Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Somatic Strength Collective (formerly The Yin Yoga Podcast)
Plongez dans la liste complète des épisodes de The Somatic Strength Collective (formerly The Yin Yoga Podcast). Chaque épisode est catalogué accompagné de descriptions détaillées, ce qui facilite la recherche et l'exploration de sujets spécifiques. Suivez tous les épisodes de votre podcast préféré et ne manquez aucun contenu pertinent.
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Titre
Date
Durée
When Your Body Won't Let You Work Out: Two Keys To Move Beyond Pain
11 Aug 2026
00:34:57
You know you need to strength train in midlife to protect your bones, muscle mass, and metabolic health. But every time you try to lift weights or join a class, your back seizes, your knees throb, or your neck locks up. You are trapped in the Midlife Exercise Catch-22: terrified of losing mobility if you don't lift, but terrified of crippling pain if you do.
In this episode, Mandy Ryle breaks you out of that all-or-nothing trap. Clinical evidence shows progressive exercise isn't something you earn after you're out of pain—it is the primary treatment for chronic pain itself. Discover why rest makes tendons stiffer, how progressive overload retrains a hyper-vigilant nervous system, and how Graded Exposure is somatic strength, and allows you to build strength without flaring!
Timestamps
00:00 – The Midlife Exercise Catch-22
01:19 – The Real Purpose of Somatics: Getting Strong
02:15 – Estrogen Decline, Muscle Loss & Bone Health
09:51 – The Science: Exercise as #1 Chronic Pain Treatment
11:42 – Research on Osteoarthritis & Joint Health
13:01 – Why Tendons Need Loading, Not Rest
15:03 – Desensitizing Nervous System Threat Algorithms
18:26 – Graded Exposure: Micro-Dosing Resistance
20:20 – Movement Variables to Prevent Flare-Ups
Key Takeaways
The Midlife Catch-22: Declining estrogen makes loading mandatory, but traditional workout intensity triggers protective nervous system flare-ups.
Rest Makes Tendons Worse: Tendinopathies and osteoarthritis require controlled mechanical load to remodel tissue. Rest increases stiffness.
Graded Exposure is the Key: Micro-dosing resistance and tweaking variables (range of motion, tempo, load) builds strength safely in the "Goldilocks zone."
Scientific Research Cited
Hayden et al. (Cochrane Review): 240+ RCTs showing progressive exercise outperforms passive care for pain and disability.
Fransen et al. (Cochrane Review): Therapeutic exercise produces OA pain reductions comparable to NSAIDs without gut side effects.
Geneen et al.: Exercise consistently improves function and quality of life across persistent pain conditions.
Resources & Links
📲 7-Day Free Trial: Join the Somatic Strength Collective App.
📊 Free Neural Audit: Evaluate your nervous system threat level with The Neural Audit.
📘 Free Guide: Download The Move Beyond Pain in Perimenopause Roadmap.
Connect
YouTube: Watch full video breakdowns on YouTube.
Website: Programs & coaching at Empowered Self.
Disclaimer: Educational purposes only; not medical advice.
Sciatic Pain in Midlife: Why Deep Stretching Backfires (And What to Do Instead)
06 Aug 2026
00:33:39
If you’ve been dealing with shooting, burning, or aching discomfort through your lower back, hip, glute, or down the back of your leg, you’ve probably been told it’s "sciatica"—and your immediate instinct was likely to yank on your hamstrings or aggressively stretch your piriformis.
But what if deep stretching is actually making your sciatic pain worse?
In this special experiential episode of The Somatic Strength Collective, we are dispelling one of the most widely misunderstood pain conditions in midlife. Nerves don't want to be aggressively pulled or strained; they need room to glide and slide freely through surrounding tissues.
Grab a comfortable spot on a yoga mat or carpeted floor as Mandy Ryle guides you through a gentle, restorative somatic practice blending somatic education, nerve mobilization, and gentle breathwork. You’ll learn how slow, non-judgmental movement acts like a 3D printer for your brain's internal map, allowing both physical bracing and emotional residue to melt away.
20:52 – Moving Without an Agenda: Releasing physical bracing & emotional residue
26:56 – Continuing Your Practice: Accessing guided resets inside the Collective App
🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:
📊 Take the Free 2-Minute Neural Audit: Uncover where your nervous system is on its journey and get your personalized next step: https://empoweredself.me/free-neural-audit-quiz-for-perimenopausal-pain/
📱 Access the Free Nervous System Reset Library: Practice guided somatic resets inside The Somatic Strength Collective App: https://empoweredself.me/the-somatic-strength-collective/
🌐 Connect with Mandy: Book a free strategy call to chart your holistic path away from persistent pain: https://empoweredself.me/free-strategy-session/
💬 Key Quote from the Episode:
"Nerves don't want to be yanked on—they need to glide and slide through their tissues. When we stop chasing a deep stretch and start moving without an agenda, the nervous system finally gets the message that it is safe to let go." — Mandy Ryle
Understanding Yourself and Your Practice Through the Prism of The Gunas
06 Dec 2023
00:33:37
In this solo discussion episode, we'll explore the three intertwined modes that constitute our very existence, the Gunas. This enlightening discussion will offer a fresh perspective on the intense sensations and fluctuations experienced in a yin practice, allowing you to cultivate a deeper understanding of your own nature.
But we don't stop at the yoga mat. Imagine applying these timeless lessons to your everyday life - finding meaning in the changing seasons, and adopting an attitude of curiosity and joy instead of fixating on a particular state or rejecting others. Fascinating, isn't it? We also delve into the intriguing biological component of this experience, using the stress-strain curve of connective tissues as an analogy.
For those among us grappling with pain, we offer a unique perspective on its understanding and a potential path to alleviate it. So, if you're curious about how ancient philosophy intertwines with contemporary yoga and life, join us on this journey of discovery.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
For this gentle but incredibly powerful practice, I have borrowed a lesson from the Feldenkrais Method. You will engage in gentle progressions to experience not just movement of the shoulder joint, but the embodied experience of the shoulder, from the tissues, to your thoughts and beliefs about your shoulder. A practice like this feels mild, but trust that your body is learning, that your nervous systems are developing a faith and confidence in your shoulder. This is a very affirmational way to experience your shoulder, which may facilitate an experience of healing if you struggle with this area.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
In this very supported practice we will be focusing on the movements of the spine: delicious forward folds, sublime twists, exquisite sidebands and soft hearted back bends. As we gently experience the body in these movements and poses, we will explore an idea from the Buddhist tradition, that it takes a strong back and a soft heart to practice compassion. Throughout your practice, I'll be encouraging you to direct your compassion and self acceptance inward. You'll get to experiment and feel these ideas in your body and in your practice.
Props needed: Bolster, two blocks and a blanket.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
This Week's 30 minute practice is designed to usher you into a deep and restful sleep. We will combine a breathing practice with simple yoga poses that you can do in your bed right before it's time to turn in. Equal parts, nervous system regulation and gentle stretch, this practice is all about shifting into your rest and digest nervous system platform.
Props: a yoga bolster or firm pillow. a blanket or bed pillow for under your head.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Posture is an incredibly loaded topic in our culture. If you've been involved in yoga for any time you've been receiving messages about posture that may not be helping you. We have hundreds of not thousands of sources daily telling us that our bad posture is the cause of maladies such as chronic pain functional movement issues breathing issues and more.
The problem with these well meaning sources of advice, is that they are not evidence-based. We don't really have any evidence to show that "poor posture" can cause chronic pain, in fact the opposite is true with regard to neck pain especially. We see that hypervigilance towards posture seems to be associated with higher levels of neck pain. So this class is designed to help you update your understanding of your posture. I'm hoping to provide a very affirmative experience for you regarding the areas of the body that we typically associate with the posture the upper back the chest the shoulders and the neck.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
A Celebration of the Body: Yin Yoga, Cellular Respiration, and Gratitude
22 Nov 2023
01:34:01
Experience the profound connection between the universe within you and the world around you as we journey through an exquisite exploration of yin yoga, mindfulness, and the incredible power of gratitude. This is a 90-minute yin yoga practice that fosters a profound sense of appreciation for your body. Designed to bring tranquility, connection, and a space exclusively for you, we anchor our attention on the breath and the internal movement of light within the rib cage.
In this episode we unravel the marvels of cellular respiration, the universe within your cells. With each breath, nourish and support the teeming life within you, The experience of cellular respiration, will profoundly deepen your sense of self and body connectivity.
With each pose, take a moment to appreciate the sensations, the echoes of movements and the hard work of your cells. We conclude with a reflective Shavasana, inviting you to contemplate the remarkable journey of evolution, and your place in the universe. This practice is a loving reminder of the miracles within us and our bodies' phenomenal ability to evolve, exist, and flourish. Tune in for this enriching adventure of self-discovery and appreciation.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Sometimes you have to give in to the dreariness of life's seasons, and sometimes you need to ride above it. Often when we curl up physically we shrink energetically as well. This is a fairly challenging Yin practice designed to physically and energetically expand. We focus on the hip flexor tissues. If you prefer a video to an audio recording, you will find this class at https://online.soundmethodyoga.com/2020/05/28/some-love-for-your-hip-flexors/--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
This is a gentle yet very effective practice for challenging our biases. Neck pain is one of the most common types of chronic pain and like all pain, is a product of bi-psycho-social factors. For today, we will focus of the psychological and cultural contributors to neck pain. We’ll do so with somatic movements intended to activate tissues in your neck, shoulder, and chest. You will also have time in common yin poses to explore and contemplate. This practice is the heart of what I do in Pain Care Yoga. We learn, we are challenged and often delighted by our efforts.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
I get a lot of requests for practices that focus on the low back and hips. These are notoriously sensitive areas and students really want stretches to address the tightness and pain that they are experiencing. The only issue is, I don't really think stretching is the best way to release these or really any tissues. For this practice, we will do some familiar Yin poses but with a different angle. As you practice you will learn about the important thoracolumbar fascia and hopefully gain some understanding about how to address the stiffness in more helpful ways.
Props: Blanket, bolster or firm pillows, two blocks
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
I’m sort of amazed, and appalled, about how much misinformation there is about neck pain. One really irksome myth is that if your neck is tight, some stretching will help bring relief and over time, this stretching will fix the tightness and the pain it is “causing”. Total horse$%I$. Sorry to all of those influencers who are peddling this myth.
There are ways that we can use stretches as part of a pain care plan however, and this is what you will practice here. I’ve combined somatics, stretches some resistance and of course, breathing to facilitate a bit of relief in the short term. But I’ve also provided some education to help you understand how these strategies can help you over come this discomfort or pain in the long term.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
I think we're all a little tired right now. Things are piling up for sure at this stage in the pandemic. This is a practice that I offered recently to bring a bit of TLC and care to some students who are dealing with some heavy stuff.
Even in these moments, maybe especially, Yoga has something to offer. This practice is all about being available to now, a moment where everything is right. I've also used movements to gently provide an experience of safety for you to let down your guard for a bit.
Though you can't magically emerge from the present moment into easier times, you can being a bit more resilience and peace to your troubles.
Props needed: Bolster (or pillows), blocks and blanket.
Become a Shift Member! Support this podcast and gain access to practices, in depth courses, and structured movement plans to support a resilient and empowered life. Learn More: yoga.mandyryle.com/become-a-member/
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Yin & Somatics: Benevolent Awareness for the Neck and Throat
13 Sep 2023
01:01:14
Though the front of the neck and throat are only a very small part of the physical body, they have an oversized role in self hood. This practice is amazing for my listeners with neck pain, but especially valuable for those of us who hold stress in the throat area.
In this gentle practice you will cultivate a benevolent awareness for the front of the neck and throat. My goal is to provide a profound sense of safety for any and all movements of the neck and expressions that come from the throat. You will also find that this class is incredibly soothing. Every time I teach it live, students fall asleep! So I can guarantee that the movements and breathing practices have a powerful effect on your parasympathetic nervous system.
If you have been looking for yoga for neck pain, be sure to save this practice!
Learn how to Create Yin Sequencing Poetry Click the link for a recorded masterclass webinar to introduce you to my sequencing model. This is the model that I use to sequence my classes and that I teach to my Yin Teacher Trainees. https://yoga.mandyryle.com/creating-yin-sequencing-poetry/
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Unlocking Your Authentic Voice: The Intersection of Yin Yoga, Nervous System Regulation, and Leadership
02 Aug 2023
00:50:34
How can Yin Yoga and nervous system communication unearth your unique and authentic voice? Join us on a fascinating journey with Elise Besler, a Yin Yoga teacher, musician, and leadership coach, as she sheds light on the intricate interplay between our nervous system, yoga practice, and the environment we create in our classes. We delve deep into intriguing topics such as polyvagal theory, trauma, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome, with practical strategies that you can implement right away.
Elise pulls back the curtain on the power of Neurosomatic Intelligence and co-regulation, emphasizing their crucial roles in leadership, teaching, and learning. She shares her personal journey of finding her distinct teaching voice, offering invaluable perspective on the challenges new teachers might face. We also unravel the complex relationship between the vocal cords, the vagus nerve, and the heart, showcasing their impact on our ability to communicate our truths.
No discussion would be complete without addressing imposter syndrome. Discover how regulating our nervous system can help heal it and why boundaries and chronic pain may be protective outputs of your nervous system. Finally, we touch on self-compassion and personal growth resources, including Elise's website, Instagram, and podcast, The Embodied Leader. This episode promises a refreshing perspective and practical tools to navigate your yoga journey and beyond. Prepare to be enlightened, inspired, and empowered. Tune in now!
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Harmonizing Body and Mind: The Relationship between Yin Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine
20 Sep 2023
01:31:46
In this episode we peel back the layers of Eastern wisdom with our esteemed guest, Josh Summers. Seasoned Yin teachers and novice practitioners alike will benefit from Josh's perspective in this fascinating discussion.
Josh generously shares his insights on how Yin Yoga, when melded with TCM, can prepare the mind and body for deeper meditation. But we also recognize the challenges teachers face when trying to assimilate and impart this knowledge. Josh gives some great advice for teachers who wish to honor this philosophy with authenticity while staying within their scope of practice.
In the final stretch of our conversation, we delve into the potent biopsychosocial model of pain in Chinese Medicine. We discuss how it addresses physical pain, often rooted in emotional trauma, and honors both physical and inner subjective experiences. We also illuminate how the practice of Yin Yoga can enhance the function of our integrated systems, improve circulation, reduce stress, and foster feelings of peace and joy. Lastly, but certainly not least, we examine the power of storytelling in Yin Yoga. Join us for this engaging conversation with Josh Summers, as we explore Yin Yoga and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Join us as we unravel the intriguing five element theory with Dr. Melissa West, a pioneer of Yoga on YouTube since 2009. Learn how to apply this theory to your everyday life and to your Yin Yoga practice. This podcast will provide some great insights for you on how we might live more in harmony with the seasons and throughout each stage of life.
As our enlightening dialogue progresses, we navigate through the fascinating complexities of the fire element season and its unique divergence from Ayurveda. Armed with Dr. West's insightful knowledge, we'll shed light on how these elemental associations can enhance not just our Yoga practice, but our overall well-being. But it doesn't stop there! We also dive into the practicalities of the five element theory, discussing how it can inform our personality traits and elemental constitutions.
And for all you budding Yoga teachers out there, we cap things off with some invaluable tips on teaching yin authentically. So, ready for a transformative journey guided by the wisdom of Dr. Melissa West? Tune in and let's explore the power of the five element theory together!
Find and Follow Melissa West: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmelissawest/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drmelissawest
Recommended Resources: Holding Space: A Guide to Supporting Others While Remembering to Take Care of Yourself First Melissa's Book: https://melissawest.com/book/ Get your own chart of the 5 Elements
Most of us think of the back as a collection of tissues; North of the hips and behind the core, supported by the spine. We don’t think too much about it unless something goes wrong. Which, happens a lot. Most adults will experience non-specific back pain within their lifetime. That is to say, back pain which has no specific etiology that can be seen on scans. The back is an incredibly complicated structure anatomically, but even more so when you consider other parts of the experience like the the vascular system and the nervous system. But humans are not just walking, talking tissues. We are embodied selves with thoughts, feelings, beliefs and predictions. These parts of our experience are EVERY BIT as important to our experience as the tissues themselves, maybe even MORE important. So this practice is all about getting to know your extraordinary, multi dimensional back which is a reflection of the complexity and wonder of you as a self. The development of awareness, differentiation and variability in movement in the back is our goal. All of these things are proven to reduce back pain and sensitivity.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Becoming an Evidence Informed Yin Yoga Teacher or Student: A Guided Journey Part Four
25 Oct 2023
00:46:22
Are you ready to unlock the power of evidence-informed Yin Yoga in managing chronic pain? This fascinating episode wraps up our four-part series, illuminating how Yin Yoga can help regulate the nervous system and promote mindfulness. We journey through the meditative stages of a typical Yin class, revealing the transformative impact it can have on those grappling with persistent pain. A captivating discussion awaits you, exploring the role of Yin Yoga in overcoming pain and fostering a positive relationship with the body.
Imagine if there was a way to untangle the knot of chronic pain from our self-identity. A groundbreaking study from 2003 used fMRI imaging to gain insights into this, revealing a compelling method known as a 30-second interoceptive exposure task. The process decouples pain from the self, leading to a remarkable reduction in pain intensity, duration, and associated anxiety. We delve into the fascinating findings of this study, shedding light on how it employs strategies that Yinsters are already using. Though perhaps with this information we can support those with persisting pain even better.
We also dissect the influence of kinesiophobia or the fear of movement in managing chronic musculoskeletal pain. Drawing from a systematic review in 2018, we highlight the correlation between kinesiophobia, escalated pain intensity, and disability. The critical role of yoga teachers in shaping a positive environment and nurturing a supportive relationship with the body is emphatically discussed.
Join our vibrant Facebook community where we continue this enlightening conversation, sharing evidence, asking questions, and growing together. Engage in the exploration of Yin Yoga's benefits, especially for special populations like those dealing with chronic pain. Tune in to this episode – a treasure trove of knowledge for teachers and students alike!
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Becoming an Evidence Informed Yin Yoga Teacher or Student: Part Two
11 Oct 2023
00:36:38
Ready to level up your Yin Yoga teaching or practice? We're back with part two of our enlightening series, and this time, we're demystifying the process of reading research. In this solo episode, I'll guide you to improve your research literacy, ensuring you can critically evaluate studies and make sure that the research you read is relevant to you or your students. We will also explore ways to ensure that the research you are reading is credible. To demonstrate how and why, we will look at an acclaimed study from a few years back that claimed that just 12 minutes of daily Yoga can reverse osteoporosis. The study was bogus but the damage is done. Many teachers and students have fallen into the trap of crappy research. I'll show you how to know if what you are reading is actually reputable!
This series is a guided journey to becoming an evidence-informed Yin Yoga teacher or student. Consider this series your essential guide.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Many of us develop an antagonism with our bodies. In our younger years it's because we fret that we don't have the most desirable features, or that we don't measure up to attractiveness standards. As we age we feel betrayed by the body for getting older, for not being as bullet proof as it once was in youth. Illness and pain almost always result in negative feelings about the body, sometimes even anger. In this practice we will move through some gentle yet powerful somatic informers to help us settle fully into supported poses. We will also make use of an sweet mantra throughout; "I am here for my body/my body is here for me". You'll learn a bit of pain science along the way, that may offer a new perspective into the benevolence of your body. You are going to feel amazing after this practice and I hope you emerge with a new sense of friendship with your incredible body.
Props: blanket, 2 yoga blocks, a yoga bolster or really firm throw pillow.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
This blissful practice is perfect for the end of a difficult day. Reconnect with your body, your breath. We'll work with the resources of peace and also activity within the physical body and practice nurturing without agenda. This is a very sweet and mindful practice to replenish yourself though movement, breath and awareness.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Somatic Practice: Your Daily Routine for Stiff Upper Back and Neck
15 Nov 2023
00:40:04
Ever felt like you needed some extra TLC for your upper back, neck, and shoulders? You're not alone. Come along as I guide you through an enriching somatic session, inspired by Feldenkrais method.
This is a sublime practice that will not only bring a peaceful awareness to these often cranky areas, but also provide some valuable somatic learning. Healthy human movement is variable, and the most sophisticated movers have the capacity to move globally. This practice will help you to cultivate both for comfortable movement and posture.
You will need a blanket and a bolster or pillow.
Become a Patron! Support the content you love AND get access to my full video practice library. Inside you will find a huge collection of pain care resources as well as a new section of experiential anatomy practices. Become a patron today: https://theshiftschool.com/patron-membership/
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Become a Patron of the Yin Yoga Podcast! Just $15/month for access to premium, exclusive content and courses. Learn More
In this practice, we unravel the potential an often overlooked and misunderstood part of our bodies. We'll delve deep into the anatomy and function of the trapezius muscles, introducing you to a range of exercises that help you understand and experience these muscles in a whole new way. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a curious beginner, we're sure you'll find this exploration fascinating and useful.
In this experiential anatomy approach, I'll guide you through a series of poses and mobility drills designed to familiarize you with the sensation of your trapezius muscles engaging and releasing. I'll show you how to actively engage both the lower and upper trapezius muscles and teach you some innovative ways to to experience your shoulder blades, spine and neck.
All you need is a bolster, a couple of yoga blocks, a blanket, and an open mind.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
The basic concept of coolness is the foundation of all Yin practices. This hour long practice will explore coolness through a sublime practice of twists and lateral hip focus. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
This week I am interviewing Addie deHilster. Addie is a mindful movement teacher whose teaching prioritizes mindfulness from the Vipassana tradition. She blends many styles of movement including Yoga, somatics and chi gong to facilitate embodiment.
We discuss how Yin yoga in many ways is already a very accessible form of meditation. You will learn how to apply concepts from Vipassana including compassion, and non-resistance to your practice and how to apply Yin components such as body awareness and regulation to your meditation practice. We know that meditation is so beneficial, but many of us lack the time, knowledge or confidence to really commit. I know this discussion will inspire you to turn the things you are already doing in your Yin practice into your own mindfulness practice.
Addie deHilster is a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher and C-IAYT Yoga Therapist. Her passion is teaching movement practices that "unlock" mindfulness skills, and helping students gain traction in their meditation practice so they can be more present for their lives. She is a graduate of the Mindfulness Mentor Training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach, the InsightLA Mindfulness Facilitator Training, and the 2014-15 Mindfulness Yoga & Meditation Training Program at Spirit Rock Meditation Center. She has studied Yin Yoga with Bernie Clark, Paul Grilley, and Sarah Powers. Addie is the founder of the Moved to Meditate Class Library, the host of the Moved To Meditate Podcast, and she offers online Yin Yoga Teacher Trainings with a mindful, therapeutic emphasis.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Many of my clients experience a pain flare during or after travel. Pain is so complex and multifaceted, so there is never any one reason that it rears it’s ugly head. Often, when pain is flaring in a travel situation, it’s because we have some anxiety and we aren’t moving very much. This practice addresses both issues.
I’ve chosen the stretches we all crave when we’ve been sitting in a car or airplane as well as regulation practices to help you calm your nervous systems to get some perspective or even relief. This practice is a quick and accessible practice that you can do just about anywhere in a chair.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
As a Movement for Healing Coach, I work with a lot of people with chronic back pain. While every client is different, there are some go to practices that I find are very helpful. This practice is a distillation of some of the strategies I use with my clients; Somatic work, Yoga, mindfulness and light, experiential education. It's a bit shorter than my average episode as well, since I want to make sure you can fit this into a busy day if needed.
My hope is that this practice will be a go to for you if you suffer from back pain. My goal is always to get my clients moving and learning. If you would like a full library of practices for doing just that, check out my Shift Membership. Every practice is pain aware and/or pain care. So it's perfect for you if you know you need to get moving, but want to feel safe and supported as you do so. You can learn more about becoming a Shift Member here: https://yoga.mandyryle.com/become-a-member/
For this practice, all you need is a blanket to rest your head on. You can even do this practice in your bed if you choose, just make sure your head isn't too elevated. A bolster or pillow may be useful for one of the poses as well.
Music provided by Atch: Escape - Atch https://soundcloud.com/atch-music Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0 Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/-_escape Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/6WeknItDM24
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Becoming an Evidence Informed Yin Yoga Teacher or Student: A Guided Journey Part One
04 Oct 2023
00:41:47
In this solo episode I share invaluable insights that will empower both teachers and practitioners to deepen their understanding of Yin Yoga, as well as underscore the importance of employing research-backed knowledge for the betterment of physical and mental health.
I'll share the top reasons why Yin Yoga is the perfect canvas for evidence informed practice and teaching. I'll also teach you how to find research that is relevant to your needs as a student or your niche as a teacher.
By the end of this episode you will know the main types of research that will be useful to you as a Yin-thusiast and some handy use cases for each. My intent is to make the transition to evidence informed practice as simple as possible.
In our exploration, we also delve into the realm of anatomy and pain care in relation to Yin Yoga and the critical role randomized control trials (RCTs) play. But I don't just leave you with the theory, I show you how to practically apply this knowledge, addressing topics like exercise recovery, research bias, and the significance of lifestyle changes for those with chronic pain. To demonstrate how vital understanding where to find research and read it really is, I expose some truths about knee arthroscopy and spinal surgery.
So, buckle up! Whether you're a yoga teacher seeking to expand your knowledge, or a student looking to deepen your practice, this eye-opening episode is a must-listen. Let's be seekers of truth in the world of Yin Yoga together!
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Becoming an Evidence Informed Yin Yoga Teacher or Student: A Guided Journey Part Three
18 Oct 2023
00:51:16
In this third episode in our Becoming an Evidence Informed Yin Teacher or Student, I'll be reviewing some actual papers for you that are not directly about Yin Yoga but instead about an important component of our practice, stretching.
In this third episode in our Becoming an Evidence Informed Yin Teacher or Student, I'll be reviewing some actual papers for you that are not directly about Yin Yoga but instead about an important component of our practice, stretching.
I'll demystify the effects of stretching on muscle hypertrophy and performance. And address the common belief that pain is always a result of tightness. We'll shed some light on the connection between static stretching and heavy resistance training. All by reviewing a selection of studies, highlighting the role and benefits of stretch training in reducing muscle loss, stimulating muscle growth, and enhancing strength and performance.
But there's more to stretching than meets the eye. We'll explore how it can mitigate inflammation and aid in tendon repair. We'll discuss the challenge of measuring tension and strain, the impact of resistance training on tendon stretching, and the value of referencing research in yoga teaching.
To keep the conversation going, join us on our Facebook group 'Movement for Healing'.
And don't forget to tune in next week as we dive into topics like nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and their role in pain care.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
This gentle but powerful practice explores a concept as well as the shoulder through movement and mindfulness. Your practice will be supported by a simple task, moving from a place of curiosity rather than agenda. You will have an opportunity to explore how your beliefs shape your impressions of your shoulder as well as your movments. This is a very deep and satisfying practice that may just transform how you experience your shoulder and even the world itself.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
This is the third class in our series, Getting to Know Your Back. You are welcome to explore these practices in any order. In this practice, we will explore another layer of the experience of the back, the Thoraco Lumbar Fascia. I am fascinated by fascia and have spent a great deal of time studying it. But the TLF is special. The fascia in the low back is unique as you will learn in this practice. Getting to know the TLF will I hope, engender feelings of friendliness even awe in you for this incredible layer of you and your back.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Evidence informed practice doesn't need to be complicated. This gentle practice makes use of research backed techniques to reduce anxiety during practice, but also to provide daily tools for relief. Simple, repetitive movements, breath awareness, body awareness, novelty. Each of these are very powerful, drug free methods for anxiety relief. We will focus on the hip flexors and adductors (front and insides of your legs). These areas are often very stiff and guarding in those who suffer from anxiety.
Props needed: Bolster and blanket
To celebrate the launch of the Shift membership we are giving away a prop kit worth $180! Each entrant will be granted VIP access to the new membership when it launches on Jan. 7, 2022. Enter the Yin Yoga Essentials Giveaway: https://yoga.mandyryle.com/yin-yoga-essentials-giveaway/
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
If you are looking for some yummy supported hip openers, this is the class for you. We will practice facing the long edge of the mat, using props to sink into some Yin standards. We will also explore the qualities of stability and ease and discover their importance in the Yoga tradition.
Props needed: Bolster (or firm pillows), blocks and blanket.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Yin blended with a novel somatic practice. This practice is for you if you have “tight” hip flexors or low back discomfort. Our effort will serve to educate the entire hip. We’ll explore subtle practices to stimulate the vagal nerve to facilitate deep relaxation. You need a bolster and two blocks for class, though you can easily get by without them. If you prefer to watch this class, go to https://online.soundmethodyoga.com/2020/09/01/really-let-go/. If you are fired up about you and just want to learn more enroll in my free video course! You can register here: https://online.soundmethodyoga.com/project/foundations-of-teaching-yin-yoga/--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
In this practice we will take bits and pieces of a Feldenkrais Method® Lesson focusing on effortless shoulder movement. Yummy Yin poses will be held at strategic moments to allow you to integrate and rest between progressions. My main intent with this practice is to improve the reach. This is a movement that can be problematic for many. As we age especially, the ability to reach comfortably and fully tends to be diminished. But it's such an important skill! This practice will take some commonly challenging movements out of context to allow you to explore your full range of motion in a safe and relaxed way.
Props needed: a blanket and maybe a couple of blocks
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Doing All the "Right" Exercises but Still in Pain? Here's Why
06 Aug 2026
00:34:21
Have you ever decided to get back to fitness—picking up a light set of dumbbells, going for a short walk, or following a simple 10-minute video—only to end up in a severe pain flare-up two days later?
When your back seizes, your neck locks, or your knees throb after doing everything "right," it’s easy to feel betrayed by your own body. But the problem isn't your joints, your muscles, or your willpower. The problem is that your brain is relying on an outdated map.
In this episode of The Somatic Strength Collective, Mandy Ryle breaks down the neuroscience of the somatosensory cortex (your brain's internal GPS). You’ll discover why standard stretching and PT exercises often fail when the brain lacks a clear map, how decades of chronic stress and over-functioning lead to "sensory amnesia," and why somatic movement is the key to exercising without triggering pain flares.
⏱️ Key Timestamps:
00:23 – The Midlife Fitness Catch-22: Why scaling back still results in pain flares
02:05 – Moving from intellectual understanding to true cellular embodiment
06:02 – The Somatosensory Cortex: Understanding your brain’s internal GPS
09:30 – Sensory Amnesia & "Smudged" Maps: How stress and pain blur your brain's perception
17:44 – The "Driving in a Blizzard" Analogy: Why pain is a protective output, not structural failure
21:28 – What Somatic Movement IS (and isn't): 3D printing new body maps with slow awareness
28:35 – Client Case Study: How "Leah" re-mapped her chronic knee pain and returned to an active life
34:40 – Free Resource: Download The Perimenopause Roadmap for Moving Beyond Pain
"You didn't end up in pain because the exercise was bad or dangerous. You ended up in pain because your nervous system was driving in a blizzard on a blurry map—and pain was the only emergency brake it had left." — Mandy Ryle
Yin + Somatics: Effortless Neck Movement
18 Sep 2021
01:07:31
If you are suffering from a sore, tight or painful neck, drop everything and hit play. When the neck is in this state, it's not really the time to work with it directly. Now is the time for gentle, effortless movement so we will influence the neck passively by moving the pelvis. This technique is all about neuroplasticity. Your brain has been practicing pain and stiffness for awhile, if we want to de-sensitize, we'll need to teach the brain that the neck CAN move freely and without pain. This practice does just that. And it feels so amazing.
Do your neck a favor, take an hour to feel, breathe, imagine and move.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
This is a more challenging practice than your typical Yin + Somatics. If you have really been feeling the effects of sitting though, this practice is the panacea for your cramped hip flexors, sore back and de-conditioned glutes. We will blend restorative-y Yin poses with a somatic lesson inspired by the Feldenkrais Method®. Our Yin pauses will serve to bring the self into full coherence, if only for the briefest of moments. This is a very unusual practice for sure, but you will be able to follow along by moving deliberately and mindfully.
Props Needed: bolster or pillows, blanket and a yoga block.
A Yin Hiatus May 24 - July 26: And a Special Offer
25 May 2023
00:02:19
I'm on break for the next couple of months but will be returning with fresh new episodes on July 26.
You can keep practicing with me this Summer in The Shift School!
Take advantage of this special deal and get unlimited access to The Shift School for 50% off. You'll get dozens of Yin practices, somatics and even strength based Vinyasa. Join the 3 month strength challenge to build muscle, or learn how to reduce your pain with a Step by Step Pain Care program. Get in a quick movement snack or stress relief practice with our library of bite sized practices.
It's all at your fingertips for just $99. That's just $33 a month for practices, courses, education and community.
Join the Shift School: https://theshiftschool.com/register/shift-school-summer-membership/
I'm publishing this episode on Christmas Day, 2020. So many of us are really suffering this year. We may be looking at this day as one to distract ourselves from rather than enjoy and celebrate. I would like to honor this inclination, not by offering you another diversion, but instead by offering an experience within yourself.
Your delicious Yin Restore practice will be underpinned by a meditation I've borrowed from a lesson in the Feldenkrais method known as Bell Hand. This is a really powerful practice, meant to help you self regulate, soothe and satisfy. It's an hour long but it goes by in a flash as you will be quite immersed in your experience. I hope that it gives you a little peace, whether you practice on Christmas Day or some other day.
Props recommendation: blanket, bolster or pillow.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
This practice is a combination of delicious long holds in hip focused Yin poses and somatic education. We will delve just a bit into some simple neuro science as well. The default mode network in our brains is considered to be the seat of I - Me - Mine. Research tells us that our DMN activates in our quiet moments, and that more DMN activity is associated with greater levels of anxiety and depression. In this practice you will learn some mindfulness tools to decouple sensations from your feelings about them. And you will learn to create a moment of space for yourself to cultivate quiet and satisfaction.
The hip is more than a collection of tissues. It's a unique and complicated element of the embodied self. In this practice we combine a somatic lesson with some of your favorite Yin poses. These will facilitate deep learning for you and your hips!
Some of the poses are not so familiar so I have again provided a pose gallery. You can find the images to follow along with here:
For your practice you will need a couple of blankets
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Wall Yin is by far my most requested class. It's a sweetly intense restorative type of practice. During your postures I will cue you through a simple meditation observing both restlessness and peace in the physical body. My theme this week was inspired by the first Matrix movie which, IMO, is full of Yoga/Eastern Philosophy concepts.
For class you need a wall space! You'll place the short edge of your mat to the wall and need about 3 feet on either side of your mat. A bolster or some pillows, a blanket and a block or two will be helpful. If you have sandbags at home, use them! I will give you some cues for their purpose. If you have a bag of rice or beans, that will work too! You could even just use an extra blanket.
If you love the Yin Yoga Podcast, you will really love my new Shift Membership! A curated library of Yin and Vinyasa classes, somatic education, mobility and strength. The Shift Membership is what you need to help you shift into more joyful, empowered physicality in the New Year. Start your free trial now: https://yoga.mandyryle.com/become-a-member/
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Exploring Shoulder Anatomy: A Deep Dive into Yin Yoga and Myofascial Release Techniques
06 Sep 2023
01:07:10
You might think you know the intricacies of your shoulder anatomy, but this practice will take you to a depth of understanding that you've never reached before. We're not just talking about the surface-level stuff; we're diving right into the complex details of your shoulder anatomy. We're also discussing how increased blood flow, nervous system benefits, and a temporary effect of increased muscle extensibility are the real benefits of the techniques we explore in this pod practice. In essence, we're debunking some myofascial release myths while embracing the REAL benefits of these practices.
We're breaking down the anatomy of the shoulder, using traditional Yin Yoga postures, self myofascial release techniques and breathing exercises, all designed to help you release tension gently through embodied awareness. For the the Yin Yoga teachers out there, this practice will amplify your knowledge of the shoulder anatomy in ways that reading a text book never could.
So join me for this pod practice and allow me to guide you on this intriguing exploration of your body's shoulder anatomy through the lens of Yin Yoga and self-myofascial release techniques.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
I love Yin. I hope that is obvious. I've spent years developing my teaching style and skill. I am always studying topics as diverse as cell structure and psychology to apply to my teaching. So, I hope you will understand that sometimes, when I hear people talk about Yin, I get a bit testy. Because, if you poll most Yogis, Yin is about stretching connective tissue. But Yogi, that is the least interesting thing about Yin. We have so much more to do here. In this practice, we will explore some of the benefits of Yin for your nervous systems. You will get to experience these benefits and identify them as you practice so hopefully you can take some valuable tools into your life.
Props: Bolster (or firm pillows), blanket or pillow to lay your head on
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mandy-l-ryle/message
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
The upper back is an area that can be a big source of tension and even pain. We also have a fair amount of cultural baggage around the appropriate way to hold our upper back. Even in the Yoga world, we tend to favor a stiff and straight upper back above other shapes. But the upper back is capable of so much more, and I believe we suffer when we get locked in to a specific posture or expression.
In this practice, we explore the capacity of the upper back to generate movements, sensations and even emotions. We will use a somatic lesson adapted from Feldenkrais Method® supported by familiar Yin Poses. Your upper back and neck will really benefit from this practice.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
The Over-Functioning Trap: Why Midlife Pain Isn't Age-Related Decline
06 Aug 2026
00:30:00
If you have tried everything to get out of chronic pain—stretching, resting, pushing through, buying every gadget, and seeing specialist after specialist—and you still feel frustrated, bewildered, and broken... I have a life-changing truth for you:
Your body is not broken. It is highly, beautifully protective.
In this premiere episode of The Somatic Strength Collective, we are dismantling the pervasive myth of age-related decline. We explore why decades of chronic over-functioning—holding it all together, pushing through fatigue, and ignoring body boundaries—train your nervous system to operate like a hyper-sensitive security system.
You’ll learn why chronic pain in midlife is rarely about deteriorating joints or a lack of discipline, and how shifting from frustration to curiosity is the first step toward building a body that feels reliable, strong, and safe.
In This Episode, We Cover:
The Over-Functioning Loop: How powering through daily stress creates a low-grade threat state that locks physical tension into your tissues.
The Science of Hypervigilance: How the persistent, bewildering pain you are experiencing is a manifestation of a nervous system that’s just trying to keep you safe.
Pain as an Output, Not an Input: Understanding how your brain creates protective responses—and why aggressive stretching or pushing through often backfires.
The 1-Minute Somatic Check-In: A gentle, real-time exercise to identify where your body is actively bracing right now (jaw, shoulders, belly) It’s like telling your nervous system, “hey, I’m paying attention now, you can stop acting up.”
00:00 – The Great Frustration: Why your body isn't actually broken
03:00 – The Over-Functioning Loop: How powering through creates physical tension
08:00 – The Science of Hypervigilance: Understanding pain as a protective brain output
12:00 – The 1-Minute Somatic Check-In: Uncovering your hidden bracing patterns in real-time
15:00 – Shifting from frustration to curiosity & accessing the Neural Reset Library
Yin & Somatics: Heartfelt Good Wishes
25 Jan 2023
00:51:09
This movement practice is supported by a form of meditation known as a Koan. Essentially a line of inquiry that you explore quietly. This type of meditation can lead to profound insight and transformation. Your movement will focus on the lower body with a progressive sequence of twists. This is a sweet and inquisitive practice that will leave you feeling calm and centered.
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More
Gratitude is a practice just like any other. It requires effort, even when it's challenging. But it's worth it. People who commit to a more grateful existence experience better physical and mental health, more happiness and closer relationships.
For this practice we will not look outside of self but deep within to the very building block of life, the cell. We will build a foundation of embodied gratitude FOR the body. This is a live practice event and is extended to provide plenty of time for you to marinade in the poses, the movements and the meditation.
Props needed: Bolster, blocks, blanket and strap
Transformational Self Care A Late Winter Wellness Retreat in the Dominican Republic March 3-10, 2023
Join me for a 7 day Caribbean wellness retreat. Each day we will focus on a pillar of self care. By the end of the week you will have a group of new friends, some unforgettable memories and a personal self care strategy to enhance your life back at home. Learn More