Finding Harmony Podcast Harmony Slater

In this compelling episode of the Finding Harmony podcast, we meet Alex Medin, a man who has lived through an extraordinary life of transformation. From his early days as a boxer, to his deep immersion in Sanskrit studies, to his groundbreaking work with inmates and addicts, Alex's journey is a testament to the power of yoga as a tool for healing, self-discovery, and service.
Key Points and Themes:
Yoga for Trauma and Transformation: Alex shares how his own struggles led him to explore yoga's capacity to heal deep wounds, both for himself and others.
Yoga in Prisons: Discover how Alex's work in prisons ignited his passion for using yoga as a vehicle for rehabilitation and personal growth.
Building a Haven: Learn about the incredible story behind Nosen Retreat Center in Norway, a sanctuary Alex founded to offer hope and healing to those in need.
The Mindfulness of Boxing: Explore the unexpected parallels between the focus and presence required in boxing and the transformative power of yoga practice.
The Bhagavad Gita as a Guiding Force: Alex shares how the wisdom of this ancient text has shaped his life's work
Guest Bio:  Alexander Medin has been teaching yoga for 28 years. He was certified by the legendary Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in 2002, an honor achieved by only 33 individuals. He holds an MA in Sanskrit and Indian Religions (SOAS 2004) and has had the privilege of traveling the world teaching yoga. He is the founder of Puro Yoga, the Back in the Ring Foundation, and Nøsen Yoga and Mountain Hotel.
 
Call to Action:Visit Nosen Retreat Center: Learn more about Alex's work and the transformative programs offered at Nosen. https://www.nosenyoga.no
Join Harmony's Norway Retreat: Experience the power of yoga and nature firsthand. Sign up for Harmony's upcoming retreat at Nosen Retreat Center.
Discover the “Gangster Yoga” and  "Back in the Ring" Projects: Learn more about how you can support these missions: https://www.nosenyoga.no/en/community-projects
 
Did you like this episode with Alex?
You can hear more of his story in episode 68!
Listen on Apple
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** If you or someone you love needs support with addiction. Find helpful suggestions here: https://drugabuse.com/addiction/hotlines/ **
 
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Work with Harmony:
Links and Resources:
https://harmonyslater.com/ancient-breathing-2-0
Explore Harmony Slater's upcoming retreat in Norway
Explore Harmony Slater’s upcoming retreat in Lisbon 
Explore Harmony Slater's upcoming retreat in Turkey 
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
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⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
 

With Sumanth Gopinath
 
Embark on a musical voyage that transcends borders and eras with our esteemed guest Sumanth Gopinath, professor of music and grassroots folk musician. Celebrate Russell's birthday and delve into a heartfelt discussion that weaves together the threads of Indian and North American folk music traditions. Through Sumanth's personal narrative, we explore how the echoes of our upbringing resonate in the music we love, and how shared experiences and diverse backgrounds create a rich tapestry of cultural identity.
 
Peel back the layers of music theory's evolution with us, as we engage with the compelling transformation from academic pursuits to the frontlines of labor union activism. Sumanth's anecdotes reveal the intimate connections between the professionalization of music theory, the political economy that shapes the discipline, and the influence of collective action in shaping both academia and society. Together, we shine a spotlight on the need for music education to embrace a broader spectrum of cultural narratives, enriching our understanding of music's role in our lives.
 
Join us for a profound conversation that tackles the delicate balance between cultural appreciation and appropriation. We navigate the complex terrain of global influences on personal expression, examining how our intentions, critiques, and relationships inform the way we engage with the world's diverse musical heritage. In an increasingly interconnected community, we emphasize the importance of approaching cultural exchanges with mindfulness and respect, ensuring that our artistic expressions contribute to a more understanding and harmonious world.
 
About Sumanth:
Sumanth Gopinath is Associate Professor of Music Theory at the University of Minnesota TwinCities. He has written or co-edited books on the ringtone industry (TheRingtoneDialectic:Economy and Cultural Form, 2013), mobile music studies (The Oxford Handbook of Mobile Music Studies, 2014), and the music of Steve Reich (Rethinking Reich, 2019). He is the leader of the independent Americana band The Gated Community.
 
Songs from this episode:
 
DivorceDress https://www.tiktok.com/music/Divorce-Dress-6887761471078434818?lang=it
To the Sea Once More https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=naRvG4scQyw
The Life from My Eyes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UX-vKf8Bywk
Christmas Special https://thegatedcommunity.bandcamp.com/album/wont-you-believe-me-2
 
Work with Harmony:
Links and Resources:
https://harmonyslater.com/ancient-breathing-2-0
Explore Harmony Slater's upcoming retreat in Norway
Explore Harmony Slater’s upcoming retreat in Lisbon 
Explore Harmony Slater's upcoming retreat in Turkey 
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠

In today's episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater and Russell Case explore a deeply relatable topic: the intersection of motherhood and a dedicated yoga practice. Joining them is Bibi Lorenzetti, a seasoned Ashtanga yogi, mother, and owner of the Newburgh Shala in New York. Together, they explore the complexities, the triumphs, and the inherent imperfections of maintaining a meaningful practice amidst the ever-evolving demands of parenting.
Here are some of the themes discussed in this insightful episode:
The shifting focus from physically demanding asana to the deeper, more spiritual aspects of yoga as motherhood unfolds.
The concept of faith ('Shraddha') and how it supports both a yoga practice and the journey of parenthood.
Embracing the inevitable imperfections and frustrations that arise in both yoga and mothering.
The importance of finding community and support as a yogi mother, and the responsibility to preserve the lineage of these ancient practices.
This episode offers a refreshing and honest perspective on motherhood's impact on a dedicated yoga practice. Whether you're a parent, a yogi, or simply seeking balance in life, you'll discover valuable insights and a sense of shared experience within this conversation.
Important Links:
https:www.bibilorenzetti.com/
Bibi Lorenzetti's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bibi.lorenzetti/
Newburgh Shala Website: https://www.newburghyogashala.com/
Newburgh Shala on IG: https://www.instagram.com/newburghyogashala
 
Work with Harmony:
Links and Resources:
https://harmonyslater.com/ancient-breathing-2-0
Explore Harmony Slater's upcoming retreat in Norway
Explore Harmony Slater’s upcoming retreat in Lisbon 
Explore Harmony Slater's upcoming retreat in Turkey 
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
 
We'd love to hear your thoughts! What resonated with you the most from this episode? Share your experiences and reflections in the Finding Harmony Community!

Harmony talks about the science and practice of breath work (pranayama)

Today, we're tackling Russell’s thought-provoking question about Jesus Christ with Religious Scholar and Certified Ashtanga teacher, Dr. John Campbell. As the conversation turns to "Are we searching for our own personal Jesus in yoga teachers?" Harmony Slater, John, and Russell explore the tendency to idolize instructors, seeking external validation and solutions rather than cultivating our own inner power. This episode will challenge your assumptions and open doors to a more authentic yoga practice.
Key Takeaways:
Beyond Black and White Thinking: John Campbell critiques the pressure for strong opinions: "Everybody always trying to dumb everything down...you know, you have a black and white opinion about this or that..." The conversation explores the need for critical thinking and a nuanced approach to yoga teachers and transformation.
The Simulation of Awareness: John delves into the overwhelming nature of information overload: "We have this constant narration machine of infinite complexity in our minds...this is exactly who I am..." He argues that true transformation comes from cultivating presence and inner peace, not getting caught up in external narratives.
Yoga and the Cult of Personality: John observes, "[We] find ourselves in positions of great authority, which then turn out to be real shit-heels." Harmony Slater adds, "We're all doing that, right? With our interpersonal struggles." This conversation explores how easily we project unrealistic expectations onto teachers, potentially hindering our own growth.
Presence and Authenticity: Despite the potential pitfalls, the episode acknowledges the power of yoga. John Campbell concludes that yoga, when approached mindfully, can be a powerful tool for cultivating presence, compassion, and a deeper sense of self.
Now it's your turn!
Ready to dive deeper? Join Harmony's 5-Day Free Breathwork Challenge to start building a powerful, self-directed yoga practice. 
Share your thoughts! Leave a review and spark a conversation about your biggest takeaways from this episode.
Connect with the community! Find us on social media or join Harmony's online community to connect with fellow yoga enthusiasts! Join the Finding Harmony Community.
About Our Guests:
John Campbell: 
John Campbell is a scholar of Indo-Tibetan Buddhism and holds a PhD in Religion from Columbia University. He has been a Fulbright Fellow and has taught at Columbia University and the University of Virginia, where he co-founded the Contemplative Sciences Center  for research and teaching centered on contemplative methods and traditions. He is currently working on a multi-volume translation from Sanskrit and Tibetan of commentaries on the Guhyasamaja Tantra, a Buddhist scripture.  
He began practising yoga and meditation thirty years ago, and has since then taught yoga, meditation, and contemplative philosophy worldwide. A longtime practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, he is also one of the few Certified teachers of Ashtanga Yoga. 
He lives in Newburgh NY with his wife, children, and assorted animal friends. 
>>> You can find him teaching at the Newburgh Yoga Shala
 
Work with Harmony:
Links and Resources:
5 Day Ancient Breathing Challenge for Stress Reduction with Harmony Slater
Explore Harmony Slater’s upcoming Workshops + Retreats: Lisbon, Norway, Germany and Turkey
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
Apply to work with Harmony: https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
 
Thank you for listening! Join us next time as we delve deeper into the world of yoga and self-discovery on the Finding Harmony Podcast.

Join Harmony Slater and Elizabeth Ball as they delve into the nuances of the Ashtanga Yoga practice and how it can evolve, using online and in person resources to support you through life's inevitable changes. In this episode, they explore the challenges of the traditional Mysore-style format and uncover the power of adapting your practice to better suit your individual needs, both on and off the mat. If you're navigating transitions in your life or seeking a more sustainable approach to Ashtanga, this episode offers valuable insights and guidance.
Show Notes:
IntroductionWelcome to the Finding Harmony podcast and a special conversation with Elizabeth Ball.
Overview of Elizabeth's background in Ashtanga Yoga and her shift towards a more accessible and supportive online teaching model.

The Ashtanga Mysore Method: Potential ChallengesThe traditional early morning Mysore practice and its potential impact on lifestyle and sleep patterns.
The rigidity of practice and its limitations for students facing life changes or differing needs.
The potential for exhaustion, burnout, and the impact on long-term sustainability of the practice.

Embracing Flexibility: Adapting Your Ashtanga Yoga PracticeFinding a balance between dedication and self-care within the Ashtanga method.
Listening to your body and prioritizing sleep and overall well-being.
Modifying your practice schedule based on work schedules, family commitments, or periods of physical or emotional stress.
Recognizing that a consistent practice doesn't have to look exactly the same every day.

Benefits of Online Yoga CommunitiesIncreased accessibility to qualified teachers, regardless of location.
Flexibility and convenience for students with busy schedules.
The potential for personalized instruction and support through online platforms and classes.
Creating a sense of community and belonging even in a virtual setting.

Cultivating a Holistic Approach to YogaEmphasizing the importance of off-the-mat practices to enhance your experience on the mat.
Incorporating mindfulness, breathwork (pranayama), and philosophy into your yoga journey.
Understanding how Ashtanga Yoga fits within the larger context of the eight limbs of yoga.

 
Special Announcement: Finding Harmony Retreat in Lisbon
Harmony Slater is thrilled to announce a special 'Finding Harmony' retreat in the vibrant city of Lisbon, Portugal, hosted in collaboration with Elizabeth Ball at Ashtanga Yoga Lisbon.
What to Expect:
Immersive Ashtanga Yoga Experience: Deepen your Mysore practice with daily classes led by Harmony Slater.
Personalized Support: Receive guidance and adjustments from Harmony Slater.
Explore Lisbon: Discover the rich culture, history, and beauty of Lisbon during excursions and free time.
Community and Connection: Connect with like-minded yogis from around the world and build a supportive community.
Philosophy and Mindfulness Workshops: Explore the deeper aspects of yoga philosophy and mindfulness practices to enhance your journey.
Dates: May 24th - 28th
More Information and Registration:
Visit https://ashtangayogalisbon.com/ashtanga-yoga-immersion-harmonyslater-may-2024
for full retreat details, pricing, and to register. Early bird discounts are available for a limited time!
Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in yoga, connect with a vibrant community, and experience the magic of Lisbon!

Elizabeth’s Links
Website: https://ashtangayogalisbon.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethannball/
Special Coupon code for Finding Harmony Listeners:  HARMONY15 
This coupon offers them 15% off their monthly Membership for a 4 month or 6 monthMembership plan-valid foruse until the end of March 24

Work with Harmony:
Links and Resources:
Explore Harmony Slater’s upcoming retreat in Lisbon https://ashtangayogalisbon.com/ashtanga-yoga-immersion-harmonyslater-may-2024
Explore Harmony Slater's upcoming retreat in Turkey https://harmonyslater.com/yoga-retreat-turkey
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