Off The Mat

What happens when yoga becomes more than a physical practice? In this episode of the Off The Mat Podcast, I sit down with Christian Coelho - senior yoga teacher, educator, and co-founder of High Yoga School - to explore how yoga can become a guide for living with greater purpose, presence, and authenticity.Christian shares his journey from growing up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to becoming an internationally respected yoga teacher. After moving to the UK, he founded the Yoga Society at the University of Winchester before deepening his studies in India and later completing a Master's degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS, University of London. Today, he co-leads High Yoga School, delivering yoga teacher trainings and retreats around the world.In this conversation, we explore how Christian's practice has evolved from something physical into a philosophy that shapes the way he lives. Christian also shares how his Brazilian upbringing influenced his worldview, alongside practical tools that anyone can apply to cultivate a deeper connection with themselves - both on and off the mat.🌿 What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow Christian first discovered yoga and why he stayed with the practiceHow yoga evolves from movement into a way of lifeUsing yoga philosophy to shape your values and purposePractical tools for cultivating mindfulness and self-awarenessThe art of myth and storytelling and how it relates to his practiceWhy yoga continues loooong after you step off the mat🧘 About Christian Christian Coelho is a senior yoga teacher, educator, and co-founder of High Yoga School, an internationally recognised yoga teacher training school. He has taught yoga, meditation, philosophy, and breathwork for over a decade through retreats, workshops, and teacher trainings across the world.He blends traditional yogic wisdom with modern life, to helpsstudents understand yoga not simply as exercise, but as a lifelong practice of awareness, compassion, and intentional living.🌱 Yoga Off the MatWe explore how the practice can help you: Build greater self-awarenessClarify your values and purposeStrengthen your relationshipsSupport mindful decision-makingHelp you live with greater authenticity🌍 Connect with Christian www.christiancoelhoyoga.comIG: @_christiancoelho / @highyogaschool⏱️ Timestamps00:51 Intro: Meet Christian 01:38 Guest Lead Meditation04:54 The Benefits of Teaching Meditation05:46 Christian’s Origins08:08 Early Years of Practice09:50 Drink Ritual10:40 Yoga Beyond Physical13:05 The Ultimate Goal of Yoga16:03 Savasana Magic Explained18:27 Sanskrit Ideas of Interconnectio21:38 Yoga Off the Mat24:34 Christian’s Personal Practice 24:54 Prayer + Mantra26:51 How To Set Intention29:15 Discipline + Community32:48 Brazilian Joy + Resilience34:38 Myth + Storytelling38:47 Building HYS with Mona43:38 Final Flow45:21 Closing✨ Final ThoughtsYoga doesn't end when class finishes. The real practice begins in how we think, relate, choose, and show up every single day.👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to support more conversations to come!#YogaPodcast #YogaPhilosophy #Meditation #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #YogaTeacher #SelfAwareness #IntentionalLiving #WellnessPodcast #OffTheMatPodcast📚 Resources Mentioned 📚PodcastsGreen DreamersThe Emerald — with Joshua SchreiBooksAfter the Ecstasy, the Laundry — Jack KornfieldA book by Donna Farhi (unspecified title)The Truth of Yoga — Daniel SimpsonPeople/Teachers mentionedMartin Shaw (mythologist/storyteller)Anna Forest (yoga teacher)Daniel Simpson (historian, author)Nick Mulvey - musician Christian is lovingPlaces to find Christian/High Yoga SchoolHigh Yoga School — InstagramLove Supreme Projects (London studio)Home — both Notting Hill & Primrose Hill locationsThe Ark (community center in Islington, London) — base for High Yoga School trainings

What if yoga wasn't just about movement? What if the deepest practice happened through meditation, breath, sound, and presence?In this episode of the Off The Mat Podcast, I sit down with Shardaé Veniece - yoga teacher, meditation guide, and sound practitioner - to explore the many layers of yoga beyond the physical practice.Filmed on Gili Meno, Indonesia, our conversation begins with a beautiful grounding meditation before diving into meditation, mudras, pranayama, Kundalini, sound healing, and embodied yoga philosophy.Shardaé shares how she initially resisted yoga through Ashtanga before discovering a more intuitive and expansive practice. She explains how breathwork, mudras, intentional movement, and mindful transitions have shaped both her personal practice and the way she teaches today.We also explore the profound effects of sound healing, discussing gongs, Tibetan singing bowls, and crystal alchemy bowls, alongside Shardaé's powerful experiences with Kundalini kriyas and spiritual awakening. Throughout the conversation, we return to one central idea: yoga isn't something that ends when you leave your mat—it's a practice of bringing awareness, compassion, and presence into everyday life.Whether you're new to yoga or looking to deepen your understanding beyond asana, this episode offers thoughtful insights and practical inspiration.🌿 What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy meditation isn't about having an empty mindHow yoga extends far beyond physical posturesWhat mudras are and how they influence energy and awarenessShardaé's experience with Kundalini Yoga and kriyasThe benefits of sound healing and vibrational practicesHow mindful transitions become part of the practiceBringing yoga into relationships and everyday lifeWhy presence is the true heart of yoga🧘 About Shardaé VenieceShardaé is a yoga teacher, meditation guide, and sound practitioner whose work blends vinyasa, yin yoga, pranayama, meditation, mudras, and sound healing. Her intuitive teaching style encourages students to explore yoga as a holistic practice that supports presence, curiosity, and self-awareness.🌱 Yoga Off The MatIn this episode we explore how yoga can:Deepen mindfulness and presenceSupport emotional wellbeing through breath and meditationCultivate compassion and self-awarenessIntroduce sound as a powerful healing practiceHelp you embody yoga in everyday life🌍 Connect with ShardaéInstagram: @shardaevenieceWebsite: https://www.shardaeveniece.com/⏱️ Episode Timestamps00:00 Welcome00:47 Meet Shardaé Veniece01:43 Guest Lead Meditation08:04 Meditation and Sound11:39 Shardae's Story16:22 Beyond Physical Yoga18:36 Evolving Personal Practice22:02 Mudras Explained28:55 Teaching Style and Embodiment32:12 Mindful Transitions33:48 Kundalini Story38:27 Letting Go40:36 Sound Practice42:42 First Sound Bath48:26 Crystal Bowls52:18 Yoga as Tapestry54:28 Goal of Yoga Is Presence58:12 Where to Find Shardae59:51 Final Flow01:01:58 ClosingIf you're interested in meditation, sound healing, Kundalini Yoga, breathwork, yoga philosophy, mindfulness, and personal growth, this conversation is full of practical wisdom for taking your practice beyond the mat.✨ Final Thoughts👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to support more conversations around yoga, mindfulness, philosophy, and conscious living.#YogaPodcast #Meditation #SoundHealing #KundaliniYoga #YogaPhilosophy #Mindfulness #Breathwork #PersonalGrowth #YogaBeyondTheMat #OffTheMatPodcast

What is your dharma, and how can yoga help you discover it? In this episode of the Off The Mat Podcast, I sit down with Mona Godfrey, senior yoga teacher and co-founder of High Yoga School, to explore the deeper meaning of yoga, purpose, and living with intention.Filmed on the beautiful island of Gili Meno, Indonesia, during my 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training with High Yoga School, this conversation explores how yoga evolves throughout our lives and how its philosophy can guide us through change, challenge, and transformation.Mona has an incredible ability to make complex yogic philosophy feel practical and accessible. Together, we discuss dharma (life purpose), ahimsa (non-violence), Yoga Nidra, self-discovery, courage, and how yoga can help us cultivate love, peace, and fulfilment both on and off the mat.Whether you're a yoga teacher, practitioner, or simply curious about mindfulness and personal growth, this episode offers thoughtful insights into living yoga every day.🌿 What You'll Learn in This Episode- What yoga truly means beyond the physical practice- How yoga evolves through different seasons of life- Understanding dharma and finding your purpose- Ahimsa (non-violence) and compassionate living- Why the deepest yoga practice is an "inside job"- Yoga, activism, and living with integrity- How Yoga Nidra supports rest and self-awareness- Books and resources to deepen your yoga philosophy practice🧘 About Mona Mona Godfrey is a senior yoga teacher and co-founder of High Yoga School, leading internationally recognised yoga teacher trainings rooted in traditional philosophy and modern practice.Her teaching encourages students to explore yoga as a lifelong path of self-inquiry, compassion, and meaningful living. 🌱 Yoga Off the MatYoga is much more than movement. In this episode we explore how yoga can:- Help you discover your purpose (dharma)- Build resilience through life's changing seasons- Cultivate compassion through ahimsa- Encourage mindful, skillful action- Create greater peace, fulfilment, and self-awareness 📚 Resources Mentioned- *Bringing Yoga to Life* – Donna Farhi- *The Great Work of Your Life* – Stephen Cope- *Yoga as Pilgrimage* – Ranju Roy🌍 Connect with Mona GodfreyInstagram: @moncits / @highyogaschoolWebsite: https://www.monalisagodfrey.com/⏱️ Episode Timestamps00:00 Intro: Meet Mona Godfrey01:09 Guest Guided Meditation07:08 Welcome to Gili Meno08:03 Mona’s First Gili Season 10 Years Ago!11:57 A Decade Later Full Circle15:28 How Yoga Evolves Over Time20:57 The Ultimate Goal of Yoga24:22 The Advanced Practice Is An Inside Job27:51 Ahimsa / Nonviolence Explained29:23 Yoga Beyond The Sutras30:29 Bravery As Yoga Practice31:45 Dharma And Skillful Action32:41 Finding Purpose Through Practice35:04 Yoga Meets Activism38:32 Ahimsa And Responsibility39:09 Showing Up On Hard Days41:24 Yoga Nidra43:14 Honouring Life Seasons44:12 Resources To Go Deeper46:35 Final Flow49:48 Closing✨ Final ThoughtsIf you're interested in yoga philosophy, dharma, Yoga Nidra, mindfulness, meditation, and personal growth, this conversation offers practical wisdom for living with greater purpose, compassion, and presence.👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to support more conversations around yoga, mindfulness, philosophy, and conscious living.#YogaPodcast #YogaPhilosophy #Dharma #YogaNidra #Mindfulness #YogaTeacher #Meditation #PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscovery #OffTheMatPodcast

How are yoga and gut health connected? In this first episode of Season 2, I sit down with Kaitlin Colucci (aka The Mission Dietician), gut health dietitian and yoga teacher, to explore the powerful relationship between the nervous system, digestion, and mindful living.Filmed on Gili Meno, Indonesia, during my 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training with High Yoga School, this conversation explores how burnout, stress, and chronic digestive issues led Kaitlin to combine evidence-based nutrition with yoga, meditation, and breathwork to support lasting healing.Together we discuss the gut-brain connection, the vagus nerve, yoga philosophy, the five koshas, and how yoga can help us navigate change, heartbreak, and personal transformation. Kaitlin also shares insights into her gut health yoga retreats, spirituality through cacao ceremonies, and practical ways to support both physical and emotional wellbeing.🧘 In this episode, we discuss:- How burnout led her to combine dietetics with yoga and meditation- How burnout led her to combine dietetics with yoga and meditation- The science behind the gut-brain connection- How stress affects digestion and gut health- The role of the vagus nerve in nervous system regulation- How yoga supports digestive health through movement and relaxation- Understanding the five koshas and subtle body philosophy- Navigating change, heartbreak, and personal growth through yoga- Gut health yoga retreats You'll also discover how yoga can help regulate the nervous system, improve body awareness, and support long-term wellbeing both physically and emotionally.🧘 About Kaitlin Kaitlin Colucci is a gut health dietitian and yoga teacher who specialises in helping people improve digestive health by combining evidence-based nutrition with yoga, breathwork, meditation, and nervous system regulation.Drawing on her background in NHS gastroenterology and private practice, she supports clients in addressing the root causes of digestive symptoms while creating a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.🌱 Yoga & Gut HealthThe connection between the gut and the nervous system is stronger than many people realise. In this episode we explore how yoga can:- Support healthy digestion and gut function- Reduce stress and nervous system dysregulation- Improve the gut-brain connection- Encourage mindful eating and body awareness- Build resilience through breathwork and meditation📚 Resources Mentioned*The Yamas and Niyamas* by Deborah Adele🌍 Connect with Kaitlin Instagram: @themissiondieticianWebsite: themissiondietician.com⏱️ Timestamps00:00 Welcome Back!01:22 Meet Kaitlin Colucci01:32 Guest Lead Meditation07:15 What Yoga Means?09:25 Drink + Snack Ritual10:01 Gut Health Career Path11:39 Stress / Burnout Realisation14:42 Yoga for Gut Health19:12 The Gut Brain Connection23:53 The Koshas and The Subtle Body31:24 Life Changes and Breakup32:59 Choosing To Let Go34:39 Yoga For Inner Listening34:56 Living Yoga Off The Mat37:27 Clearing The Path38:24 Gut Health Yoga Retreats with Kaitlin40:43 Connection to Your Food49:21 Setting Intentions in a Yoga Class52:16 Final Flow54:25 Goodbye✨ Final ThoughtsIf you're interested in gut health, yoga, meditation, yoga philosophy, nervous system regulation, and holistic wellbeing, this conversation is full of practical insights and inspiring perspectives.👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to support more conversations about yoga, wellness, mindfulness, and conscious living.#YogaPodcast #GutHealth #GutBrainConnection #YogaTeacher #Meditation #YogaPhilosophy #Mindfulness #Breathwork #VagusNerve #DigestiveHealth #HolisticHealth #WellnessPodcast #YogaRetreat #NervousSystem #SelfGrowth #OffTheMatPodcast

What is the ultimate goal of Yoga?I asked some of the teachers and facilitators featured in Season 2 of Off The Mat this one simple question — and their answers couldn't be more different.From freedom and self-knowledge to connection, presence and something much harder to put into words… take a listen and decide what your answer might be. 🧘🏽‍♀️What is Yoga actually trying to teach us?For the Season 2 trailer of Off The Mat, I asked the teachers and facilitators I admire one question: what is the ultimate goal of Yoga?Their answers might surprise you. 🎙️If Yoga isn't ultimately about the poses… what IS it about?I put this question to the brilliant teachers and facilitators joining me for Season 2 of Off The Mat. Different practices, different paths, very different answers — but perhaps more in common than you might think.Season 2 is here. 🌴🧘🏽‍♀️

🎙️ Episode DescriptionJoin me for this weeks episode of 'Off the Mat' as I chat to Alice Trow, a yoga teacher and recent first-time mother. We’ll talk about Alice's transition from an acting career to yoga, the impacts of yoga on her mental health through these transitional periods, and fascinatingly dive into the evolution of her practice through pregnancy and motherhood. We delve into the deeper aspects of the practice, beyond the physical asanas, and share personal stories on how yoga can help you foster a better relationship with oneself. If you’re interested in holistic well-being, motherhood, and personal growth, then this is one you don’t wanna miss!📚 Resources Mentioned 📚🧘 Studios & ClassesYoga Home (Stoke Newington) - where Alice teaches Friday mornings at 9:45 AMTrip Space (Hackney) - where Alice teaches Monday evenings at 6:45 PM👇 Connect with Alice@alicetrowyogaYouTube: [Alice Trow Yoga](http://www.youtube.com/@AliceTrowYoga](http://www.youtube.com/@AliceTrowYoga)) (many practice videos)www.alicetrowyoga.com⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction00:19 Guest Introduction: Alice Trow01:34 Guided Meditation05:59 Snack + Drink Ritual07:07 Alice's Journey into Yoga19:56 Yoga During Pregnancy23:00 Struggles with Maintaining a Yoga Practice23:58 Balancing Yoga and Motherhood24:59 Teaching Yoga and Personal Growth27:27 Emotional Regulation and Parenting30:05 The Deeper Layers of Yoga36:44 Contentment and Self-Acceptance39:00 Yoga Classes and Retreats40:06 Final Flow41:16 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

🎙️ Episode DescriptionIn this episode of Off the Mat, we delve into the depth and transformative power of yoga with special guest Miriam Brightbart. Miriam shares her journey from a reluctant teenage practitioner to a dedicated yoga teacher and sound facilitator. We spoke about the various ways yoga can begin to influence daily life, to spill off the mat into glimmering moments of self-awareness, as well as opening little doors to better understand your self. Miriam also shared how practices like shaking and dancing have become an important way for her to learn to release stored stress and emotions. I’m always fascinated by the myriad of ways people connect to their minds and bodies, and Miriam’s open sharing was truly filling to listen to. I loved her ideas on integrating ancient yoga philosophies into our fast-paced, modern world… honestly Miriam is so wise and I hope you enjoy listening to this chat as much as I enjoyed having it!📚 Resources Mentioned 📚📖 Books"Awake in the World" by Michael Stone"Yoga for a World Out of Balance" by Michael Stone - teachings on ethics and social action"When Things Fall Apart" by Pema Chödrön - Tibetan Buddhist wisdom"Start Where You Are" by Pema Chödrön - fostering inner compassion"The Body Keeps the Score" - Bessel Van Der Kolk✨ Other ResourcesTara Brach - accessible ****meditations and podcastOru Space - where miriam is head of wellnessOru El Saltador - new Spain retreat location Miriam is working on👇 Connect with Miriam@miriamsophieyoga⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction00:22 Meet Miriam Brightbart01:18 Guided Meditation Session03:59 Snack + Drink Ritual05:24 Miriam's Journey into Yoga08:32 The Depth of Yoga Practice12:31 The Path to Becoming a Yoga Teacher20:57 Yoga's Impact on Mental Health23:53 The Importance of Emotional Space24:55 Healing Through Yoga27:20 Yoga as a Life Practice28:58 Awareness and Empathy34:28 Balancing Ancient Wisdom with Modern Life36:54 Inspiration and Personal Practice39:31 Movement and Somatics47:00 Final Flow

🎙️ Episode DescriptionIn this week's episode of Off the Mat, I chatted with Sam Harman, a yoga teacher who transitioned from acting and bartending in London to completing a yoga teacher training course in Rishikesh, India. Sam shares his experiences with kirtan, chanting, and spirituality. He also discusses the importance of simplification in yoga practice and shares tips on how to incorporate yoga into daily life. The conversation covers Sam's early experiences with yoga, his journey through teacher training, and the impact of yoga on his life. Join us for an insightful discussion on the transformative power of yoga and how it can help you find a state of being where “nothing is missing”.📚 Resources Mentioned 📚📖 BooksThe Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle - Sam's top recommendation for anyone interested in yoga, meditation, and being present in the moment🧘 Studios & ClassesYoga to the People (New York) - Donation-based yoga studio where Sam practiced as a student👇 Connect with Sam@samyogabliss⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction00:42 Guided Meditation03:49 Sam's Journey into Yoga06:22 Yoga Practice and Philosophy09:12 Sam's Teacher Training Experience12:10 Integrating Yoga into Daily Life14:25 The Power of Kirtan and Chanting19:19 Understanding Spirituality and Vibrational Energy20:47 Gender Dynamics in Yoga23:19 Personal Growth Through Yoga25:08 Favourite Aspects of Teaching Yoga26:27 Recommended Resources28:56 Final Flow31:44 Conclusion

🎙️ Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the Off the Mat Podcast, I chat to Helen Russell-Clark, a dedicated yoga teacher and yoga teacher trainer. We discuss her yoga journey, from her initial experiences with the practice, to where she now finds herself in her career. Helen shares insights on integrating the principles of yoga into daily life and the influence of her background in psychoanalysis on her teaching approach. We also touch on the challenge and beauty of meditation, the importance of somatic practices, and the profound impact yoga can have on one's life. Hope you enjoy this weeks conversation.📚 Resources Mentioned 📚📖 Books"Eastern Body, Western Mind" by Anodea Judith - About chakra systems and psychotherapy"The Poetry Pharmacy" by William Sieghart - Anthology prescribing poems for particular feelings"An A-Z of Pasta" by Rachel Roddy - Pasta cookbook✨ Other ResourcesEzra Klein podcast interview with Mark Epstein about meditation and Freudian paradigmRachel Roddy - food writer👇 Connect [email protected] classes⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction01:06 Guided Meditation06:59 Drink + Snack Ritual08:30 Helen's Journey into Yoga11:26 From Yoga Practice to Teaching19:51 The Impact of Psychoanalysis on Yoga22:26 Balancing Yoga and Life28:53 Advice for Beginners in Meditation29:24 Understanding and Managing Intrusive Thoughts30:17 The Role of Somatic Practices in Meditation31:40 Personal Practice and Changes During Lockdown32:43 The Impact of Teaching on Personal Practice38:47 The Concept of a Container in Yoga Practice44:06 Final Flow

🎙️ Episode DescriptionIn this episode of Off the Mat Podcast, we delve into the inspiring story of Eleanor Hann. Eleanor shares how her yoga practice guided her through a life-changing kidney donation surgery and how her practice evolved post-surgery. I'm obsessed with how Ellie finds strength through practising gratitude, a simple practice we so often forget to sit with. This episode also touches on the importance of finding the right yoga community, and how that can be a therapeutic tool in navigating life's challenges. Join us for an enriching conversation filled with insights, motivation, and beautiful words from Ellie.📚 Resources Mentioned 📚📖 Books“The Buddha in Me, The Buddha in You” by David Hare - Introduction to Nichiren Buddhism“You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero👇 Connect withThat Girl Yoga - Ellie's yoga brand with her best friend Becca (workshops, retreats, day events)@eleanorgracehann⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:46 Gratitude Grounding Meditation04:00 The Power of Gratitude in Daily Life07:06 Snack + Drink Ritual09:02 Journey into Yoga11:53 Becoming a Yoga Teacher16:33 Life Changing Surgery with my Mum22:59 Antibiotic Reactions and Health Struggles24:26 Support System25:13 Mental Health and Recovery Practices26:46 Returning to Work and Yoga27:23 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth28:54 Yoga Philosophy and Teaching Approach34:41 Final Reflections41:01 Final Flow

🎙️ Episode DescriptionWelcome back to Off the Mat Podcast! In this episode, I chat with Katarina Rayburn, owner of Kindred Yoga Studio in Southeast London. We spoke all about Kat's inspiring journey from acting to becoming the incredible yogi she now is - starting a studio, teaching teachers, filling multiple international retreats and more. We explore deep themes like finding your dharma or purpose, the ultimate goal of yoga, and how to integrate yoga practices into daily life. This episode also dives into the practical aspects of yoga teacher training, retreats, and creating a vibrant yoga community. Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this conversation is filled with insights and motivation.📚 Resources Mentioned 📚Yoga Journal podcast - specifically episodes about philosophyThe Bhagavad GitaPatanjali’s Yoga Sutra’s👇 Connect with Kat@[email protected] (retreats, workshops, teacher trainings)⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction00:13 Guest Introduction: Katarina Rayburn01:34 Guided Meditation with Kat07:32 Kat's Journey into Yoga08:25 From Acting to Yoga Teaching15:50 Starting Kindred Yoga Studio22:51 The Concept of Dharma26:55 Reflecting on Personal Growth Through Journalling29:06 Exploring the Deeper Meaning of Yoga33:30 Understanding Ancient Yogic Concepts38:04 Integrating Yoga into Daily Life41:43 The Essence of Yoga Retreats47:00 Final Flow

🎙️ Episode DescriptionIn today’s episode of Off The Mat, join me as we delve into the transformative world of breathwork with Danny Cunningham, aka The Breathwork Breddah. From powerful personal experiences to actionable techniques, Danny shares how breathwork has not only shifted his life but can also help YOU navigate stress, enhance mindfulness, and foster a deeper connection with yourself. Explore the balance between discipline and spontaneity, the art of coherence breathing, and the journey of self-discovery through the simple act of breathing. Tune in for an uplifting conversation that left me feeling both full and inspired with just how incredible our natural systems are, and how we can intentionally use them to live better.📚 Resources Mentioned 📚📖 Books"Breath" by James Nestor"Atomic Habits" by James Clear"How to Build a Body That Lasts" by Adam Richardson“The Wim Hof Method” - Wim HofOther ResourcesThe Hunchman Trust - Suicide prevention charity (Danny ran two marathons in two days for this cause)"Sila" by Kareem RaihaniYoke Studio👇 Connect with Danny@thebreathworkbreddah⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction00:49 Guided Practice - Coherence Breathing07:38 Benefits of Coherence Breathing09:28 The Power of Chanting and Breath Synchronisation10:43 Danny's Daily Breathwork Routine11:56 The Role of Discipline in Wellness16:58 Discovering Breathwork: Danny's Journey22:08 Understanding Breathwork and Its Impact28:04 Navigating Societal Expectations28:14 The Unexplainable Experience of Breathwork28:56 Emotional Release Through Breathwork30:06 The Importance of Guided Practice31:16 Personal Journey with Breathwork37:59 The Science Behind Breathwork41:40 Practical Tips for Everyday Breathing42:48 Marathon Challenges and Breathwork46:10 Final Flow49:25 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

🎙️ Episode DescriptionThis week on the Off the Mat I dive deep with Isabella Verrico, co-founder of MICA Yoga studio in South London. In this heartfelt and honest discussion, Bella + I talk about everything from meditation and starting a business to the importance of listening to your own advice. She shares insights into what it's actually like to start a yoga studio, the transformative power of sound healing, and tips for incorporating yoga into your daily life. Learn about the philosophy behind MICA Yoga, the significance of practicing non-judgment and compassion, and how to find balance in a busy life. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, I hope this episode can offer you some valuable wisdom and inspiration to explore what yoga truly means to you, off the mat too!📚 Resources Mentioned 📚📖 BooksSolve for Happy by Mo GawdatThink Like a Monk by Jay ShettyQuantum Healing by Deepak Chopra✨ Meditation ResourcesDeepak Chopra's 21 Days of Meditation**Headspace** Meditation app🎵 Savasana Songs"Ra Haset" by Chantress Seba"Hakea" by Thrupence👇 Connect withMICA Yoga Nunhead@isabellaverrico⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction00:21 Meet Isabella Verrico01:03 Guided Meditation06:47 The Journey of Starting MICA Yoga09:09 The Essence of MICA Yoga Studio14:34 Sound Healing and Its Impact18:20 The Deeper Benefits of Yoga Practice23:13 Finding Ease in Yoga Practice25:35 Balancing Life and Yoga28:15 Meditation and Daily Practices32:26 The Power of Affirmations33:49 Living a Truthful Life36:24 Overcoming Yoga Class Intimidation38:42 Recommended Resources for Deepening Yoga Practice40:40 Final Flow

🎙️ Episode DescriptionIn the first episode of 'Off the Mat,' I interview Richard Knight, a yoga teacher and humanist celebrant based in Southeast London. We talked about the expansive nature of yoga beyond physical and into the emotional, mental and philosophical realms. Richard shares his journey from hospitality and charity work to becoming a yoga teacher and celebrant, sharing the synergy he has found between these fields. Each episode of this podcast will begin with a guided meditation, to offer an anchoring before you listen. Richard spoke about about handling life's transformations through the lens of yoga, the importance of self-practice, and the critical need for informed and sincere teaching. He also highlights so many great books and resources for those wanting to deepen their understanding of this practice.📚 Resources Mentioned 📚📖 BooksQueer Dharma by Jacob BallardThe Truth of Yoga by Daniel SimpsonPatanjali’s Yoga Sutra’s (Edwin Bryant's translation/version)Practice and All is Coming by Matthew Remski (edited by Matri Pushka)Yoga and the Body by Edward Clark and Laurie Green💻 Online ResourcesYogic Studies.com- Platform by Seth Powell with yoga philosophy courses🧘 Studios & ClassesYoga RiseOru Space in East Dulwich (Free chair yoga class every Wednesday at 3:00 PM)Monday Morning Guided Meditation (Richard's Zoom meditation class (£2)🫂 OrganizationsSaint Mungo's (Charity working to end homelessness in London + South England)👇 Connect with RichardInstagram: @peckhamismThe London Celebrant⏱️ Timestamps ⏱️00:00 Introduction to Off the Mat00:43 Meet Richard Knight: Yoga Teacher and Humanist Celebrant01:18 Starting with a Grounding Meditation06:39 Drink + Snack Ritual07:35 Richard's Yoga Journey: From Australia to London10:46 Becoming a Yoga Teacher15:27 Balancing Yoga Teaching and Celebrant Work21:08 The Power of Yoga in Life's Transformations25:10 Chair Yoga and Community Classes27:26 Exploring Yoga Beyond the Physical29:29 Yoga Practice and Artistic Expression29:46 Jackson Pollock and Abstract Expressionism30:52 Yoga as Art and Audience31:29 The Kosha Model and Layers of the Self32:47 Diverse Yoga Practices and Teaching Methods33:33 The Power of Shared Yoga Experiences34:21 Balancing Dynamic and Quiet Yoga Practices36:54 Personal Yoga Practice and Teaching Balance43:16 Recommended Yoga Books and Resources49:37 Final Flow52:07 Conclusion

Yoga has quietly shaped my entire life.From practising as a teenager, to carrying it with me through my twenties, to now teaching full-time and hosting retreats - this practice has profoundly transformed how I move through the world.But Yoga is more than what happens on the mat.It’s a philosophy. A framework. A way of seeing and understanding ourselves more deeply.With Off the Mat, I’m opening up conversations with inspiring teachers and facilitators to explore the heart of the practice - the parts we don’t always talk about in class.What really is Yoga?Who is it for?Why is it so transformational?And how can we begin to live it, not just practise it?I can’t wait to share these honest, insightful conversations with you - in the hope they support you, off the mat too.🎙️ Trailer out now.