experts and enthusiasts alike as we uncover the many ways yoga can enhance your health and well-being—whet...