Field Ledger Archive

13,003 entries across the years, 2003–2026.

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February 2025
Decouple scapular protraction from retraction. Good ol’ Scap Pushups.

Find hundreds more of these exercise exercises to make your body feel better at ashtanga.tech
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✎ Essay · Science and Tech

Practical Approaches to Shoulder Range Conditioning

**Unlocking the Power of Your Shoulders: Practical Approaches to Shoulder Range Conditioning** Are your shoulders ready to elevate your ashtanga practice? Often overlooked, shoulder mobility is a cornerstone of injury prevention and overall performance in yoga. In our latest blog post, we explore practical approaches to enhance your shoulder range conditioning—essential for smooth transitions and deeper poses. From Controlled Articular Rotations (CARS) that promote joint health to dynamic stretches and targeted strength training, discover techniques that seamlessly integrate into your routine. Embrace the strength and flexibility of your shoulders, and watch your practice transform. Dive in and learn how to foster mobility that not only supports your physical journey but enriches your mindfulness on the mat.

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“I take care of a lot. And caring isn’t the same as being good at something.”

This quote resonates deeply with me as I navigate my own journey of caring for my aging parents. As I step into this new role, I've realized that the emotional investment I have in their well-being doesn’t always translate into confidence or competence in the practical aspects of caregiving. Each day is a balance of love and logistical challenges, where the clear lines between support and responsibility often blur. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to not have all the answers just because our hearts are fully engaged.

I’d love to hear from you! What quotes inspire you on your own journey? Share your thoughts or your favorite quotes in the comments below!
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Where do you see yourself in 10 years? This was a little more than 10 years into my practice and also 10 years ago. My practice has given me so much more than I have given it. If you want help with guidance on a lifelong practice, sign up for some coaching.

O hai bb charlie.
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in imageıvL
As an empath, I struggle to find the words to articulate
my heartbreak for the rising toll of individual human
beings presently tangled in this risky, political power
play. Perhaps naively, I always envisioned progress as
an empowering endeavor, working towards healing and
understanding, with the goal of becoming a unified
nation. Our great strength & defining characteristic
ought to be in priding ourselves on protecting our most
vu nerable, rather than high-fiving as we dismantle
basic ethics and equality-
@evanrosskatz
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in imageThere is too much unnecessary and violent
Shrapnel happening to our most marginalized
groups and total fear of reprisal in speaking up.
Heck, I'm scared too. But more than fear of
personal ridicule, I fear the unmitigated glee of
mob mentality, the kind that leads too easily to
dehumanization and the disintegration of our
collective moral compass-
@evanrosskatz
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✎ Essay · Practice

Aligning Insights: Understanding Problem Cues in the Spine and Pelvis for Optimal Ashtanga Practice

Discover the vital relationship between the spine, pelvis, and optimal Ashtanga practice in our latest blog, "Aligning Insights." We’ll explore essential alignment cues such as anterior and posterior tilt, rib flare, and the crucial technique of tucking the tailbone. Learn how to enhance your practice by understanding these problem cues and embodying healthier postural mechanics. With insights drawn from expert research, your journey toward a more aligned and fulfilling yoga experience.

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✎ Essay · Practice

Understanding the Causes of Suffering

In our journey through life, we often find ourselves entangled in a myriad of struggles, yet beneath these layers lies a singular root cause—avidya, or ignorance. This profound teaching from Yoga Philosophy invites us to explore the intricate relationship between our perceptions of self and the sources of our suffering. As we delve into the depths of dukkha and sukha, we uncover the transformative power of understanding how our thoughts shape our reality.

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✎ Essay · Yoga Professionals

Adapting Ashtanga Yoga for Life Long Practice

For many, Ashtanga yoga may evoke images of youthful, flexible practitioners twisting gracefully into challenging poses. This perception, deeply rooted in yoga's modern history, suggests that the practice is predominantly tailored for the young and resilient. This belief, however, overlooks an essential truth about yoga's adaptability and its potential as a lifelong practice.

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May we all have an Emma Stone
in imageMay we all have an
Emma Stone
I just want to say: I met Emma when we were in Zombieland together
in 2009 and since then I write little magazine articles and little things
on McSweeney's and she's like the only person — and I'm including my
mom here — who would take little screenshots of it over the last 15
years and send me things like, "This is such a funny line." And at the
time — and definitely still - she was like the most famous person
I knew. And yet the most dedicated to encouraging me as a writer.
U think abouther not asmyproducer but as a fairy godmother that l am
riding the coattails of her goodwill. And I think it's so important that
someone like her, who is so unbelievably successful in mainstream
movies, looks for people like me and Julio [Torres] and Jane
[Schoenbrun] to try and produce our movies with all the goodwill that
she's amassed so rightly and deservedly over the last several years.
Thanks, Emma•
@evanrosskatz and filmindependent
💬 Comment
✎ Essay · Culture

Power Dynamics in Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga

This is a video about Power Dynamics in Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga. Reach out if you want some coaching for you practice. https://michaeljoelhall.com/coaching 00:00 Introduction to Shifting Power Dynamics in Ashtanga Yoga 00:06 The Guru-Disciple Model of the Past 00:23 The Rise of Critical Engagement 00:40 The Need for Autonomy and Self-Organization 00:57 Reckoning with Past and Present Abuses 01:07 Empowering Students in Modern Practice 01:20 Evolving Authority into Responsibility 01:30 Building a Partnership in Teacher-Student Relationships 01:39 Moving Forward: Mutual Respect and Earned Trust

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✎ Essay · Yoga Professionals

Five Unexpected Ways Radical Candor Can Make You a Better Yoga Teacher

Many yoga students walk into class thinking they need to “perform” the poses perfectly. If they struggle, they feel like they’ve failed. But when you use Radical Candor—balancing direct feedback with genuine care—you shift their mindset from perfection to progress. Instead of saying, “That alignment is off,” try: ✔ “I love how focused you are—let’s adjust your stance a little so you can move with more ease.” This tells them you see their effort and want to help them grow, not just critique their form. Let's explore a few more.

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✎ Essay · Science and Tech

Yoga Enhances Health and Physiological Well-Being

Ashtanga yoga serves as a powerful ally in enhancing health and fostering physiological well-being. From preventative care to symptomatic relief, discover the multifaceted ways in which yoga strengthens our bodily systems and promotes emotional balance. This insightful journey reveals how each practice not only revitalizes physical strength and flexibility but also nurtures mental clarity and emotional resilience. Join us in understanding how this ancient practice can harmonize your life, one breath at a time.

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✎ Essay · Science and Tech

Unlocking Mobility: Mastering Hip Joint Internal Rotation for Enhanced Ashtanga Practice

Discover the transformative power of hip joint internal rotation in your Ashtanga yoga practice! Often overlooked, this vital movement can significantly enhance your strength, flexibility, and alignment across various postures—from deep squats to seated poses like Padmasana. In this insightful blog post, we explore the importance of mastering hip joint internal rotation, how to assess your current mobility, and targeted practices that will unlock new levels of openness in your body. Join me on a journey to elevate your yoga practice by embracing this fundamental aspect of mobility!

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Why should yoga teachers have the same protections as movie extras? This video delves into the disparity between the well-protected world of SAG AFTRA actors and the often overlooked yoga teachers. 🔍 Discover why organizing could empower yoga professionals with fair compensation, job security, and benefits: essentials they currently lack as independent contractors. Join us as we explore the need for collective representation and the strides being made towards a dignified future for yoga teachers.
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✎ Essay · Yoga Professionals

The Burden of Caring and Its Complexity

Caring for others is often considered a noble and virtuous responsibility, one that evokes feelings of compassion, duty, and love. However, the act of caring is not always straightforward. It is a complex burden that requires more than just emotional investment. For those who have taken on the role of caregivers, the emotional toll can be immense, and the line between caring for others and simply managing the logistics of caregiving often becomes blurred. The reality is that caring for someone isn’t the same as being good at it.

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Being honest encourages others to be honest. It also means you can trust the feedback. No need to polish a turd— but not everything can be sh*t. Radical candor helps sort that.
in imageSKIPPING SHAVASANA,
A TEACHER WHO
YOU SAY IT WITH
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Radical candor is honest and compassionate feedback that is growth focused.

Trust is the connective tissue that holds us together—it allows us to share our challenges and triumphs openly.

By fostering an environment where honesty and compassion coexist, we enable students to engage deeply with their practice. This approach not only enhances individual growth but also strengthens the collective experience.

When we embrace radical candor, we create a feedback loop that nurtures personal development while reinforcing trust. Together, we can navigate the complexities of Ashtanga yoga with clarity and support.

💜✨
#MJHYoga #RadicalCandor #CommunityBuilding #Mysore
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✎ Essay · Yoga Professionals

Embracing Change Through Our Ashtanga Practice

I want to acknowledge the challenges many of you may be experiencing. It’s a time of uncertainty, and I understand how it can impact our mental and emotional states. To support you during this period, I’ve updated our newsletter to include a more robust collection of writings focused on wisdom from our practice, as well as systems and processes that can enhance our journey together in Ashtanga Yoga. My intention is to provide you with resources that not only nourish your practice but also offer insights and reflections that can help us navigate these turbulent times.

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Ashtanga yoga acts as a powerful ally in confronting our deepest cognitive biases and illuminating a path towards clear perception. 🌟 More at the blog.
in imageBREATH AND ASANA UNLOCK SELF – AWARENESS
UNLOCK SELF
BEYOND OUR OWN
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✎ Essay · Practice

Understanding Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga: A Practical Guide for Beginners

Step onto the mat and embark on a transformative journey with Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga, a practice steeped in rich tradition and personal growth. Originating from the vibrant heart of Mysore, India, this unique approach to yoga emphasizes individualized instruction, mindful movement, and a deep connection between breath and body. In our latest blog post, "Understanding Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga: A Practical Guide for Beginners," we delve into the fundamental elements that make this style so captivating. From personalized guidance that nurtures your unique abilities to the meditative Tristhana method, you'll uncover how each aspect contributes to a profound experience of self-discovery. Whether you're new to yoga or looking to deepen your practice, this guide will illuminate the path towards independence and mastery. Join us as we explore the significance of regular practice and the beauty of progressing at your own pace—an invitation to cultivate clarity, discipline, and mindfulness both on and off the mat. Ready to dive in? Let's unveil the secrets of Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga together!

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I practice and teach mysore style ashtanga yoga, which is a little different from other styles of yoga. People are often confused about what makes it special and they Have a good reason to be so confused. Let's get into it.
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It takes courage to be vulnerable. Push back. I've got a lot more resources for my feds who are finding themselves needing some support. Link in bio
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✎ Essay · Practice

Buzzing into Calm: Mastering Brahmari Pranayama for Inner Peace

Discover the harmonious practice of Brahmari Pranayama, where the gentle buzzing sound of your breath leads you on a transformative journey towards inner peace. In our latest blog, "Buzzing into Calm," we explore how this unique vocal meditation not only balances the throat chakra but also enhances your emotional resilience, clears the mind, and prepares you for deeper meditation. Whether you're looking to soothe anxiety, improve concentration, or simply cultivate an oasis of calm amidst the chaos, Brahmari is a simple yet powerful tool that anyone can master. Join us as we delve into step-by-step instructions, benefits, and the profound effects of this practice on your overall well-being.

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✎ Essay · Yoga Professionals

The Courage to be Vulnerable and Thrive Beyond Fear

In a world that often champions perfection, "Embracing Imperfection: The Courage to be Vulnerable and Thrive Beyond Fear" invites you to explore the beauty of authenticity. Discover the profound connection between risk, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to confront our fears. From understanding that true courage is not the absence of fear to recognizing the potential within discomfort, this blog reveals how embracing our imperfections can lead to extraordinary growth. Join us on a transformative journey where we challenge the norm of perfectionism, lean into our vulnerabilities, and ultimately, reinvent ourselves through courageous action. Are you ready to step out of the shadows of fear and into the light of your true potential?

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✎ Essay · Culture

Striving in Yoga: Healthy Ambition vs. Ego-Driven Competition

Yoga, as a practice, has the potential to transform both the body and the mind. It encourages practitioners to explore their edges, deepen their awareness, and grow in their abilities. However, there is a fine line between healthy ambition and ego-driven competition—one that, when crossed, can lead to burnout, disillusionment, and even injury. Striving is a natural human behavior, but in yoga, it requires careful attention. When ambition is fueled by ego rather than by a genuine desire for growth, it distorts the practice and detracts from yoga's deeper spiritual goals.

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✎ Essay · Science and Tech

Counted Method: A Beginner’s Guide to Ashtanga Yoga’s Vinyasa System

The art of Vinyasa—the beautiful dance of breath and movement—can elevate your practice from mere physicality to a profound meditation in motion. Uncover the essence of the Counted Method, where each inhale and exhale is harmoniously synchronized with every pose, guiding you toward mindfulness and self-awareness. Whether you're a curious newcomer or seeking to deepen your understanding, this guide offers insights and practical tips to help you connect with the rhythm of your practice and embrace the soul of Ashtanga yoga.

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Why do we suffer so much worrying about death? It's coming for all of us. What about our looks? They're impermanent, too. Getting stuck on these things is a sure fire way to be miserable later. It's okay to like 'em, just be ready to leave 'em. Learn more about combating ignorance at ashtanga.tech.
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January 2025
in imageunusual whales •
@unusual_whales
"Working from home just two days a week
saves workers anywhere from $305 to
$2,357 per year on travel, parking, food and
work clothes," per MorePerfectUnion.
unusualwhales.com
@unusualwhales
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Why do we do things that suck? Because of group think, peer pressure, and maybe a lack of understanding of what we really like. What makes us feel really good. And that which is worth it. Pure stuff doesn't cost a lot of money. The yoga kinda, anyway. Learn more at ashtanga.tech.
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✎ Essay · Practice

The Philosophical Underpinnings of Pranayama

Join us on a profound journey as we delve into the essence of Pranayama, the fourth limb of yoga, where breath intertwines with life force. Explore the subtle anatomy of energy—understanding how prana, the vital life force, flows through nadis and aligns with chakras. Discover how mastering the breath not only enhances physical vitality but also fosters emotional and mental clarity. This exploration promises to unravel the philosophical depths of breath practices, inviting you to breathe deep and awaken your inner energy.

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in image"I don't feel there's a need to apologize for a request for mercy." — Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, who directly confronted President Trump at Washington's National Cathedral, spoke to All Things Considered Host Juana Summers
And I don't feel that there is a need to apologize, to speak to the unity of this country th — Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, who directly confronted President Trump at Washington's National Cathedral, spoke to All Things Considered Host Juana Summers
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in imageI think one of the most wonderful books that Martin Luther King
wrote was "Strength to Love."I always liked it because of the
word "strength," which counters the Western notion of love as
easy. Instead, Martin Luther King said that you must have
courage to love, that you have to have a profound will to do
what is right to love, that it does not come easy.
@savedbythebellhooks
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Yogic agency is your ability to decide:

Where to focus: Are you attuning to your breath? Feeling the stretch in a specific muscle? Observing your mind’s chatter?

What to focus on: Is today about pushing into new physical boundaries, or is it about practicing kindness and restraint?

How hard to push: Are you leaning into the challenge, or backing off when your body asks for rest?

What to measure to track results:: Are you satisfied with your effort and its impact, or do you want to adjust your approach?

These choices might seem small, but they are profound. They represent your power to create a vision for your practice and take steps toward realizing it.

Go to mjh.yoga/portal to take the yoga executive course for free.
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in imageEscape to Playa del Carmen
Need a quick getaway that lets you:
focus on practice
disconnect from screens
enjoy the perfect beaches
explore chill urban vibes
MINI RETREAT JAN 17-20
Join me in Playa del Carmen, my second home, for a low key affair designed with care and intention.
This is your chance to dive in.
January 18–20, 2025
March 3–8, 2025
May 22–26, 2025
MINI RETREAT JAN 17-20
01. Semi-Private Mysore Sessions
Small groups and intimate vibes. Get the support you want.
02. Cold Plunge Therapy
3 Minutes a day can totally change your general outlook– its wild.
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What if yoga could transform the way you lead your life?
🧘‍♂️🌟

Yoga goes beyond physical poses to become a strategic tool for personal and professional growth. Viewing yourself as the CEO of your own life can lead to enhanced mindfulness, adaptability, and a deeper purpose.

From cultivating resilience to celebrating small victories, learn how to craft a life of holistic growth and joy with yoga.

Join me at mjh.yoga/portal to get started.
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“Be yourself, everyone else is taken,” said Oscar Wilde. A gem, that man was. You’d think being yourself was easy. Sometimes yoga practice gets routine a loses its essence— discovering curiosity into the nature of who you are. And you’d think that your yoga practice would make that easier.

So, who’s really calling the shots?

After working as a yoga professional inside innumerable agencies and organizations, I think there’s a way to help find a deeper value to your practice. It means getting real.

Embrace the Yoga Executive Mindset: Lead Your Practice and Life with Purpose.

Check it out at mjh.yoga/portal
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