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 Stories Behind Poses” seriesStory of Ashtavakra: born deformed due to a father’s curse, yet destined for greatnessHow Ashtavakra’s intellect and wisdom outshone physical limitationsThe debate between young Ashtavakra and scholar Vandin in King Janaka’s courtAshtavakra’s victory and miraculous transformation through the power of truthConnection between Ashtavakra’s journey and the yoga pose AshtavakrasanaSymbolism of the pose: steadiness through asymmetry, strength through surrenderLessons for modern practitioners: transcending ego, judgment, and appearanceReminder that real alignment comes from within, not from physical perfectionReflection questions for practice: Where am I resisting? What can I soften or “straighten” within?Encouragement to share these stories and teachings to keep yoga’s roots aliveWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Let's Talk Yoga

The Yoga Pose Born from a Curse - The Story of Ashtavakrasana

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, and the difference between acute and chronic (or “persistent”) painWhy language and mindset can change how pain is experienced—both positively and negativelySimple, general questions teachers can ask when they don’t know a student’s historyHow yoga teachers can respond compassionately when students share injuries or painIs pain always a sign of tissue damage? The biopsychosocial model and what landmark research revealsAru’s personal story of ACL surgery and recovery without heavy pain medsObservations of widespread knee pain in Indian women and the role of lifestyle and expectationGood discomfort vs. bad pain in yoga practice, and how to guide students without teaching from fearPlacebo and nocebo effects in yoga classrooms—why our words matter so muchThe nervous system’s role in amplifying or quieting pain, and how stress or mindfulness shifts the experienceTransitioning to inflammation: acute vs. chronic, myths about boosting the immune system, and what yoga can (and can’t) doThe link between osteoarthritis, systemic inflammation, and lifestyle habitsMovement as medicine: why physical activity is the best way to manage both pain and inflammationClearing up wellness myths around posture, core stability, and anti-inflammatory fixesClosing reflections for yoga teachers on recognizing and working with pain or inflammation in class and in lifeWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Pain vs. Inflammation: What Every Yoga Teacher Should Know with Andrew McGonigle

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 cultureHistorical and cultural roots of meditation (Dhyana) in yoga and BuddhismDefining mindfulness as present-moment awareness without judgmentDefining meditation as a structured, often seated practice of focus and absorptionTwo types of meditation: guided meditation and unguided meditationRelationship between mindfulness and meditation: how they support each otherWhy rushed, distracted living makes meditation harder and how mindfulness throughout the day creates better conditions for itHow deeper meditation strengthens qualities like concentration, equanimity, and compassion, which naturally support mindfulness in daily lifeThe cultural roots of mindfulness and meditation in Indian and Buddhist worldviews, and how Western wellness often dilutes their depthCommon traps in meditation: forcing, suppressing thoughts, lack of foundation, unrealistic goalsPractical tips for teachers: normalize the wandering mind, start small, embed mindfulness in daily lifeJournaling as a supportive tool for clarity and reflectionExamples of mindfulness practices in everyday life vs. seated meditationHow to measure success: awareness, presence, compassion, and consistency in daily livingWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Difference Between Mindfulness and Meditation (Explained)

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 as a sacred pause, not an endMyth of Shiva and the sages: how surrender transforms death into awarenessMyth of Kali and Raktabeej: how desire and compulsion multiply, and the power of stillness to stop itThe symbolic death of Shavāsana: letting go of ego, effort, and identityPractical tips for teachers: honoring Shavāsana as the culmination of practiceWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

The Untold Story Behind Shavāsana: The Death That Changed Everything

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 journey.Steps a participant should take before enrolling in a yoga teacher training program.Key elements to look for in a core 200-hour yoga teacher training syllabus.The original intent behind 200-hour and 300-hour trainings and how they are perceived today.The fundamental differences between 200-hour and 300-hour trainings, whether everyone needs to advance, and what topics should be included at the 300-hour level were explored.Faculty structure: whether to have lead teachers with guest faculty or a fully equal model, and which approach works best.Staying accountable after teacher training: how to keep the momentum alive once the graduation glow fades.Alternatives to Yoga Alliance: exploring India’s initiatives and whether certification really matters for teacher trainings.How students can evaluate the credibility and quality of yoga schools and trainers.Waitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

200 Hours, 300 Hours… But Are We Really Learning Yoga? With Medha Bhaskar

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 shalas and studiosHow Bengaluru’s traffic challenges create localized yoga communitiesTypical Indian yoga class schedules and early start timesThe rise of rooftop yoga as an affordable, accessible optionMinimal emphasis on style/teacher in class listingsLack of online presence for many studios and its impact on visitorsMany yoga teachers in India teach part-time, balancing other careers alongside yoga instructionProps, cleanliness, and community etiquette in Indian yoga spacesThe popularity of aerial yoga and the presence of chanting in every classNo liability waivers and a more trust-based approach to participationThe balance between independence and guidance in Indian yoga teachingWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Yoga In India versus America in 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, especially in the hard moments. I hope it offers insight, grounding, and a fresh perspective.Episode Highlights:What is non-violent communication? Is NVC more significant for yoga teachers? NVC is not for others but for usHow to engage with empathy? Who is NVC for? Where does violence start in communication? Cancel culture in the yoga world Should we respond to cancel culture in the yoga world?NVC exercise live on the podcast about cancel culture What are we giving our presence to? Why it matters? How to ground ourselves & act from empathyDifference between feeling & judgments Clarity of intension Updates about Judith&apos;s latest book Waitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Non-violent Communication for Yoga Teachers with Judith Hanson Lasater

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 yoga tourism, this one’s for you.Episode Highlights:The major differences between yoga in India & US Does studying yoga in India make you a better student? How does one find the right school or teacher? Has yoga tourism hurt or helped India? Where does one start if you want to study yoga in India? What are the best yoga schools in India The landscape of yoga in modern India The secret to studying yoga well…What is western yoga missing when it comes to yoga education? Does cultural appropriation exist in India? Is yoga fitness a trend in India? Do women practice yoga in India? Is hot yoga a thing in India?  Waitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

What Studying Yoga in India is Like with Vikram Jeet Singh

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 more story-based yoga episodesIntroducing Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose) through the myth of Shiva and SatiExploring Virabhadra as a manifestation of rage, devotion, and sacred purposeA dramatic retelling of the story from Shiva’s grief to the rise of the warriorHow each of the three warrior poses maps onto the narrativeWhy understanding the myth enriches how we teach and embody the poseAn invitation to bring this myth into classes, workshops, and training spacesA call for listener feedback to inspire future myth-based yoga episodesWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

The Story Behind Warrior Pose - Rage, Devotion & Love

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 is your go-to breathwork mini-guide.Episode Highlights:How pranayama can be used seasonally, particularly to balance summer’s fiery pitta energyThe historical and scriptural roots of Sheetali and Sheetkari pranayamasHow to practice Sheetali (tongue-rolled cooling breath) safely and effectivelySheetali’s physical and energetic benefits, including digestion, inflammation, and parasympathetic activationContraindications for both practices, including low blood pressure, respiratory issues, pollution, and cold weatherHow to teach Sheetali in a class: timing, cueing, and integrating with asana and savasanaIntroduction to Sheetkari (hissing breath) and why it’s more accessible than Sheetali for many studentsHow to practice Sheetkari (hissing breath) safely and effectivelyThe sensory, auditory, and physiological benefits of Sheetkari for mental calm and emotional regulationUse cases for both techniques: end of a class, restorative yoga, long workshops, hot flashes, and even hikesA reminder to always practice first before teaching, so you can teach from experience, not just theoryWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

2 Cooling Pranayamas Every Yoga Teacher Should Know

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 running a yoga studio for over ten years.Episode Highlights:Moving regularly and not relying on yoga alone for all your movement needsPrioritizing yoga fundamentals over chasing advanced posesAvoiding repetitive movement patterns and fast-paced sequencesLimiting hands-on adjustments and always asking for consentMatching class structure and pacing to students’ needsUsing props intentionally to support and educateEncouraging strength-building, especially for hypermobile practitionersBeing mindful of how hormonal changes (like perimenopause) affect the bodyUnderstanding why hot yoga may not be suitable for everyoneExploring different styles of yoga to balance your practice over timeWaitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Smart Yoga: 10 Injury Prevention Tips Everyone Should Know

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 breaks down their value in a way that’s accessible, honest, and deeply rooted in experience. We talk about body proportions, sequencing strategies, and how to deconstruct poses to build them back up with intention. This conversation is especially useful for teachers who want to bring more nuance and creativity into their classes while meeting students exactly where they are.This episode is a masterclass in intelligent, adaptable teaching. If you’ve ever felt unsure about how or when to use props, or want to take your sequencing and observation skills to the next level, this one’s for you.Episode Highlights:Understanding why props aren’t just for beginners or modifications, but for deepening learningHow props can highlight specific actions, create feedback, and reveal imbalancesWhy using props skillfully requires experience, creativity, and clarity in teachingThe impact of body proportions on practice and how to observe them as a teacherStrategies for deconstructing a pose to teach its parts before moving into the full shapeClarifying the roles of different props: straps, blocks, bolsters, blankets, chairs, and wallsCommon misconceptions around chair yoga and how chairs can enhance complex posesCreative ways to use the wall as a prop, especially to support balance, alignment, and resistanceThe importance of teachers practicing with props themselves to offer better instructionTeaching the same pose with and without props to develop insight and precisionThe difference between how you practice and how you teach, and why both can evolveWe’re Hiring: Join My Team as a Social Media & Digital Content Specialist (Remote, Part-Time) Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Beyond the Basics: How Props Transform Your Practice with Stephanie Tencer

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 always an opportunity to embody yoga through how you respond, relate, and move through the world. My hope is that this episode inspires you to carry yoga with you, wherever you are.Episode Highlights:Honoring the spiritual and seasonal significance of International Yoga Day (June 21)Practicing Pratipaksha Bhavanam: transforming negative thoughts by cultivating their oppositesEmbracing Pratyahara: choosing intentional sensory withdrawal to reclaim your attentionLiving with steadiness and ease (Sthira Sukham Asanam) in daily lifeBalancing consistent effort and non-attachment through Abhyasa and VairagyaReleasing material and mental clutter with the principle of Aparigraha (non-hoarding)Turning inward with Swadhyaya: self-study for self-awareness and spiritual growthWelcoming more playfulness and spontaneity through Leela (divine play)Engaging in Seva: selfless service as a path to humility and interconnectednessFinding community and inspiration through SatsangCultivating Maitri: loving-kindness toward self and othersSurrendering to Ishvara: letting go and trusting in the divineWe’re Hiring: Join My Team as a Social Media & Digital Content Specialist (Remote, Part-Time) Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

11 Ways to Yoga Without Striking A Yoga Pose

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&apos;re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, these three methods can add more depth, intention, and accessibility to your summer classes.Episode Highlights:Why summer attendance often dips, and how to adapt your teaching to meet students where they areHow to identify the “guna” or energetic nature of a yoga pose: heating, cooling, or neutralThe first sequencing tip: add one cooling pose after every 3–5 heating poses to help regulate body temperatureThe second sequencing tip: design a full class around mostly cooling, seated forward bends with minimal vinyasa to avoid overheatingThe third sequencing tip: apply a 70/30 format, maintain your usual sequence for 70% of class, then dedicate the final 30% to cooling poses, pranayama, and an extended shavasanaWe’re Hiring: Join My Team as a Social Media & Digital Content Specialist (Remote, Part-Time) Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

3 Ways to Sequence Smart for Summer

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 makes it digestible and relatable.If you&apos;ve been seeking clarity on these topics, this is the conversation you&apos;ve been waiting for.Episode Highlights...Which text is older: The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali or The Bhagavad Gita? Is it significant to know which one is older?Vikram explains the MahabharataHow to approach the study of The Bhagavad GitaIs The Bhagavad Gita a religious text?How to navigate The Bhagavad Gita as a religious text Who “wrote” The Bhagavad Gita?For whom was the Gita written?How are these texts relevant in a yoga world that is dominated by asana?What is Swadhyaya?How The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali and The Bhagavad Gita are connectedWhat is Samkhya?Difference between The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali and The Bhagavad GitaWhich text to study if you want to learn more about yoga philosophyWays to practice learnings from the textsIs it possible to incorporate these teachings in an asana class?Vikram Jeet Singh is a long-time yoga student, & teacher. Living in India, Vikram was raised in the culture of yoga. Today, he shares his knowledge with yoga teachers through training on all aspects of yoga including classical texts.You can find all the resources mentioned in this episode in the show notes at https://letstalk.yoga/episode/the-bhagavad-gita-and-the-yoga-sutras/Waitlist for the Online 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (launching January)Free upcoming workshop: “Queuing for Yoga Teachers – From Gross to Subtle” (November 14, 10 a.m. PT)Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

The Similarities and Differences Between the Yoga Sutras and the Bhagavad Gita

Welcome to the Let's Talk Yoga podcast—your ultimate online destination for everything yoga. Think of it as your virtual yoga school, offering something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned yoga teacher, a dedicated student, or simply curious about the deeper layers of yoga.Join host Arundhati Baitmangalkar, an immigrant yoga teacher, studio owner, global mentor, and creator of some of the most sought-after yoga teacher training programs in the world. Each week, we bring you valuable insights, in-depth conversations with renowned yoga teachers, and an abundance of yoga resources designed to inspire, educate, and transform.From mastering the art of teaching to navigating the complexities of yoga philosophy and business, this niche podcast is your go-to resource for all things yoga. Ready to deepen your practice and expand your understanding? Hit subscribe now and never miss an episode of Let's Talk Yoga!

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Let's Talk Yoga

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