In this episode, Lauren discusses Ustrasana (camel pose) and its connection to gratitude and contentment, particularly during Thanksgiving week. She explores the physical and emotional aspects of the pose, emphasizing the importance of proper alignment, safety, and the yogic philosophy of Santosha. Through practical tips and personal anecdotes, Lauren encourages listeners to cultivate a sense of acceptance and gratitude both on and off the mat, highlighting the transformative power of yoga in fostering a deeper connection to oneself and the world.

Takeaways:

• Camel pose embodies vulnerability and courage.
• The sensation after the posture brings a sense of openness.
• Gratitude is essential, especially during Thanksgiving.
• Santosha requires acceptance and gratitude.
• Proper alignment is crucial for safety in camel pose.
• Engaging the glutes helps maintain structural integrity.
• Finding contentment in your practice is key.
• Mindful neck positioning is important for safety.
• Exploring variations of camel pose enhances practice.
• Cultivating gratitude and acceptance strengthens resilience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ustrasana and Gratitude
01:50 Understanding Santosha: The Niyama of Contentment
04:16 Tips for Proper Alignment in Camel Pose
07:33 Safety and Core Engagement in Camel Pose
08:28 Mindful Modifications for Individual Needs
12:17 Cultivating Gratitude and Acceptance on the Mat

• Yoga is a practice that connects body, heart, and mind.
• Many yoga teachers feel uncomfortable with marketing due to societal programming.
• Marketing should be seen as sharing rather than bragging.
• Workshops provide a space for deeper learning and community connection.
• Hosting workshops can help teachers grow personally and professionally.
• Workshops can diversify income streams for yoga teachers.
• Creating a workshop requires understanding its unique value compared to regular classes.
• Effective marketing involves transparency and authenticity.
• Teachers should focus on their purpose and intention in offering workshops.
• Self-study and following one's passion are key to deepening yoga practice.

Chapters

• Understanding the history of yoga provides context for modern practice.
• Yoga's origins may trace back to ancient Egypt or the Indus Valley.
• The Vedic period introduced the first yogic texts, the Vedas.
• Patanjali's Yoga Sutras formalized the philosophy of yoga.
• The Bhagavad Gita outlines different paths of yoga beyond physical postures.
• Tantra and Hatha yoga emphasized the physical body for spiritual awakening.
• Modern yoga emerged in the late 19th to early 20th century.
• Krishnamacharya is considered the father of modern yoga.
• The yoga industry faces challenges of commodification and cultural appropriation.
• Practitioners should strive to honor yoga's roots while adapting to modern needs.

Chapters