Let's Talk Yoga

Most yoga teachers have heard of at least one or two of the Shat Kriyas — maybe you've practiced jala neti, maybe you've taught kapalabhati. But the full picture of what these six techniques actually are, where they come from, and why the Hatha Yoga Pradipika places them before pranayama is a conversation the modern yoga world rarely has with any rigor. In this episode, Aru goes deep into the Shatkarma — the six cleansing practices of Hatha Yoga — drawing directly from the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Gheranda Samhita to unpack what these techniques were actually built to do, an...

I sit down with Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath to explore Ayurvedic parenting, child development, and holistic well-being. We discuss prakriti in children, digestion, hydration, breath, mindfulness, emotional health, modern parenting challenges, and practical ways to raise resilient, balanced, and healthy children through the lens of Ayurveda.

Episode Highlights:

Inspiration behind the bookAyurvedic pediatrics explainedUnderstanding the whole childPrakriti and child developmentOptimizing health from conceptionHealing versus fixingDigestion and nutritionWater and hydrationBreath and self-regulationMindfulness and awarenessEgo and child developmentSattva, rajas, and tamasPerception and mental healthParenting in the digital ageModern parenting approachesBuilding trust with childrenSupporting individualityCommon childhood...

I sit down with Becky Aten to explore neurodiversity, ADHD, and how yoga teachers can create more inclusive and supportive spaces. We discuss the origins of neurodiversity, common misconceptions about ADHD, late-life diagnosis, inclusive teaching practices, and practical ways to better support neurodivergent students in yoga classes.

Episode Highlights:

Origins of neurodiversityNeurodiversity vs. neurodivergenceNeurodivergent conditions and traitsInnate and acquired neurodivergenceLate-life diagnosis experiencesUnderstanding ADHD beyond stereotypesADHD in adultsGender differences in ADHDHyperfocus and executive functionYoga and neurodiversityBenefits of yoga practiceRecognizing student challengesNeurodivergence and hypermobilityInclusive yoga languageAvoiding shame in teachingCreating neuro-inclusive classesClear expectations and accessibilityResources...

With only a few days left before my Pranayama Teacher Training begins, I'm sharing a reading from Chapter 1 of the new training manual. Learn the foundations of pranayama, the difference between prana and pranayama, and why breath literacy matters for every yoga student and teacher.

Episode Highlights:

Pranayama training overviewProblems in modern pranayama educationPrana versus pranayamaThree pillars of pranayamaMeaning of pranayamaUnderstanding pranaClassical and modern pranayama goalsTeacher responsibility and lineageAsana and pranayama relationshipTraining enrollment details

Prana & Presence: An Immersive Week of Yoga, Stillness & Soulful Study in Southern Italy

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Most yoga teachers are taught that chest opening is the key to better pranayama, but what if that’s actually the last thing to focus on?

In this solo episode, I share the five areas of asana practice that matter most when preparing the body for pranayama. We explore lung anatomy, spinal mobility, nervous system regulation, hip flexor tension, diaphragm function, and why true breath expansion comes from working with the whole body, not just the chest. If you want your pranayama practice to feel more effortless and effective, this episode offers a practical framework yo...

What is Vishoka Meditation, and how can it help us move beyond sorrow? I sit down with Ishan Tigunait of the Himalayan Institute to discuss consciousness, breath, meditation, and the deeper purpose of yoga practice.

Episode Highlights:

Himalayan tradition and lineageUnderstanding consciousnessTechnique versus experienceFoundations of Vishoka MeditationMoving beyond sorrow and sufferingObstacles on the spiritual pathBody, breath, and prana awarenessSignificance of the navel centerCharacteristics of healthy breathingBreath qualities and meditationRole of the teacherQualities of a sincere studentIndividual versus group meditationMeditation and community serviceLiving as a fuller expression of selfDaily meditation as self-discoveryLearning Vishoka...

I’m joined by Andrew McGonigle for a deep dive into Ujjayi Pranayama, the breath technique often called “ocean breath.” We explore the anatomy, nervous system effects, breath retention, and why Ujjayi is far more nuanced than most modern yoga classes make it seem.

Episode Highlights:

Ujjayi breath foundationsUjjayi body mechanicsInhalation versus exhalation useUjjayi in vinyasa yogaBreath literacy beyond techniqueBreath as tool, not goalNatural breath versus UjjayiUjjayi and nervous system regulationTrauma-sensitive breath practicesUjjayi during pregnancyBreath retention and kumbhakaInternal awareness through pranayamaTeaching Ujjayi progressivelyHeating versus cooling effectsClassical versus modern UjjayiPersonal choice and breath agency...

I’m sharing the deeply personal story behind why I revamped my Pranayama Teacher Training and how grief transformed my relationship with breath, pranayama, and teaching yoga. I also dive into breath literacy, why breath is more than just a technique, why Ujjayi is often overused, and the foundational breathing principles I believe every yoga student and teacher should understand.

Episode Highlights:

Revamped Pranayama training launchPersonal pranayama backstoryGrief and relationship with breathTurning pain into purposeBreath literacy philosophyBreath beyond techniqueBeyond inhale and exhaleUjjayi breath reconsideredBreath and nervous system connectionSteady breath and steady mindNasal br...

What’s the real difference between a yoga teacher and a content creator? In this episode, I break down the subtle (but important) signs that can help you tell them apart, so you can choose how and who you learn from more intentionally. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by courses, content, or conflicting advice online, this one will help you cut through the noise.

Episode Highlights:

Distinguishing teachers vs content creatorsRecognizing modern yoga landscape shiftsUnderstanding intention vs impactSpotting marketing-driven yoga approachesIdentifying email list obsession patternsRecognizing freebie-heavy funnelsNoticing inflated metrics vs real impa...

Should you teach stretch or strength first in your yoga classes?

In this episode, I break down a clear, practical framework for sequencing, especially for beginners. Learn how to balance flexibility, strength, and mobility in a way that builds confidence, prevents injury, and actually supports long-term progress.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to structure your classes, this one’s for you.

Episode Highlights:

Stretch vs strength sequencing clarityTeaching beyond rigid formulasFlexibility vs strength in yoga practiceInjury risks from imbalanceBeginner-focused sequencing approachBuilding body awareness and proprioceptionStarting with...

I sit down with Vikram Jeet Singh to explore Sankhya—the philosophical framework behind yoga—and how it helps us understand the mind, reduce suffering, and cultivate real awareness. It’s a practical, eye-opening conversation on discernment, identity, and seeing clearly.

Episode Highlights:

Sankhya pronunciation clarifiedWhat Sankhya is and why it matters todaySankhya as philosophy vs. psychological frameworkHow Sankhya is practiced in real lifeCore structure and framework of SankhyaThe goal of Sankhya and ending sufferingUnderstanding purusha and prakritiCreating separation between observer and experienceDiscernment (viveka) as a core practiceHow to build and strengthen discer...

What does it really mean to be a good yoga student? In this conversation, I sit down with Medha Bhaskar to explore the framework described in the Hatha Yoga Pradeepika for cultivating a meaningful yoga practice. We talk about the importance of understanding the principle before the process and how the mindset we bring to our practice shapes what we learn from it.

Medha walks us through the Badhaka Tattvas (the habits that weaken a practice) and the Sadhaka Tattvas (the qualities that strengthen it), while reflecting on how these classical teachings apply to modern...

Teaching mixed level classes can feel overwhelming, especially when your students are all at different stages in their practice. In this episode, I share simple, practical ways to structure your classes, offer options, and create a more inclusive and confident teaching experience.

Episode Highlights:

Mixed-level classes are the norm and should be approached with that mindsetThe distinction between mixed-level and all-level classesThe importance of shifting from sequence-focused to student-focused teachingBuilding sequences that include a variety of pose categoriesWhy full-body sequencing works better than peak pose sequencing in mixed classesIncluding standing poses, balances...

Are we actually studying yoga, or just consuming it? In this episode, I explore the traditional frameworks that shaped authentic yogic learning and why modern education often skips the foundations. If you’re serious about deepening your practice beyond certifications, this conversation will shift your perspective.

Episode Highlights:

The difference between modern yoga education and traditional teacher-student learningWhy student qualification (Adhikari Bheda) mattered before receiving teachingsThe method of progressive revelation (Arundhati Darshana Nyaya)Traditional classifications of yoga students in Hatha YogaThe threefold process of learning: listening, reflection, and deep assimilationThe three valid me...

Hormones influence how we move, rest, recover, and show up on the mat, yet they’re rarely discussed clearly in yoga spaces. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Manasa Rao to explore what yoga teachers need to understand about the hormonal body through both modern science and yogic wisdom. We talk about stress, rhythm, pranayama, women’s hormonal cycles, and how yoga can support balance through listening and alignment without overstepping into medical advice.

Episode Highlights:

Are hormones a modern concept, or something yoga has always addressed through a different lang...

Sequencing doesn’t start with themes or peak poses, it starts with understanding the pose itself. In this episode, I introduce pose literacy and explain why it’s the missing link behind clearer, safer, and more intelligent sequencing. Using Downward-Facing Dog as a real example, I break down how learning to read a pose beyond alignment can completely change how you teach, sequence, and support your students.

Episode Highlights:

Why modern sequencing often skips the most essential stepWhat pose literacy is, and why alignment alone isn’t enoughHow low pose literacy leads to gue...

A deep dive into yoga sequencing, what it actually is, why it matters, and the most common mistakes yoga teachers make when planning classes, I break down the difference between choreography and intentional sequencing, explore the role of the pranic and nervous systems, and share nine sequencing missteps to avoid for safer, smarter, and more sustainable teaching. This episode is especially relevant for yoga teachers who want to build confidence, longevity, and depth in their classes.

Episode Highlights:

What is sequencingWhy sequencing is a skill, not a formulaWhat yoga sequencing truly means...

As we begin a new year, I’m reflecting on a question that quietly shapes every yoga teacher’s journey: why do you teach? In this episode, I share personal insights from my own path, the lessons that only time and experience reveal, and why certifications alone don’t create longevity in teaching. I also share details about the upcoming 300-hour online teacher training, live Q&A session, and important dates if you’re considering taking the next step in your practice or teaching.

Episode Highlights:

Why certifications and accumulated hours don’t guarante...

This episode feels like a full-circle moment as I wrap up the final episode of 2025. Before we step into a new year, I take some time to share what’s coming up in 2026 for the Let’s Talk Yoga and Aham Yoga community. There’s a lot unfolding, from a brand-new 300-hour online yoga teacher training to in-person study and international travel, and I wanted to lay it all out clearly so you know what’s ahead and how to be part of it.

After the updates, I’m joined by Rebecca from the Working in Yoga po...

Inversions don’t have to be intimidating, flashy, or reserved for advanced students. In this episode, I break down the three pillars of teaching inversions and share how to approach being upside down with structure, progression, and nervous system awareness. If you’ve ever felt unsure about when, how, or why to teach inversions, this framework will bring clarity and confidence to your teaching.

Episode Highlights:

Why inversions were traditionally practiced as tools for regulation, not performance.How modern yoga culture has distorted our understanding of being upside down.What actually qualifies as a...

If you’ve ever felt like you’re “winging it” when planning your yoga classes, this episode will help you fix that for good. I break down my Sequence Smarter Framework and walk you through seven simple questions that will instantly make your sequences clearer, more intentional, and easier to teach. Whether you’re new to sequencing or ready to level up your teaching, this guide will change the way you plan your classes.

Episode Highlights:

Why many yoga teachers struggle with sequencing and end up “winging it.”The purpose of the Sequence Smart...

If you’ve ever felt stuck repeating the same physical cues in your classes, this episode is going to open up a whole new way of thinking about teaching. I’m breaking down what it really means to move from gross to subtle, how subtle cueing works, and why it’s the key to creating deeper, more meaningful yoga experiences. You’ll walk away with practical tools you can use right away—no fluff, no woo, just clearer teaching.

Episode Highlights:

Explanation of the Teach Smarter module and how this episode builds on the “Gr...

After years of saying no, I’m finally bringing back my 300-hour yoga teacher training — and I can’t wait to tell you why! In this episode, I share how this new online program came to life, what makes it different, and how it’s designed to help you teach, sequence, and breathe smarter. If you’ve been craving more depth, clarity, and confidence in your yoga journey, this one’s for you.

Episode Highlights:

Why I decided to finally relaunch my 300-hour training after years of saying noThe gaps I’ve seen in most 2...

Our feet are our foundation, but most of us don’t give them much thought until something goes wrong. In this episode, I chat with physical therapist and movement educator Michelle Edmison about how reconnecting with your feet can transform not just your yoga practice, but your whole life. We explore foot anatomy, posture, brain-body connection, and why strong, mobile feet are key to balance and longevity.

Michelle also shares practical tips you can start right away to restore strength, sensitivity, and awareness in your feet. Whether you’re a yoga teacher, mover, or simply curi...

Autoimmune diseases can feel isolating and unpredictable, but yoga offers both science and hope. I sit down with yoga therapist and researcher Renu Jain to explore how stress, the gut, and the immune system are connected; and how personalized yoga, pranayama, and mindfulness can support healing from the inside out.

Episode Highlights:

Introduction to guest Renu Jain and her background at Kaivalyadhama.Understanding what autoimmune diseases are and how they affect the body.Exploring common shared patterns and root causes behind autoimmune conditions.Exploring the connection between stress, the gut, and immune...

Yoga doesn’t just live on the mat; it’s how we show up in everyday life. I share 30 simple ways to live like a yogi, from practicing gratitude and silence to decluttering, serving others, and reconnecting with nature. Small daily acts that bring awareness, compassion, and joy into the ordinary.

Episode Highlights:

Updates on the upcoming 300-hour teacher training and free cueing workshopInspiration behind the episode: a personal 30-day mindfulness listThe cultural meaning of the word yogi and why Aru uses it thoughtfullyRe...