28. Physical and Subtle Body: The Power of Pranayama with Laurie Rikansrud

In this episode, we sit down with Laurie Rikansrud, a seasoned yoga teacher and anatomy expert, to explore the powerful connection between the subtle and physical bodies in yoga practice. We dive deep into the systems of the physical body—such as the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and endocrine systems—and how they relate to yoga. Laurie also takes us through the systems of the subtle body, including chakras, koshas, and nadis, showing how these ancient concepts integrate with modern anatomy.

Our conversation uncovers the transformative effects of pranayama, the ancient practice of breath control, on both the subtle and physical body. Laurie shares insights from Donna Farhi’s The Breathing Book, detailing the anatomy of breath and how different pranayama techniques can be used to inspire and deepen yoga practice.

Whether you're a yoga teacher, practitioner, or someone curious about the connection between the body and breath, this episode offers a rich exploration of how pranayama can be used to bring balance, awareness, and intention to your practice. Tune in to learn practical techniques, teaching tips, and how to sequence pranayama to enhance both your own experience and that of your students.

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For upcoming events visit: www.solhealthyoga.com

Email us: connect@solhealthyoga.com with any questions.

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Episode Description:

In this enriching episode, we sit down with Shawna Fisher, the inspiring creatress behind Mama Fish Botanicals & Wellness, to explore the power of creating sacred spaces, setting boundaries, and tapping into our innate healing potential. As a practitioner of Usui Reiki, Vibrational Sound Therapy, and Energy Medicine, Shawna shares how she helps others reconnect with their natural rhythms and reclaim their inner healer.

Shawna also offers insight into her work with Sol Health’s 200-hour Yoga School, where she guides future yoga teachers through workshops on creating sacred space, maintaining boundaries within shared environments, and observing students on a deeper level—mind, body, and spirit.

Additionally, Shawna gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming Equinox & Solstice Ceremonies at Sol Health, where attendees will celebrate the seasonal shift and honor the rhythms of nature.

Tune in to learn how sacred rituals, intentional touch, and energy awareness can transform the way we hold space for ourselves and others, both on and off the mat.

Topics Discussed:

• DiAnne’s Journey: How her background in education shapes her unique approach to teaching yoga.
• The 8 Limbs of Yoga: An overview of the 8 Limbs and how DiAnne’s workshop uses lectures, journaling, and group discussions to help trainees deepen their understanding.
• Ethics in Teaching: Why continued education is crucial for yoga teachers and how to avoid burnout by balancing the roles of teacher and student.
• Alignment with Props: Tips for using props to support alignment, making classes accessible to all students, and staying engaged with the room while demonstrating.
• Verbal Cues: Strategies for delivering clear, effective cues, including how to offer modifications and ensure inclusivity in every class.

Resources Mentioned:

• Required Reading for 8 Limbs Workshop: The 8 Limbs of Yoga Journal by Beth Daugherty
• Ethics and Continued Education: DiAnne recommends exploring books, videos, and other resources for personal growth as a teacher.

Upcoming Workshops with DiAnne Bergmann:

• 10-hour 8 Limbs of Yoga workshop in our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training
• 1-hour Ethics in Teaching session
• 4-hour Alignment with Props workshop (including demonstrations)
• 2-hour Verbal Cues workshop

Where to Learn More:

• Visit our website for more details on DiAnne’s workshops and the 200-hour Student Training Program

Follow Maya and Paula on Instagram and Facebook: @solhealth

For upcoming events visit: www.solhealthyoga.com

Email us: connect@solhealthyoga.com with any questions.

Music featured in this episode by Bensound.com

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Whether you’re a practitioner looking to deepen your knowledge or an aspiring teacher, this episode offers valuable insights. For more about Sarah's personal story, listen to Episode 5 of the Sol Health Podcast, where she shares her journey and experiences in Yoga before it became a global phenomenon.

Guest: Sarah Wittenfeld, teacher in the Sol Health Yoga School & seasoned Yogi.

Topics Covered:

Yoga History: Understanding key events and figures in yoga's development.

Yoga Lineage: The evolution and unique aspects of Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin yoga.

Gita Wisdom: Exploring the Bhagavad Gita and the concept of Dharma.

Program Overview: What participants can expect from their classes with Sarah.

Referenced Books:

"Journey into the Bhagavad Gita" by Hari-kirtana das

"Gita Wisdom: An Introduction to India's Essential Yoga Text" by Joshua Greene

"The Heart of Yoga: Developing a Personal Practice" by T.K.V. Desikachar

Related Episodes:

Episode 5: "Wisdom, Depth, and Yoga: Celebrating 62 Years of Experience and a Lifelong Yoga Practice with Sarah Whittaker" – Sarah's personal history and yoga journey.

In this conversation, we discuss:

The benefits of cold plunging

Michael’s own experiences and how they led to the creation of Coldture

The role of breath work and meditation in amplifying the effects of cold exposure

Practical tips for integrating cold plunging into your daily routine

How cold plunging can be a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery

visit COLDTURE for more on their selection on tubs

Mention of the Huberman Lab Podcast

Follow Maya and Paula on Instagram and Facebook: @solhealth

For upcoming events visit: www.solhealthyoga.com

Email us: connect@solhealthyoga.com with any questions.

Music featured in this episode by Bensound.com

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Married for five years and partners for over a decade, they not only manage two thriving businesses and homeschool their three children but also sustain a vibrant homestead. Their land is not just a piece of earth; it's a sanctuary for their extended family, a testament to their commitment to a life less ordinary.

However, like many, they've faced the allure of societal expectations and the "next big thing." Seeking to ground themselves amidst the whirlwind of modern life, they embarked on a journey of profound self-discovery with Katherine Porter, a renowned Body Mind coach featured in episode 15. Katherine, with her gentle yet powerful approach, has guided them towards an embodied awareness, helping to realign their habits and beliefs with their core values.

Over the last 12 months, this trio has explored the depths of personal growth, relationship dynamics, family cohesion, and their interactions with the wider world. They've uncovered insights and strategies that have not only transformed their lives but promise to inspire and enlighten our listeners.

Join us as Maya, Phil, and Katherine share their experiences, shedding light on how to navigate life's complexities with grace and intention. Whether you're seeking to enhance your personal well-being, enrich your relationships, or connect more deeply with your surroundings, this episode offers a unique blend of practical wisdom and heartfelt reflection. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of their journey towards a value-aligned way of life.

Follow Maya and Paula on Instagram and Facebook: @solhealth

For upcoming events visit: www.solhealthyoga.com

Email us: connect@solhealthyoga.com with any questions.

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Maya and Eleasha sit down to reflect on the pregnancy, birth and postpartum of her first daughter Harley. We discuss the process of induction at 41 weeks and 5 days and birthing unmedicated at The Birthing Inn. She explains the process of labor and birth with Harley and then dives into birthing with more experience with her second daughter, Halo. She talks about 'morning sickness' and not feeling well physically, mentally, emotionally during the first trimester and feeling scared that she would feel this way through full term. We explore the social norms during pregnancy and expectations she felt pressured into. She discusses feeling brighter through the later parts of pregnancy and dives into her intuition on her due date and discussions with her provider on different subjects. Then, we explore the details of the 3 days leading up to birth & 6 weeks postpartum.

Maya and Eleasha sit down to reflect on the pregnancy

Follow Maya and Paula on Instagram and Facebook: @solhealth

For upcoming events visit: www.solhealthyoga.com

Email us: connect@solhealthyoga.com with any questions.

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Maya sits down with Katy and Kiara at 11 days postpartum to reflect on the final days of Katy’s pregnancy, her shift into labor, and Kevin’s birthstory. We explore topics of her decision to head to the hospital and standing strong within her wishes (with the support of her birth team). We allow for curiosity of the hospital protocols and discuss calculated risk to benefit. We then dive into the challenging hormonal shifts post-birth and alarming pediatric visits. We hold space for her concerns of breastfeeding and milk production. Throughout the conversations we include the importance of being well informed to support her motherhood intuition. 

Follow Maya and Paula on Instagram and Facebook: @solhealth

For upcoming events visit: www.solhealthyoga.com

Email us: connect@solhealthyoga.com with any questions.

Music featured in this episode by Bensound.com

Please share this podcast with a friend and give them a love tap with some inspiration for growth.