indoors

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2008
2009
2014
All of these Facebook Movies have been giving me the feels.

I knew I had to share mine after I welled up more than a little seeing parties, marriage, and children-- not in that order! It's us, after all!

I hope you like mine as much i've enjoyed watching y'all's.

...and if you haven't yet... #FacebookIs10
in imageAugust 2007
A 400 year old banyan (with a temple inside).
January 2014
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2017
2018
2019
make friends—
add
each
other! ps: who did
i miss?? thanks:
#eatondc
@roarborealis
@korikam
@esh421
@emerymargaret @ryanpcathcart
in imagethanks: #eatondc @roarborealis @korikam @esh421 @emerymargaret @ryanpcathcart make friends—add each other! ps: who did i miss??
thanks: #eatondc @roarborealis @korikam @esh421 @emerymargaret @ryanpcathcart make friends- add each other! ps: who did i miss??
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2020
in imageSee 10, send 10...but make it EXTRA af
@aguaisbae Is so damn strong! Could not even zombie press just once 😩 goals are nice tho!
See 10, send 10...but make it EXTRA af
@aguaisbae Is so damn strong! Could not even zombie press just once 😰 goals are nice tho!
@michaeljoelhall @yogajanely @samueltanur @holly.yogs.lightly @zebyoga @yogi_a.lo @jessicaharrisyoga @doimoveyou @karenbee83
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On Demand Yoga
Classes Always Available
Rates as low as $10
in imageOn Demand Yoga Classes Always Available Rates as low as $10 LINK IN BIO Sivananda Yoga Practice (one hour video) A new video for all tiers! Have you been interested in sampling a a different yoga school? There are so many wonderful and effective schools and practices for attaining yogic states. Today, I share one of my favorites: Sivananda Yoga. Whats in here? About Ashtanga Shining Skull Breath Alternate Nostril Breat
On Demand Yoga Classes Always Available Salutations Rates as low as $10
Leg Stretches
Leg Lifts
Dolphin/Headstand
Shoulderstand/candlestick
Cobra
One Legged Bow
Bow
Sage Marichiy Pose A (one legged squat + fold)
Sage Marichiy Pose C (one legged squat + twist)
Garland Pose A (two legged squat)
Tree
Triangle
Auto Suggestion Rela...
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2021
2022
I love you!!! @katelynntully has been my wise council and brave mama bear for nearly 10 years.

I am overwhelmed by my own cliches as I try to find the words to express how honored and blessed I am to bear witness to a part of you and @cnwingate ‘s journey.

moreover — wow, the impossible joy I have for my friends.
in image@katelynntully has been my wise council and brave mama bear for nearly 10 years. I am overwhelmed by my own cliches as I try to find the words to express how honored and blessed I am to bear witness to a part of you and @cnwingate 's journey. moreover – wow, the impossible joy I have for my friends. I love you!!!
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2023
deconstruct
in imageStitch coming
drnicoletruesdell
deconstruct
Being Gay and Not Queer
Recommend Reading (both Free in Guerrilla Resource Library - link in BIO):
E. PATRICK JOHNSON AND MAE G. HENDERSON's (editors) "BLACK QUEER STUDIES A CRITICAL ANTHOLOGY" (Book)
C. Riley Snorton's "BLACK ON BOTH SIDES A RACIAL HISTORY OF TRANS IDENTITY" (Book)
you can't understand the relationship between queerness
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LET’S BREATHE!

Try this and let me know how it goes!!

For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, optimal breathing techniques can enhance endurance, reduce breathlessness, and improve overall athletic performance.
in imagethat you don't get winded so fast so that you can also then stay in your aerobic
When you get to the bottom of that, exhale, pause and hold your breath.
Keep going in, out.
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"we need more people with different identities sharing the practice"
in imageCERTIFIED BY SHARATH OR
Do you need to be authorized to teach ashtanga?
"we need more people with different identities sharing the practice"
laurenashtangayoga
I'M NOT CERTIFIED BUT I'VE
Do you need to be authorized to teach ashtanga?
"we need more people with different identities sharing the practice"
laurenashtangayoga
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2024
We’re a week in to the 30 Day Core Fitness Challenge and the 2024 Teaching Immersion over at @ashtanga.tech — and I’m just over the moon. Ashtanga Tech is the ashtanga education platform I built, designed for practitioners and professionals. She’s meant to facilitate development in a variety of different components of the ashtanga yoga system— from core fitness to meditation. It’s amazing to see so many of you guys using it already, and I’m just so over the moon. Can’t wait to see you in homeroom.
in imageYour Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Understanding Body Scan Meditation: Learn how this practice helps in acknowledging and releasing stored tensions. It's a key tool for developing deeper awareness of your physical self.
2. Finding the Right Spot: Lie down in a quiet, comfortable place. Allow your body to feel supported by the ground beneath you.
3. Start at Your Toes: Begin with focusing on your toes. Observe any sensations, warmth, tingling, or maybe nothing at all.
4. Gradually Move Upward: Slowly shift your attention through
This meditation isn't just a cooldown; it's your path to understanding and harmonizing with your body. Embrace each sensation, and emerge more connected and relaxed. 🧘✨🌿
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in imageSmartest Zodiac Sign
Capricorn Aquarius
although there are several types and styles of intelligence, these signs (IMO) have a natural affinity for seeking, knowing, and understanding
Smartest Zodiac Sign
Scorpio
Capricorn Aquarius Sagittarius
although there are several types and styles of intelligence, these signs (IMO) have a natural affinity for seeking, knowing, and understanding
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in imageon my primary series journey
"sans ardha buddha padmottanasana oops"
much gratitude to @michaeljoelhall (& @ashtanga.tech for everything off the mat!)
guys, clock those little orange circles. If you've ever practiced on this kind of mat, 1) you know how impressive this is 2) you may be entitled to compensation
on my primary series journey 🤫🪷
*sans ardha baddha padmottanasana oops*
much gratitude to @michaeljoelhall (& @ashtanga.tech for everything off the mat!)
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I love sharing yoga and I think it shows. Here’s a peek in at a private coaching session with @mikematspace at @theyoga.club — We’re doing a study on shoulder movements that will enhance backbends, twists and binds. I didn’t wanna blow up his spot here, but I thought I looked extra muppety so I had to share.

These sessions are super fun —
You can book a session with me from michaeljoelhall.com — it’s very straightforward 🙂
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I promise, I'm not skipping leg day.

I lift as occupational therapy. I lift because it makes me feel affirmed in my masculinity. I lift because it helps combat negative mental chatter. I lift because I'm vain. I lift because there's more than one way to get kundalini to rise.

I understand that it's healthy for me to have an outlet for exercise that is seperate from my spiritual practice. Things get weird when I try to do mental gymnastics in order to feel good about my actual gymnastics. Remember: i'm vain. Ican just make exercise exercise and yoga yoga. I think it's a good idea for most, but athletes in particular.

Do you practice yoga and lift weights?
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The modern yoga industry has shifted away from teaching a practice that once ecnouraged and even required ongoing learning, self-reflection, and personal growth. Instead, the commercial interests have been prioritized over genuine education. This shift has left both students and teachers navigating a system that often exploits their desire to learn and grow. Nowhere is this tension more evident than in the yoga teacher training system, which, while serving as a lifeline for the industry, has become deeply flawed.

Read the rest at michaeljoelhall.com
in imageThe modern yoga teacher training industry has shifted away from teaching a practice that at one time requi
education like this shift is both li
to learn and you know, grow.
Nowhere is this tension more evident than in the yoga teac
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thank you @jochetroche — youre always so supportive ❤️
in imageGo and read my dear @michaeljoelhall he has posted really good reflections on yoga
The modern yoga teacher training industry has shifted away from tea
michaeljoelhall
thank you @jochetroche — youre always so supportive ❤️
Go and read my dear @michaeljoelhall he has posted really good reflections on yoga
learning, self reflection, and personal growth. I
michaeljoelhall
thank you @jochetroche — youre always so supportive 🧡
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Has yoga lost its soul to commercialization? Dive into this thought-provoking discussion on how the booming yoga industry affects its sacred roots. Discover the vital shift from a personal, spiritual journey to an immense competitive industry, and why maintaining mindfulness and compassion is crucial. Explore with us the importance of ethical business models in ensuring that yoga remains a path of true transformation and personal growth. Watch now to join the movement in preserving the authenticity of yoga! #YogaEssence #Mindfulness #SpiritualGrowth
in imageAS WE'VE SEEN, YOGA
Focus should remain on mindfulness and compassion. OVER TRUE
GROWTH AND SELF
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in imageSometimes a song gets in there aka I haven't quieted down. It happens...🤔🤔🤣 @michaeljoelhall POV: 🟣 Virgo Meditating Did I lock the door? What's on tomorrow's agenda? Is my breath symmetrical? I'm so good at reorganizing. See, I told her it was gonna happen. spirituallyfly and spirituallyflylife
Sometimes a song gets in there aka I haven't quieted down. It happens... @michaeljoelhall
POV: ♍ Virgo Meditating
Did I lock the door?
What's on tomorrow's agenda?
Is my breath symmetrical?
I'm so good at reorganizing.
See, I told her it was gonna happen.
spirituallyflyand spirituallyflylife
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Have you ever wondered why community-based yoga studios are disappearing? In this compelling video, we delve into the transformation of yoga from soulful sanctuaries into profit-driven entities. Discover how corporate takeovers disrupted the essence of independent studios, turning authentic experiences into commercial products. Learn how to preserve the heart and soul of yoga in modern spaces and avoid repeating past mistakes. We explore the importance of authenticity, personal connections, and maintaining a non-toxic environment. #YogaCommunity #AuthenticityMatters #YogaTransformation
in imageSANCTUARIES FOR
ESSENCE.
CONNECTIONS THAT
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Are you ready to explore the life of a yoga contractor? 🌟 Discover the unique balance of freedom and responsibility in the yoga industry. As a contractor, you get to choose when, where, and how often you teach, giving you unparalleled creative control. Yet, with this autonomy comes the challenge of missing out on traditional benefits like health insurance and paid leave. The secret to success is in financial planning and understanding deductions. Join us in unpacking these insights and learn how yoga professionals can navigate these waters. #YogaContractor #FreedomAndResponsibility #YogaCareer
in imageWHEN AND HOW OFTEN
Contractors miss health insurance and paid leave. MAYBE AREN'T
YOGA STUDIOS,
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🧘‍♀️ Are you a passionate yoga teacher struggling with financial stability? In this video, Michael Jolley delves into the crucial steps for creating a sustainable business model in the yoga industry. Discover how financial equity and community support can revolutionize your career. 💰 Learn to budget and master financial literacy for future disruptions. 🌐 Explore the potential of online platforms and community-centric offerings to expand your horizons beyond studio classes. 🧩 Together, let's reshape the yoga profession for financial stability while continuing to spread the joy of yoga. Don't miss out on these invaluable insights for a strong and secure career! #YogaBusiness #FinancialStability #MindfulLiving
in imageFOR ME, IN A MANNER
AND APPEALING TO
Embrace online platforms for new AND IF THEY RECEIVE
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Are you ready to explore the hidden connections between Eastern spirituality and Western science? 🌌 In this video, Michael Johal reveals the intriguing parallels between the ancient concept of Bindu and today’s understanding of western physiology, focusing on the pineal gland and the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. 🧠✨ Discover how these connections could enhance your understanding of consciousness and spiritual experiences, potentially linked with DMT production. We delve into how Bindu relates to neuroplasticity and our brain’s ability to heal and grow, offering a fresh perspective on spirituality and science. Don't miss out on this fascinating journey into the interplay of mind, body, and spirit. Stay curious, and keep exploring with us! #Consciousness #Neuroplasticity #EasternWisdom

See the sources cited at Ashtanga.tech
in imageTHE BINDU, THAT WE
WHILE THE CHLOROID
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Discover the profound wisdom of the Yoga Sutras! 🌟 In this video, we explore the essence of Patanjali's influential text, guiding you through the key sections that form the philosophy of yoga. Uncover how Kevalya Pada emphasizes liberation, Sadhana Pada delves into sustainable practice, Samadhi Pada focuses on deep absorption, and Vibuttipada underscores accomplishments.

By understanding these pillars, you not only deepen your practice but also awaken to the invisible insights surrounding us daily. Are you ready to elevate your journey? Learn how to integrate these timeless teachings and enrich your philosophical insights into yoga.

Join us in revealing the secrets hidden within the Yoga Sutras. 🌌

#YogaWisdom #Patanjali #UnlockTheInvisible
in imageTHE KEY SECTIONS.
THESE, INVISIBLE
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2025
Pain being misconstrued as pleasure. How often do we think the things that are hurting us are helping? Ugh. Reach out if you want some coaching.
in imageIMPURE MISCONSTRUED AS PURE
Sensory pleasures and superficial qualities are often confused with true purity. This misunderstanding drives us away from seeking meaningful fulfillment. Prioritizing ephemeral appearances over spiritual growth leads to superficial satisfaction lacking the depth necessary for genuine joy.
PAIN CONFUSED WITH PLEASURE
Many pursue temporary comforts, like junk food, mistaking them for genuine pleasure. While these habits offer short-lived enjoyment, they frequently culminate in long-term suffering, underlining the importance of deeper, sustainable sources over fleeting indulgences.
PROMOTES
NON-SELF
IMPURE MISCONSTRUED AS PURE
Sensory pleasures and superficial qualities are often confused with true purity. This misunderstanding drives us away from seeking meaningful fulfillment. Prioritizing ephemeral appearances over spiritual growth leads to superficial satisfaction lacking the depth necessary for genuine joy.
PAIN CONFUSED WITH PLEASURE
Many pursue temporary comforts, like junk food, mistaking them for genuine pleasure. While these habits offer short-lived enjoyment, they frequently culminate in long-term suffering, underlining the importance of deeper, sustainable sources of fleeting ind
PROMOTES
NON-SEL
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Yoga is inherently political if you are in a society where people are oppressed.

liberation is political.
in imageWITH A METRIC SYSTEM OF BREATHING,

Yoga is inherently political if you are in a society where people are oppressed.

liberation is political.
YOU KNOW, THE METHOD OF ASHTANGA
Yoga is inherently political if you are in a society where people are oppressed.
liberation is political.
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We can do the uncomfortable work.
in imageFOSTERS DISCERNMENT AND SELF-STUDY
Overcoming avidya requires viveka (discernment) and svadhyaya (self-study). By developing these virtues, individuals gain clearer perspectives, distinguishing truth from illusion. This awareness aligns them with reality, fostering more authentic relationships and an enriched internal world.
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Superset for Legs & Core

Supersets save time without sacrificing your ability to gain strength and mass. Basically, pick two exercises, do them back to back, then take your break. You can choose complimentary muscle or oppositional muscle groups (or both) in your programming. you can also easily add reps and a set to progressively overload in a straightforward way.

3 Rounds of 15 reps

60-90 seconds off between supersets. Move quickly between individual sets (of course).

Superset A:
Pull throughs - cable & rope
Calf Raises - cable & rope

Superset B:
Leg Extension - cable & strap
Hamstring curl - cable & strap
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Do you like my charts?

These are from my videos about balancing subjectivity and objectivity as practitioners/teachers of Ashtanga Yoga to grow in your practice(s).

I’ll include a download in my newsletter on Friday.
in imageMental Models Overview
BELIEFS SHAPE EXPERIENCES
Our beliefs directly influence how we perceive and interpret experiences.
Mental Models Overview
BELIEFS SHAPE EXPERIENCES
Our beliefs directly influence how we perceive and interpret experiences.
COGNITIVE BIAS AWARENESS
Recognizing cognitive biases helps us make better self-assessments.
SELF-DOUBT REFLECTIONS
Struggling poses reveal deeper layers of our self-doubt issues.
CRITICAL THINKING IMPORTANCE
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Suerte de tener a mis amigos. 🌴
dc >> playa
playa >> dc
in imagedc >> 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
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Critical Thought in Healthy Groups doesnt look like convoluted stories. Full video on YouTube.
in imageContradictory Dogma and Indoctrination
Encouraging Open Discussion
Self-doubt is encouraged
Members pressured to doubt ability
amed on evil or outside influences
Self-blame for mi r doubts
Contradictory Dogma and Indoctrination
Encouraging Open Discussion
Self-doubt is encouraged
Members pressured to doubt ability
amed on evil or outside influences
Self-blame for mi... doubts
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Cult Warning Sign 4: Lack of Reason and Magical Thinking. Whole video on youtube!
in imageMagical Thinking and High-Pressure Groups
Which is it?
Magical Thinking vs Reason & Evidence
Reason & Evidence
Values evidence and
Encourages dive... experiences
Emphasizes th...
Replace
unde...
Magical Thinking and High-Pressure Groups
Which is it?
Magical Thinking vs Reason & Evidence
Reason & Evidence
Values evidence and
Encourages diverse experiences
Emphasizes th
Replace
unde
Magical Thinking and High-Pressure Groups
Which is it? / Magical Thinking vs Reason & Evidence / Reason & Evidence / Values evidence and / Encourages diverse experiences / Emphasizes th / Replace unde
Magical Thinking and High-Pressure Groups
Which is it?
Magical Thinking vs Reason & Evidence
Reason & Evidence
Values evidence and
Encourages diverse experiences
Emphasizes th
Replace unde
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Red flags after work and at work and at yoga! Hypocritical, uncriticizable leaders lack authenticity. More on youtube!
in imagesay their experience is correct and yours is not it doesn't pressure you to
Reason and Evidence-Based Approach
Let's start with the empath on a team. Authenticity vs. Authoritarianism
What are the traits in democratic accountable leadership.

democratic accountable leadership.
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Who won’t let you criticize them? Ready for another organizational red flag? Leadership that won’t allow criticism, of course!

If we don’t encourage a multiplicity of viewpoints, we are inherently narrow sighted. If you must hold the same view as leadership in order to get a say, you are being controlled. I do not like echo chambers. An organization that creates one on purpose is not only inherently fragile, but in a predicament of its own making. Again, who wont stand for criticism? Authoritarians.

Diverse thinking is a good thing. More on youtube.
in imageThis happens with charismatic and narcissistic teachers and leaders. Charismatic and Narcissistic Leaders
Look around for where criticism is forbidden and theatrics are used to
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confus
trination practiced
Confusion in underst
Welcomes questions
sters open ssion
Values skepticism
Who are their friends?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confus
trination practiced
Confusion in underst
Welcomes questions
ers open
lues
ticism
This happens with charismatic and narcissistic teachers and leaders. / Charismatic and Narcissistic Leaders
Look around for where criticism is forbidden and theatrics are used to
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu...
trination practiced
Confusion in underst...
Welcomes questions
sters open ssion
Values skepticism
Who are their friends?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confus
trination practiced
Confusion in underst
Welcomes questions
ers open
lues
ticism
This happens with charismatic and narcissistic teachers and leaders. | Charismatic and Narcissistic Leaders
Look around for where criticism is forbidden and theatrics are used to | Opposition to Critical Thought | der-approved sources encouraged | Contradictory or confus... | trination practiced | Confusion in underst... | Welcomes questions | ters open ssion | Values skepticism
Who are their friends?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confus
trination practiced
Confusion in underst
Welcomes questions
ers open
lues
ticism
This happens with charismatic and narcissistic teachers and leaders. Charismatic and Narcissistic Leaders
Look around for where criticism is forbidden and theatrics are used to
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confus
trination practiced
Confusion in underst
Welcomes questions
ters open ssion
Values cepticism
So
Who are their friends?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confus
trination practiced
Confusion in underst
Welcomes questions
ers open
alues
ticism
💬 Comment
When leaders make decisions for their constituency behind closed doors without consulting said constituency, an organization is no longer designed to serve the people. This creates a sense of hierarchy, and inside of that hierarchy leaders are placed above the law.

more on YouTube!
in imageHow can you take a peek and see if their leadership is not accountable?
Accountability and Transparency
Another sign a group is high pressure called to is when leaders aren't
Are Your Leaders Accountable?
They all engage on all peer level or collaborate with outside advisors. Accountability and Transparency
How can you take a peek and see if their leadership is not accountable?
Accountability and Transparency
Another sign a group is high pressure called to is when leaders aren't
Are Your Leaders Accountable?
They all engage on all peer level or collaborate with outside advisors.
Accountability and Transparency
💬 Comment
Organizations that limit agency and critique internally are inevitably going to be fragile. Pragmatically, its not great to be around.

More on youtube!
in imageOr if they speak with disrespect vilify others.
Respects Others
Vilifies Outsiders vs Respects Others
And isolation deepens as all needs are supposed to be met within the group.
it's okay to wonder whether a relationship is nourishing but it's not going
💬 Comment
Being a part of something is wonderful. Movements, clubs, communities. These organizations shouldn’t demand a loss of your personal identity or sense of sense of self. High pressure communities have a way of twisting these conversations because of the inherent philosophical paradox of self and not-self in Ashtanga philosophy.

More on youtube!
in imageIndividuality is often suppressed in favor of group think.
Meanwhile, a group identity demands you only do their activities have their
Does it encourage personal development and critical thinking? Groupthink Beliefs Promotes critical thinking Fosters individuality Unique Individuality Identity Loss vs Unique Individuality Identity Loss k" dominates
Individuality is often suppressed in favor of group think.
Meanwhile, a group identity demands you only do their activities have their | Group Identity vs Individual Identity | Group Identity | Individual Identity | Rights | Activities | Beliefs | Groupthink | promotes critical thinking | unique Individuality
Does it encourage personal development and critical thinking? Groupthink Beliefs Promotes critical thinking Fosters individuality Unique Individuality Identity Loss vs Unique Individuality Identity Loss k" dominates
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Are you told not to talk about what goes on inside your organization? The secret recipe for Popeye’s chicken? Sure, keep that locked up. But clarity around who gets promoted and how shouldn’t be hidden or secret. Who’s not telling you the why? Why not?

More on youtube!
in imageIt's where one performs secret ceremonies with initiation rights.
"Groupthink" dominates
Conduct closed ceremonies
Inner Circles
Secret Rites and Rituals
Negative Group Rituals
on shaming
Focus on punishment
looking at the universal experience, we do not shame or shun.
"Groupthink" dominates
Conduct closed ceremonies
Inner Circles
Is it tradition and graduated learning or weird cult stuff? closed? Yes Closed Ceremonies Secret Teachings Painful Initiations No spicion
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Shame, guilt, or fear? How to spot controlling vs supportive environments. Look out for a femanx of excessive loyalty and suggestions to disregard critical thinking.

More on youtube!
in imageIs there shame, fear, or guilt when talking to your teacher? Support or Not? Shame, Guilt, Fear Supportive Environment Addresses conc compassionate pports open discussion of feelings thought
Subversively this is promoted over and over. / Replacing critical thought / Obsessive loyalty / Loyalty / Neglect of relation... / Zealous commitment and dependence on leaders / ...idation / Primary sou... validati... / Impact on s... h
It means recognizing a leader's salability and a healthy
gnition of leader's fallibility
Balanced Commitment
Leader Loyalty/Dependence vs Balanced Commitment
Obsessive Loyalty
Los...udgment
Over...
ok communal elopment
Is there shame, fear, or guilt when talking to your teacher? Support or Not? Shame, Guilt, Fear Supportive Environment Addresses concerns compassionately Supports open discussion of feelings thought
Subversively this is promoted over and over.
Replacing critical thought
Obsessive loyalty
Loyalty
Neglect of relation...
Zealous commitment and dependence on leaders
...idation
Primary sou... validati...
Impact on s... ...h
It means recognizing a leader's salability and a healthy
recognition of leader's fallibility
Balanced Commitment
Leader Loyalty/Dependence vs Balanced Commitment
Obsessive Loyalty
Loss of Judgment
ook communal
elopment
Is there shame, fear, or guilt when talking to your teacher? Support or Not? Shame, Guilt, Fear Supportive Environment Addresses conc compassionate pports open discussion of feelings thought
Subversively this is promoted over and over. / Replacing critical thought / Obsessive loyalty / Loyalty / Neglect of relations / Zealous commitment and dependence on leaders / idation / Primary sou validati / Impact on s h
It means recognizing a leader's salability and a healthy
gnition of leader's fallibility
Balanced Commitment
Leader Loyalty/Dependence vs Balanced Commitment
Obsessive Loyalty
Los udgment
Overc
ok communal elopment
Is there shame, fear, or guilt when talking to your teacher? Support or Not? Shame, Guilt, Fear Supportive Environment Addresses conc compassionate ports open discussion of feelings thought
Subversively this is promoted over and over. | Replacing critical thought | Obsessive loyalty | Loyalty | Neglect of relation... | Zealous commitment and dependence on leaders | ...idation | Primary sou... validati... | Impact on s... ...h
It means recognizing a leader's salability and a healthy
recognition of leader's fallibility
Balanced Commitment
Leader Loyalty/Dependence vs Balanced Commitment
Obsessive Loyalty
Loss of Judgment
ook communal elopment
Is there shame, fear, or guilt when talking to your teacher? Support or Not? Shame, Guilt, Fear Supportive Environment Addresses conc compassionate pports open discussion of feelings thought
Subversively this is promoted over and over. Replacing critical thought Obsessive loyalty Loyalty Neglect of relation... Zealous commitment and dependence on leaders idation Primary sou validati... Impact on s... h
It means recognizing a leader's salability and a healthy
recognition of leader's fallibility
Balanced Commitment
Leader Loyalty/Dependence vs Balanced Commitment
Obsessive Loyalty
Loss of Judgment
ook communal elopment
Is there shame, fear, or guilt when talking to your teacher?
Support or Not?
Shame, Guilt, Fear
Supportive Environment
Addresses conc compassionate
ports open discussion of feelings
thought
Subversively this is promoted over and over. Replacing critical thought Obsessive loyalty Loyalty Neglect of relation... Zealous commitment and dependence on leaders ...idation Primary sou... validati... Impact on s... ...h
It means recognizing a leader's salability and a healthy
recognition of leader's fallibility
Balanced Commitment
Leader Loyalty/Dependence vs Balanced Commitment
Obsessive Loyalty
Loss of Judgment
ook communal elopment
Is there shame, fear, or guilt when talking to your teacher? Support or Not? Shame, Guilt, Fear Supportive Environment Addresses conc compassionate pports open discussion of feelings thought
Subversively this is promoted over and over. / Replacing critical thought / Obsessive loyalty / Loyalty / Neglect of relations / Zealous commitment and dependence on leaders / idation / Primary source validati / Impact on s...h
It means recognizing a leader's salability and a healthy
gnition of leader's fallibility
Balanced Commitment
Leader Loyalty/Dependence vs Balanced Commitment
Obsessive Loyalty
Los...udgment
Over...
ok communal
elopment
hy boundaries
person
ment
💬 Comment
Do you find that you are encouraged to bring people into your organization? It’s a great thing to do, who doesn’t wanna share something great? When you apply your critical thinking skills, if it looks like you’re more important for clout or cash, somethings up.

In DC, we have a few different teachers, each with differences in approach, each with people who vibe with that approach. It’s nice that people have choice here, and in a healthy community you’ll see as much ease with referring out as you will see recruiting in. Easy come, easy go. Why? These are people, not revenue streams or clout bolsters.

More on YouTube!
in imagebelieve what I say and it grow through selling something that sells well.
Loss of critical judgment
Activities centered around recruitment
Narrow Focus
In Ashtanga Yoga, many senior teachers have commoditized their relationships | Loss of critical judgment | Activities centered around recruitment | Narrow Focus | personal development | communal development
This is not genuine, not personal, and not communal development. | Loss of critical judgment | Overlook communal development | Activities centered around recruitment | Narrow Focus
believe what I say and it grow through selling something that sells well. | Loss of critical judgment | ok communal development | personal ment | Activities centered around recruitment | Narrow Focus
In Ashtanga Yoga, many senior teachers have commoditized their relationships | Loss of critical judgment | Activities centered around recruitment | Narrow Focus
This is not genuine, not personal, and not communal development. | Loss of critical judgment | Overlook communal development | Activities centered around recruitment | Narrow Focus
believe what I say and it grow through selling something that sells well.
Loss of critical judgment
Activities centered around recruitment
Narrow Focus
ook communal development
In Ashtanga Yoga, many senior teachers have commoditized their relationships | Loss of critical judgment | Activities centered around recruitment | Narrow Focus | personal development
This is not genuine, not personal, and not communal development.
believe what I say and it grow through selling something that sells well.
In Ashtanga Yoga, many senior teachers have commoditized their relationships | Loss of critical judgment | Activities centered around recruitment | Narrow Focus | personal development
This is not genuine, not personal, and not communal development.
Loss of critical judgment
Overlook communal development
Activities centered around recruitment
Narrow Focus
💬 Comment
Heres the deal: someones gotta pay to keep the lights on. Studios have to run. Teachers have to get paid. This remains true, even as there is an imperative to care for the ecosystem— enough old timers to help the rookies, enough rookies to replace those who move.

Numbers are great, but sustainability is better. More on youtube.
in imageYou gotta keep your churn rate. Not numbers Not aggress Genuine Community Focus on values Recruitment Obsess Genuine Commun
nurturing an ecosystem if you focus on values.
Not numbers
Not aggress
Genuine Community
Focus on values
Recruitment Obsess
Genuine Commun
Urgency for growth
Recruitment Obsession
Constant pros
largest in their country.
Targeting the vulnerable with 'love-bombing' and idealistic goals
Vulnerable Individuals
Exc...tention
Constant pros...
💬 Comment
Financial transparency creates an equitable environment for both parties. The teacher’s income needn’t be a secret.

If teaching Mysore is a labor of love, it’s nice that the students know. But burn out happens when financial needs arent being met. It’s OK to talk about this stuff.

If your organization is values based, it’s not a crazy assumption to hold that the leader or director should also hold those values.

if doing the right thing, we’re always profitable, everyone would always do it. but just because it isn’t always profitable, doesn’t mean it can’t be.

More on YouTube.
in imageYou'll see this happens often and there's likely goingto be a lack of
Financial records open
Financial
omic Exploitation Financial Transparenc
bers pressured for donations
Economic Exploitation
I always wonder how are these people sharing their power? | Financial records open | Financial | Economic Exploitation | Unclear finances | Financial Transparenc | ic Exploitation | bers pressu donations
You can't pressure people for donations more than what you communicated. Financial records open Financial Economic Exploitation Unclear finances
You'll see this happens often and there's likely goingto be a lack of
Financial records open
Financial
Economic Exploitation Financial Transparency
bers pressured for donations
Economic Exploitation
I always wonder how are these people sharing their power? Financial records open Financial Economic Exploitation Financial Transparency Economic Exploitation Unclear finances
You can't pressure people for donations more than what you communicated. | Financial records open | Financial | Economic Exploitation | Unclear finances
You'll see this happens often and there's likely goingto be a lack of | Financial records open | Financial | Economic Exploitation | members pressured for donations | Financial Transparenc | omic Exploitation
I always wonder how are these people sharing their power?
Financial records open
Financial
Economic Exploitation
Unclear finances
Financial Transparenc
ic Exploitation
bers pressu
donations
You can't pressure people for donations more than what you communicated. | Financial records open | Financial | Economic Exploitation | Unclear finances
You'll see this happens often and there's likely goingto be a lack of | Financial records open | Financial | Economic Exploitation | members pressured for donations | omic Exploitation Financial Transparenc
I always wonder how are these people sharing their power?
Financial records open
Financial
ic Exploitation
Financial Transparenc
bers pressu
donations
Economic Exploitation
Unclear finances
You can't pressure people for donations more than what you communicated. | Financial records open | Financial | Economic Exploitation | Unclear finances
💬 Comment
Shame is a lousy motivator. When teaching with a methodology that included gatekeeping postures, it because a place where real student-teacher friction occurred in my yoga room. It wasn’t always clean friction. Heres a story from a decade ago: at some plont that year, I had failed to speak directly to a student about a dynamic that was bothering ME.

My student was feeling stuck in a particularly sticky pose, and the friction from other places allowed for weird dynamics. i didn’t understand those dynamics yet. I see clearly now how the dynamic of keeping someone at a pose when they feel ready to move on fosters a loss of agency and fosters authoritarianism and inadvertently becomes a power move, whether you mean it like that or not. I was in my first five years, and had yet to start disassembling the pedagogy. At some points, my buttons got pushed by that students behavior. I yelled and told them to leave the room. I was sooooooooo out of line. And boy, did I owe that student an apology. It was that moment that broke my illusion: I did not like this dynamic and it felt abhorrent to the nature of Ashtanga and yet somehow also baked in. I am grateful for that students forgiveness and for our mutual respect making clear something needed to shift, and it would be my responsibility. Students shouldn’t be yelled at, most especially the devoted ones who are questioning their discipline to a dysmorphic degree.

Those dynamics needn’t exist.
in imageI'll never forget it.
Unclear finances
Punitive Punishment
Characteris...
cal Abuse
tional Abuse
nishment
Ty...
I made real changes.
Unclear finances
Punitive Punishment
Characteris[tics]
[Pu]nishment
[Physi]cal Abuse
Ty[pes]
[Emo]tional Abuse
Hu[miliation]
Sometimes I think teachers don't share what they learned because they're
Unclear finances
Punitive Punishment
Types
tional Abuse
cal Abuse
nishment
Characteris
I'll never forget it.
Unclear finances
Punitive Punishment
Characteris[tics]
[Pu]nishment
[Physi]cal Abuse
Ty[pes]
[Emo]tional Abuse
I made real changes.
Unclear finances
Punitive Punishment
Characteris...
cal Abuse
tional Abuse
nishment
Typ...
Hu...
Sometimes I think teachers don't share what they learned because they're
Unclear finances
Punitive Punishment
Types
cal Abuse
tional Abuse
nishment
Characteris
I'll never forget it. | Unclear finances | Punitive Punishment | Characteris... | nishment | cal Abuse | tional Abuse | Ty...
I made real changes.
Unclear finances
Punitive Punishment
Characteris[tics]
[Pu]nishment
[Physi]cal Abuse
Typ[es]
[Emo]tional Abuse
Hu[miliation]
Sometimes I think teachers don't share what they learned because they're
Unclear finances
Punitive Punishment
Types
cal Abuse
tional Abuse
nishment
Characteris
💬 Comment
I used to say that teachers should never sleep with their students. I still feel that way broadly, but a number of people in mentorship roles and friendship roles have had long, long relationships with former students. My teacher cremated her husband last year, him being perhaps my dearest heart’s teacher. She was his student 20 years ago.

Time delays in a system can help highlight the difference between a pragmatic, transparent room with agency and a room with an authoritarian vibe. Are sexual relations between leaders and community members given clear protocols for safety? Generally, i think not. This is not a efficacious strategy.

I think the best bet is don’t sleep with your students, I think the second best bet is make sure that there is a transparency and accountability if a relationship starts.

I’m no HR expert, but your yoga teacher probably didn’t go to seminary school to hear all this. And anyway, its not like that has a 100% score, either. We can anticipate and intervene better, I think when we remain pragmatic and transparent.

More on youtube!
in imageIt's like you shouldn't fuck your students. Grooming Leaders abusing power Power dynamics Sexual exploitation Safeguarding Non-existen[t] [safeguar]ding Poor sa[feguarding]
population and you understand and That they are already inherent power
But you know you can like allow that to not Happen by having a zero
It's like you shouldn't fuck your students. | Grooming | Leaders abusing power | Power dynamics | Sexual exploitation | Safeguarding | Non-existen...ding | Poor sa...
population and you understand and That they are already inherent power
Leaders abusing power
Power dynamics
Sexual exploitation
Safeguarding
Non-existent safeguarding
Poor saf[eguarding]
Prompt
But you know you can like allow that to not Happen by having a zero
It's like you shouldn't fuck your students. Grooming Leaders abusing power Power dynamics Sexual exploitation Safeguarding Non-existen[t] [safeguar]ding Poor sa[feguarding]
population and you understand and That they are already inherent power | Leaders abusing power | Power dynamics | Sexual exploitation | Safeguarding | Non-existent safeguarding | Poor saf[eguarding] | Promp[t]
But you know you can like allow that to not Happen by having a zero
It's like you shouldn't fuck your students.
Grooming
Power dynamics
Leaders abusing power
Sexual exploitation
Safeguarding
Non-existen[t] [safeguar]ding
Poor sa[feguarding]
population and you understand and That they are already inherent power
Leaders abusing power
Power dynamics
Sexual exploitation
Safeguarding
Non-existent safeguarding
Poor saf
Prompt
But you know you can like allow that to not Happen by having a zero
💬 Comment
Theres a theory that people want strong male leaders instinctually because of their value to survival for our ancient kin. Brian Klaas posits that we call authoritarian leadership “Strong Man Tactics” for that very reason.

As a big, strong, dude— i get how this might be inconvenient news.

According to Antwerp School of Business: “Research shows that introverted leaders are often better equipped to tackle complex problems than their extroverted counterparts. They tend to be more open to others’ input and create space for collective collaboration.”

As a gregarious person, I can see how this might be inconvenient news.

They continue: “This is essential because solving complex challenges requires collective leadership. Leaders who can unite diverse perspectives and co-create solutions are best positioned to address today’s pressing issues.

Yet, despite the need for collaboration and diversity, we continue to favor outdated leadership models centered on strength and dominance. This is not what we need now, but it’s what we keep choosing.”

in order to not find an entropy towards accumulating power without earning it through service, I remain mindful of these sentiments. it doesn’t cost me anything to do that, I’m still as good as I ever was. I just come in this package.

Look around at your community: is there a narrative of inclusion and openness? Do you see it reflected in diversity of membership? What about community thought leaders? Leadership?
in imageDo men have more authority in a group? Exclusion from leadership Control Woman and queer people especially Purpose Group continuity Regardless of gend
Do men have more authority in a group? Exclusion from leadership Control Woman and queer people especially Purpose Group continuity Regardless of gend
you know, that's none of your business. | Exclusion from leadership | Control | Woman and queer people especially | Purpose | Group continuity | Regardless of gend...
you're going to see that women get a platform also and you can kind of notice | Equal opportunity | Gender Control vs Equality | Gender Control | Women Control | Tightly controlled | Excluded fr... | from key sions
Do men have more authority in a group? Exclusion from leadership Control Woman and queer people especially Purpose Group continuity Regardless of gend[er]
you know, that's none of your business.
Exclusion from leadership
Control
Woman and queer people especially
Purpose
Group continuity
Regardless of gend
you're going to see that women get a platform also and you can kind of notice | Equal opportunity | Gender Control vs Equality | Gender Control | Women Control | Tightly controlled | Excluded fr... | from key sions
Do men have more authority in a group? Exclusion from leadership Control Woman and queer people especially Purpose Group continuity Regardless of gend
you know, that's none of your business. | Exclusion from leadership | Control | Woman and queer people especially | Purpose | Group continuity | Regardless of gend...
you're goingto see that women get a platform also and you can kind of notice | Equal opportunity | Gender Control vs Equality | Gender Control | Women Control | Tightly controlled | Excluded fr... | from key sions
Do men have more authority in a group? Exclusion from leadership Control Woman and queer people especially Purpose Group continuity Regardless of gend
you know, that's none of your business. | Exclusion from leadership | Control | Woman and queer people especially | Purpose | Group continuity | Regardless of gend...
you're going to see that women get a platform also and you can kind of notice
Equal opportunity
Gender Control vs Equality
Gender Control
Women Control
Tightly controlled
Excluded fr...
from key sions
💬 Comment
Who is historically responsible for platforming bad actors? Have they made any concessions about their learning journey? Or is it all just a litttttttte too on-message?

Where is the reparation? Where is the reconciliation?

Look around at who has not taken real responsibility for the reinforcing loops of bad behavior in their systems. Especially when they want to take credit for or be a part of a balancing loop. Of course it feel inauthentic. It is.

As a community, we have a history to look at. Who didn’t blow whistles— and perhaps most importantly: Why not?

What forces are at play?
communal complicitness,
clout-protecting players, or systemic silencing?

I think its a bit of each.
in imagePeople are able to go backwards. | Women Control | Excluded from leadership | Tightly controlled | Lying to members | outsiders | Justifications | Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means | oup aims | her the group's mission
excuse because it's like for the group's mission. | Women Control | Excluded from leadership | Tightly controlled | Lying to members | outsiders | Justifications | Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means | oup aims | roup's mission
Unethical behavior that's used to just justify whatever the aim of the group | Women Control | Tightly controlled | Excluded from leadership | members | outsiders | Justifications | Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means | Purpose | Further the group's mission
People are able to go backwards. | Women Control | Excluded from leadership | Tightly controlled | Lying to members | outsiders | Justifications | Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means | oup aims | her the group's mission
excuse because it's like for the group's mission. | Women Control | Excluded from leadership | Tightly controlled | Lying to members | outsiders | Justifications | Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means | oup aims | roup's mission
Unethical behavior that's used to just justify whatever the aim of the group | Women Control | Excluded from leadership | Tightly controlled | members | outsiders | Justifications | Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means | Purpose | Further the group's mission
People are able to go backwards. / Women Control / Excluded from leadership / Tightly controlled / Lying to members / outsiders / Justifications / Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means / oup aims / her the group's mission
excuse because it's like for the group's mission. | Women Control | Excluded from leadership | Tightly controlled | Lying to members | outsiders | Justifications | Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means | oup aims | roup's mission
Unethical behavior that's used to just justify whatever the aim of the group
Women Control
Excluded from leadership
Tightly controlled
members
outsiders
Justifications
Deception is normalized; the ends always justify the means
Purpose
Further the group's mission
💬 Comment
If doing the right thing were always profitable, everyone would always do it. But just because it isn’t doesn’t mean it can’t be.

A lack of integrity will show itself. Follow the money. Who has a platform AND a pattern of betting on bad horses? It’s our job as community members to be paying attention.
in imageIt's just the truth and it sucks but you really only know your values when
standards have to remain high and uncompromised and you've gotta be honest
And it means that we stop normalizing dishonesty and silence. | Purpose | Further the group's mission | up aims | Legality maintained | Integrity | honesty maintained | Ethical st... com... | Deception vs Integrity | Deception | Dishonesty is nor...
It's just the truth and it sucks but you really only know your values when
standards have to remain high and uncompromised and you've gotta be honest
And it means that we stop normalizing dishonesty and silence. | Purpose | Further the group's mission | up aims | Legality maintained | onesty maintained | Integrity | Ethical s... com... | Deception vs Integrity | Deception | Dishonesty is nor...
It's just the truth and it sucks but you really only know your values when
standards have to remain high and uncompromised and you've gotta be honest
And it means that we stop normalizing dishonesty and silence. | Further the group's mission | Legality maintained | Integrity | Deception vs Integrity | Deception | Dishonesty is nor...
💬 Comment
in imagegrooming them by having an appropriate relationship so you're just So many
that dynamic can make things weird unless like there are clear pathways
Grooming
Leaders abusing power
Power dynamics
Sexual exploitation
Safeguarding
Non-exist...
...rding
Poor sat...
Safeguarding
Non-existent safeguarding
Poor sa[feguarding]
Strong safeguards
Promp[t]
Responses
Sexual Exploitation
Issues
Power abu[se]
ck of protection
vulnerab[le]
[gro]ming
💬 Comment
Hi, I’m Michael Joel Hall. I started @dcashtanga as a mysore style ashtanga yoga shala in 2014. I’m sharing best practices for decentralizing authority and creating a more robust, antrifragile community. It’s free, and I’d love you to join if you’re interested. Let me know if you have any trouble with dcashtanga.com
in imageI've been doing this long enough to know that practice doesn't exist in a
of me is like the Himbo. 2007 2025
These practices are humanist and secular in nature and I've had the good
• Humanist
• Secular
• Versatile Applications
💬 Comment
Appreciating Ashtanga yoga as an indigenous insight practice means understanding that the practice is interconnected to the place that its from, those people, that topography, and that culture. These practices have to be adapted so they are honest and efficacious as part of your culture/community— and what works in one place won’t work in another. Lots on this subject at dcashtanga.com
in imageDAY NOT WITHOUT INTERRUPTION FOR 10 YEARS THEY'RE CUCKOO
AND IT DOESN'T
💬 Comment
Once a week I try to go without. I use an very small Eink tablet phone instead of a flip.

It takes care of the navigation and I use it to write on faily anyway.
in imageOnce a week I try to go without. I use an very small Eink tablet phone instead of a flip. It takes care of the navigation and I use it to write on faily anyway. They are bringing people together to switch
They also gave us new phone numbers and an offline pledge.
Once a week I try to go without. I use an very small Eink tablet phone instead of a flip. It takes care of the navigation and I use it to write on faily anyway. Needed a physical tape recorder for work
💬 Comment
in imageSurviving Extraction
Building resilient communities is essential. Learn frameworks to help communities endure beyond individual influence.

THE RISKS OF REGENERATIVE WORK
• Slower
• Quieter
• Less glamorous
• Sustainable
• Resilient

Channeling Rage Towards Regeneration
Using anger constructively: long-term commitment and systems thinking build food forests.
Surviving Extraction
Building resilient communities is essential. Learn frameworks to help communities endure beyond individual influence.

THE RISKS OF REGENERATIVE WORK
• Slower
• Quieter
• Less glamorous
• Sustainable
• Resilient

watch on youtube!

Channeling Rage Towards Regeneration
Using anger constructively: long-term commitment and systems thinking build food forests.
💬 Comment

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