Somatic Presence: 40 Years of Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy with Michael Lee

Long before yoga therapy was recognized by mainstream healthcare institutions, Michael Lee, MA, Dip.Psych, C-IAYT, was pioneering an internationally acclaimed method that bridged classical yoga, depth psychology, and body-centered awareness. In 1986, he founded Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy, establishing a lineage that uses the body as a direct gateway to emotional and mental liberation.In this episode of This is Yoga Therapy, host Michele Lawrence sits down with Michael to reflect on four decades of his work in this field. Together, they explore how integrating Rogerian person-centered psychology with yoga creates a powerful space for transformation—shifting the therapeutic goal away from "fixing" clients and toward heart-centered accompaniment.In this conversation, we explore:The Roots of Phoenix Rising: How Michael brought together behavioral science, psychology, and traditional yoga lineage over 40 years ago.Dual-Centered Awareness: Why the therapeutic relationship and non-judgmental presence are essential for deep, long-term growth.Shifting From "Fixing" to "Accompaniment": How yoga therapists can serve by shifting from trying to fix problems to holding space for the client's innate wisdom.Turning Stress into Bliss: Practical strategies from Michael’s book to move from chronic existential burnout into deep meaning and fulfillment.ResourcesConnect with Michael Lee: Explore Michael’s books (Turn Stress into Bliss and Yoga Therapy and Integrative Medicine), courses, and global events at michaelleeyoga.com.Learn About Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy: Discover programs and resources at pryt.com.Support the showConnect with Inner Peace Yoga TherapyEmail us: [email protected]