Grief, Healing, and Finding Light in the Darkness: A Conversation with Amy Pickett-Williams In this moving conversation, psychotherapist and yoga teacher Amy Pickett-Williams shares her remarkable journey through personal tragedy to creating meaningful change in the grief support community. With 26 years of experience in therapy work, Amy's path took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic when she lost her father in a tragic accident. As she navigated her own grief while supporting her mother and children, a hiking accident led to the discovery of kidney cancer - a moment she poignantly describes as being saved twice by a juniper tree. Through her personal experiences of loss and healing, Amy founded the Light Movement, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting those experiencing grief and trauma. The organisation's name beautifully captures its essence - "Love in Grief held together." Amy's approach combines traditional therapy with somatic practices, emphasising that healing through movement isn't limited to yoga but includes activities like singing, walking, swimming, and even gardening. As she puts it, "There are no words when someone grieves," highlighting the importance of being present and offering practical support rather than trying to fix the unfixable. What makes Amy's work particularly impactful is her holistic approach to grief support. She emphasises the importance of community and practical assistance, suggesting simple yet meaningful ways to help those who are grieving, like providing meals or offering specific help rather than vague promises. The Light Movement has evolved to include innovative programs, including a unique 300-hour yoga teacher training focused on trauma and grief, creating a new generation of practitioners equipped to support others through their healing journeys. Through it all, Amy's message remains clear: healing from grief is a deeply personal journey that requires both individual attention and community support. Links Fundraiser Event - https://lightmvmt.com/summer-solstice-2025/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lightmvmt Website - https://lightmvmt.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lightmvmt

In a deeply moving conversation, Utkarsh Narang shares his remarkable journey from being a physiotherapist in India to becoming an influential executive coach and TEDx speaker in Australia. His story resonates with anyone seeking meaningful change, as he describes how a LinkedIn message unexpectedly opened the door to a new life abroad, proving that sometimes the most significant opportunities arise when we least expect them. Through his personal experiences with fear and uncertainty, Utkarsh demonstrates that courage isn't about the absence of fear, but rather about taking small, intentional steps forward despite it. The heart of Utkarsh's message lies in his unique perspective on leadership and purpose, beautifully illustrated through the story of a NASA janitor who saw his role not just as cleaning floors, but as contributing to putting a man on the moon. This powerful anecdote underscores his belief that true leadership is about becoming the best human being possible, creating safe spaces for others, and approaching challenges with empathy and authenticity. His insights remind us that every role, no matter how seemingly small, can contribute to something greater when viewed through the lens of purpose. Drawing from the ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and yogic philosophy, Utkarsh offers transformative insights about living in the present moment and embracing non-attachment. His message is both profound and practical: purpose doesn't need to be grandiose; it can be found in the simple act of doing our best and being fully present in each moment. Through his words, we learn that true fulfillment comes not from external achievements, but from stripping away societal expectations and connecting with our authentic selves. The conversation serves as a powerful reminder that in our quest for meaning and success, the most important journey is becoming the best version of ourselves while helping others do the same. Links: Website: https://www.ignitedneurons.me/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignitedneurons Patreon supporters get FREE access to Utkarsh's "Ignite your life in 7 days" program: https://www.patreon.com/posts/free-access-to-7-128099052

There's a reason we're called the Flow Artists Podcast, and that's because we're all about flow. In this fascinating episode of the Flow Artists podcast, we chat with Justine Elizabeth, a multi-talented flow artist and teacher. Justine's journey from psychology student to digital nomad and flow expert is truly inspiring. She defines flow states as the sweet spot where peak performance meets peak experience - it's where we're at our best and loving every minute of it. Justine's insights into the science behind flow are really eye-opening. She talks about her time at the Flow Centre in Australia, which sounds like a "digital pilgrimage" with people from all over the world. One cool tip she shares is using "functional music" to help induce flow states. There's even an app called Brain.fm that can help align your brain waves to get you in the zone. But it's not all about performance - Justine emphasizes the importance of emotional regulation and self-care, especially when you're pushing yourself. Her "triple A" approach (Acknowledge, Ask, Act) is a great tool for dealing with emotional challenges. She also talks about "dosing discomfort" to build resilience, which is a really interesting concept. At the heart of it all, Justine's message is about mind-body connection and integration. Whether you're a flow artist, a busy professional, or just someone looking to get more out of life, there are lots of practical tips here for creating more flow in your daily routine. From decluttering your space to reconnecting with childhood passions, it's all about setting yourself up for success and enjoyment. Links: Website: https://theflowcodes.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theflowcodes/

Melanie Mackintosh is a yoga teacher, co-owner of the Australian Yoga Academy and their Director of Education, where she manages AYA’s Advanced Diploma of Yoga Teacher training program. Melanie was one of Rane's teachers and mentors while he was doing his yoga teacher training and she specialises in pre and postnatal yoga, the topic of today's episode. In this episode, we cover the core principals of prenatal yoga and it's benefits. We discuss some alternative viewpoints over different aspects of prenatal yoga which can make it a complex and sometimes confusing style to teach. We learn some strategies for working with a general class that may include pregnant women, so everyone feels safe and included. Rane shares the anxiety he sometimes feels when pregnant women come into his class, and we know he is not alone, so there is information in this episode that will help many teachers. Finally, we discuss Mel's upcoming 50 Hour Advanced Pre/Post Natal Yoga Teacher Training at Australian Yoga Academy in Prahran, Melbourne, and who may benefit the most from it! Links: Mel's upcoming workshop: https://australianyogaacademy.com/special-events/workshops/ Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/flowartistspodcast Music by Ghostsoul: https://ghostsoul.bandcamp.com Yoga Life Satsang: https://www.janetlowndes.com.au/yoga-life-satsang

Emma Kenna is a globetrotting hoop dance teacher from the UK who also holds a PhD in immunology. In this conversation, we learn all about what set her on the path she is on today as well as what it’s like running a business where you are essentially the product. Emma travels the world teaching hoop dance full time and we talk about some of the misconceptions that people may have about this lifestyle and how she makes it work. We also talk about staying inspired and keeping your workload sustainable when you're a one-person operation and the importance of delegating. Emma has lots of great advice which would definitely apply to yoga teachers or anyone else who is running their own small business. Congratulations go to Barbara Courtille will be receiving a signed copy of The Good Hustle by Polly McGee! Links: Emma's Website: http://www.hoopingmad.co.uk/ Emma's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoopingmad/ Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/flowartistspodcast Amy Wheeler Workshop: https://www.janetlowndes.com.au/amy-wheeler-workshop Melanie Mackintosh's Pre/Post natal workshop: https://australianyogaacademy.com/special-events/workshops/

Polly McGee is a yogi, entrepreneur, teacher and author of the book The Good Hustle. We first met Polly when she was leading a Yoga Business Planning Intensive workshop in Melbourne recently, and it was an amazing experience. Polly has a way of really cutting through to the core of what it is that you as a heart centred business owner are trying to achieve - even when you aren’t quite sure how to articulate it. Polly is a bundle of joy and energy and just a pleasure to be around, so we were really looking forward to catching up with her for this interview. In her book The Good Hustle, Polly combines the ancient wisdom and philosophy of yoga with contemporary business practices in a compelling blend of mindfulness, spirituality and entrepreneurial action. It really is a great read and we have a signed copy to give away! To win a copy of the book all you have to do is like our facebook page and while you’re there Tag a friend with a heart centred business who has a good hustle going. Links: Polly's Website: https://pollymcgee.com/ Polly on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pollymcgeewriter/ Polly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pollymcgee/ Win a copy of "The Good Hustle": https://www.facebook.com/flowartistspodcast/posts/2238806852876139 For some bonus content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/25952124

William Wong is a Melbourne based Yoga teacher with a passion for functional movement, gymnastics, Qi Gong, Reiki and sound healing. He has the wonderfully named Instagram profile Willy Wongka, and the equally wonderfully named website yogathewongway.com. William has a very strong practice but is equally committed to the more subtle aspects of yoga and meditation, and projects a welcoming and often hilarious sense of humour in his teaching and his online presence, so we were very excited to have the chance to speak with him recently. In this episode, we learn about William's background growing up in Melbourne, how he studied landscape architecture for 6 years before deciding it wasn't for him. We learn how he discovered fitness and yoga after a stint as a Flight Attendant. We learn how William's teaching and practice have evolved and how he has learned from and managed injuries along the way. We love William's light-hearted approach and deep dedication to these practices and we think you'll really enjoy this conversation! Links Website: https://www.yogathewongway.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willy_wongka_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yogathewongway/ Retreats: https://www.yogathewongway.com/retreats Flow Artist's Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/flowartistspodcast Adrenal Healing Workshop: https://www.gardenofyoga.com.au/workshops/adrenal-healing/

Amy Wheeler is a Yoga Therapist, holds a PhD in Educational Psychology, a sports psychologist and the developer of Optimal State system of health and healing. Amy is also President of the Board of Directors to the International Association of Yoga Therapists. Amy is a leader in the field of yoga therapy, so this is a conversation you’ll want to hear. We speak with Amy about her journey of discovering yoga, and how she came from a background working in sports psychology to eventually become a yoga therapist. We learn about anxiety, the relationship between anxiety and sleep, and how yoga and yoga therapy may help. We get a great reminder of the scope of practice of yoga teachers and therapists, and how we can best serve students or clients who may be struggling. Also in this episode, we are announcing the launch of our Patreon page! Patreon is a way that you can help financially support the podcast. The Flow artists Podcast will always be free and we love doing it, but creating this podcast does take time and energy - from booking, researching and interviewing guests, writing great questions to editing and processing audio, writing show notes and sharing on social media - it can take around 8-10 hours to create each episode. For more information go to https://www.patreon.com/flowartistspodcast Links: Amy Wheeler's website: https://amywheeler.com Assessing and Balancing the Human System: https://www.janetlowndes.com.au/amy-wheeler-workshop

Ann Swanson is a yoga teacher, holds a Masters of Science in Yoga Therapy and is the author of the recently released book Science of Yoga. We were lucky enough to get an advance digital copy of the book and we loved it. It’s full of great information and beautiful illustrations, and it really marries together the worlds of science and yoga quite wonderfully. Rane genuinely wishes he had a copy of this book when he was doing his teacher training, and we ordered a physical copy once it was released. We can definitely recommend that you do the same. In this conversation we learn about how Ann grew up the daughter of a NASA Scientist, but had an early love of art and illustration. We learn how Ann found her path of Yoga, how she came to specialise in yoga for arthritis, and her inspirations for writing the book. Finally, we hear how Ann's loves of art, science and yoga all combined to make writing and developing this book a wonderful experience. Bio Ann is a yoga therapist, mind-body science educator, and author of Science of Yoga. She is part heart-based healer and part science nerd. Ann supports people living in living happier, healthier lives by making wellness non-intimidating and accessible to everybody. With a Master of Science in yoga therapy and roots studying yoga in India and qi gong China, Ann uniquely applies cutting-edge research to mind-body practices while maintaining the heart of the traditions. She internationally speaks and teaches on the science supporting yoga’s benefits to both the public and yoga professionals. Ann trains yoga professionals in workshops on yoga anatomy, Yoga for Arthritis, and accessible yoga. In her private practice, Ann specializes in helping busy people worldwide relieve pain, manage stress, and find ease through one-on-one online yoga therapy online . Specialties: Yoga for Arthritis + Chronic Pain Relief • Research Science Supporting Yoga • Neuroplasticity + Mindfulness • Accessible Yoga • Office Yoga Links: For more on Science of Yoga, including the book and courses: www.scienceof.yoga Science of Yoga on Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ST9gJV For free videos, including a relaxing meditation for pain relief, and more on one-on-one yoga therapy online with Ann: www.AnnSwansonWellness.com Follow Science of Yoga on Instagram: bit.ly/instagramSOY Follow Ann's Youtube Channel: bit.ly/youtubeann

Jo Tito is an artist, photographer, meditator and generally amazing person, and we're not just saying that because she is related to Rane! Jo's work has a real sense of nature, Maori spirituality and groundedness which is why Jo and Rane have some of her photography in their studio Garden of Yoga. In this episode, we learn about Jo's background growing up in rural New Zealand. We learn how she discovered meditation and how it informs her art and life. We learn how she found a global following while working on her Hand Painted Rocks project - painting a rock, photographing and writing every day for a year. Jo has much wisdom and has been lucky enough to travel the world sharing her art and collaborating with other Indigenous artists. Links: Wondering Earth: http://wonderingearth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wonderingearth/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ARTISTinNATURE/ Hand Painted Rocks: http://www.handpaintedrocks.com/ Hand Painted Rocks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoTito/media_set?set=a.496280546552&type=3 https://www.facebook.com/JoTito/media_set?set=a.10150258314371553&type=3 Walking in Circles Project: http://walkingincircles.org/ Dhamma Medini Vipassana Meditation: http://medini.dhamma.org/

Anthony and Dominique Salerno are the individuals behind iconic Melbourne Yoga studio Australian Yoga Academy. We were very excited to catch up with them at their beautiful new studio in Prahran because Australian Yoga Academy is where Rane did his yoga teacher training, and he has many fond memories of taking classes with both of them. Past guests of the podcast Karina Smith, Mark Pheely and Jo Buick all cite Anthony and Dominique as some of their key teachers and we estimate that AYA has trained hundreds of yoga teachers since they established their teacher training program in 2005, so they have been a huge influence on the Melbourne (and Australian) Yoga landscape. We knew some of their story before speaking with them, but they really opened up and shared some fascinating aspects of their personal and professional history. In this episode, they share some great advice about finding your voice as a Yoga teacher, the power of vulnerability and the importance of being an eternal student. Links: Australian Yoga Academy: https://australianyogaacademy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/australianyogaacademy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AustralianYogaAcademy/ Vote for us in The Australian Podcast Awards: https://auspodcastawards.awardsplatform.com/entry/vote/VWzRQJWw/EZgPLXPM?search=e6a9c8a02f345621-18

Gina Macauley is a Yoga teacher, a qualified yoga therapist, and the owner of YogaHara, a yoga studio based in Bendigo, Victoria. In this conversation, we learn about Gina’s background, how she discovered yoga and decided it was the path for her. We see Gina's commitment and love of Yoga philosophy in the way that she runs her business and lives her life. She also has a lot of really practical suggestions and great ideas including how she has used Facebook live to create an at-home practice option for her students. We also discuss Gina's Adrenal healing workshops. As we learn in this episode, modern life can be very taxing on the adrenal system, so the kriya practised in this workshop can be really valuable. Links Yoga Hara: http://www.yogahara.com.au/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/yogahara Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/yogaharabendigo Jo and Rane's Annual Review: https://www.facebook.com/gardenofyoga/videos/529952310851907/ Suspended Sound: https://www.gardenofyoga.com.au/workshops/suspended-sound/ Beyond Asana with Kara-Leah Grant: https://www.gardenofyoga.com.au/workshops/beyond-asana-journey-awakening-tantra-yoga/

Claire Cunneen is a Sydney based Yoga and Pilates Teacher, a yoga therapist and has a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science. She also facilitates teacher trainings in LV Chair Yoga - the subject of this episode. Like us, Claire is passionate about making yoga more accessible, so we had a lot to talk about! In this episode we learn about Claire's background growing up in Sydney, and how the classic TV show Aerobics Aus-style instilled a passion for exercise and fitness. We learn what drew her to yoga, and chair yoga in particular. Claire tells us what Chair Yoga is, and why it's so important to be able to provide a style of yoga that is accessible for people of all body types and abilities. We also discuss some of the challenges and rewards that come from working with people who may be going through big changes in their bodies. Finally, Claire tells us about her new Chair Yoga DVD that is available now! We are also very excited to talk about an upcoming Chair Yoga Teacher Training hosted by Claire at our Studio Garden of Yoga! Links Claire's Website: https://www.getfitwhereyousit.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lvcyau/ Chair Yoga Teacher Training at Garden of Yoga: https://www.facebook.com/events/318214292104253/ Beyond Asana • The Journey of Awakening via Tantra Yoga with Kara-Leah Grant: https://www.facebook.com/events/319077415366688/ Claire and Jo: https://www.instagram.com/p/BroD1QRDf7Y/

As we learn in our conversation with Anjali Rao, what we learn of yoga history in our teacher trainings is often limited by the biases of heteropatriarchy, Brahmanism and colonialism. While what we get from our text books might hit many of the major points, this story is just as notable for whom it excludes. For both Jo and Rane, this conversation was a huge recontextualisation of what they thought they knew and a wonderful relearning of yoga history. Anjali Rao is a writer, the host of The Love of Yoga podcast, President of the Board of Directors of Accessible Yoga, and as she shares in our conversation is now beginning a Doctorate of Philosophy and Religion, with a concentration on Women’s Spirituality, a trans disciplinary program that delves into a feminist perspective and “explores varied spiritual, ecological, and political perspectives rooted in care for the Earth, each other, and the Sacred.” Anjali is an Indian American immigrant, a cancer survivor and believes that a dedicated practice of yoga in all its expansiveness can alchemize and heal the world by creating ripples of change within and around us. She brings a multi disciplinary approach, integrating yoga philosophy and history, with storytelling, imagery and poetry. She brings an awe inspiring depth of knowledge and potent critical insight to yoga history which makes for a great conversation! LINKS Website: https://www.yoganjali.me/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yoganjali/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anjali.rao.509 Use the code MAKFLOW at https://www.makarlu.com/ to receive a 10% discount!

Coco Nkrumah is a Meditation teacher, podcaster and the man behind Reality Based Mindfulness. In this episode, we learn about Coco's background growing up in inner city Melbourne. We hear how he discovered meditation through martial arts and Qi Gong. We learn how Coco developed his reality-based style of teaching and practising meditation, and how he facilitates his sessions, both in the community and the corporate sector. Coco also shares about his work as a volunteer live-in mentor for an at-risk youth program with Concern Australia. Coco is of West African descent and is passionate about creating accessible spaces for people of colour to explore mindfulness and meditation. Jo and Rane both truly believe that practices such as yoga and meditation should be both welcoming and accessible to everyone, so we were really excited to talk to Coco and get his perspective on this and many other issues. Links: Reality Based Mindfulness: http://www.realitybasedmindfulness.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realitybasedmindfulness/ The Meditation Collective - A Safe space for people of colour - all welcome: https://www.artswellbeingcollective.com.au/events/the-meditation-collective/ Concern Australia: https://www.concernaustralia.org.au/ Reality Based Mindfulness on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/realitybasedmindfulness

Mei Lai Swan is a yoga teacher, musician, former social worker, and the creator of Yoga for Humankind, a Yoga School and Social Enterprise dedicated to bringing the benefits of yoga, mindfulness and movement therapies to communities all over the world. Mei Lai is a wonderful teacher and an inspiration. Her work and how she lives her life provides a practical example of how the yoga philosophies taught in many yoga teacher trainings can be applied to life, so we were really excited to get the chance to speak with her while she was in Melbourne recently. In this episode we learn about Mei Lai's background, growing up in inner-city Melbourne. We learn how she discovered yoga and meditation and how she moved into social work. We learn how a love of music developed into a powerful sharing of Nada Yoga and Kirtan. Finally, we hear about Mei Lai's work with Aboriginal Communities and how this work has influenced her trauma-informed approach to Yoga. Links: Yoga for Humankind: https://yogaforhumankind.org/ On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yogaforhumankind/ Mei Lai on Instagram: http://instagram.com/meilaiswanyoga

This episode is an interview with Simone Busija and Michelle Lykokapis. These are amazing individuals who are like Rane, living (and thriving) without stomachs. Michelle is an artist, a meditation teacher, and the main admin and creator of the Support Group for Partial and Total Gastrectomy on Facebook, a group with over 2000 members that helps support individuals and the families of individuals without stomachs. Simone is a Community and Corporate Fundraising Coordinator at Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation (where Rane received his treatment), a board member for No Stomach For Cancer, and organiser of the Melbourne No Stomach For Cancer walk, which is happening on November the 18th. This is a great cause to help raise funds for stomach cancer awareness, and as we will hear, some of the money even goes to local researchers. As we will also hear, stomach cancer is the 5th most common form of cancer, yet is the 3rd leading cause of death amongst cancer - this is mainly because it is not detected until too late, so we can really help the cause by raising awareness. In this episode, we learn about Michelle's backgrounds, what they do to support others without stomachs, and why their stomachs were removed. We learn some misconceptions around cancer, and about living without a stomach. We also hear about No Stomach Cancer, the upcoming walk and what people can do to help. This episode is very special for Rane as it marks 3 years since his stomach was removed via a Total Gastrectomy, just a few months after he was diagnosed with stomach cancer. NOTE: There is some discussion on topics that some might find disturbing. Links: No Stomach for Cancer: https://www.nostomachforcancer.org/ No Stomach for Cancer Walk 2018: https://www.mycause.com.au/events/teamaustralianostomachforcancerwalk Gastrectomy Connections: https://www.gastrectomyconnections.com/ Support Group for Partial and Total Gastrectomy: https://www.facebook.com/groups/supportgrouppartialtotalgastrectomy/ Family Ties: http://familyties.org.au/ Rane and Jo's Yoga For Digestive Ease workshop: https://www.facebook.com/events/746304519039860/

Paul Majewski is a Melbourne based meditation teacher, the director of Meditation Solutions, and the vice president of Meditation Australia, Australia’s peak body for meditation teachers. Paul has a long history of both practising and teaching meditation, having taught for well over 20 years. In this episode, Jo and I speak with Paul and learn about his background growing up in Perth, Western Australia. We learn about how he was dissatisfied with the Christianity he was raised with and set on a path of learning about other religions. We hear about how Paul discovered Buddhism, and how meditation helped him with chronic health issues he was facing. We discover how Pauls meditation practice evolved into teaching meditation and his approach to teaching meditation to others. Finally, we ask Paul many questions about Meditation and Mindfulness, including the multiple definitions of the word, and the potential for the confusion this may bring about. Links: Meditation Solutions: https://www.meditationsolutions.com.au/ Mental Health Awareness for Meditation Teachers: https://www.facebook.com/events/518799945251766/ A Potential Answer to the question - "Is Enlightenment Real?" - https://www.facebook.com/BigThinkScience/videos/235803447099448/ Join the Flow Artists Podcast Community! https://www.facebook.com/groups/1698795386857843/

The podcast has been going for a whole year! We thought that was worthy of an anniversary episode, so here we are! In this episode, we talk about the podcast, why we started it, and what we enjoy about making it. We also share some of the surprises and challenges that come from making it, and a few things that we have learned along the way. We share what goes into putting out the podcast and how it has changed the way we teach yoga! Rane has been teaching for a few months now, so we learn how his teaching has evolved in the last year We also hear from Jo her reasons for starting a home studio, how the podcast has influenced the direction of the studio, and Jo shares some advice on running your own Yoga space from home. We would both like to sincerely thank all of our guests and our listeners for sticking around for they year. On to another! Links: Garden of Yoga Website: https://www.gardenofyoga.com.au/ Top Tips for Running a home studio: https://podcast.flowartists.com/news/top-tips-running-home-studio/ No Stomach for Cancer Fundraiser Class: https://www.facebook.com/events/746304519039860/ No Stomach for Cancer Walk Donation Page: https://www.mycause.com.au/page/178988/garden-of-yoga

Loraine is a yoga teacher and the founder of Zenergy Yoga. She is a leading authority on yoga for children and teens. She has trained over 1,000 people on how to teach yoga to children and teens in a way that is meaningful, impactful and fun. Loraine is an active advocate of the benefits of yoga for the young. In this episode, we learn about Loraine's background growing up in Northern England, how she discovered yoga and how developing a yoga practice helped her with some chronic health issues. We learn how Loraine found her purpose in teaching yoga to kids. We learn the three main aspects of teaching yoga to kids, and how Loraine maintains control during a class. Finally, we hear how bringing yoga to young people can be such a powerful intervention in their lives. As you will hear in this episode Jo and I have both had a little bit of experience in teaching yoga to kids, so it was great to be able to ask Loraine some questions we had both been absolutely dying to ask. Loraine caught up with us while she was in Melbourne to lead a teacher training, so we jumped at the chance to speak with her. Links: Zenergy Yoga: https://zenergyyoga.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zenergykidsyoga/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenergykidsyoga/ The Unbound Life - One-day immersion with Kara Leah Grant - https://www.facebook.com/events/540622949705765/

J Brown is a Yoga Teacher, writer and host of J Brown’s Yoga talks. He is currently based in Pennsylvania, after relocating from the studio he ran in Brooklyn, New York City for many years. J is a prolific blogger and writer - having contributed to sites such as Yoga Dork and Elephant Journal - writing many informative articles over the years on the state of Yoga. His podcast is one of our must listens, and he has featured some of the worlds most well-known yoga teachers in very in depth and informative conversations. J Brown Yoga Talks is a huge influence on the Flow Artists Podcast, and probably one of the reasons it exists! In this episode, we learn about J's Childhood, and how he was affected by the tragic death of his mother. We learn about how some of his early experiences in yoga lead him towards a path of injury. We learn how his encounters with an Indian Swami changed his approach to life and yoga. We also learn about how he navigates using online technology to share his knowledge while still maintaining personal connections within his classes. Finally, J shares how he structures and teaches a typical class in a way that allows him to personalise for each student, and how he now teaches a more gentle, accepting, non-dualist approach to yoga. Links: J Brown's website: https://www.jbrownyoga.com/ J on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jbrownyoga/ J's Upcoming visit to Australia: http://www.qiyoga.net/events/gentle-is-the-new-advanced-with-international-yoga-teacher-j-brown/ Tickets for Asher Packman's Event 'Blood Bath for BCAM': https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/blood-bath-for-bcam-tickets-49802277954 Asher's Podcast Episode: https://podcast.flowartists.com/episodes/david-packman/

In this episode, we speak with Jamie Marloo Thomas and Sara Jones, creators and facilitators of Wayapa Wuurrk. Wayapa Wuurrk is a modality that incorporates movement, meditation and a connection to the 14 elements of nature and the land. The word Wayapa means connection, and it draws from indigenous philosophy but is designed to be a practice for everyone regardless of religion or background. In this episode, we learn how Jamie's childhood experiences lead him on the path to creating Wayapa Wuurrk. We learn about the 14 elements, and how a Wayapa Wuurrk session is structured. We learn how Wayapa goes beyond self-care and encourages an attitude that goes beyond the self towards caring for the environment and looking after the planet for future generations. Finally, we learn how Jamie and Sara worked together to nurture an idea to being approved as an official modality by the International Institute of Complementary Therapies as a way to raise funds to teach Indigenous children their culture. Links: Wayapa Wuurk - http://wayapa.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wayapawuurrk/

Jase Te Patu is a Yoga teacher based in Wellington, New Zealand. Jase has a lot going on! He heads up his yoga studio, Power Living Wellington, he facilitates men’s groups and is leading the charge in creating discussions around men’s mental health. He also recently created M3Mindfulness, an initiative being introduced to schools in New Zealand that incorporates Mindfulness, Yoga and Maori mythology. In this episode we learn about Jase's life growing up, being raised by his grandparents and speaking Maori until he reached school age. We learn about how he struggled with being forced into a specific version of masculinity at boarding school, and how that informs the work he does today. We learn how Jase went from competitive sport in his youth to dance and then how he discovered yoga, Jase goes on to tell us about his important work in mental health and men's health, and we have a discussion about how his new school program, M3mindfulness came to be. This episode really means a lot to me - as a Maori and a man myself, I really resonated with a lot of what he has to say, and I feel the work he is doing is incredibly important. Jase is not afraid to show his authentic self or his vulnerability. He shares wisdom that we really need in the world in this day and age, and we are truly honored to be able to play a small part in that.

Robin Carnes is a yoga teacher and certified iRest® Yoga Nidra instructor who hails from the United States. She is well recognized as a pioneer and innovator in the field of mind-body therapies for trauma and related conditions. Her work has been featured in media outlets such as The Washington Post, Woman’s Day Magazine and Yoga Journal just to name a few! In her impressive career, she served as the lead instructor of the first Defense Department-funded feasibility study of Yoga Nidra meditation for PTSD symptoms, and also went on to co-found Warriors at Ease an organisation, which has trained over 800 certified yoga and meditation teachers to work safely and effectively in military communities affected by combat-related stress. Robin was also the author of "Sacred Circles: A Guide To Creating Your Own Women's Spirituality Group" and we learn about how this book came to be. We were lucky to catch up with her while she was in Melbourne for the Meditation Australia Conference, and we got to ask her our most burning questions on Yoga Nidra and iRest, how it works, and why it can help so many people with PTSD. Please note that there is mention of some imagery used in traditional Yoga Nidra that may be triggering for some listeners. Links: Robin's website: www.robincarnes.com iRest Australasia FB page: https://www.facebook.com/IRIAustralasia/ All iRest events : https://www.irest.us/Australasia/Events Warriors at Ease website: www.warriorsatease.org Picks of The Week: Rane - Rachel and Nic on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTt2IMqvqahaSqQa1TKWq3g Jo's pick: Straw vocal techniques https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COgiz4O4tRw http://www.voicecareaustralia.com.au/ Robin's Pick: A beginning resource to explain what White Privilege is and why White people should care The Invisible Backpack - https://nationalseedproject.org/white-privilege-unpacking-the-invisible-knapsack

Jo and Rane dive head first (figuratively speaking) into the world of inversions with Freya Bennett-Overstall, a respected chiropractor, yoga and meditation teacher, author, and a familiar voice on our podcast. Freya brings her unique perspective to the topic of inversions, delving into the "yin and yang" aspects of these transformative postures. In this conversation, we explore the benefits and considerations surrounding inversions, following Freya's recent introduction to our style of aerial yoga. Conversely, Freya has also shared her experience with the FeetUp trainer, a tool that offers a safe and accessible approach to inversion practices. Freya's expertise spans a wide range of disciplines, including chiropractic care, movement education, and a deep understanding of the body's intricate mechanics. With a holistic approach, she skillfully bridges the gap between Western and Eastern philosophies, providing a comprehensive understanding of the physical, emotional, and energetic aspects of inversions. As we delve into the "yin" and "yang" of these practices, Freya offers insights into the restorative and dynamic aspects of inversions, guiding us through the physiological, emotional, and energetic effects of reversing the force of gravity on the body. Her wisdom extends to safety considerations, contraindications, and the importance of gradual progression, empowering practitioners to explore these postures with confidence and mindfulness. Freya's passion for empowering students and cultivating a non-judgmental, playful atmosphere shines through, as she shares teaching strategies and effective communication techniques for guiding students through inverted postures. With her second appearance on our podcast, Freya once again captivates us with her depth of knowledge and commitment to promoting transformative movement practices. Links Freya's Website: https://www.freyabennettoverstall.com/ Freya's Insight Timer profile: https://insighttimer.com/freya Aerial Yoga Teacher Training: For more details head to https://aerialyogateachertraining.com/our-courses/ for more information and the ‘discover more’ link for each training for start dates and pricing. The first unit - Aerial Essentials Teacher Training starts in June 2024! Use our code GARDENOFYOGA to get a free online mentoring session valued at $200 (and offered in multiple languages!). Just write the coupon code: GARDENOFYOGA at checkout.

Shannon Crow is a yoga teacher, a consultant for Yoga Teachers and the host of the Connected Yoga Teacher podcast. She became a yoga teacher in 2006 and continues to teach weekly group and private classes in Owen Sound, Ontario, with a specialty in Yoga for Pelvic Health. Shannon is dedicated to helping yoga teachers define their niche and thrive at marketing. In this episode we learn about Shannon's background growing up in Ontario Canada. We learn about how she discovered yoga, and came to become a Yoga Teacher. We learn about how Shannon came to start The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast. Shannon gives some excellent and usable advice such as how to keep a Facebook group friendly and helpful, how to build a community, both online and in the real world, and how to connect meaningfully with other Yoga Teachers in your local area. We also learn some great ways to find your Yoga niche, and Shannon shares some of her favourite self care techniques. Links: Shannon's Website: http://www.shannoncrow.com/ The Connected Yoga Teacher Podcast: http://www.theconnectedyogateacher.com/ The Connected Yoga Teacher Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/connectedyogateacher/?ref=br_rs The Sickboy podcast: http://sickboypodcast.com/

Sarah Harry is a Psychotherapist, yoga teacher, researcher and university lecturer. Sarah Harry is one of Australia’s leading specialists in Body Image and Disordered Eating. She appears regularly in the news on TV and in print as both an expert and a fat yogi. She is also the author of the book Fat Yoga and teaches workshops on the subject of accessible yoga - teaching yoga to people in larger or differently abled bodies. In this episode, we learn how Sarah moved from the world of high fashion to becoming one of Australia’s leading experts in Eating Disorders and Body Image. We learn about the challenges that Sarah faced while training to become a yoga teacher. We also learn how we as Yoga teachers can make yoga classes a more welcoming space for people in larger bodies. We also have a signed copy of FAT YOGA by Sarah Harry to give away! Follow the link to enter the competition: https://podcast.flowartists.com/fat-yoga-competition/ Links: Sarah Harry - https://www.fatyoga.com.au/ This Girl Can - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PiplV7r554M Body Peace - https://body-peace.teachable.com/ Body Positive Yoga in Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bodypositiveyoga Picks of the Week: Sarah Harry - Body Peace cards - https://www.fatyoga.com.au/body-peace-cards-i/

Nicole Lee is a teacher of Qi Gong and meditation and the owner of Chi Space - a Qi Gong and meditation studio in Balaclava, Melbourne. We are fans of Qi Gong ourselves - we love the gentle movements, and we feel that they can be easily be integrated into a yoga or meditation class. As Nicole mentions in this conversation, it is a practice that is accessible for nearly everyone, so it’s a useful tool to have in your yoga and meditation toolbelt. In this conversation we learn about how Nicole went from living a busy life working in real estate in Dubai, to find her true calling running a Qi Gong studio back home in Melbourne. We learn what Qi Gong is, and the differences between Traditional and Integrative Qi Gong. We learn about the sensory and sound meditation workshops that Nicole facilitates, and Nicole tells us a few of her self-care and strategies, that help her run her studio as effectively as possible. We also announce the winner of the book CONNECTING Conscious Communication for Yoga Teachers and Therapists! Links: Chi Space: http://chispace.com.au Picks of the Week: Rane - Childish Gambino - This is America Jo - Vegetable slicing Mandolin. Nicole’s Spring workshop - Sunday September 16th - https://chispace.punchpass.com/classes/1812822

Lucy has been a yoga teacher for many years, having studied at the Kripalu Center in Massachusetts, USA, and has trained with many yoga luminaries such as Michael de Manincor, Indira and A.G. Mohan; Amy Weintraub, Leslie Kaminoff and Richard Miller. As we will hear in this episode, she has had many interesting occupations over her life, including teaching scuba diving, managing sales teams for radio stations and eventually becoming the CEO of Rogen, North America, a global training and consulting firm specializing in face-to-face communication. You may have noticed a constant theme in her line of work, it is that of communication - the subject of this episode. Lucy and her co-writer Jill Danks have recently released their book “CONNECTING Conscious Communication for Yoga Teachers and Therapists”. It's a fantastic book which we believe will be an invaluable resource for Yoga Teachers and Yoga Therapists. In fact, Kaye Tribe, who we interviewed in our last episode as said that she will be making this book a prescribed reading in her course at the Academy of Yoga and Mindbody Education. We have a copy of the book 'Connecting' to giveaway to one lucky listener! To find out more, visit https://podcast.flowartists.com/connecting-book-giveaway/ Links: Yoga Communication: https://www.yogacommunication.org/ Yoga Communication on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yoga_communication/ Picks of The Week: Jo – Wild Japan on Netflix Rane – J Brown Podcast – Tara Stiles - https://www.jbrownyoga.com/yoga-talks-podcast/2018/4/tara-stiles Lucy – Brene Brown – Braving the Wilderness - https://amzn.to/2xYTSlN On Being Podcast - https://onbeing.org/

Kaye Tribe is a Melbourne based yoga teacher and teacher of teachers. She is a Yoga Australia registered Yoga Therapist and member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists. Kaye is the co-director of the Academy of Yoga and MindBody Education (AYME), and has taught a wide range of students over many years. With her background as a qualified myotherapist and lecturer in a range of Health Science subjects including functional anatomy, she has a deep knowledge of functional anatomy and how it can be useful to yoga teachers and yoga therapists. In this episode, we learn about Kaye’s background and how she discovered yoga through the Gita school. We learn about how she started in myotherapy, and how it influences her understanding and teaching of anatomy. We also have some anatomy questions from our audience that Kaye was kind enough to answer, and we finish off with an in-depth discussion on hypermobility and how to most effectively work with hypermobile students. Kaye knows this subject inside and out, so it was an absolute privilege to have this conversation. Links: Academy of Yoga and Mindbody Education https://www.ayme.com.au Video: Awakening the Gluteal Muscles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YFq0rldiVFM Video: Are you hyper or hypo mobile? http://www.yogajournal.com.au/2018/03/05/are-you-hyper-or-hypo-mobile/ Rane’s Pick of the week - Die Wise by Stephen Jenkinson - https://amzn.to/2IR37cI

In this episode, we speak with Jo Buick on the concept and practice of Trauma-Informed Yoga. Jo Buick is a much loved and well-respected yoga teacher and the Co-Founder of State of Being, a Melbourne-based not-for-profit organisation that connects community organisations and groups with experienced yoga facilitators with the goal of making the tools of yoga, mindfulness and self-care practices available to and inclusive of everyone in our community. Jo Buick is a teacher that Rane and Jo have both long admired and respected, so we were super excited to have the opportunity to record this conversation with her. In this episode we hear: * How Jo was introduced to yoga * What is the definition of trauma-informed yoga? * Why is trauma-informed yoga important? * Are themes appropriate for a yoga class? * How might be an appropriate and non-coercive way to introduce the theme of gratitude into a class? * What is the effect of spinal health upon mental health? * The importance of using language mindfully during a class * How do we create safer spaces for teachers? * Jo’s work teaching in the community sector * Jo talks about the project she co-founded - State of Being * Jo’s talks about her 3 main Self Care practices. * How Jo became aware that her regime of self-care practices was actually enabling her to maintain an unhealthy workload, and her insights around the strength to say no to things. * How walking away from something can take strength * What can yoga teachers do to help prevent burn-out? * How do we incorporate inclusivity and authenticity into our yoga classes and social media? * How do we ensure studios follow through on the promises of trauma-informed, queer-friendly and body positivity? Links: Jo Buick - State of Being: https://www.stateofbeing.org.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jo.buick/ Picks of the Week Jo - The Guilty feminist podcast - http://guiltyfeminist.com/ Rane - Coco - https://amzn.to/2rEN9Hh Jo Buick - The Radiance Sutras - https://amzn.to/2IDRyoz Jo's links Spinal health and mental health http://www.chiropractorsnsw.asn.au/why-is-a-healthy-spine-important https://theconversation.com/mental-illness-more-common-in-those-with-back-problems-8538 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3123209/ Mirror neurons and empathy https://kripalu.org/resources/hardwired-empathy-how-mirror-neurons-connect-us https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-mirror-neuron-revolut/ Vagus nerve and yoga https://theconversation.com/how-yoga-makes-us-happy-according-to-science-77840 Trauma Centre Trauma Sensitive Yoga http://www.traumacenter.org/clients/yoga_svcs.php Yoga Body Image Coalition (Dianne Bondy) http://ybicoalition.com/

In this episode, we (box) jump into the world of Crossfit! Tom Gargiulo is the co-owner of Northside Fitness, a strength and conditioning/crossfit gym in Fairfield, Melbourne. Crossfit has a bit of a reputation for being hard, competitive and perhaps intimidating. Tom takes the movements of Crossfit and creates a supportive environment where everyone feels welcome. Tom doesn't fit the stereotype of what a Crossfitter might be (if there even is one) and he is an amazing athlete in his own right. He is an extremely down to earth guy, and I’ve bumped into him after a couple of yoga classes so I know he is a committed yogi. Both Tom and his wife are vegans, which is relatively uncommon in the Crossfit community, so as you might be able to tell already, he is an interesting guy! In this conversation, we learn all about Tom and his background as a competitive rower, including a stint at Twickenham rowing club, and we were both surprised to hear that he spent time working in the military! We learn how he studied sports science as a mature student and realised that he had found his calling. We hear about how Tom discovered Crossfit and what it is about Crossfit he loves so much. Finally, we hear about Toms work in aged care - he even has a client who recently turned 100! So you can probably tell he is a compassionate guy who sets up a supportive and inclusive environment that really helps his clients feel good, stay safe and fit. Links: NthSide Fitness: https://www.nthside.fitness/ NthSide Fitness on Instagram: http://instagram.com/nthside.fitness Picks of the Week Tom: No time For Fear by Paul De Gelder - https://amzn.to/2r7keLP Rane: Wild Wild Country on Netflix - https://www.netflix.com/au/title/80145240 Jo: Vegan Guide to Melbourne - http://veganguidemelbourne.com/

Kirrah Stewart is a doula, pregnancy masseuse, childbirth educator, placenta encapsulator and she also attends births and supports families during their postpartum. Kirrah has been a doula for over 10 years and is based in the Rainbow region of Northern New South Wales. Kirrah was recently in Melbourne for a Doula conference, so we thought we would take the opportunity to learn more about what she does. Pregnant women and their partners often find it difficult to sift through all the information out there but Kirrah helps them understand their options so they can feel more relaxed and positive in their pregnancy and really look forward to birth and becoming a parent. In this conversation, we learn what lead to Kirrah becoming a doula, and what a doula does! We will learn some of what Kirrah does to assist in the childbirth of her clients, including a quick meditation that you can practice at home. We also learn some of the things that Kirrah does to organise and run her own business, and how she uses social media to help offer her services. Even if you aren’t expecting a child, there is a lot of valuable information in this episode on this very important part of life. Links: Kirrah's Website: www.doulawisdom.com Doula Wisdom on Instagram: www.instagram.com/doulawisdom/ Pick of the week: Jo: The Connected Yoga Teacher - A New Perspective on Diastasis Recti with Dr Sinead Dufour (Pelvic floor expert) hosted by Shannon Crow. - http://www.theconnectedyogateacher.com/ Rane - Andrew Huang on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdcemy56JtVTrsFIOoqvV8g Kirrah - Chapter one Daniel Flynn - https://amzn.to/2H4BCYB

Conor O’Shea is a Personal Trainer, Nutrition coach, and Yoga teacher from Ireland, currently based in Melbourne, Australia. Conor is also a certified GMB trainer - which is one aspect of his work which particularly interested us. GMB is a training method that incorporates yoga, martial arts, physiotherapy, gymnastics and mindful movement. As we will hear in the podcast Rane has a personal interest in this methodology! In this conversation, we learn how Conor discovered yoga, and how a trip to India changed his perspective on movement, physical exercise, meditation and life. We hear about his approach to nutrition and coaching, and how he cultivates positive habits in his clients, helping them build an awareness of where they might be at a particular point in time. This leads into his personal philosophy on living a happy and healthy life, and he shares some wisdom he learned on his life journey. This is another fascinating episode, and we just love Conor and his laidback, realistic and holistic style of yoga, movement and nutrition. Links: Conor’s Website: http://conorosheafitness.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feelgoodhacks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conorosheafit/ GMB: https://gmb.io/ https://www.instagram.com/gmbfitness/ Pick of the Week: Conor’s Focused Flexibility Workshop: https://www.facebook.com/events/424695947973464 GMB’s 2 Day Seminar Brisbane: https://www.facebook.com/events/411133415992783/ Rane: Women's AFL http://womens.afl Finally join Jo and Rane for their Yoga for Digestive Ease workshop at Pinnacle Wellness in Upwey, Melbourne: http://pinnaclewellness.com.au/ https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/classic/mainclass Go to 8/04/2018 in mindbody online to book. Theme song is Baby Robots by Ghostsoul, music is available at http://ghostsoul.bandcamp.com/ Check it out!

David Packman is a prominent Melbourne based Meditation guide and Mindset coach. As well as teaching, guiding and speaking around town regularly, he runs regular classes from his own studio The Fifth Direction in Albert Park, Melbourne. David is the current president of Meditation Australia, the national peak body that represents meditation and meditation teachers. I became aware that David was holding a Meditations on Death workshop at A-space studio in Collingwood recently and as you will hear in this episode I have a personal interest in the topic, so I attended. It was a deeply moving experience, and I just knew I had to have David on the Podcast. In this episode, we talk about David’s incredible life journey and we end up in a deep discussion on death, how we deny death as individuals and as a culture, and how incredibly unhealthy this is. We talk about how he uses the Wim Hof method to help manage the symptoms of his cancer, and how he incorporates Heartmath and NLP into his work. We also talk about David's role as President of Meditation Australia. Finally, we discuss how we can make the most of every moment of this precious life. Links David Packman’s website http://thefifthdirection.com.au/ David on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidpackman/ Some of the books that David refers to: Die Wise by Stephen Jenkinson http://amzn.to/2DAfjqP Michael Barbato https://www.deathletterprojects.com/michael-barbato/ Timothy Leary - Design for Dying - http://amzn.to/2HJUxaH Frank Ostaseski - The Five Invitations http://amzn.to/2HHZbWS Pick of the Week: David - Music and the mind - http://thefifthdirection.com.au/ (Under Events) Jo - Hoop Away retreat - http://www.hoopsparx.com/hoopaway Rane - Why Buddhism is True by Robert Wright - http://amzn.to/2GEgadn Theme song is Baby Robots by Ghostsoul and is used with permission - https://ghostsoul.bandcamp.com/

In the latest episode of The Flow Artists Podcast, we speak with Renae Stevens and Kristin Mathiassen. Renae Stevens is the creator of the Aerial Yoga Therapeutics training program, a pioneering approach that integrates the aerial hammock as a therapeutic modality for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. With a background in yoga, somatic practices, and mental health recovery, Renae has developed a unique methodology that bridges the mind-body connection through the versatile and supportive medium of the aerial hammock. Kristin Mathiassen, a trained aerial yoga therapist, specialises in working with individuals with disabilities, particularly those with Down syndrome. Her personal experience as a mother to a son with Down syndrome inspired her to explore the therapeutic potential of the aerial hammock and sensory-based activities. Kristin's expertise lies in creating safe, playful, and engaging environments that support the unique needs and abilities of her clients. The aerial hammock's "superpower," as described by Renae and Kristin, lies in its ability to provide a soothing, supportive, and sensory-regulating space for practitioners of all ages and abilities. Whether used for physical rehabilitation, mental health recovery, or simply as a means of exploring movement and body awareness, the hammock offers a diverse range of applications within the realm of aerial yoga therapeutics. One of the key strengths of aerial yoga therapeutics is its emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity. Renae and Kristin stress the importance of offering progressions, modifications, and grounding experiences to ensure the safety and engagement of participants with diverse needs and abilities. Instructors in this field must possess a deep understanding of the human body and the ability to adapt and facilitate sessions that cater to a wide spectrum of presentations. Renae is running a series of aerial yoga therapeutics training courses later this year. This is an opportunity to receive some of the best aerial yoga training available in the world with Renae and a whole host of experienced facilitators, including Kristin, as well as yoga luminaries such as Simon Borg Olivier. For more details head to https://aerialyogateachertraining.com/our-courses/ for more information and the ‘discover more’ link for each training for start dates and pricing. The first unit - Aerial Essentials Teacher Training starts in June 2024! Use our code GARDENOFYOGA to get a free online mentoring session valued at $200 (and offered in multiple languages!). Just write the coupon code: GARDENOFYOGA at checkout. Links Renae Aerial Yoga Teacher Training Website: https://aerialyogateachertraining.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aerial_yoga_therapeutics/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aerialyogatherapeuticsteachertraining Kristin: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elementsofflow2024/ Elements of Flow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556267041098

Ashton Szabo is a yoga teacher, a self-described anatomy geek and host of the Anatomy of Living Podcast. Ashton is based in Encinitas California, so we were very lucky to have the opportunity to record a conversation with him online. I’m a huge fan of Ashton's work as a podcaster and he is one of my inspirations for starting this podcast, so we are super excited to be able to share this episode with you! In this conversation, we talk about Ashton’s story growing up, and how he found yoga through an interest in martial arts. We hear how he packed up his life in the US and moved to a small island in Thailand, and what his life was like there. We learn how Ashton’s interest in thinkers like Joseph Campbell and Alan Watts, and the influence of teacher Douglas Brooks lead to him becoming the inspirational storyteller he is. We also learn how Ashton uses his extensive knowledge of both eastern philosophy and anatomy in the classes he teaches. As well as that, there is plenty more good stuff in this interview. Now normally we release our podcasts on a fortnightly schedule, but we were getting too far ahead with our interviews, so this week we have an extra special bonus episode! We have entered the Australian Podcast Awards! Now we know it’s a longshot, as we are up against some pretty big competition, but if you could vote for us, that would be amazing - you can vote here: https://australianpodcastawards.submittable.com/gallery/2829f195-1021-4d7c-853f-f0ce775f4fa4/9573623/ Links: Ashton - Hanuman: The Devotion and Power of the Monkey God by Vanamali, and Sri Krishna Das http://amzn.to/2DkrYOw The Shiva Sutras translation by Swami Lakshmanjoo - http://amzn.to/2p7NQI6 Rane - One Simple Thing by Mitch Horowitz - http://amzn.to/2GlUXVD Jo - Square Credit Card processing - https://squareup.com/

Janet Lowndes is a Melbourne based psychologist with over 25 years professional experience which includes psychological counselling, teaching, meditation training, and yoga therapy. Her studies in yoga also go back 25 years - including time in the Swami Vivekananda Ashram in India. She is a registered senior teacher with Yoga Australia and is the director of the Australian Institute of Yoga Therapy. In this conversation, we talk about her background in psychology, how yoga evolved her approach and understanding of the mind, and how she marries the two worlds together. We also talk about her important work with eating disorders and body image and how to thoughtfully use language in our yoga classes to help shape a culture of self-love and acceptance. Finally, we discuss how the body focused aspect of yoga that is presented in social media could potentially be damaging. This was an amazing conversation, and as usual I am honored to have been part of it! Links: Janet's website: https://www.mindbodywell.com.au/ Yoga Psychology Training: https://www.yogapsychology.com.au/ Picks of the week: Janet: Connecting - Conscious Communication for Yoga Teachers and Therapists by Lucy Karnani and Jill Danks - http://www.yogacommunication.org/ Jo - Phillipa Stanton - https://www.instagram.com/5ftinf/

Kara-Leah Grant is probably one of New Zealand’s most well-known yoga teachers. As well as being a phenomenal teacher and guide, she is the creator and prolific contributor to New Zealand’s most popular yoga website, The Yoga Lunchbox. She is also the author of two books - 40 days of yoga, and The No-Excuses Guide to Yoga. In this conversation, we talk about writing and her process. We discuss how yoga is a practice for waking up, and what that even means. We talk about her process of delivering transformational retreat experiences, and how she takes care of herself during that time. We also explore the subject of her upcoming book on Kundalini awakening. We were really keen to talk to Kara-Leah about this, as we know several people personally who have gone through this intense, and sometimes shattering type of experience. Links: Kara Leah Grant's website - http://karaleah.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/karaleahgrant/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/karaleahgrant/ The Yoga Lunchbox - https://theyogalunchbox.co.nz/ The Yoga Lunchbox on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheYogaLunchbox/ The Hoop Away Retreat: http://www.hoopsparx.com/hoopaway Picks of the Week: Rane - Sinepearl - https://sinepearl.bandcamp.com/ Jo - Peter McKinnon on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3DkFux8Iv-aYnTRWzwaiBA Kara-Leah - Breaking the habit of Being Yourself by Joe Dispenza - http://amzn.to/2HnzRpE

This episode is a recorded conversation between myself, Jo Stewart, and Mark Pheely. Mark Pheely is a Melbourne based yoga teacher who runs his own studio Westside Yoga, based in the western suburb of Seddon. He also runs retreats and teacher trainings. When you attend one of Mark’s classes, you feel you are in safe knowledgeable hands, and yet given the freedom to fully inhabit your own body and practice. He manages to impart a lot with very few words. Now, in this podcast we have heard many of our guests offer the advice “Teach what you know”, so why did we pick it for this episode’s title? The reason is that I feel that Mark genuinely embodies his teachings. As an example, when I was diagnosed with stomach cancer, Mark very generously provided me with 6 months of free yoga at the studio he was running in Northcote at the time. As you’ll hear in this episode, he is continually practicing self-inquiry and living his life according to the yogic principles he teaches in his classes. In this conversation, we will hear about Mark’s background in exercise physiology, his time in the corporate world, and how a secret crush helped fuel his love of yoga. We will also hear about Marks love of surfing, and its relationship with his yoga practice. Finally, Mark shares advice for new yoga teachers, and people thinking of starting their own yoga studios! This episode was recorded at West Side Yoga - there was a little bit of background noise, so I apologise for the slightly diminished sound quality. It’s a great conversation with a man I deeply respect and admire, so lets get on with it! Links - West Side Yoga - http://westsideyoga.com.au/ West Side Yoga on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/westsideyogaschool/ Mark’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mark.pheely/ Picks of the Week Rane - The Recognition Sutras - By Christopher Wallis - http://amzn.to/2E4OnR2 Jo - Eastern Body Western Mind - By Anodea Judith http://amzn.to/2EHpJqX Mark - Fasting the Mind By Jason Gregory http://amzn.to/2EfLa4A

Louise Taube is a much loved and well respected Melbourne Pilates teacher, studio owner and teacher trainer. Her passion for pilates as a healing modality and the joy of movement is clear - in this episode she shares her experiences as a dancer who used Pilates to train and rehabilitate her own body and how she discovered her talent for teaching, and eventually training teachers. Louise also tells us of some of her areas of speciality - Pilates for Active Ageing, Pre and Post Natal Pilates and her passion for translating Pilates movements into film and youtube videos. She has some great advice for movement teachers from all modalities - and listening to Louise will make you want to get up and move - her energy is infectious! https://www.taubepilates.com/ https://www.facebook.com/taubepilates/ https://www.instagram.com/taubepilatestraining/ Louise's Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUk3ahKzaikGpJHl_YlTcJQ Other Youtubers she likes Wendy Huber https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXg8aBbHjN4f6McqP0f5t4g Kirk Smith https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8kDl5htpGV5z549z_KJX9w Louise's Pick of the week - the Butterfly Tree https://www.facebook.com/ButterflyTreeFilm/ Jo's pick of the week - the oov http://www.oov.com.au/ Rane's pick of the week - Cutting through Spiritual Materialism by Chogyam Trumpa http://amzn.to/2n0HHfI

This episode is a recording of a conversation between Rane Bowen, Jo Stewart, and Leigh Blashki. Leigh Blashki is a legendary figure in Australian Yoga. He is also an incredibly engaging speaker and has a deep understanding and love of these practices. As you will hear in this podcast, Leigh has had influence and training from a number of traditions and teachers, including Sri Yogendra, Swami Gitananda, A.G. Mohan and Dr. Richard Miller. He has taught yoga and meditation for over 40 years and had over 350 graduates from his Yoga teacher training and Yoga therapy training courses. He was a founding member of the Yoga Teachers Association of Australia, now known as Yoga Australia. He also founded the Australian Institute of Yoga Therapy, is a Past-President of Yoga Australia, a member of the Council of Advisors for Yoga Australia and the IAYT and also served the IAYT on their Standards, Accreditation and Certification Committees. Indeed, he has been instrumental in building the standards and professionalism of yoga in this country and is widely regarded as the father of yoga therapy in Australia. In this episode, we discuss how Leigh found yoga, some of his key early teachers, as well as his current ones! We learn about how Leigh helped to establish Yoga Australia, and his work in developing the first Government accredited Yoga Training in this country. He also discusses his work with iRest and shares some incredibly profound statements on being in the world and teaching with authenticity. Picks of the Week Leigh - In Touch: How to Tune In to the Inner Guidance of Your Body and Trust Yourself by John J Prendergast - http://amzn.to/2COv8hj Rane - Journeys into Emptiness: Dogen, Merton, Jung, and the Quest for Transformation by Robert Jingen Gunn - http://amzn.to/2Fccgaq

This episode features a recorded conversation between myself, Jo Stewart and Anu. Anu is a non-binary person whose pronouns are they/them. Anu teaches a queer and trans inclusive yoga class at dance of life in Fitzroy, Melbourne, as well as yoga in a retirement village. They are considering further training in yoga therapy and trauma sensitive yoga. We believe that yoga is a gift to the world and that everybody who wants to should have access to yoga, and feel welcomed and comfortable in every class. There are some simple steps yoga, movement and meditation teachers can take that will aid in this, so we feel the information and perspective that Anu gives in this episode is really important. Other topics we cover in this episode include how yoga and meditation can help activists, and Anu also discusses their work with seniors. Anu’s QTI class is at Dance of Life, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Thursdays 7.45pm For further information on queer and trans identity here are some resources: https://www.facebook.com/qtiyoga/ http://www.decolonizingyoga.com/ http://www.transgendervictoria.com/ https://www.trans101.org.au/ Picks of the week: Anu: Refugee Action Collective - http://rac-vic.org/ Asylum Resource Center - https://www.asrc.org.au RISE: Refugees, Survivors and Ex-detainees is the first refugee and asylum seeker organisation in Australia to be run and governed by refugees, asylum seekers and ex-detainees - http://riserefugee.org/ If you would like to register your concerns about the humanitarian crisis on Manus Island: The Prime Minister’s Office - 0262777700 Bill Shorten’s Office - 0262774022 Rane - Contrapoints Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNvsIonJdJ5E4EXMa65VYpA

Donna Sparx is a Melbourne based Hoop Dance teacher with a highly organised yet uniquely creative approach. In this conversation, we hear about Donna’s background in sculpture, creative writing and youth work, and how these disciplines inform her teaching today. Donna goes on to tell us how she was introduced to hooping through the Women's Circus, and how her initial thoughts on that "little plastic circle" were less than favourable. We learn how Donna’s teaching approach uses play as a foundation for learning and connection and how she encourages individual expression through movement and flow. We also learn about some of the handy systems Donna has devised over the years to help her manage her busy schedule, including some practical healthy eating tips for people on the go. There is some great information in this podcast, so be sure to listen right to the end! Links Donna's Hoop Sparx website - http://hoopsparx.com 14 Ways Hooping is good for mental health: http://hoopsparx.com/14-ways-hooping-good-mental-health/ Picks of the Week: Donna - Women's Circus - http://www.womenscircus.org.au/ Jo - Cirque Physio - Jennifer Crane - http://www.cirquephysio.com/ Rane - Hidden Figures - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hidden_Figures

Today’s episode is a recorded conversation between myself, Jo Stewart, and Paul Daniele of Mindful Body and Spirit. Paulie is a multifaceted teacher, who facilitates a wide range of classes! Boxing, Qi gong, Yoga, Pilates and meditation. All of these are in the toolbox of physical and mental disciplines that Paulie loves to share with the world. In this conversation, we learn about Paulie’s Italian background, and how his personality was shaped by being the youngest of seven children in the family. We also learn about how Paulie keeps himself energised and inspired through his personal practice, art and other hobbies. And finally, we learn about Paulie’s earlier career as a school teacher and how that informs his approach today. It’s a cracker of a conversation, and Paulie’s enthusiasm shines through. Links Paulie's website: http://www.bemindfulnow.com.au/ Mindful Body and Spirit on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindfulbodyandspirit Mindful Body and Spirit on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfulbodyandspirit/ Picks of the Week Rane - God A Human History by Reza Azlan - https://www.amazon.com/God-Human-History-Reza-Aslan/dp/055339472X Jo - J Boogies Dubtronic Science - http://jboogie.com/

This week we travel back to New Plymouth, New Zealand and catch up with Alex Rodger who runs The Yoga Space hot yoga studio. Alex has led an adventurous life, and he tells us how his journey has taken him travelling around the world from the north of England by air and sea. We learn how he found yoga and meditation, and how he felt drawn to creating a community right in the heart of New Plymouth, New Zealand. In this interview, we will learn about Alex's influences in yoga and his down to earth approach to teaching and holding space. We'll also learn about some fantastic events he has coming up. We recorded this conversation in his studio, and you might notice a bit of background noise during portions of this recording, for which I apologise. Jo and I will return at the end for our picks of the week! Links: The Yoga Space - http://www.theyogaspace.co.nz/ Summerview Festival 2018 - Link to come Picks of the week: Rane - Made to Last by Vanessa Murray - http://www.hardiegrant.com/au/publishing/bookfinder/book/made-to-last-by-vanessa-murray/9781741175240 Jo - Donna Sparx's Hoop Ma Boogie Workshop - https://weteachme.com/hoopsparx/1023624-hoop-ma-boogie-2017?ct=t(Hoop_Ma_Boogie_Twinning_the_Spin_Exclusi10_30_2017 The theme song is "Baby Robots" by Ghostsoul - you can buy his music at https://ghostsoul.bandcamp.com/

In this episode, Jo and Rane take you through a journey of the creative process, self-discovery, and the intersection of art and wellbeing. We share updates on our personal and professional endeavours, sharing the inspirations behind Rane's SoundMadeSeen app and Jo's forthcoming book on aerial yoga. One of the episode's highlights is the discussion surrounding Rane's SoundMadeSeen app, which generates dynamic visuals and video content from podcast audio. We delve into the app's development process and its potential to enhance the auditory experience with visual elements. Jo's progress on her book about aerial yoga also provides valuable insights into her aim of making this practice accessible to diverse populations, emphasising its sensory benefits. We also touch on our recent trip to New Zealand, where we experienced the awe-inspiring "Wharenui Harikoa" crochet art installation. Our reflections on this immersive sensory experience underscore the power of art to connect individuals with their surroundings and themselves. Additionally, the conversation with guest Claire Holloway on applying yogic principles to parenting offers a thought-provoking perspective on embracing the present moment and letting go of expectations in the parenting journey. We also reflect on the challenges of maintaining a consistent podcast schedule and our decision to transition to a monthly release schedule. LINKS SoundMadeSeen: https://soundmadeseen.com/ Podcast mailing list: https://podcast.flowartists.com/ Garden of Yoga Website: https://gardenofyoga.com.au/ Aerial Yoga Therapeutics: https://aerialyogateachertraining.com/our-courses/ Use our code GARDENOFYOGA to get a free online mentoring session valued at $200 (and offered in multiple languages!). Claire's links: The Centre of Bright Beginnings Website: https://www.yourbrightbeginning.com.au Socials: @yourbrightbeginning (instagram and facebook) Yoga Philosophy for Parenthood Course (hosted by Bliss Baby Yoga): https://blissbabyyoga.com/yogaphilosophyforparenthood/

This week’s guest is Elizabeth Bell. We recorded this conversation during Yogafest Yoga Retreat at Lord Somers camp over Melbourne Cup weekend. Elizabeth is a person with a fun and unique perspective of the world, and she actively works to empower herself and the people around her, through both her art and her yoga. In this conversation we talk about some of the seminal yoga teachers Elizabeth has trained with. We discuss her background in art, including her experiences life modelling, and her work as the Naked lecturer. We will also learn about what it is that she would most love people to distill from her teaching of yoga. Finally, we talk about her current project, The Ovarian Temple. Links: Elizabeth's Website: http://www.elizabethbell.com.au/ Elizabeth's Mirror Art and Amulets: http://www.elizabethbell.com.au/garden/art/ The Ovarian Temple: http://www.ovariantemple.com/ Picks of the Week: Rane - My Year With Helen: https://myyearwithhelen.com/ Jo - A Color Story App: https://acolorstory.com/ Elizabeth also requested that we mention the music of Alice Coltrane - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxPMKgY_8qk

This episode was recorded in my hometown of New Plymouth with duo Ram and Bhavani Davies who together run the Sivananda Yoga center. Before we jump into the conversation however, here is a little a background about New Plymouth. New Plymouth is a small town on the West Coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It is the capital of Taranaki province, colloquially known as "The Naki". It also happens to be the town where I was born. It is a small town with a population of less than 50,000, and it is a rural center in a dairy producing region, which is also fueled by the local oil and gas industry. As you will hear during this interview, Back beach is a very popular surfing spot, right under the ever present watch of the beautiful Mount Taranaki. In fact the Lonely Planet recently selected Taranaki as the second best region in the world, which has attracted a wave of backpacker tourists, drawn by the surf and snow. While I grew up, New Plymouth was a fairly conservative place, so I was pleasantly surprised when I came back recently and discovered that there was a thriving yoga and meditation scene! The last I counted there are at least 6 Yoga and Meditation studios in the small seaside town. I attended a class with Bhavani at Barclay Hall a while back, and it was a gentle traditional and meditative practice which left me feeling fantastic, so I was really looking forward to catching up with them. In this conversation we will learn about what lead the two of them to yoga, to each other and to New Plymouth! We will discover their philosophy on teaching and finding your own voice in a traditional style, and they offer advice on those who are thinking of starting teaching, or opening their own studio! Links: Sivananda Yoga Center - https://www.sivanandayoga.co.nz/ Sanctuary Hill Yoga Yoga and Retreat Center - https://www.sanctuaryhill.co.nz/ Picks of the Week Rane - Shining Light Yoga Mens Classes - http://www.shininglightyoga.com.au/events/

This episode we have a conversation with the delightful Andrew Keast. Andrew is a man we’ve known for a very short amount of time, but he is already a good friend to the Flow Artists Team. He is open, curious and powerfully introspective. In this conversation we talk about jnana yoga - the yoga of wisdom or knowledge, and how it’s skillful use raises issues of identity, self esteem and finding your place in the world - themes that have already come up in this podcast many times. We also discuss Andrew’s background and about how living with an open and receptive heart can lead to a vocation that is truly in alignment with your core values. Finally, we discuss his current role of “Storyteller” with Refugee Talent. In this role Andrew works to help refugees find employment, and we learn how the situations these people are facing can have devastating effects on their own identities. Picks of the Week Rane - Asylum Seeker Resource Center Mentoring Program - https://www.asrc.org.au/mentoring/ Jo - The Good Place - https://www.netflix.com/au/title/80113701 Andrew - Refugee Talent - https://refugeetalent.com/