Dr Lauren Tober: Creating Space for Mental Wellbeing

Dr. Lauren Tober, a distinguished clinical psychologist and yoga teacher, offers profound insights into the intersection of psychology and yoga in our latest episode. As the founder of the Yoga Psychology Institute and author of "Mental Health Aware Yoga," Dr. Tober articulates the delicate balance required to create supportive environments that honour both mental health and yogic traditions. Her unique perspective, developed through years of clinical practice and yoga teaching, illuminates the path toward more inclusive and psychologically informed yoga instruction. The discussion explores the critical aspects of trauma-informed teaching and the importance of establishing safe, brave spaces within yoga environments. Dr. Tober emphasises the significance of mindful communication, highlighting how seemingly simple practices such as emphasising the freedom to take a break whenever you need one or offering clear options for pose modifications can profoundly impact students' sense of safety and autonomy. A particularly notable insight emerges regarding the evolution of yoga teaching, with Dr. Tober observing that "If we don't have this understanding of mental health and the power of the way that we teach and the language that we use... it can be easy to fall into ways of teaching that aren't always healthy." The conversation culminates in a thoughtful examination of the ethical frameworks governing both psychological and yogic practices. Dr. Tober addresses the crucial balance between acknowledging inherent wholeness while supporting growth, emphasizing the importance of avoiding the "rescuer" mentality in favour of empowering students to connect with their inner wisdom. Her approach to practices such as pranayama and meditation demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of individual needs, suggesting that success lies in offering accessible, adaptable options rather than adhering to rigid, one-size-fits-all methodologies. The episode concludes with Dr. Tober's compelling vision of a world where individuals are empowered to trust their intuition and contribute positively to their communities through authentic self-expression and mindful practice. Links Website: http://www.mentalhealthawareyoga.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mentalhealthawareyoga Yoga Psychology Institute: http://www.yogapsychologyinstitute.com/calendar Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlaurentober https://www.instagram.com/yogapsychologyinstitute