Ep 245 Dr John Campbell - A Journey Through Ashtanga and Buddhism
John Campbell shares his journey through the world of Ashtanga Yoga and Buddhism, detailing his experiences in Mysore, the influence of Pattabhi Jois, and the philosophical underpinnings of yoga. He discusses the integration of Tibetan practices into his teaching and the evolution of yoga in the modern context. John emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge and the transformative power of yoga, while also addressing the challenges of mixing traditions. The conversation concludes with insights into the future of yoga and upcoming events. Instagram:  @dr.john.campbell | tibethouse.us Nov 8-9, 2025, Urban Vajrayoga™ Retreat with Professor Robert Thurman and Dr John Campbell: https://www.yogacampus.com/courses/events-and-continuing-professional-development/urban-vajrayoga-retreat Dec 5-7, 2025, Vajra Yoga Winter Immersion Retreat - Sponsored by Tibet House US: https://menla.org/retreat/vajra-yoga-winter-immersion-retreat/ John Shares How he spent years in Mysore, deeply influenced by the experience. ·      The early days of Ashtanga Yoga were marked by a close-knit community. ·      Pattabhi Jois's teachings had a profound impact on John's practice. ·      The philosophical aspects of yoga are as important as the physical practice. ·      Self-knowledge is a central theme in both yoga and Buddhism. ·      Vajrayoga integrates Tibetan practices into traditional yoga. ·      The evolution of yoga practices reflects changing societal contexts. ·      Teaching yoga today requires a balance of tradition and innovation. ·      John emphasizes the importance of kindness and open heartedness in practice. ·      The future of yoga involves exploring diverse practices and lineages.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to John Campbell and His Journey 02:02 Early Experiences in Mysore and Ashtanga Yoga 06:04 The Influence of Patabi Joyce and Adjustments in Practice 11:54 Philosophical Insights on Self and Ashtanga Yoga 18:05 The Role of Self-Knowledge in Yoga Practice 24:00 Buddhism, Vedanta, and Their Impact on Asana Practice 37:38 The Interconnectedness of Yoga Traditions 40:12 Hatha Yoga and Its Techniques 42:16 The Three Dimensions of Yoga Practice 49:30 Mythology and Authenticity in Yoga 55:02 The Role of Bhavana in Yoga Practice 01:00:56 Integrating Tibetan Yoga into Practice 01:06:51 The Evolution of Yoga in Modern ContextJohn Campbell Keen on Yoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Follow Adam:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats Support: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga
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Ep 245 Adam Keen – What is Modern Yoga?
Adam explores the concept of modern yoga, its historical roots, and how it differs from traditional practices. He discusses the evolution of asana, the significance of influential figures like Krishnamacharya, B.K.S. Iyengar, and Patabi Joyce, and the accessibility of modern yoga. Keen emphasizes the importance of personal experience in yoga and the need to embrace its diverse traditions while acknowledging the political and cultural contexts that have shaped its development. www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga  Key Notes ·     Modern yoga is defined by a focus on asana. ·     Asana has been used for ages, no doubt. ·     Asana is used as an auxiliary practice. ·     Modern yoga is accessible to everyone. ·     Yoga is a doorway in towards the self. ·     Yoga has always been an evolution. ·     Asana is a symbol of modern Hinduism. ·     Asana is a practice in itself now. ·     Yoga is a diverse body of ideas. ·     Personal experience in yoga is crucial.
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Ep 244 Jock Orton – Yoga’s Healing Power
Jock Orton, the founder of Lime House Yoga in Cornwall, UK, shares his transformative journey from a serious snowboarding accident that led him to yoga, to building a thriving yoga community. He discusses the challenges of running a yoga studio, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how he adapted his practices to meet the needs of his students. Jock also reflects on the importance of nature, community, and the healing power of yoga, as well as his aspirations for the future of Limehouse Yoga. www.limehouseyoga.com  | @limehouseyoga Key Points ·     Jock Orton's journey into yoga began after a serious snowboarding accident. ·     Limehouse Yoga serves as a community hub in Cornwall, offering classes and retreats. ·     The importance of adapting yoga practices to individual needs and abilities. ·     COVID-19 forced many yoga studios to pivot to online classes, changing the landscape of yoga. ·     Jock emphasizes the healing power of yoga for both physical and mental well-being. ·     Building a supportive community is crucial for the success of a yoga studio. ·     The challenges of running a yoga business include financial pressures and navigating local regulations. ·     Jock's approach to Ashtanga yoga is flexible and focuses on individual needs rather than strict adherence to the sequence. ·     Nature and gardening are significant sources of inspiration and relaxation for Jock. ·     Jock aims to pass on the reins of Limehouse Yoga to the next generation of teachers.  Â
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Ep 243 Adam Keen – My Ashtanga Teaching Manifesto
Ep 243 Adam Keen – My Ashtanga Teaching Manifesto Adam addresses the theme of abuse in Ashtanga yoga in light of more recent allegations. He explores the contrasting archetypes of teachers in the context of Ashtanga yoga, focusing on the strict adherence to tradition and the implications for student progression. Finally he lays out his personal Ashtanga teaching code of conduct and what students can expect when they come to a class, retreat, course or workshop with him. www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga LISTEN Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga Key Points ·     A strict teacher is often seen as a good teacher. ·     Traditional methods can create deep fault lines in education. ·     Commitment to the Ashtanga method is paramount for some teachers. ·     Teachers who shout at students may be deeply committed to tradition. ·     The purity of the Ashtanga method is a significant focus for some instructors. ·     Sacrifice is often required to achieve advanced levels in yoga. ·     The number of times a teacher has been to Mysore can indicate their commitment. ·     Respect for traditional methods can lead to rigid teaching styles. ·     Student progression may be hindered by strict adherence to perfection. ·     The balance between tradition and flexibility is crucial in teaching. Â
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Ep 242 Elizabeth Kadetsky – The Cultural Dynamics of Yoga
Elizabeth Kadetsky discusses her book 'First There Is A Mountain', detailing her experiences with Iyengar Yoga and the cultural dynamics surrounding it. She reflects on her journey to writing the book, her experiences in India, and the complexities of dietary practices within the yoga community. The discussion also touches on the historical context of Hindu nationalism, Iyengar's legacy, and the evolution of yoga practices over time. Kadetsky shares her insights on the nuances of yoga culture, the impact of her research, and her current approach to yoga. www.elizabethkadetsky.com | @ekadetsky LISTEN Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga SUPPORT Subscribe, like and share our videos Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf Patrons €10 per month: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ FOLLOW Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram:  @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga  Key Points ·     Elizabeth Kadetsky is a writer and professor at Penn State. ·     Her book 'First There Is A Mountain' was published in 2004. ·     Kadetsky's first trip to India was in 1997, leading to her research on Iyengar Yoga. ·     Iyengar Yoga emphasizes alignment and the use of props. ·     Dietary practices in yoga can reflect cultural and communal identities. ·     Kadetsky experienced cultural shock when practicing yoga in India compared to the West. ·     Iyengar's influence on yoga is significant but complex, involving historical and cultural dynamics. ·     The rise of Hindu nationalism has impacted the perception of yoga in India. ·     Kadetsky sees her book as a reflection of its time, capturing a specific moment in yoga history. ·     Her current yoga practice focuses more on meditation and breath rather than strict physical exercise. Â
Adam Keen engages in a deep level of discussion with Ashtanga yoga teachers as well as others involved in inquiry, wellness, diet, or simply people he finds interesting.
The in-depth discussions and honest conversations are often surprising. Prepare to have your thoughts expanded.
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Ireland