All things Yoga with Vicky: Recent Episodes
Vicky Richings
Chatting about all things Yoga. Whether you are a student starting out on your yoga journey, an experienced teacher or just have a passing interest, you may find something here for you.
Ishvarapranidhana, or surrender, is about letting go of control and trusting in a higher power—or simply the flow of life. In this episode, we explore how releasing attachment to outcomes, practicing faith, and staying open to the unknown can bring a sense of peace and freedom. Ishvarapranidhana teaches us to let go and let life unfold. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
Hello, we’re at the final Niyama—Ishvarapranidhana. This one’s all about surrendering to something bigger than yourself, whether that’s the universe, a god, or just the flow of life. Let’s dive in
Ishvarapranidhana can feel abstract, but at its core, it’s about trust. It’s knowing that while we can control some things, there’s so much that’s out of our hands—and that’s okay.
In traditional yoga, this surrender is about devotion to the divine. But even if you’re not spiritual, Ishvarapranidhana can be about letting go of the need to control everything.
Have you ever had a plan fall apart, only to realize later that things worked out even better? That’s the magic of surrender. It doesn’t mean giving up; it means doing your best and then trusting the process.
In today’s fast-paced world, surrender might look like practicing mindfulness or even just breathing deeply when things feel overwhelming. For me, it’s a reminder to step back and let life unfold.
Another way to practice Ishvarapranidhana? Gratitude. When we focus on what’s good, we stop fighting against what is. Surrender becomes easier when we realize there’s so much to be thankful for.
How can you practice surrender this week? Maybe it’s letting go of a grudge or trusting that things will work out. Whatever it is, I hope it brings you peace. Thanks for joining me on this journey through the Yamas and Niyamas. See you soon for more yoga wisdom
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/yoga-chat/donations
Svadhyaya, or self-study, encourages us to turn inward and explore who we are. This episode looks at how journaling, meditation, and studying wisdom texts can help us deepen our understanding of ourselves and our purpose. Svadhyaya reminds us that self-awareness is the key to personal and spiritual growth. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
Welcome back to All Things Yoga with Vicky. Today’s Niyama is Svadhyaya, or self-study. This one’s all about getting curious about yourself—your habits, your thoughts, and even the deeper, spiritual you.
Traditionally, Svadhyaya involves studying sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita or the Yoga Sutras. But in modern life, it’s also about turning inward and learning from your experiences.
Think about it—how often do we go through life on autopilot? Svadhyaya asks us to pause and reflect. Why did I react that way? What’s driving my choices?
For me, journaling is a big part of Svadhyaya. It’s like having a conversation with yourself—getting all your thoughts out and then seeing what they reveal. Meditation is another great tool for self-study. When you sit quietly, you can observe your mind without judgment.
And here’s a fun idea—self-study doesn’t have to be all serious. What about trying something new, like a hobby or class, to learn more about yourself? You might surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.
On a deeper level, Svadhyaya reminds us that we’re more than our thoughts or bodies. It’s about connecting with your true essence, your inner light.
So, how will you practice Svadhyaya this week? Maybe it’s journaling, meditating, or just reflecting on your day. Whatever it is, I hope it brings you closer to yourself. Next time, we’re wrapping up the Niyamas with Ishvarapranidhana
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Tapas, or discipline, is the fire that fuels transformation. In this episode, we discuss how embracing challenges, staying consistent with your goals, and cultivating resilience can lead to growth and self-discovery. Tapas is about showing up, even when it’s hard, and building the inner strength to move closer to your highest potential. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
It’s Vicky, and today on All Things Yoga, we’re diving into Tapas. This Niyama is all about discipline, but before you groan, stick with me—Tapas isn’t just about working harder. It’s about working smarter and with intention
Tapas translates to ‘heat’ or ‘burning enthusiasm,’ and traditionally, it refers to the discipline needed to stay committed to your spiritual path. But let’s bring that into today’s world.
Tapas is about showing up for yourself consistently, even when it’s hard. Whether it’s rolling out your yoga mat on a day you’d rather sleep in, eating foods that nourish you, or staying focused on a long-term goal, Tapas is the fire that keeps you going.
But discipline doesn’t have to be harsh. In fact, Tapas is about balance—it’s the sweet spot between effort and ease.
Let’s talk about how this looks in modern life. Have you ever started a habit, like journaling or exercising, and then given up when it got tough? Tapas encourages us to push through that resistance—not out of guilt but because we know it’s good for us. You can't guilt yourself into change, but you can love yourself into change.
For me, practicing Tapas often means creating small, achievable goals. Like committing to ten minutes of yoga instead of an hour. Consistency beats intensity every time. Even 2 or 5 minutes of meditation is better than non at all.
Another way to think about Tapas is as self-respect. When we follow through on our commitments, we build trust in ourselves. That’s powerful.
Where can you bring more Tapas into your life? Maybe it’s sticking to a new habit or simply showing up with intention. Whatever it is, let that inner fire guide you. Next time, we’re talking about Svadhyaya
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Santosha, or contentment, is the practice of finding peace and gratitude in the present moment. This episode delves into how we can let go of comparison, embrace imperfection, and recognize the abundance we already have. Santosha shows us that happiness isn’t in the next achievement but in appreciating what’s right here, right now. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
You’re listening to All Things Yoga with Vicky, and today’s Niyama is one of my favourites—Santosha, or contentment. Ah, doesn’t that sound nice?
But here’s the thing: contentment can feel tricky, especially in a world that constantly tells us we need more. More stuff, more success, more everything. So let’s unpack what Santosha really means and how we can embrace it.
Traditionally, Santosha is about finding peace and satisfaction with what you already have. It’s learning to appreciate the present moment instead of chasing after the next thing.
Sounds lovely, right? But let’s be real—it’s not always easy. How often do we say, ‘I’ll be happy when…’—when I get the promotion, lose the weight, or take that dream vacation? Santosha asks us to hit pause on that mindset and say, ‘What’s good about my life right now?’
In yoga, Santosha might mean being okay with where your body is today. Maybe you can’t nail that tricky pose yet, but you can still appreciate the strength and effort you’re bringing to your practice.
Off the mat, Santosha could look like practicing gratitude. Have you ever tried writing down three things you’re thankful for each day? It’s a simple way to shift your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant.
And here’s a modern twist—what if Santosha also meant unplugging from social media? It’s so easy to compare ourselves to others and feel like we’re falling short. But when we step back, we can reconnect with what really makes us happy.
So, how can you invite Santosha into your life this week? Maybe it’s savouring your morning coffee or taking a moment to appreciate a loved one. Whatever it is, I hope it fills you with peace. See you next time for Tapas
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/yoga-chat/donations
Shaucha, or cleanliness, goes beyond physical hygiene to include clarity in our thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. In this episode, we explore how decluttering your home, eating clean foods, and releasing mental negativity can create a sense of inner and outer purity. Shaucha is all about making space for positivity and growth in your life. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
Welcome back to All Things Yoga with Vicky. Today, we’re kicking off the Niyamas—those inner practices that help us live more harmonious lives. And the first one we’re exploring is Shaucha, or cleanliness.
Now, I know what you’re thinking—‘Vicky, are you telling me I need to clean my room?’ Well… maybe! But Shaucha goes so much deeper than that.
Let’s start with the traditional interpretation. Shaucha is about keeping the body, mind, and environment clean. Sure, this includes physical hygiene—taking a shower, washing your yoga mat—but it also means clearing out the clutter in our minds and surroundings.
Think about how good it feels to walk into a tidy space or how refreshed you feel after a hot shower. That’s Shaucha in action—it’s not about perfection but creating an environment that feels light and supportive.
But Shaucha isn’t just external. Mental cleanliness is just as important. Have you ever noticed how negative thoughts or worry can feel like mental clutter? Practicing Shaucha might mean setting boundaries with toxic people, limiting the news you consume, or simply making time for mindfulness practices.
And here’s another layer—what about the food we eat? Nourishing your body with clean, healthy food is another way to honour Shaucha. It’s not about being extreme but about tuning into what makes you feel good.
In modern life, Shaucha might also mean decluttering your digital life. When was the last time you cleaned out your inbox or unfollowed accounts that don’t inspire you? Clearing that space can create more room for what truly matters.
So, this week, think about where you can invite more Shaucha into your life. Maybe start with something small, like clearing your desk or journaling to clear your mind. I promise it makes a difference. Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you next time to talk about Santosha
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/yoga-chat/donations
Aparigraha, or non-possessiveness, is the practice of releasing attachments—whether to material things, relationships, or limiting beliefs. This episode looks at how decluttering, embracing change, and cultivating gratitude can free us from unnecessary burdens. Aparigraha reminds us that when we let go, we make room for what truly matters. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
You’re listening to All Things Yoga with Vicky, and today we’re diving into the final Yama—Aparigraha, which means non-possessiveness or non-attachment. This one is such a game-changer, especially in our consumer-driven world. Let’s unpack what it means and how we can bring it into our lives
Traditionally, Aparigraha is about letting go of the need to cling—whether to material things, relationships, or even ideas. In yoga philosophy, the idea is that attachment leads to suffering because nothing in life is permanent.
Let’s start with material possessions. Have you ever held onto something you don’t really use, just because you might need it ‘someday’? Or maybe you’ve felt like you need the latest gadget or fashion trend to be happy? Aparigraha invites us to ask: Do I really need this? Will it truly bring me joy, or is it just adding clutter to my life?
One way to practice Aparigraha is by decluttering your space. For example, take a look at your wardrobe. Are there clothes you haven’t worn in years? Letting go of those items can feel freeing—not just physically but emotionally too.
But Aparigraha isn’t just about physical stuff. It’s also about emotional attachment. Have you ever clung to a relationship or situation that wasn’t serving you, just because it felt familiar or safe? Practicing Aparigraha might mean letting go of that attachment and trusting that something better will come along.
And then there are the mental attachments. Are there beliefs or ideas you’re holding onto that no longer serve you? For example, the belief that you have to be perfect, or that success looks a certain way. Aparigraha asks us to let go of those limiting thoughts and make space for growth.
In modern life, Aparigraha can even apply to time. Are you hoarding your time, afraid to share it with others, or overcommitting because you feel like you ‘should’? Learning to say no and prioritize what really matters is a form of non-possessiveness.
And here’s a fun twist—Aparigraha can help us enjoy life more. When we stop clinging, we’re free to experience the present moment without worrying about losing it. Think about eating a delicious meal. If you’re worried about the last bite before you’ve even started, you miss the joy of the moment! Aparigraha reminds us to savour what we have, knowing it’s enough.
For me, one of the most powerful ways to practice Aparigraha is through gratitude. When we focus on what we already have, the need to cling to more starts to fade. Whether it’s appreciating your morning coffee, a good book, or the people you love, gratitude shifts your mindset from scarcity to abundance.
So, this week, try practicing Aparigraha. Maybe it’s decluttering your home, letting go of an old grudge, or just being mindful of your attachments. Whatever it looks like, I hope it brings you a sense of freedom. Thanks for joining me as we explored the Yamas, and I’ll see you next time as we dive into the Niyamas!
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/yoga-chat/donations
Brahmacharya, or moderation, is all about managing our energy wisely—physically, emotionally, and mentally. In this episode, we explore how setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and finding balance in consumption can lead to a more sustainable, fulfilling life. Moderation isn’t about restriction; it’s about joy in balance. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
Welcome back to All Things Yoga with Vicky. Today, we’re exploring Brahmacharya, the fourth Yama. Brahmacharya is often translated as ‘moderation’ or sometimes as ‘celibacy,’ but don’t worry—we’re not going to be talking about joining a monastery! This Yama is about how we use our energy—physically, emotionally, and mentally—and finding balance in all areas of life.
Traditionally, Brahmacharya was about controlling desires, particularly in the context of spiritual growth. In ancient times, it was linked to celibacy, as yogis believed conserving that energy could be channeled into spiritual pursuits. But for most of us modern practitioners, Brahmacharya has evolved to mean something broader: moderation in how we use our energy.
Let’s start with the obvious—how do you spend your physical energy? Are you overworking yourself or burning out? Maybe you’re doing the opposite and not moving your body enough. Practicing Brahmacharya might mean finding a middle ground—exercising in a way that feels sustainable or setting boundaries with your work schedule to avoid exhaustion.
Now, let’s talk about mental energy. Have you ever felt drained just from overthinking? Maybe you’re replaying an argument in your head or worrying about things that haven’t even happened. Brahmacharya asks us to manage that mental energy. For me, meditation and deep breathing are tools I use to slow down and refocus my mind.
What about emotional energy? Are there people or situations in your life that feel like they’re taking more than they give? Sometimes practicing Brahmacharya means saying no to things that drain you so you can say yes to what truly nourishes you.
And of course, there’s moderation in consumption—whether it’s food, social media, or Netflix. We’ve all had those nights where we binge-watch a series and wake up feeling groggy. Brahmacharya reminds us to enjoy life’s pleasures in balance. For example, rather than eating an entire bag of chips, savoring a handful mindfully can feel just as satisfying without overindulgence.
Here’s a modern twist: Brahmacharya is also about being intentional. Are you scrolling on your phone for hours, or are you engaging with content that inspires you? Are you spending time with people who uplift you or just filling your schedule out of obligation?
And one more layer—Brahmacharya isn’t about deprivation. It’s not about saying no to everything fun; it’s about finding joy in balance. You might love a glass of wine or a dessert, and that’s okay! The practice is to enjoy those things mindfully and not let them control you.
So, how can you practice Brahmacharya this week? Maybe it’s setting a timer to limit social media, saying no to an invitation you don’t feel excited about, or finding balance in your physical activities. Whatever it looks like for you, I hope it brings you more energy and peace. Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you next time for Aparigraha
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/yoga-chat/donations
Asteya, or non-stealing, is about more than just physical theft—it’s about recognizing when we take time, energy, or even opportunities from others or ourselves. This episode dives into how we can practice gratitude, avoid comparison, and find satisfaction with what we already have. Asteya teaches us that true abundance comes from appreciating the present moment. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
Welcome back to All Things Yoga with Vicky. Today’s Yama is Asteya, which means non-stealing. Now, you might be thinking, ‘I’ve never stolen anything, so this one doesn’t apply to me.’ But Asteya is so much broader than just taking physical things—it’s about all the ways we ‘take’ without realizing it.
Traditionally, Asteya is about avoiding theft. But in a modern context, it’s about so much more. Let’s think about time. Have you ever been late to a meeting? Or scrolled on your phone during a conversation? That’s stealing someone’s time and attention.
Asteya also applies to energy. Are you taking too much from others without giving back? For example, venting about your problems but not being there for your friends when they need support.
And what about stealing from yourself? This can look like procrastinating or making choices that don’t serve your highest good. Maybe it’s staying up late scrolling on your phone and then feeling too tired to enjoy the next day.
In a consumer-driven world, Asteya can also be about rethinking our relationship with material things. Do we really need more stuff, or are we just filling a void? Decluttering and practicing gratitude for what you already have can be powerful ways to embrace Asteya.
For me, practicing Asteya is also about appreciating the little things. When we’re content with what we have, we stop feeling the need to take from others or the world. Gratitude is a big part of this practice.
So, this week, I invite you to reflect on Asteya. Notice where you might be taking more than you need—whether it’s time, energy, or even physical things—and see how you can shift towards giving instead. Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you next time for Brahmacharya
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/yoga-chat/donations
Satya, or truthfulness, isn’t just about honesty—it’s about aligning your words, thoughts, and actions with kindness and authenticity. In this episode, we discuss how Satya can help us embrace our true selves, question the little lies we tell, and live in a way that feels genuine. Truthfulness and compassion go hand in hand in creating deeper connections with ourselves and others. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
Welcome back to All Things Yoga. It’s Vicky here, and today we’re diving into the second Yama—Satya, which means truthfulness. Now, truthfulness sounds pretty straightforward, right? But, as with everything in yoga, there’s a deeper layer to it.
The traditional meaning of Satya is being truthful in your words, actions, and thoughts. It’s about living in alignment with your highest self. But here’s the catch—truthfulness in yoga is always paired with kindness.
Think about this: Have you ever said something brutally honest but hurtful? That’s not Satya—it’s just being blunt. Satya asks us to be truthful in a way that also honors Ahimsa, or non-violence. Truth and kindness go hand in hand.
In our modern lives, Satya is about more than just not lying. It’s about authenticity. Are you being honest with yourself about what you want? Are you living in a way that feels true to who you are? For example, maybe you’re working in a job that doesn’t align with your values or staying in a situation that doesn’t feel right. Practicing Satya might mean having those tough conversations or making a change to align your outer life with your inner truth.
And let’s talk about white lies for a second—you know, the little things we say to avoid conflict or make things easier. While those lies might seem harmless, they can add up and create a lack of trust over time. Satya encourages us to communicate honestly, even when it’s uncomfortable, as long as we do it with compassion.
There’s also a modern twist on Satya—how honest are you online? Social media is often about curating a perfect image, but what would it look like to share more authentically? That doesn’t mean oversharing, but maybe it’s about being okay with showing the messy, real parts of life too.
And here’s another layer: Truthfulness isn’t just about what we say—it’s also about what we think. How often do we tell ourselves stories that aren’t true? Like, ‘I’ll never be good enough’ or ‘I can’t handle this.’ Practicing Satya might mean questioning those stories and replacing them with kinder, more truthful thoughts.
So, this week, I encourage you to explore Satya. Maybe it’s being more honest in your conversations, reflecting on whether your actions align with your values, or questioning those negative stories in your mind. Remember, truthfulness and kindness always go together. See you next time for Asteya.
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In this episode of "All Things Yoga," Vicky dives into the first yama, "ahimsa," which means non-violence. She explains that ahimsa goes beyond just avoiding physical harm—it includes being mindful of our words, thoughts, and actions. Vicky encourages us to practice kindness in our self-talk, interactions with others, and even in our environmental choices. She shares practical tips, like pausing before reacting in anger and making small sustainable changes. By incorporating ahimsa into our daily lives, we can foster greater harmony and well-being. This episode is part of a series exploring the eight limbs of yoga. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk
Transcript
Vicky 00:00:00 Welcome back to all things Yoga with Vicky. In the next few episodes, we're going to think about some yoga philosophy. So yoga is more than just poses on a mat. It's a way of living that helps us cultivate balance, kindness, and inner peace. At its core, yoga philosophy is rooted in ancient texts. One of them is the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which we are going to look at over the next few episodes. It's a foundational guide that outlines the eight limbs of yoga, a pathway to live in a meaningful and fulfilled life. Two of these limbs, the Yamas and Yamas. So the ethical disciplines and personal observances form the backbone of our journey into yoga beyond the physical practice. These ten principles are timeless guides for how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world around us.
In each of my episodes will explore the Yamas and the armas in a way that's relatable to modern life. Each of my episodes will dive into these teachings, offering practical ways to incorporate them into our daily routines. Whether you're new to yoga, practice, inquisitive or a seasoned Yogi, this guide will help you to apply the ancient principles to create a life filled with balance, intention, and joy.
Today we're diving into the first Yama Ahimsa. That Sanskrit word means non-violence. Now you might be thinking, Vicky, I don't hurt anyone, so I've got this covered. But trust me, Ahimsa goes a long way beyond the obvious. So let's start with maybe a traditional meaning. Hims is about avoiding harm physically, verbally, and even mentally. In ancient yogic texts, it's considered the foundation of the entire practice of yoga. If we're harming others or ourselves, it's hard to live in harmony.
So the obvious application of ahimsa is not physically hurting anyone. But let's take a step further. What about the words we use? Have you ever said something in anger or hurt that maybe has upset someone? Or maybe you've been on the receiving end of a harsh comment when someone else has been in pain and spoken to you in a way that you don't appreciate. Words can hurt just as much as actions.
Then there's the way we think. Maybe you've caught yourself having harsh words with yourself, spiraling into self-criticism, perhaps thinking I'm not good enough, or why did I do that? That was so stupid. That is also a form of violence, but this time it's directed at yourself. Practicing ahimsa means being kinder in the way that you talk to yourself.
Now, in modern times, ahimsa can also extend to how we treat the planet. So maybe choosing more sustainable options, reducing our plastic waste, perhaps eating less meat, perhaps taking your carrier bag to the supermarket. All these are ways to reduce harm to the environment. Many people adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet because they believe it minimises harm to animals in the earth. But you don't have to do that. It doesn't have to be all or nothing. Even small steps like maybe eating less meat, or reducing food waste, or reducing your plastic usage all count.
Now let's not forget about emotional ahimsa. Maybe you're holding on to grudges or resentment. Now, those feelings can create tension or harm not just for others, but also for yourself. Now, in lots of meditation practices, there's an instruction to let go, and letting go through forgiveness can be really beneficial. The other way that we can also allow ourselves to get rid of grudges resentments is to set boundaries. This can also be an act of non-violence.
One way I try to practice ahimsa is by pausing before I react. Now, I'm not saying I'm perfect at this, but say that someone cut you up in traffic. Your first instinct is to hoot at them, maybe have a little bit of a 'blue' word. Instead maybe take a deep breath. Maybe let it go. Now you're not excusing the behavior of them cutting you up, but you're choosing to experience peace over conflict. It's not worth raising your blood pressure over.
Now, finally, Ahimsa can even show up on the yoga mat. Now, I may have mentioned before that I have pushed myself into a poses that don't feel right, just because I thought I should be able to do it. Staying in a lunge for a little bit too long and then having a swollen knee for a week afterwards. These are examples of how we need to honor our bodies and respect their limits and listen to them.
So that's ahimsa, nonviolence in all its forms. This week you might want to try and notice in where you can bring more kindness to your life. Maybe it's softening your tone when you're speaking to someone you're annoyed with. Being gentler with yourself or doing something kind for the planet. Thanks for listening and I hope you tune in next time to explore Satya - Truthfulness.
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Here I take dismantle the mystery of Sound Bathing and explore the reasons why you may want to give it a go! Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
Vicky (00:00:10) Hi. Welcome to all Things Yoga with Vicky. A podcast about all things yoga. Hello.
We're going to do some demystifying the 'woo-woo' sounding world of sound baths. If you've never been to one, they aren't quite as strange as they may seem!
During a sound bath session. There are different instruments like singing bowls, gongs and chimes, perhaps even drums, and they're played in a way that creates soothing sounds and vibrations that generally wash over you, helping you to relax your body and also your mind. Now, because they're played gently, the sound waves resonate through the room and sometimes into your body - we'll talk about that in a moment - and it creates a very peaceful and meditative atmosphere, even for those people who aren't used to meditation in the traditional sense. So what can you expect when you attend a sound bath? Well, you're going to immerse yourself in a sensory experience. You'll usually be laying down for the session, but if that isn't accessible, you can always sit on a chair.
Vicky (00:01:12) But however you are, it's important to feel comfortable and warm. So generally people will have bolsters or pillows underneath their knees in their heads, a blanket over the top of you so that you just stay nice and comfortable. Now, the sound bath may take you on a journey of sound from singing bowls which can be placed on the body so you feel the vibrations into the whole of your being to things like cactus rain sticks and seed shakers to recreate sounds from nature. The instruments may be moved around your body or moved around the room to create different parts of that journey. You'll also expect the twinkle of chimes and the warm, soft sounds of the Sansula, a little finger piano, and perhaps even some sung mantras, what happens is you just allow yourself to be bathed in these auditory delights. Now, whilst sound baths are suitable for almost everybody, regardless of age or fitness level, there are a few conditions that if you have, you may want to skip the sound baths. Things like epilepsy, heart conditions or anything related to, finding sounds stressful or overstimulating, tinnitus, migraines triggered by noise, anything like that.
Vicky (00:02:23) Also, if you have metal plates in your body or hearing aids that might make sound uncomfortable, it's best to skip out. And additionally, if you are pregnant and in the first or third trimester, it's best to wait until after for your sound baths. Now, it's worth also noting that some people with mental health issues might found sound baths lead to a release of emotions. There's no reason not to have a sound bath, but just be aware of that so that you know what to expect. Now, if you do attend a sound bath, the benefits you might feel can be amazing. You may feel a deep sense of relaxation during and after the session. People often find that sound bathing leads to a reduced sense of stress and lowering of anxiety, and it may help to improve focus and even encourage a sense of balance and harmony within yourself as a whole. Now, while most of the benefits are generally anecdotal, there has been some research into the effects of sound breathing. In 2016, a study by Goldsby concluded that sound bath type meditation may be especially useful in decreasing tension in individuals.
Vicky (00:03:36) Additionally, Cotoia in 2018, said it was found that playing patients who were about to have an operation relaxing singing bowl music might be a useful strategy to manage pre-operative anxiety. Much more research is needed in this relatively new area, though. However, an interesting article in 2019 by neuroscientist and biophysicist William Softky, gives a new and interesting take on why sound baths are so popular. He sees the electronic noise pollution, and also the artificial sounds that devices that we use in modern life give out as an assault on our vibration sensitive nervous system, which becomes recalibrated. He said the solution to mental misery created by a de-calibrating sonic environment is to return to a calibrating one, such as a sound bath. Sound baths are a fantastic way to unwind, de-stress and rejuvenate your body and mind and also apparently recalibrate. So next time you need a little self-care, why not give a sound bath a try?
Remember to hit subscribe and if you'd like to contact me, you can through my website eqyoga.co.uk
Thank you so much for listening.
References
Goldsby, T.L., Goldsby, M.E., McWalters, M. and Mills, P.J. (2016). Effects of Singing Bowl Sound Meditation on Mood, Tension, and Well-being: An Observational Study. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, [online] 22(3), pp.401–406. doi: https://doi.org/10.1177/2156587216668109.
Cotoia, A., Dibello, F., Moscatelli, F., Sciusco, A., Polito, P., Modolo, A., Gallo, C., Cibelli, G. and Cinnella, G. (2018). Effects of Tibetan Music on Neuroendocrine and Autonomic Functions in Patients Waiting for Surgery: A Randomized, Controlled Study. Anesthesiology Research and Practice, [online] 2018, p.e9683780. doi: https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/9683780.
Fair Observer. (2019). The Physics and Biophysics of Sound ‘Healing’. [online] Available at: https://www.fairobserver.com/more/science/sound-baths-healing-relaxation-science-news-physics-culture-news-34891/.
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What are yoga teachers really like? Do they never eat chocolate or swear? Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
E2S2 Transcript
Vicky (00:00:10) - Hi. Welcome to all Things Yoga with Vicky. A podcast about all things yoga. Hello and welcome. So we're going to have a little think about busting myths about yoga teachers. The yoga teachers. They are a strange breed in their lycra. Bend in this way and that. But. Not all yoga teachers are your stereotypical Western yoga teacher, and there are a lot of myths about yoga teachers, such as they all wear Lycra. I certainly don't. But we are going to think about just a few of these things that actually could be quite,, shall we say, detrimental to people attending yoga classes. So the first thing I'm going to say is all yoga teachers are not really skinny and really fit. You do not have to be really skinny and really fit to teach yoga. That's not saying some aren't, because yes, quite a few are, but there are a lot that aren't. Yoga isn't necessarily for people who have a level of fitness, a level of flexibility, a certain body shape.
Vicky (00:01:21) - Yoga is for everybody, and this is something which is really key. When we look on Instagram and other social media, there is a large contingent of things that represent yoga that aren't actually representing yoga. They are representing an interpretation of yoga, doing a headstand in your shorts and bikini and so on. Now this is really key as it puts people off coming to classes. It makes people think that yoga is exclusively for a certain type of person, a certain body shape, a certain skill or flexibility level or fitness level. That is not the case. So number one myth busted. Not all yoga teachers are super fit, super bendy and super slim.
Okay, so let's move on to myth number two. Myth number two is that yoga teachers are all vegan. Now, interestingly, some yoga teachers are vegan and there are certain yogic principles to live by. One of these is ahimsa, which is non harm. Now ahimsa can extend to not eating animal products or using animal products, if that is your interpretation of it.
Vicky (00:02:39) - But a lot of yoga teachers do not follow any specific diet. There is nothing to say that yoga teachers have to be vegan or vegetarian. Personally, I'm pescatarian and I have been for many years, but that was way before I was a yoga teacher, so perhaps we can stop thinking about our yoga teachers being these super healthy beings because quite frankly, I love ice cream. I have a pizza on Fridays. You know, there's nothing wrong with this. This is a human thing to do. Yoga teachers are human.
Now, the next myth we're going to bust is the fact that yoga teachers never, ever get injuries. Now, this is quite an interesting one. I quite often go to the same shop, and the people in there who work in there kind of know me because I'm in my yoga gear. They know I'm a yoga teacher. And the other week one of the guys who works in there said, oh I have a really bad back are there any yoga stretches I can do for it now? I don't ever recommend things like that, but I recommended him to a book that he might want to look at because I don't prescribe.
Vicky (00:03:53) - I'm not medically qualified, but it's a book that I used when I had a herniated disc. And I said, look, from my personal experience, this book could be really useful. You might want to look at this. And he said, but you're a yoga teacher. How could you have had a bad back? Now, this fascinated me., yoga teachers are not superhuman. We get injuries, my wrists hurt. Sometimes if I kneel on my knees for too long, they hurt. We have the same issues as everybody else, as a yoga teacher. And in fact, sometimes too much of certain things in yoga can actually cause injuries, which is why we need to be quite careful. But it's that idea of yoga teachers being completely and utterly superhuman. We are not Terminators. As yoga teachers, we get injuries, trust me.
Now, the last thing I'm going to talk about as a yoga teacher, and this is the one that I absolutely love. My mum says this to me sometimes.
Vicky (00:04:54) - Like, how come you're not calm and collected all the time? Now it makes me chuckle. The idea that yoga teachers, all yoga teachers, just walk around in this super Zen like state unaffected by traffic jams or, you know, something annoys them. Trust me, yoga teachers do get annoyed. Yoga teachers get sweary and angry sometimes. Not necessarily in yoga classes. But like I say, yoga teachers are human, so we don't all walk around in a Zen like state. I mean, okay, sometimes we do some yoga teachers may do. If those yoga teachers out there,, walk around in the Zen like state all the time. It must be very nice. But from my personal point of view, the yoga teachers I know and also myself, we are not. Zen like beans 100% of the time. So I hope this has given you an insight into the world of the truth of yoga teachers busting those myths., if there's any other myths that you would like to ask about, then please do get in touch.
Vicky (00:06:15) - It would be interesting to see what people think yoga teachers are like and and I'll give you the reality. Please remember to hit subscribe and if you'd like to contact me, you can through my website eqyoga.co.uk. Thank you so much for listening.
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Here we examine how humans like to have predicitability and suggest how we can help deal with the inevitable changes in our lives. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/
Transcript
Vicky (00:00:03) - Hi, welcome to All Things Yoga with Vicky, a podcast about all things yoga. Hello. So today we're going to talk about change, the ever constant change. Now there's a saying that says one thing is certain in life and that is that things are going to change. And this is very true. So even when we feel that we're on an even keel, everything's swimming along nicely, then everything can take a nosedive or vice versa. So what we need to think about really, is the fact that we need to really not expect things to remain constant. The sense of constant change can be quite uncomfortable, and this is something that humans don't tend to sit well with, or it doesn't sit well with us humans. We like to have predictability. We like routine. We like to know what is happening, when it's happening, how it's going to happen. It's that same thing as kids coming home from school and saying, oh, what's for dinner? They want to know when's dinner? What is dinner? And it's that sense of being able to have predictability.
Vicky (00:01:25) - When we stop having that sense of predictability in our lives, what happens is our brains start to want to cling on to things that are predictable, the things that can actually remain a constant. Now. It's really interesting because I think during Covid there was a lot of uncertainty. We didn't know when we will be able to leave our houses, all of those different things. And that uncertainty really didn't sit well with a lot of people. However, on the flip side, the certainty of knowing that you were going to be in your house and what your routine was going to be, and maybe when your food was going to be delivered if you didn't venture out to the shops. That was actually something that some people did get on board with. So the sense of being able to predict our lives and predict what is going to happen really does make us mostly comfortable. However, if we stay in that same place, if we stay in the place where we know exactly what is going to happen, we will stay in that place and we will never try anything different.
Vicky (00:02:37) - We will never change things up in some sense, is we may never, as some people refer to it, grow. Um, the growth zone. Now, when I was a psychology teacher, we looked at quite a lot of learning theories, and a lot of the learning theories say more or less, you have to take yourself outside your comfort zone to learn new things, to learn skills, to advance. Now, okay, I take it that, um, not everyone wants to advance and learn new skills, and that is absolutely fine. Some people are quite happy where they are and there is nothing wrong with that at all. However, what I'm going to say is we need to start to be able to get comfortable with change. Change is a constant in our lives, and one of the things that we can maybe use to help us deal with change different situations, things not remain in the same is to maybe have something else that is a constant. Now, one of the constants in life you can have is something like meditation.
Vicky (00:03:45) - You can have a five minute meditation practice, maybe at the beginning of the day, the end of the day, maybe in lunch time. That doesn't matter when. But if we have that one thing that is constant, it allows us to possibly cope better with the other things that are constantly changing. Now, quite often I speak about meditation, and my preferred meditation is a breath guided meditation. Just watching the inhales and the exhales. Just simply observe in the breath and the thing that attracts me really about this, apart from the fact that it was the first kind of meditation I learned at the Buddhist Centre, was the fact that we always have our breath with us. We don't need anything in particular. We don't need any sounds. We don't need a cushion. We don't need anything special. Our constant is our breath. And if we want to, we can allow ourselves to just take a few breaths, observe in those breaths in a meditation to allow us to deal with that sense of everything changing.
Vicky (00:04:58) - Now. Some changes in life are bigger than others sometimes. Changes happen when we least expect it. But if we have a regular meditation practice, this is something that can allow us to deal better with that change. Also, the other thing is to expect change and sometimes changes for the better, not for the worse. So this is something we need to bear in mind. Let's not dread things shifting. Sometimes the sand dunes shift on the beach to make an even more beautiful pattern. So this is something that we can bear in mind when something happens. Maybe we can say, okay, there's this. Not all negative. I guess it depends on what it is, but that sense of being able to actually perhaps make room for growth, make room for different activities, make room for something else when things shift. So I hope that you have found this useful. And maybe check out one of my other podcasts about how to meditate and meditation. So that's all for today. Thanks for listening. Please remember to hit subscribe and if you'd like to contact me you can through my website eqyoga.co.uk.
Vicky (00:06:24) - Thank you so much for listening.
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In this episode we examine how we tend to learn unhelpful breath patterns as adults and what we can do to help to bring us back to a more instinctive breath.
You can practice with me at eqyoga.co.uk
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In this episode we explore the idea that bodies are all different and how learning about your own body is far more useful than we may realise.
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In this episode I explore the idea that meditation can take many different forms.
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This episode is for everyone who thinks they can't do yoga or those who tried one class and didn't go back.
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In this episode we consider how an important part of the body is often neglected.
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This episode examines what we really need for out yoga practice. Expensive mats, a home studio and fancy pants or pyjamas and a towel?
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In this episode, I examine how social media and our own goal setting can get in the way of the original nature of yoga.
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While the study of Physics may sound a million miles away from yoga, they actually have a very close relationship. From energy to forces, Physics plays a part in all areas of yoga practice. This talk explores some of the ways that Physics influences our practice of yoga. Keeping in mind the invisible forces around us can transform our experience of our practice.
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This episode gives an insight into how meditation may be a useful part of a pain management regime for chronic pain. It discusses two different types of meditation and draws on personal experience in addition to professional knowledge.
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If you have ever wondered why you should start a Yoga Nidra practice, this short talk takes you through five reasons why you should. Learn about the techniques, benefits, and why it is so great for absolutely everyone.
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Learn three simple and effective ways to boost your sense of gratitude in under 6 minutes.
You will be able to put your findings into practice immediately and start to feel luckier right away!
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