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 episodesJoin our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Let's Talk Yoga

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 theoryJoin 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 timeJoin 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/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

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&apos;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 their link to yoga.Episode Highlights...Sanātana Dharma and how it relates to yogaHow does one become a Hindu?Savira explains the meaning of DharmaWhat are the different types of Dharma?How does Dharma relate to yoga?The world&apos;s misconception of Hinduism or Sanātana DharmaSavira shares helpful advice on how to explore HinduismIs yoga a religious practice?You can find the links and resources at: https://letstalk.yoga/episode/sanatana-dharma-hinduism-yoga-a-beginners-guide/Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

Sanātana Dharma, Hinduism & Yoga – A Beginners Guide with Savira Gupta

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 navigating lifeYoga poses make you fitter, stronger, healthier, or wholesome.You put yourself in different shapes and orientations in yoga poses regularly.You embrace the unknown.You learn to surrender.We learn to treat ourselves with true self-compassion, kindness, and respect.Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

5 Life Lessons From A Yoga Pose

In this episode of the Let&apos;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&apos;s approach."Episode Highlights:What is this lazy teacher&apos;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 rewarding in the long run.Emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and showing compassion towards others.Savitha’s advice to a beginner teacher and an experienced teacher“Teaching yoga is a privilege.”Learning to be more loving by responding to messages with kindness and creating situations for love to flourish.You can find the show notes with the resources mentioned at: https://letstalk.yoga/episode/a-lazy-yoga-teachers-guide-to-yogic-living-with-savitha-enner/Join our mailing listFind all the resources mentioned in this episodeConnect with us on Instagram

A Lazy Yoga Teacher’s Guide to Yogic Living with Savitha Enner

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 most prevalent pattern among yoga teachersWhat Mado does when someone with imposter syndrome comes to her How social media plays for someone who has imposter syndromeTips for yoga teachers experiencing imposter syndromeMado’s recommendations for someone exploring imposter syndromeYou can find the episode show notes at: https://letstalk.yoga/episode/imposter-syndrome-yoga-teachers/We’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

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Yoga Teacher: Proven Ways to Own Your Voice with Mado Hesselink

As someone who&apos;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&apos;re a yoga teacher or a breathwork enthusiast, this episode will absolutely shift how you see breathing in the body.Episode Highlights:The physiological differences between nasal and mouth breathing and their impact on healthHow postural habits and upper body tightness disrupt effective breathingStrategies to release tension in the chest, shoulders, and neck to support optimal breathingThe nuances of belly breathing vs. diaphragmatic breathing, and what these terms actually meanCore and breath integration explained through internal pressure systemsThe connection between the pelvic floor and breathing, and why everyone should pay attention to itThe relationship between aging and breath quality, and why lifestyle may matter more than age itselfHow spine mobility influences ribcage movement and breath qualityMichelle&apos;s go-to breath practices to improve exhalation and core engagementResources and Links Mentioned:Michelle’s Instagram: @mvmt.101Free movement and breath classes at: movement101.caWe’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

The Body of Breath - A Physiotherapist’s Guide to Healthy Breathing with Michelle Edmison

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” policy5 Ways to Offer The Same Yoga Pose in a Yoga SequenceChange the point of entry Change the orientation of the pose Maintain a common thread throughout a yoga class.The twice-over pose principle - focusing on the breath in the second attempt Get skilled with basic prop usageWe’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

5 Ways to Offer The Same Yoga Pose

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-harming), and Asteya (non-stealing) relate to teaching.Navigating “life happens” moments: Teaching effectively even when facing injuries or major life transitions.The importance of staying just one step ahead of students instead of mastering every advanced pose.Using sequencing and props to expand your teaching skills without feeling overwhelmed.We’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

Should Yoga Teachers Only Instruct Poses They Can Do?

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&apos;re a new teacher or a seasoned instructor, these insights will help you enhance your teaching skills and create more meaningful experiences for your students.Episode Highlights:The importance of observation in yoga teaching and why it’s an underrated skill.The 5-Point Cheat List for Observing Students:Observe the physical form of a studentObserve how a student holds a poseBreath awarenessShavasana patternsAbility to sit in silenceWe’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

What Great Yoga Teachers See: A Must-Have Observation Checklist

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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