Ep 200 Adam Keen – Reflections on 200 Episodes: A Journey Through Yoga

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga

"I felt like I was coming home."

In this reflective episode marking the 200th podcast, Adam shares his personal journey through yoga, mental health struggles, and the influence of Sharath and the Mysore tradition. He discusses the evolution of his practice, the challenges of teaching, and the balance between personal experience and traditional methods. The conversation highlights the importance of community, authority in practice, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery in yoga.

Key Points

Yoga became a healing tool for my mental health.

The journey to yoga started with a search for meaning.

Ashtanga practice shifted my understanding of yoga.

Mysore offered a sense of authority and accountability.

Teaching requires adapting methods to different students.

The modern yoga landscape is saturated with teachers.

Personal experience in yoga is essential for authenticity.

Sharath's influence shaped my understanding of practice.

Navigating the balance between tradition and personal experience is challenging.

Community support is vital in the yoga journey.

"It's a time for us all, very sad."

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Adam reflects on the profound impact of Sharath Jois on his Ashtanga practice and the yoga community. He shares personal anecdotes from his experiences in Mysore, exploring the emotional complexities of practicing under Sharath's guidance, the challenges of teaching, and the legacy left behind. Adam navigates through feelings of admiration, disappointment, and unresolved emotions, ultimately expressing gratitude for the lessons learned and the community built around their shared practice.

Key Points

· Sharath was a pivotal figure in the Ashtanga community.

· Practicing in Mysore evokes deep emotional experiences.

· The journey of growth in Ashtanga is often filled with challenges.

· Teaching in Mysore requires navigating complex relationships.

· Expectations can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction in practice.

· The pressure of performance in Mysore can be overwhelming.

· Sharath's unique teaching style fostered personal growth.

· Conflicted emotions about legacy are common among practitioners.

· Community support is essential in the healing process.

· Moving forward requires reconciling past experiences with present realities.

"The rules are just the wrapping paper."

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Adam discusses the complex themes of trust and surrender within the context of yoga practice, particularly Ashtanga. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal autonomy and critical thinking when engaging with teachers and the practice itself. Adam warns against the dangers of surrendering blindly to a teacher's authority and advocates for a more inclusive and supportive environment in yoga classes. He highlights the need for trust to be built incrementally and the significance of creating space for individual expression and growth in yoga practice.

Key Points

· Trust should never be given blindly to a teacher.

· Surrendering one's autonomy can lead to negative experiences.

· The teacher-student relationship should be supportive and inclusive.

· Commitment to practice does not equate to surrendering to authority.

· Space in yoga allows for personal growth and self-exploration.

· Adjustments should be approached with caution and respect for individual limits.

· Trust is built through consistent and supportive interactions.

· The Ashtanga method is a tool for personal development, not a strict dogma.

· Critical thinking is essential in the practice of yoga.

· The rules of yoga are guidelines, not absolute mandates.