Field Ledger Archive
13,281 entries across the years, 2003β2026.
start in your local community. whistleblowers weed out authoritarianism.
out authoritarianism.
In every community, both leaders and
misleaders emerge. Misleaders thrive
by pursuing their own agendas and
deceiving others to get support. The
sustenance of this behavior relies on
you feeling isolated and alone without
them. We assure you, you are not.
@1percenttruth_
ethics matter.
start in your local
community.
theory in practice
praxis: theory in practice
I was taught to teach in a / I just love hearing about these kinds of yoga shalas and shifts.
sarahraenelson_bodywork
@michaeljoelhall speaks
to this thought of
decentralizing teachers
much more eloquently
than I
Take a listen
YouTube vid
S
can handle their
random bursts
of energy and
mood swings
@glossy_zodiac
gemini
@glossy_zodiac
Stop Making Ashtanga a Cult! Part 2: Strategies
Michael Joel Hall discusses his intervention strategies to address unhealthy group dynamics in Ashtanga Yoga practice. He emphasizes the need for critical thinking, encouraging student autonomy, and fostering an open, transparent, and inclusive environment. Hall advocates for a student-centric approach, prompting open dialogue, respecting individual choices, and avoiding hierarchical or dogmatic practices. He stresses the importance of evidence-based teaching, open leadership, and peer support. Hall highlights the necessity of maintaining ethical standards, respecting personal autonomy, and fostering genuine community connections without creating high-pressure commitments or abusive dynamics. The script underscores the significance of maintaining integrity, transparency, and community well-being in yoga teaching and leadership. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose 00:01 Addressing Unhealthy Group Dynamics 01:15 Critical Thinking in Yoga Practice 01:40 Encouraging Student Independence 02:26 Building Trust and Normalizing Doubt 02:57 Grounding Practice in Biomechanics 04:57 Fostering Democratic Leadership 05:40 Being Open to Oversight 07:00 Respecting Personal Choices 07:28 Avoiding Dogmatic Views 07:44 Promoting Inclusivity and Accessibility 08:36 Equal Standards and No Inner Circles 09:26 Transparency and Ethical Standards 18:10 Authentic Relationships Beyond Yoga 18:58 Financial Transparency and Community Support 19:44 Avoiding Abuse and Humiliation 21:17 Ethical Mentorship and Equity 23:13 Maintaining Integrity and Being Yourself 26:10 Community Membership as a Practice 26:51 Transparency in Teaching and Learning 28:56 Data-Driven Success and Community Impact 29:38 Personal Challenges and Community Support 30:10 Long-Term Practice and Growth 30:27 Adapting and Innovating in Yoga 30:58 Conclusion and Farewell
Read the essay →
Stop Making Ashtanga a Cult! Part 1: The Problem
Michael Joel Hall offers a different approach to Ashtanga Yoga grounded in humanist values, personal agency, and inclusivity, rather than dogma or hierarchy. Inspired by Dr. Anastasia Somerville Wongβs work on non-religious pastoral support, Hall emphasizes creating a supportive community that encourages critical thinking, personal experience, and mutual care. Hall outlines signs of high-pressure, cult-like communities, such as suppression of critical thought, encouragement of self-doubt, prevalence of magical thinking, authoritarian leadership, non-accountability, excessive and intrusive rules, and financial and sexual exploitation. He contrasts these with healthy community traits like open discussion, personal autonomy, and ethical integrity. Hall's philosophy aims to decentralize power, foster critical thinking, and honor each practitioner's unique journey. 00:00 Introduction and Setup 01:44 Critical Thought in Healthy Groups 04:20 Encouraging Self-Esteem 05:42 Magical Thinking in Cults 07:26 Reason and Evidence-Based Approach 07:56 Charismatic Leaders and Special Knowledge 10:38 Authoritarian Leadership 11:46 Accountable vs. Authoritarian Leaders 13:11 Leaders Above the Law 14:25 Draconian and Intrusive Rules 17:08 Censorship and Control of Information 18:23 Elitism and Inner Circles 19:31 Threats to Those Who Leave 19:48 Financial and Physical Penalties 20:28 Respect vs. Shunning 21:33 Slander and Vilification of Outsiders 21:45 Us vs. Them Mentality in Yoga Communities 22:26 Spotting Negative Group Dynamics 23:13 Isolation from Outside Relationships 24:20 Group Identity vs. Individual Identity 26:05 Secrecy and Elitism in Groups 26:51 Negative Group Rituals and Punishment 27:23 Transparency vs. Secrecy 27:34 Mind-Altering Practices and Conformity 28:22 Managing Expectations and Consent 29:38 Shame, Guilt, and Fear in Group Control 30:31 Supportive vs. Controlling Environments 30:51 Obsessive Loyalty and Critical Thinking 32:30 Recruitment and Growth Obsession 33:55 Genuine Community vs. Aggressive Recruitment 34:55 Love Bombing and Idealistic Goals 36:42 Financial Exploitation in Groups 39:16 Punitive Punishment and Abuse 41:56 Sexual Exploitation in High-Pressure Groups 44:03 Gender Equality vs. Gender Control 45:29 Gossip and Community Safety 46:15 Normalization of Deception 46:40 Justifying Bad Behavior for Group's Sake 47:03 Real Integrity and Ethical Standards 47:17 Values and Honesty in Tough Times 47:27 Maintaining High Ethical Standards
Read the essay →
ones who take care
of you, so that you may
take care of them.
Sustain the ones who
sustain you.
~ Robin Wall Kimmerer
Braiding Sweetgrass
@conniesherrod_massage
You and Peg were so generous with your advice and care. Cory doeant flinch with his straight shots. Deb creates opportunities and engages in hard convos. Im blessed. Thank you, friends.
Forteachers...
Honest colleagues/peers
who can offer feedback on
your behavior. I'm so
grateful to
Glinding flow dc,
Gpegmulqueen,
Smichaeljoelhall and
Ccoryyoga forthe
invaluable feedback they've
given me over the years. You
need someone who can see
things you cannot.
Thank you for being
that for me, too, Jen.
You and Peg were so
generous with your
advice and care. Cory
doeant flinch with his
straight shots. Deb
creates opportunities
and engages in hard
convos. Im blessed.
Thank you, friends.
WANNA do
the thing!
1 heard someone say
it's because you
CAN'T do the thing.
-
THEN I'M GONNA
TRIPLE DO IT!
Your spite-driven
ambition scares me.
THEY'LL REGRET
DOUBTING ME!
LINKTR.EE/theAwkwardYeti
@theawkwardyeti
Actual footage of how I
get anything done
Karl DalΓ©n
USA-korrespondent
mot att man har satt in nationalgardet i staden.
Hot and Unboddered III
family weekend
PAID FOR BY HOME OF THE BRAVE USA. WWW.OFTHEBRAVE.ORG
thats
a warrior
pose
AG Brian Schwalb β’
@DCAttorneyGen
We are suing to defend DC home rule and stop
the unlawful deployment of the National Guard.
Our nation was founded on the fundamental
principles of freedom and self-governance that
are stake in this case.
No city in America should be subject to
involuntary military occupation.
ISTRICT
a
DI
COLUM BI
NEOEMA DED
N
@dcattorneygeneral
AG Brian Schwalb β’
@DCAttorneyGen
The National Guard deployment does not only
undermine public safety.
It also hurts DC's economy - depressing vital
industries like restaurants, hotels, and tourism.
And critically, it infringes on DC's sovereign
authority and right to self-governance under the
Home Rule Act.
DISTRICT
a
COLUMB
KATTEWMAEI
Π N
@dcattorneygeneral
AG Brian Schwalb *
@DCAttorneyGen
The Posse Comitatus Act prohibits the military
from engaging in domestic policing.
Yet the Administration launched a massive,
indefinite law enforcement operation in DC
under direct military command.
This is plainly illegal, and it threatens our
democracy and civil liberties.
DISTRICT
a
COLUMBIA
KATTEWMAEU
O N*
@dcattorneygeneral
where the river flows quietly and the monsoon makes the view magical
dc >> playa
playa >> dc
Suerte de tener a mis amigos.
Last pracky of this season in this beautiful place @torresdeselma
Amix I remember you every time in wearing the dc ashtanga shirt @michaeljoelhall
dc >> playa playa >> dc Suerte de tener a mis amigos. Last pracky of this season in this beautiful place @torresdeselma Amix I remember you every time in wearing the dc ashtanga shirt @michaeljoelhall
LINEAR PROGRESSION FOLLOWS A STRAIGHT PATH OF PREDICTABLE STEPS.
Behavioral Analysis Importance / Nonlinear Approaches Explained / Linear Progression Defined
Objectiveity vs Subjectivity and it's Tension in Ashtanga
Nonlinear practice dynamics
Assessment through practice
Global practice evolution
EXCLUSION
VALIDATION
Ways we establish a sense of Security*
Equate tangible success with intangible expertise
Limit acknowledgment to the extremely privileged
Claim the path is the only valid approach
* in a field where actual advancement (spritual dev) is immeasurable.
HEIRARCHY | EXCLUSION | VALIDATION | Ways we establish a sense of Security* | Equate tangible success with intangible expertise | Limit acknowledgement to the extremely privileged | claim the path is the only valid approach | * in a field where actual advancement (spritual dev) is immeasurable.
subjective experience matters
A personal perspective is essential but not the universal truth.
Subjectivity vs. Objectivity
01 subjective experience matters
A personal perspective is essential but not the universal truth.
02 Debate is critical
Healthy teaching encourages open conversation and collaborative exploration.
03 Beware of authoritarianism
FREE AND ONLINE EVENT
ART + WELLNESS
SEPTEMBER 10, 12-1 PM
Intentional Movement
with Mimi Rieger
@mimiriegeryoga
PIHIILLIIPS
PhillipsCollection.org
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Subjective experience matters
Dialogue is crucial
A personal perspective is essential but not the universal truth.
Subjectivity vs. Objectivity
01 Subjective experience matters β A personal perspective is essential but not the universal truth.
02 Dialogue is crucial β Healthy teaching encourages open conversation and collaborative exploration.
03 Beware of authoritarianism β Rigid adherence to one viewpoint suppresses student agency and growth.
04 Feedback vs. obedience β Students should feel empowered to question and explore guidance.
05 [handshake icon]
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Engage in practice like an artist, making thoughtful choices.
Balance tradition with innovation Respect past practices while integrating innovative approaches for growth. View practice as artistry Engage in practice like an artist, making thoughtful choices. Encourage creative expression Create environments encouraging personal exploration and unique participation levels.
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Embrace personal sensations
Personal sensations shape your unique journey in yoga practice.
Practitioner's Inner Journey
Feel your breath
Breath awareness can transform your approach to yoga practice.
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Finding harmony between discipline and personal needs is essential.
Identify personal needs
Understanding one's individual needs is the first step toward achieving a balanced integration in practice or lifestyle.
Incorporate short-term goals
Utilizing Vikalpa or short-term goals helps in creating achievable milestones that contribute to overall progress and satisfaction.
Practice mindfulness regularly
Regular mindfulness practice cultivates awareness of needs and intentions, resulting in better balance and integration in daily life.
Set higher intentions
Establishing Sankalpa or higher intentions guides individuals toward meaningful and fulfilling journeys, providing purpose in their pursuits.
Engage in community service
Participating in community activities fosters a sense of belonging and enhances personal growth through collective engagement.
Reflect on experiences
Regular reflection helps individuals recognize their growth, understand their challenges, and adjust their paths accordingly.
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Balancing guidance and respect
Focus on avoiding dogmatic teaching styles for diverse student needs.
When to push students
Identify moments to challenge students while respecting their individual limits.
Teacher's Dilemma Explained
Balancing guidance and respect
Focus on avoiding dogmatic teaching styles for diverse student needs.
When to push students
Identify moments to challenge students while respecting their individual limits.
Understanding student experiences
Recognize and integrate students' backgrounds into teaching practices effectively.
Differentiating instruction
Adapt learning materials based on students' varying skill levels.
Encouraging high-achievers
Motivate advanced students without overlooking their physical constraints.
Setting realistic expe
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Listening to oneself enhances growth and development in practice.
BALANCING PRACTICE EVOLUTION
Seek mentors to refine techniques and deepen understanding of practice.
Regular practice builds a strong foundation for long-term growth.
Listening to oneself enhances growth and development in practice.
Ashtanga continues to adapt while maintaining its core principles.
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Finding balance creates a sustainable approach to achieving goals.
Balanced Integration Principles
01 Finding balance creates a sustainable approach to achieving goals.
02 Balancing discipline and individual needs fosters long-term commitment and success.
03 Intentional practice directs focus, enhancing overall personal development journey...
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Linear progression follows a straight path of predictable steps.
Linear Progression Defined
Nonlinear Approaches Explained
Behavioral Analysis Importance
Understanding behavior boosts effectiveness in broader systems thinking.
Nonlinear progression involves complex interactions and unpredictable outcomes.
Linear progression follows a straight path of predictable steps.
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Posture Sequencing Matters
Learning specific postures in a defined sequence aids practice development.
Ashtanga Assessment Guide
Posture Sequencing Matters
Learning specific postures in a defined sequence aids practice development.
Teacher as Cartographer
Instructors read and interpret visible markers of your progress.
Recognize Body Shifts
Teachers observe and note subtle yet significant physical adjustments.
These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).
Iβll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
Personal awareness enhances yoga practice, guiding your movements and breath.
Balanced Ashtanga Practice
Objective judgment counts
External feedback from teachers helps clarify and improve your practice.
Balanced Ashtanga Practice
Constructive critique essential
Receiving feedback from teachers refines your alignment and technique effectively.
Embrace personal growth
Each session offers unique insights into your evolving physical and mental state.
Maintain self-awareness
Being attuned to your body fosters deeper connections in your practice.
Inner experience matters
Personal awareness enhances yoga practice, guiding your movements and breath.
Objective judgment counts
External feedback from teachers helps clarify and improve your practice.
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