#152 Reema Datta - The Importance of Holistic Yoga

Reema Datta (www.reemadatta.com | @reemayoga) In this conversation, Reema Datta shares her journey of discovering yoga and becoming a teacher. She discusses her background growing up in a family immersed in yoga and Ayurveda. Rima also talks about her experience with Larry Schultz and the perception of yoga appropriation. She emphasises the need for a holistic approach to yoga, including integrating mind practices. Rima suggests that ancient texts should be translated and made applicable to modern life to deepen the understanding of yoga. The conversation explores the importance of incorporating mental aspects in yoga and the need to go back to the original teachings of yoga. It discusses the role of translations in understanding yoga texts and the significance of cultural appropriation and respect in yoga. The meaning and pronunciation of Namaste are explored, along with the importance of respecting yoga traditions and practices. The conversation also delves into overcoming the fluctuations of the mind and the gift of yoga to humanity. It highlights the need to improve the representation of yoga and the use of yoga sequences to work with emotions.  The conversation concludes with discussing the need for a feminine touch in yoga and the mind-body experience in yoga. The chapter ends with a reflection on inspiration and guilty pleasures. Highlights Yoga can be practised in various ways and is not limited to asana.        The perception of yoga appropriation can be divisive and counterproductive. ·       There is a need for a holistic approach to yoga that integrates mind practices. ·       Ancient texts should be translated and made applicable to modern life to deepen the understanding of yoga. Incorporating mental aspects in yoga is essential to honour the original teachings of yoga. ·       Translations of yoga texts can greatly impact our understanding and practice of yoga. ·       Cultural appropriation in yoga should be approached with respect and understanding. ·       The meaning and pronunciation of Namaste can vary, but the intention behind it is what matters. ·       Respecting yoga traditions and practices includes understanding the symbolism and significance of statues and other elements. ·       Yoga helps overcome the fluctuations of the mind and promotes unity and connection. ·       Yoga is a gift to humanity and should be represented with integrity and authenticity. ·       Yoga sequences can be designed to work with specific emotions and promote emotional well-being. ·       Including more feminine perspectives in yoga can bring balance and depth to the practice. ·       The mind-body experience is an integral part of yoga and should not be suppressed or denied. ·       Honesty and authenticity are inspiring qualities in yoga and in life. ·       Taking time for guilty pleasures, such as watching movies and enjoying snacks, is important for self-care. You can find links to Reema's book, Sacred Sanskrit Words for Yoga, Chant, and Meditation and her two mantra albums on her website: www.reemadatta.com  You can also follow her on Instagram @reemayoga Sources:  Eknath Easwaran's translations of the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads are excellent. He taught at the University of California, Berkeley for decades, and was an amazing bridge between India and the West. His translations are easy to read and full of relatable stories. Roopa Pai has written The Gita for Children and The Vedas and Upanishads for Children. They are both excellent books if you'd like to share with your kids and learn with them! Even for adults, these books are a great introduction to these texts, which carry the original wisdom teachings of yoga that focus on the mind.  You can learn more about Niguma from H.E. Kalu Rinpoche.  Reema offers a free online community gathering on the last Sunday of each month to discuss aspects of yoga philosophy and engage in a short practice of mantra, pranayama, and meditation together. Everyone is welcome to join. You can register online and receive a link. She also has a few online courses that combine asana, mantra, pranayama, meditation, and philosophy. www.reemadatta.com