Let's Talk Yoga

40 Episodes
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By: Arundhati Baitmangalkar

Welcome to the Let's Talk Yoga podcast—your ultimate online destination for everything yoga. Think of it as your virtual yoga school, offering something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned yoga teacher, a dedicated student, or simply curious about the deeper layers of yoga.Join host Arundhati Baitmangalkar, an immigrant yoga teacher, studio owner, global mentor, and creator of some of the most sought-after yoga teacher training programs in the world. Each week, we bring you valuable insights, in-depth conversations with renowned yoga teachers, and an abundance of yoga resources designed to inspire, educate, and transform.From mastering the art of...

A Lazy Yoga Teacher’s Guide to Yogic Living with Savitha Enner
#184
Last Wednesday at 12:00 PM

In this episode of the Let's Talk Yoga podcast, we welcome Savitha Enner, a fellow yoga teacher from Karnataka, India. Savitha shares her unique perspective on living yogic wisdom, which she affectionately calls the "lazy person's approach."

Episode Highlights:

What is this lazy teacher's approach?Exploring the pursuit of sustainable inner peace through yoga practiceExploring the concept of ahimsa in yoga practicePrioritizing peace over ego in personal relationships can be challenging but rewarding in the long run.Emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and showing compassion towards others.Savitha’s ad...


Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Yoga Teacher: Proven Ways to Own Your Voice with Mado Hesselink
#183
04/20/2025

Mado Hesselink shares some helpful insights on dealing with this, how recognizing it can help you improve as a yoga teacher. If you’re in for some guidance, do not hesitate because we have this episode packed with tips and strategies to help you elevate as a yoga teacher.

Imposter Syndrome For Yoga Teacher Highlights:

Mado’s storyWhat imposter syndrome is and how to identify itNervousness and imposter syndromeIs this more common in women?Three patterns where imposter syndrome is harmfulThe most prevalent pattern among yoga teachersWhat Mado does when someone with impo...


The Body of Breath - A Physiotherapist’s Guide to Healthy Breathing with Michelle Edmison
#182
04/13/2025

As someone who's deeply passionate about Pranayama, I couldn’t wait to bring this conversation to you. I sat down with physiotherapist Michelle Edmison to take a deep dive into the anatomy and function of breathing from both a clinical and yoga-informed perspective. Michelle breaks down complex ideas with such clarity and gives us practical ways to understand and teach breath in more effective, grounded ways. If you're a yoga teacher or a breathwork enthusiast, this episode will absolutely shift how you see breathing in the body.

Episode Highlights:

The physiological differences be...


5 Ways to Offer The Same Yoga Pose
#181
04/06/2025

Ever wondered how to make a single yoga pose more accessible, more challenging, or simply more engaging? As yoga teachers, it’s easy to get stuck teaching poses the same way, but the reality is that every student experiences movement differently. In this episode, I’m sharing five creative ways to offer the same pose, so you can better serve your students, whether they need more support, a deeper stretch, or a fresh approach to a familiar posture.

Episode Highlights:

Adopt a “Less is More” policy5 Ways to Offer The Same Yoga Pose in...


Should Yoga Teachers Only Instruct Poses They Can Do?
#180
03/30/2025

Some yoga teachers believe they should only teach the poses they can personally execute, while others argue that teaching is about more than just demonstration. Where do you stand on this? In this episode, I unpack this common debate and explore five key considerations to help you decide what’s best for your teaching journey.

Episode Highlights:

Teaching from direct experience: Why new teachers should focus on what they know well.Aligning with yoga ethics: How Satya (truth), Ahimsa (non-harming), and Asteya (non-stealing) relate to teaching.Navigating “life happens” moments: Teaching effectively even w...


What Great Yoga Teachers See: A Must-Have Observation Checklist
#179
03/23/2025

Teaching yoga is more than just leading a sequence—it’s about truly seeing your students and understanding what’s happening on the mat. Over the years, I’ve developed an observation checklist that has helped me refine my teaching, improve my students’ experiences, and bring more depth to my classes. Today, I’m sharing five essential things every great yoga teacher should notice during class. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned instructor, these insights will help you enhance your teaching skills and create more meaningful experiences for your students.

Episode Highlights:

The im...


Hate Marketing As A Yoga Teacher? Hit Play with Alexandria Crow
#178
03/16/2025

Marketing as a yoga teacher can feel awkward, overwhelming, or even inauthentic. If you’ve ever struggled with putting yourself out there, you’re not alone! I sat down with Alexandria Crow to dive deep into marketing and visibility for yoga teachers. We break down why so many teachers hesitate when it comes to marketing, how to shift your mindset, and the practical steps to create content that actually connects with your ideal students—without feeling like you’re performing.

Episode Highlights:

Developing a healthier mindset toward marketing as a yoga teacher.The role...


Yoga Teachers & Burnout: Signs, Symptoms, and Solutions
#177
03/09/2025

Yoga teaching is a beautiful, fulfilling journey, but let's be real—it can also be exhausting. As someone juggling multiple full-time jobs, I know firsthand what it feels like to be stretched too thin. This episode is all about yoga teachers and burnout—the sneaky ways it creeps up, how to recognize it, and, most importantly, what we can do to recover and prevent it from happening again.

Episode Highlights:

Understanding BurnoutFour Major Signs of Burnout:Resistance to teaching, feeling drained by classes rather than energized.Increased impatience and rest...


All About Aum with Indu Arora
#176
03/02/2025

If you've ever been curious about Aum, this episode is just for you. I’m thrilled to have Indu Arora back on the show as we dive deep into the essence of Aum—its meaning, its significance for yoga practitioners, and the difference between Om and Aum. We explore when and how each syllable should be chanted for maximum benefit and how each one plays a role in creation, sustenance, and dissolution. Indu shares how Aum exists as both a mantra and a symbol, and how these two aspects influence our practice and daily lives.

Ep...


Being A Yoga Teacher in 2025
#175
02/23/2025

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Last Call & Final Pranayama Class (For A Long Time)
#174
02/13/2025

In this episode, Arundhati leads you through a full pranayama masterclass. You'll get to practice pranayama & learn about a few techniques via this episode.

Episode Highlights:

Defining the word ‘pranayama’Parts of respirationNadi Shodhana, the king of pranayama practicePranayama is not meant to be rushedStage 1: Preparatory practiceNasikagra MudraGuided self-practice for stage oneStage 2: Equalizing the breathGuided self-practice for stage twoHow we tend to force our breath outStage 3: Antara KumbhakaGuided self-practice for stage threeRecap of the three stages of the practice

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Pranayama Class: Don't Miss This! (Part 2)
#173
02/09/2025

In this episode, I'm giving you a teaser of my Pranayama class by talking about the different groups of Pranayama practices. You'll be amazed to know how each type impacts our body and spirit. And did you know that there is such a thing called Pranayama Sequencing? I can't wait to get into all that and more in our upcoming training and immersion.

Episode Highlights:

The three main groups of Pranayama practicesWhy is Vitalizing Pranayama also called Energizing Pranayama?Tranquilizing Pranayama and what it does to the bodyWhich is the most beginner-friendly...


Most Asked Pranayama Questions – Answered!
#172
02/06/2025

In today’s episode, I share the top five most frequently asked questions about Pranayama practice. Since I’ve been doing & teaching pranayama for over a decade, these questions come up time & time again. So I decided to put them in a podcast episode for you to have easy access. Pranayama is truly a practice that we should be indulging more in. Whether you teach yoga or do you’re a student. There is so much to this ancient practice.

Episode Highlights:

What is the meaning of Pranayama?What does one need to do...


Breath vs. Body: 10 Surprising Differences Between Pranayama & Asana Teaching
#171
02/02/2025

In this episode, we’re exploring the key differences between teaching asana and pranayama. While asana relies on variety, movement, and physical guidance, pranayama is rooted in simplicity, stillness, and vocal instruction. Asana can be energizing and dynamic, whereas pranayama offers a deeper, more introspective experience that leaves both teachers and students feeling calm and centered. If you’ve ever wondered how breathwork compares to movement-based yoga, this episode will give you a fresh perspective.

Episode Highlights:

Difference 1: Variety vs. SimplicityDifference 2: Teaching TimelinesDifference 3: SequencingDifference 4: Study TimeDifference 5: Depth of Your TeachingDifference 6: Helps You Slow...


5 Asanas to Enhance Your Pranayama Practice Today
#170
01/26/2025

Today, I’m excited to share with you five carefully chosen yoga poses that can greatly enhance your Pranayama practice. These asanas are designed to improve your physical alignment, heighten your body awareness, and expand your breath capacity, all essential elements for more effective breathwork.

Episode Highlights:

Supta Matsyasana (Supine Fish Pose)Gomukhasana Arms (Cow Face Pose – Arms Only)Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle Pose)Sukhasana (Easy Pose)Parivrtta Supta Garudasana (Supine Revolved Eagle Pose)

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Stunning Facts About Your Breath - Share This List with Your Students
#169
01/19/2025

In this episode, I explore the fascinating and often overlooked role of breathing in our daily lives. From the 20,000 breaths we take each day to the transformative benefits of nasal breathing, I uncover how simple practices can enhance oxygen intake, brain function, and stress regulation. I also highlight remarkable facts about our respiratory system, like the 11,000 liters of air our lungs process daily and the importance of full exhalation for better oxygen absorption. Drawing connections to cultural and scientific insights, I emphasize the universal importance of breath for health and well-being.

Episode Highlights:<...


Breathe into the New Year: A Mini Pranayama Class and Sequencing Guide
#168
01/12/2025

I know many of you have been waiting for my annual Pranayama Yoga Teacher Training and I’m very excited to share that the wait is finally over. As you’re listening to this episode, all the details are live and the waitlist is open.

To get a first-hand experience of what it’s like inside this course, I looked at one of our older Pranayama podcast episodes that I wanted to share with you. I want to allow you to practice a little Pranayama with me via this podcast. So what I’m sharing with you...


Master Pranayama After Asana: Elevate Your Yoga Teaching in 2025
#167
01/05/2025

In this episode, we're going to do a deep dive to figuring out the answers to these two important questions. I'm going to give you very clear markers to work with. I want this episode to be a reminder that preparing yourself for pranayama is very important. That way, you resonate with it deeply as you explore the practice. Because there is nothing imaginary in pranayama, it is an exact science and a precise system that has been handed over by Yogis for centuries with care and caution.

Episode Highlights:

Part 1: How...


Looking ahead to 2025 - your year end update!
12/29/2024

Tune in to this year end message from Arundhati. She’s walking you through what’s in store for 2025 on this podcast and beyond. 

If you’re ready for enhanced yoga enrichment in the new year, then tune in. You wouldn’t want to miss this update. 

Happy New Year! 

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A Masterclass On Enlightenment with Indu Arora
#166
12/15/2024

In this episode, Indu Arora returns to explore the profound topic of enlightenment, or Samadhi, in yoga. Through an engaging and insightful discussion, she unpacks the concept of Samadhi as a state of total absorption and balance, achieved through consistent practice, silence, and discernment. Indu delves into the types of Samadhi described in yogic texts, the role of preparatory practices like pratyahara and dhyana, and the importance of cultivating humility and clarity on this path. She emphasizes that enlightenment is not a fleeting magical event but a process of everyday courage and sincerity, offering ripple effects of...


108 Sun Salutations – Everything You Need to Know
#165
12/08/2024

In this episode, I dive deep into the transformative practice of 108 Sun Salutations, a sacred tradition in yoga. I explore the spiritual and astronomical significance of the number 108, explain why classical Surya Namaskar is the best choice for this ritual, and share how you can approach it with mindfulness and preparation. Whether you're a student or a teacher, I provide practical tips on building readiness, making modifications, and pacing yourself safely. I also discuss the meditative and symbolic aspects of this practice, highlighting how it can foster personal growth and a deeper connection to universal energy. This...


Understanding the Law of Karma with Medha Narwani
#164
11/24/2024

A lot of people nowadays only have surface-level knowledge about karma. It’s often misunderstood and oversimplified in various contexts. For instance, you might be under the impression that karma is the consequence of our own “actions”. You reap what you sow, whether it be good or bad. Surprisingly, it’s actually more than just our actions but even our thoughts and words that are considered karma. It has a really profound philosophy. Well, in today’s conversation, we’re going to discover this and all things karma with Medha Narwani.

Law of Karma Episode High...


3 Types of Sequencing - Listen Before My Masterclass
#163
11/17/2024

Sequencing in yoga is a vital skill that transforms a collection of poses into a meaningful and impactful practice, and that’s why I want to explore this topic today. As yoga teachers, our ability to craft thoughtful sequences directly influences how students experience and grow in their practice, whether they’re beginners seeking balance or advanced practitioners reaching for deeper challenges. By understanding the principles of sequencing—whether it’s preparing for a peak pose, building a theme-based class, or creating a well-rounded flow for general well-being—we can deliver classes that are not only structured but also d...


53 Years of Teaching Yoga with Judith Hanson Lasater
#162
11/07/2024

In this episode, I had the honor of speaking again with the legendary Judith Hanson Lasater, who shared reflections on her 53 years of teaching yoga. We explored how her teaching has transformed over the decades, from an athletic focus to a holistic, life-centered approach. Judith shared her belief that true yoga extends beyond the mat and is woven into daily life, where being present and compassionate are at the heart of the practice. We talked about challenges like burnout and the importance of self-renewal, especially for yoga teachers today. Judith’s wisdom and insights on being “the buck...


Mind Management through Yoga with Sandipani Manur
10/27/2024

Nowadays, there are people who start yoga through asana practice but, at its core, keep saying that yoga is for the mind. The question is how is how can yoga be a tool of mind management? In this episode, I will be joined by a new guest, Sandipani Manur, who will help us look into managing the mind through yoga and the different layers of the mind.

The Mind Management Episode Highlights:

How is the mind connected to yoga?Drawing parallels between the Eastern and Western views of the mindWhat is yoga’s...


Prana Decoded with Indu Arora
10/17/2024

Prana is something every yoga teacher knows. But many know it only as surface knowledge. In this episode, Arundhati interviews Indu Arora, a long-time yoga teacher, and author about Prana. They decode prana for today's yoga teacher & student. If you're keen to learn about prana clearly and from an authentic source. This is the conversation to tune into.

Prana Decoded Episode Highlights...

What is prana?When did prana first appear in the scriptures or in yoga?How does one connect with their prana?How does breath play into prana?The different types...


10-Point Cheatlist That Every Yoga Teacher Needs for Classes
#161
10/03/2024

In this episode, I highlight an often-overlooked but crucial step in yoga teaching—building a solid foundation before focusing on sequencing. I share a 10-point cheat list to help yoga teachers improve their class planning and sequencing skills. This includes understanding each pose’s fundamentals, knowing the Sanskrit and English names, and being aware of the benefits and contraindications. I also emphasize the importance of using props, guiding students through breathwork, and recognizing whether a pose is heating, cooling, or neutral. Additionally, I discuss how to assess the difficulty of poses, incorporate proper warm-ups, and balance sequences with...


Understanding Emotions Through Ayurveda with Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath
#160
09/26/2024

In this episode of Let's Talk Yoga, we explore the relationship between emotions, yoga, and Ayurveda with Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath, an expert in Ayurveda. Dr. Jay provides valuable insights into how Ayurveda views emotional health, the impact of doshas on emotions, and whether certain emotions are more harmful than others. We discuss the significance of prana, the Ayurvedic perspective on depression, and how to move from a tamasic state toward better emotional well-being. The episode offers practical advice on improving emotional health and managing relationships while maintaining balance, offering listeners a deeper understanding of emotions in holistic...


Reality of Teaching Yoga with Adam Husler
#159
09/19/2024

Today, I'm excited to introduce Adam Husler, a dedicated yoga teacher from the UK. I discovered Adam online a couple of years ago and have been inspired by his authentic approach to yoga ever since. In our conversation, Adam shares his unique perspective on teaching yoga, especially for beginners. His insights offer a fresh alternative to the often academic and sequence-focused discussions in modern yoga.

Episode Highlights:

How do yoga teachers show up and be their own authentic selves?The fine balance between being liked and not liked as a yoga teacher...


Understanding Meditation with that Meditation Guy
#158
09/09/2024

I've been increasingly interested in the topic of meditation over the past year and have been waiting for the right guest to kickstart the conversation. Recently, I came across Jimmy Wightman, also known as That Meditation Guy on Instagram. Based in the UK, he is a well-respected meditation and mindfulness teacher. I've been following Jimmy's work for quite some time, and I believe the time is right to have him as a guest on the podcast.

Episode Highlights:

What is the goal of meditation and why should someone meditate?Setting yourself up...


40 Yoga Poses – Here’s a Pronunciation Guide
#157
09/01/2024

Today, I want to share with you a helpful guide that I've created for pronouncing Sanskrit yoga pose names. This guide is intended to save you the significant cost of enrolling in teacher training just to learn how to pronounce these names. While I couldn't include every yoga pose, I've made sure to cover the most fundamental ones in this episode.

Episode Highlights:

Standing posesBackbendsInversionsSeated posesBalance posesSupine poses



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5 Cueing Styles to Enhance Your Yoga Class Today
#156
08/18/2024

In this episode, I aim to highlight the significance of cueing as a crucial component of your skill set. Over the years, I have crafted five distinct queuing styles, and I am excited to share them with you. These styles are straightforward and practical. I encourage you to take note of them and consider integrating one, two, three, or all five into your classes.

Highlights:

Teaching a yoga or an asana class is not solely about cueing.Yoga classes in AmericaThe challenge of being a good communicatorMy goal in every class5 Cueing...


Audit Your Yoga Education with This Checklist
#155
08/09/2024

My 200-hour program begins in September, just 5 weeks from now, and this episode was created as a source of inspiration for that. Consider this as a thorough evaluation and comprehensive audit of your yoga education journey thus far. The purpose is to help you accurately assess your current position as a yoga student or instructor. Reflect on the quality of the education you have received so far, whether it has been outstanding, good, average, or below par.

Episode Highlights:

Focus on how much clarity you get from your teacher instead of solely...


5 Poses that Will Make Headstand Effortless, Mythical Story, & More
#154
08/01/2024

In today's episode, I will be unveiling five essential poses that are a must-know. These poses form a checklist for those aspiring to master Shirshasana, the head balance, or aiming to teach it to others. I will also delve into the mythical story of Shirshasana, adding depth and cultural context to this practice.

Episode Highlights:

What is ShirshasanaShirshasana as the king of all posesThe mythical story of ShirshasanaPhysical benefits of Shirshasana posePsychological benefits of Shirshasana poseFive non-negotiable headstand preparatory posesAdho Mukha Svanasana or Downward-facing DogUttanasanaPrasarita Padottanasana or Wide-Legged Standing Forward BendChaturanga Dandasana...


Managing the Mind with Yoga with Pavel Dmitriev
07/21/2024

Have you ever wondered why our minds are so full of thoughts and are restless? Is there actually a way that we can manage our minds? The last time I checked, I think there are more or less 60,000 thoughts we have per day, which is just mind-blowing. To shed some light on this interesting topic, I’ve invited a friend of mine whom I’ve known for almost a decade and who also happens to be a yoga teacher, Pavel Dmitriev.

Episode Highlights:

What is the mind according to yoga?Where in the...


Everything You Need to Know About Sadhana in Yoga with Dr. Manasa Rao
07/14/2024

I’m really excited about today’s conversation with Dr. Manasa Rao sharing her experience and knowledge about sadhana. Dr. Manasa Rao is practicing yoga since the year 1995. She genuinely believes that yoga is about connecting, healing, and becoming aware of a higher reality within all of us, that stretches beyond the mat.

Join us as we discover the meaning of the word sadhana, what its goal is, and its importance. We also go as far as discussing the obstacles while being in sadhana and whether we need to lean on a teacher or not to c...


Eat Like a Yogi with Nidhi Pandya
07/07/2024

In my studio at Aham Yoga, I have students who have some knowledge of Ayurveda and I would often get so many questions about what the role of food is. How should we really eat? How frequently should we eat and in what quantity? This is honestly a topic that I am no expert with and so I decided to invite back a past guest who is the real expert in Ayurveda, Nidhi Pandya.

Episode Highlights:

The role of food in our lives according to AyurvedaThe three pillars of health in AyurvedaThe...


Discernment and Digital Yoga with Daniel Simpson
#153
06/30/2024

Today's episode features a deep dive into the intersection of social media and yoga. It's an important listen for those active on social media, as well as for those who may have chosen to disconnect from it due to its distractions. We have Daniel Simpson, the author of "The Truth of Yoga," joining us in discussing discernment and digital yoga.

Episode Highlights:

The future of yoga for someone who has worked with long-form yoga studies and content for a long time.How can yoga consumers be sharper at discerning and be better...


Understanding Peace from the Lens of a Swami with Swami Chidananda
#152
06/16/2024

I'm excited to welcome Swami Chidananda to the show, our first-ever Swami guest. We delve into the topic of peace in light of current global events. We explore how we can practice and promote peace in our daily lives, given the prevalence of unrest and suffering in the world. How can we engage peacefully and act in a way that benefits both ourselves and those around us?

Episode Highlights:

What is peace?The journey to inner peaceSuffering or grace: the two ways to grow on the spiritual pathHow to balance detachment and...


3 Tips To Share With Your Students Right Away & It’s Not About Yoga Poses
#151
05/27/2024

On today's episode, I am excited to share three deeply insightful and practical tips that you can pass on to your asana students to help them establish a stronger connection with the non-physical aspects of yoga. These tips go beyond the physical practice of yoga and delve into the more subtle and profound elements of the practice.

Episode Highlights:

Arrive early to class and sit with yourself.Practice Mauna (silence) on the way home after yoga classSpend a little time in reflection

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