yoga
195 entries in 2025 · oldest first
2025
in imageMINIMALISM IS DEAD!!!
Long live tacky extravagance,
performative excess, artless
luxury, and all forms of
OPULENCE
for its own sake!!!
LỌNG LIVE BAD TASTE !!!
...
@eddiestern
Long live tacky extravagance,
performative excess, artless
luxury, and all forms of
OPULENCE
for its own sake!!!
LỌNG LIVE BAD TASTE !!!
...
@eddiestern
hyggie x britney
playas gonna
look great
on you
look great
on you
in imageplayas gonna
look great
on you
@ Book a mini retreat
look great
on you
@ Book a mini retreat
b part
@theyoga.club
in imageThe One-Size-Fits-Nome Principle
Why "perfect form" might be holding you back
A
www.flexibilityresearch.com
@ilexibility research
Why "perfect form" might be holding you back
A
www.flexibilityresearch.com
@ilexibility research
I’ve been yoga council for the us government, the IMF, and more for the last 15 years.
in imageI've been yoga council
for the us government,
the IMF, and more for the
last 15 years.
ask me anything
Type something...
CON
TRO
F
for the us government,
the IMF, and more for the
last 15 years.
ask me anything
Type something...
CON
TRO
F
sometimes I practice downstairs because charlie
in imagesometimes I practice
downstairs because
charlie
VOTE
downstairs because
charlie
VOTE
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
UNLOCK SELF
BEYOND OUR OWN
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
A TEACHER WHO
YOU SAY IT WITH
in imageCat •
@CatOrman1
obsessed with the woman in my yoga class who
paid for 60 minutes and laid motionless on the
floor the entire time
@mytherapistsays
@CatOrman1
obsessed with the woman in my yoga class who
paid for 60 minutes and laid motionless on the
floor the entire time
@mytherapistsays
in imagemichaeljoelhall and ashtanga.tech
in imagemichaeljoelhall
SIDE ANGLE
POSE
UTTITHA
PARSVAKONASANA A
standing poses
michaeljoelhall Master the counts in Uttitha
Parsvakonasana A & B to enhance your Ashtanga practice...
SIDE ANGLE
POSE
UTTITHA
PARSVAKONASANA A
standing poses
michaeljoelhall Master the counts in Uttitha
Parsvakonasana A & B to enhance your Ashtanga practice...
The Tug-of-War Between Growth and Competition
in imageHEALTHY AMBITION
AND BODY AND BRINGS
Beware of ambition driven by ego. US IN THE OPPOSITE
AND BODY AND BRINGS
Beware of ambition driven by ego. US IN THE OPPOSITE
The Power of Celebrating Small Victories in a Supportive Community
in imageA COMMUNITY WHERE
AND, FRANKLY, WHEN
A COMMUNITY HELPS
AND, FRANKLY, WHEN
A COMMUNITY HELPS
As a passionate Ashtanga yoga instructor, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible ways our practice enhances both physical and mental health. In my latest article, I dive deep into how yoga acts as a holistic healer, addressing everything from chronic pain to emotional well-being. You’ll discover how it empowers us to prevent medical conditions, provides support alongside traditional treatments, and fosters stability and ease in our lives.
I'm excited for you to explore these insights further! Head over to the link and read about the profound benefits that yoga brings to our health: https://michaeljoelhall.com/unraveling-the-benefits-how-yoga-enhances-health-and-physiological-well-being/
I'm excited for you to explore these insights further! Head over to the link and read about the profound benefits that yoga brings to our health: https://michaeljoelhall.com/unraveling-the-benefits-how-yoga-enhances-health-and-physiological-well-being/
in imageUnlock
HEALTH BENEFITS
or yoga
Read More
1
HEALTH BENEFITS
or yoga
Read More
1
in imageLYOGA HEIGHS **
February 28th
Yoga Heights is
proud to support the
24 hr economic
blackout byoffering
free classes 2/28
Use code:
FREEPASS
@yogaheightsdc
February 28th
Yoga Heights is
proud to support the
24 hr economic
blackout byoffering
free classes 2/28
Use code:
FREEPASS
@yogaheightsdc
I’ve often had other yoga colleagues wonder how I made it so so far in Ashtanga yoga. They say it with a laugh, and knowing wink. The truth is that deep inside we’re all zebras in a room full of horses. I like to think that I’m a unicorn in a room full of zebras. But I know its all just drag. There’s only one of us here anyway. What I think my colleauges really mean is “you look like you’re having a lot of fun with this identity.” I get where they’re coming from— you’re not supposed to overly identify with this experience. Sometimes I think they just can’t fathom that you might have fun with a constructed identity and be able to let go of it. Ask any drag queen the second best part of getting into drag. Getting out of it. It’s the paradox between “be yourself because everyone else’s taken” and “ life is too important to be taken seriously. ”
in image[In downward dogl F*ck you.
[In downward dogl F*ck you.
@evanrosskatz
[In downward dogl F*ck you.
@evanrosskatz
in image[In downward dogl F*ck you.
[In downward dog] F*ck you.
@evanrosskatz
[In downward dog] F*ck you.
@evanrosskatz
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
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
Being on Ashtanga Yoga Teacher is a lot more than counting yoga poses. Theres a community dynamic, right? Leading by example. Not the asana, but the ethics.
in imageMICHAEL JOEL HALL
GUIDANCE AS A
THE REAL CHALLENGE
RECOGNITION, I
GUIDANCE AS A
THE REAL CHALLENGE
RECOGNITION, I
in imagePOV: I'm your yoga therapist, and we are talking about ways to build strength ✨
in imageWhen you accidentally progress in your Ashtanga practice and end up getting more poses.
No. Just your own space and do it. dm me.
in imageOkay then any anyone over 15
Getting paid when you teach public yoga classes...
No. Just your own space and do it. dm me.
I everything over 15 get $3
Getting paid when you teach public yoga classes...
No. Just your own space and do it. dm me.
Getting paid when you teach public yoga classes...
No. Just your own space and do it. dm me.
I everything over 15 get $3
Getting paid when you teach public yoga classes...
No. Just your own space and do it. dm me.
in imageLevel 2: Use your left hand to push the heel and the right hand to pull from the bar
Level 2: Stretch your arms and push your hips forward
Level 2: Stretch your arms and push your hips forward
Fact 1: still on spirit
Fact 2: still no kids
Fact 3: your parents come to live with you because the gay one has his shit together
Fact 4: spirit has never had a crash.
Fact 5: Join my yoga club. I’m still having a good time. The yoga works!
Fact 2: still no kids
Fact 3: your parents come to live with you because the gay one has his shit together
Fact 4: spirit has never had a crash.
Fact 5: Join my yoga club. I’m still having a good time. The yoga works!
in imageI decided instead of having
children I wanted to travel
business
class.
Fact 1: still on spirit
Fact 2: still no kids
Fact 3: your parents
come to live with you
because the gay one
has his shit together
Fact 4: spirit has never
had a crash.
Fact 5: Join my yoga
club. I'm still having a
good time. The yoga
works!
children I wanted to travel
business
class.
Fact 1: still on spirit
Fact 2: still no kids
Fact 3: your parents
come to live with you
because the gay one
has his shit together
Fact 4: spirit has never
had a crash.
Fact 5: Join my yoga
club. I'm still having a
good time. The yoga
works!
in imagestrongerme and drmvoiceandyoga
Women's Flistory Month
strongerme Celebrating Women's History Month: Dr.
Madeline Miskie's Story of Resilience & Passion...
Women's Flistory Month
strongerme Celebrating Women's History Month: Dr.
Madeline Miskie's Story of Resilience & Passion...
cheering for @seantoland_ @misfit.yogis @markrobberds
in imageCHEERING FOR ANYONE
cheering for @seantoland_ @misfit.yogis @markrobberds
LOOK INSIDE AND
cheering for @seantoland_ @misfit.yogis @markrobberds
cheering for @seantoland_ @misfit.yogis @markrobberds
LOOK INSIDE AND
cheering for @seantoland_ @misfit.yogis @markrobberds
Mindful Movements and unexpected reactions. Link to full video in bio. Wanna chat about your practice? Reach out for some coaching.
in imageINHALING AND EXHALING WITH THE JAPA,
TO SOMETHING THAT'S QUITE SIMPLE.
THIS IS REALLY, REALLY GREAT,
TO SOMETHING THAT'S QUITE SIMPLE.
THIS IS REALLY, REALLY GREAT,
so, like, beware of politics masquerading as spirituality
in imageHOW WE CAN ERADICATE OUR IGNORANCE,
so, like, beware of politics masquerading as spirituality
IT'S BY GETTING OUR JEWEL OF PERCEPTION
so, like, beware of politics masquerading as spirituality
so, like, beware of politics masquerading as spirituality
IT'S BY GETTING OUR JEWEL OF PERCEPTION
so, like, beware of politics masquerading as spirituality
Yoga is inherently political if you are in a society where people are oppressed.
liberation is political.
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.
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.
The bigger picture: everything’s interconnected. Get into it.
in imagePLACE IN THE LARGER
IMPROVING YOUR YOGA
COMMUNITY UNDERSTANDING CREATES SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENTS. TOGETHER.
IMPROVING YOUR YOGA
COMMUNITY UNDERSTANDING CREATES SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENTS. TOGETHER.
me in the comments reminding folks they can disregard the opinions of the people who fell down the yoga to Q Anon pipeline.
Belief Systems and Limitations
in imageLIMITATIONS.
OUR ACTIONS CREATE
OUR ACTIONS CREATE
Starting with Simple Observation
in imageBEGINS WITH SIMPLE
Exploring Breath and Tension
in imageOBSERVE YOUR
WATCH YOUR INTERNAL
WATCH YOUR INTERNAL
Ashtanga yoga offers us a lifetime of good use. You’re gonna change and so should it. If you want some help adapting
in imageCONCESSIONS, BUT
PRACTICE TO BE MORE
PRACTICE TO BE MORE
in imageOBSERVE YOUR
WATCH YOUR INTERNAL
WATCH YOUR INTERNAL
Ashtanga yoga needs to be compelling to beginners— and not just athletic beginners.
in imageLITTLE BIT MORE
THE FULL PRIMARY
THE FULL PRIMARY
I hate the reputation Ashtanga gets for being so crazy hard. I don’t think that’s one of its Hallmark’s.
in imageMICHAEL JOEL HALL
IDEA THAT ASHTANGIS
TAKE A LEAD
IDEA THAT ASHTANGIS
TAKE A LEAD
So much weird gatekeeping in the classical yoga world. Stupid.
in imageLIKE, PUSH THROUGH
Make Ashtanga inviting for beginners. TOO HARD FOR
TO INVITE PEOPLE IN
Make Ashtanga inviting for beginners. TOO HARD FOR
TO INVITE PEOPLE IN
Yoga Teachers! What are you making?!
in imageyou offer and
is, and it is at.
out and get other
is, and it is at.
out and get other
Negotiating a Revenue Sharing Model.
in imageenough to provide
to incentivize
you want.
to incentivize
you want.
Practice fundamentally must meet us where we are. Do you need some help finding flexibility in your system?
in imageMEET US WHERE WE
PRACTITIONERS AND
PRACTITIONERS AND
bb steps
in imageAnxiety, shake it off of me Somebody's watchin me It's my
Time Constraints are real. An efficacious practice at the 20 minute mark is worth keeping in your back pocket.
in imageCERTAINLY MORE
NINETY MINUTE BOX,
MINDSET IS THE REAL CHALLENGE, THEY ARE DOING, AND
NINETY MINUTE BOX,
MINDSET IS THE REAL CHALLENGE, THEY ARE DOING, AND
improve your back bend
in imageMy first videography class. improve your back bend
that we're trying to block
improve your back bend
that we're trying to block
improve your back bend
Embracing the whole yoga journey.
in imageASHTANGA YOGA ISN'T
ITS ROOTS?
WITHOUT LOSING ITS
ITS ROOTS?
WITHOUT LOSING ITS
I hear an awful lot of practitioners talk about “losing their practice.” It makes me wonder how their practice got so fragile in the first place.
in imagePRACTICE.
Evolving approach keeps practice. PRACTICE IS NOT
Evolving approach keeps practice. PRACTICE IS NOT
If you need to be 10% of better every practice, you’re gonna find yourself sorely disappointed. Enjoy practice for what it is. Reach out if you’ve lost that loving feeling.
in imageEMBODIED PRACTICE.
WANT, YOU HAVE TO
WANT, YOU HAVE TO
Not being able to find a way forward in practice means limited thinking or limited skills.
in imageSCAR, ADJUSTED
THESE ARE NOT
THESE ARE NOT
Most practitioners have more roadblocks with the mental than the physical. Reach out if you wanna talk about your practice.
in imageHAPPENS TO SO MANY
AND FRANKLY, IF
THIS PHYSICAL
AND FRANKLY, IF
THIS PHYSICAL
Body diversity is real and if Ashtanga is being presented only to the lithe, somethings up. If you are looking for someone who can help you with the body that you have learn Ashtanga reach out.
in imageASANA EXISTS TO
HISTORICALLY,
HISTORICALLY,
Nonlinear systems encourage creativity.
in imageIT'S GOT A
BE EXACTLY AS THEY
WE'RE NO LONGER
BE EXACTLY AS THEY
WE'RE NO LONGER
in imageInfrared image of Ha &
Tha bandhas pushing
& pulling blood
37.9°C
36
@simonborgolivier
Tha bandhas pushing
& pulling blood
37.9°C
36
@simonborgolivier
small changes, big impact. thats a hallmark of nonlinearity.
in imageOF NONLINEARITY.
SOMETHING MINOR
SOMETHING MINOR
Why smart people make really dumb decisions. Link to full video in bio. Wanna chat about your practice? Reach out for some coaching.
in imageWHEN WE START MAKING DECISIONS THAT
IT'S BECAUSE SOMETHING'S GOING ON.
IT'S BECAUSE SOMETHING'S GOING ON.
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.
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.
I spy @theyoga.club ‘s own @mikematspace with one of my fave Internet educators— IRL
in imageI spy @theyoga.club 's own @mikematspace with one of my fave Internet educators—IRL
Now, that doesn't change as
I spy @theyoga.club 's own @mikematspace with one of my fave Internet educators—IRL
Now, that doesn't change as
I spy @theyoga.club 's own @mikematspace with one of my fave Internet educators—IRL
Ok, so maybe I guess it *is* a break.
in imageEXPLORE
IRONY OF ME SAYING
IT'S ABOUT FINDING
IRONY OF ME SAYING
IT'S ABOUT FINDING
Practice pratyahara and you're going to get insight into your thoughts and emotions.
in imagePratyahara heightens awareness.
HEIGHTENED
APPRECIATION.
HEIGHTENED
APPRECIATION.
how I feel watching my clips back 😅😅😅
in imageTwo clips with the same energy / how I feel watching my clips back
Two clips with the same energy
how I feel watching my clips back 🤭😊🤭
Two clips with the same energy
how I feel watching my clips back 🤭😊🤭
Think bigger than your immediate self.
in imageINDICATION THAT YOU
Student Teacher Dynamics in 2025.
in imageMICHAEL JOEL HALL
2025, IT EXISTS
SEQUENCING OR
IS GONNA BALANCE
2025, IT EXISTS
SEQUENCING OR
IS GONNA BALANCE
the yoga to QAnon pipeline was real
in imageHow New Age Women
Turned Right
NEWYORK
LOVE,
IS IN
AND
L
RECEII
EVER)
GIVER
DIANG
LOV
@nymag
the yoga to QAnon
pipeline was real
Turned Right
NEWYORK
LOVE,
IS IN
AND
L
RECEII
EVER)
GIVER
DIANG
LOV
@nymag
the yoga to QAnon
pipeline was real
Groupthink totally wrecks creativity. That’s dangerous for creatives. I work with a lot of creatives— Reach out if you want some coaching to help you with your creativity. Find the full video on YouTube
in imageDIFFERENT MEANS, AND IT IS NECESSARY
WHEN WE'RE WITHIN A TIME DOMAIN OR
TIME TAKEN, AND MENTAL SHORTCUTS CAN
WHEN WE'RE WITHIN A TIME DOMAIN OR
TIME TAKEN, AND MENTAL SHORTCUTS CAN
A teacher's pedagogical practice is as important as their personal practice.
in imageTeaching art involves adaptability and communication. COMMUNICATE, AND
Teaching art involves adaptability and communication. IS AS ESSENTIAL AS
Teaching art involves adaptability and communication. IS AS ESSENTIAL AS
Continuing vocational education is so important for Ashtanga Yoga teachers.
in imageYOU GET, THROUGH
SELF INQUIRY.
SELF INQUIRY.
We're more connected than many realize. Be careful not to get bogged down in the muck of celebrity.
in imageMICHAEL JOEL HALL
Ashtanga Yoga Teacher, Shala Director, and Founder
SPACE, FOCUSING ON
COMMUNITY ISN'T
Ashtanga Yoga Teacher, Shala Director, and Founder
SPACE, FOCUSING ON
COMMUNITY ISN'T
Get real. No space can be a safe spaces for all people. But we can have safe spaces. Read the room.
in imageABOUT WHAT THE
ASHTANGA'S FUTURE
ASHTANGA'S FUTURE
Striking a balance.
in imageBalance de b... CONTINUITY, BUT
YOUR NEEDS WHILE
YOUR NEEDS WHILE
some backbending ideas for your practice.
Select postures from 2nd 1/2 of 2nd series
w/ a chair
w/ a chair
Learning Ashtanga yoga involves empowerment, not passive absorption
in imageEMPOWERED TO ASK
NOT ABOUT REJECTING
NOT ABOUT REJECTING
I started working extensively with props in 2007 or so. Thats almost 20 years ago, now! There was a time when they were quite taboo in ashtanga circles for some reason. This is from my dear iyengar yoga teacher ian’s @ian_goa_yoga shala. He’s been at this more than 50 years and is one of my deepest inspirations. He is so far, but this love letter helps.
in imagemichaeljoelhall
looking for iyengar yoga in the DMV?
check out @532yoga on sunday mornings!
check out @532yoga on sunday mornings!
Blind obedience? No thanks.
in imageIT'S FRAGILE.
1418 is really special—me, @southblock and @theyoga.club
I love my neighbor.
Not all “community” joints are actually values driven.
This one really is. We’re lucky to have them.
I love my neighbor.
Not all “community” joints are actually values driven.
This one really is. We’re lucky to have them.
in image1418 is really special—me, @southblock and @theyoga.club
I love my neighbor.
Not all "community" joints are actually values driven.
This one really is. We're lucky to have them.
I love my neighbor.
Not all "community" joints are actually values driven.
This one really is. We're lucky to have them.
Yoga is meant to create a greater awareness of the totality of human experience – – and that means all the joy and the sorrow along the way. But I know for sure, when I’m practicing Yoga, I feel better— it reminds me I’m alive.
There was a time when I practiced Ashtanga yoga and I had a real idea of getting ahead— more poses, prettier, stronger. But as many of you know, ive had major challenges along the way—body and mind. But my spirit… I noticed that when my feelings around practices moved towards sorrow or frustration, a friction would arise. Sometimes you just have to watch yourself get hot, ya know? Its so important not to flinch or look away from your feelings! Periods of difficulty or ‘stink’ are just inherent to pursuing ambition.
The frustration I experienced within my yoga practice is of what I think I want my practice to be, and it has a way of stealing the joy from whatever my practice is. Youve heard these things before.
Once youve seen it, the way that our reactions dont align with our espoused beliefs— and appreciating the humanity in it - it takes hypeocict and turns it into levity— its FUNNY to be so bent out of shape about something so full of joy.
Healthy ambition must exist in the realm of non harming, and so when our desires for advancement bring us suffering, we must know it isn’t just about advancement— be ause a real yoga is equimonious. No, it’s about fear of death and the reality of dying before i get some brass ring (or perpetually moving goalpost).
But like I said, once youve seen see it, you cant unsee it.
And, ya know, im still having fun.
And when I’m not, I say something like “try to have a good time before ya die, wouldnt ya, hall?”
There was a time when I practiced Ashtanga yoga and I had a real idea of getting ahead— more poses, prettier, stronger. But as many of you know, ive had major challenges along the way—body and mind. But my spirit… I noticed that when my feelings around practices moved towards sorrow or frustration, a friction would arise. Sometimes you just have to watch yourself get hot, ya know? Its so important not to flinch or look away from your feelings! Periods of difficulty or ‘stink’ are just inherent to pursuing ambition.
The frustration I experienced within my yoga practice is of what I think I want my practice to be, and it has a way of stealing the joy from whatever my practice is. Youve heard these things before.
Once youve seen it, the way that our reactions dont align with our espoused beliefs— and appreciating the humanity in it - it takes hypeocict and turns it into levity— its FUNNY to be so bent out of shape about something so full of joy.
Healthy ambition must exist in the realm of non harming, and so when our desires for advancement bring us suffering, we must know it isn’t just about advancement— be ause a real yoga is equimonious. No, it’s about fear of death and the reality of dying before i get some brass ring (or perpetually moving goalpost).
But like I said, once youve seen see it, you cant unsee it.
And, ya know, im still having fun.
And when I’m not, I say something like “try to have a good time before ya die, wouldnt ya, hall?”
unbelievably proud
of @theyoga.club community
of @theyoga.club community
in image"The plants are telling you
the story." AGNR researcher
Kate Tully contributes to
new CBS documentary
@umd_agnr
unbelievably proud
of Stheyoga.club
community
the story." AGNR researcher
Kate Tully contributes to
new CBS documentary
@umd_agnr
unbelievably proud
of Stheyoga.club
community
I love
the yoga club
lighting
the yoga club
lighting
in imageIlove
the yoga club
lighting
the yoga club
lighting
brilliant stuff by dr miskie
in imageof somehow being wrong when
FEAR and its effects on the VOICE...
brilliant stuff by dr miskie
So, what I've shifted to over
FEAR and its effects on the VOICE...
brilliant stuff by dr miskie
The only thing that I really
FEAR and its effects on the VOICE...
brilliant stuff by dr miskie
FEAR and its effects on the VOICE...
brilliant stuff by dr miskie
So, what I've shifted to over
FEAR and its effects on the VOICE...
brilliant stuff by dr miskie
The only thing that I really
FEAR and its effects on the VOICE...
brilliant stuff by dr miskie
h/t: @magiccityyogi
in imageGod Spoke Today
God spoke today in flowers,
and I, who was waiting on words,
almost missed the conversation.
Ingrid Goff-Maidoff
@poetryisnotaluxury
h/t: @magiccityyogi
God spoke today in flowers,
and I, who was waiting on words,
almost missed the conversation.
Ingrid Goff-Maidoff
@poetryisnotaluxury
h/t: @magiccityyogi
hatha yoga heals ashtanga yoga liberates
david = 🐐
in imagethere's a tiny slope there
spine is also as part of the
and let the pelvis kindof
spine is also as part of the
and let the pelvis kindof
Resistance bands are great for end-range strength training, and this can be especially beneficial for Ashtanga Yoga asana practice—here’s the “why” in both anatomy and Ashtanga terms:
1. Why resistance bands work for end-range strength
Resistance bands provide what’s called variable resistance: the further you stretch them, the more resistance they provide. This makes them perfect for training end-range strength—that’s the strength required when your muscles are either fully lengthened or fully shortened. Think of the top of a backbend, the deepest point in Supta Kurmasana, or holding your leg behind your head: these are all end-range positions.
Unlike free weights, bands make it harder as you move deeper into the range, which is the opposite of most real-life strength patterns (where you tend to be weakest at the extremes). So by training at those extremes with resistance bands, you’re preparing your muscles and joints to be strong, stable, and supported in yoga’s most demanding positions.
2. Why that’s good for Ashtanga yoga
In Ashtanga, especially the Intermediate Series and beyond, we are constantly exploring the limits of flexibility and control. But:
• Flexibility without strength is like stretching a rubber band with no tension—it’ll snap or sag.
• End-range strength helps prevent injury by supporting joints in vulnerable positions—like Kapotasana or Karandavasana.
• It also helps balance the nervous system’s stretch reflex. If your nervous system doesn’t trust you to be strong at end-range, it will limit your flexibility. But when it feels you’re strong and stable, it lets you go deeper—safely.
3. Systems Thinking
From a systems view, resistance bands act as an elegant feedback mechanism. They amplify the demand precisely when the system (your body) is most vulnerable—end-range. By strengthening the feedback loop between mobility, control, and proprioception, bands help shift the whole system (your practice) toward resilient adaptability—aka fewer injuries and deeper poses with less drama.
1. Why resistance bands work for end-range strength
Resistance bands provide what’s called variable resistance: the further you stretch them, the more resistance they provide. This makes them perfect for training end-range strength—that’s the strength required when your muscles are either fully lengthened or fully shortened. Think of the top of a backbend, the deepest point in Supta Kurmasana, or holding your leg behind your head: these are all end-range positions.
Unlike free weights, bands make it harder as you move deeper into the range, which is the opposite of most real-life strength patterns (where you tend to be weakest at the extremes). So by training at those extremes with resistance bands, you’re preparing your muscles and joints to be strong, stable, and supported in yoga’s most demanding positions.
2. Why that’s good for Ashtanga yoga
In Ashtanga, especially the Intermediate Series and beyond, we are constantly exploring the limits of flexibility and control. But:
• Flexibility without strength is like stretching a rubber band with no tension—it’ll snap or sag.
• End-range strength helps prevent injury by supporting joints in vulnerable positions—like Kapotasana or Karandavasana.
• It also helps balance the nervous system’s stretch reflex. If your nervous system doesn’t trust you to be strong at end-range, it will limit your flexibility. But when it feels you’re strong and stable, it lets you go deeper—safely.
3. Systems Thinking
From a systems view, resistance bands act as an elegant feedback mechanism. They amplify the demand precisely when the system (your body) is most vulnerable—end-range. By strengthening the feedback loop between mobility, control, and proprioception, bands help shift the whole system (your practice) toward resilient adaptability—aka fewer injuries and deeper poses with less drama.
in imagethey provide adaptive resistance, allowing an individual to move safely tgrough a full range of motion
They are really great for proprioception and intrinsic stability.
They are really great for proprioception and intrinsic stability.
in imagethey provide adaptive resistance, allowing an individual to move safely tgrough a full range of motion
They are really great for proprioception and intrinsic stability.
They are really great for proprioception and intrinsic stability.
morgans so good
in imagemorgans so good
ashtanganurse
Practicing yoga is a privilege.
So is choosing to vaccinate your kids... more
®
IS YOGA JUST A
PERSOI '.
PRACTICE?
know what you're thinking.
4 likes • 1 reply
ashtanganurse
Practicing yoga is a privilege.
So is choosing to vaccinate your kids... more
®
IS YOGA JUST A
PERSOI '.
PRACTICE?
know what you're thinking.
4 likes • 1 reply
fyi: what I teach
in imagefyi: what I teach
Not a class. A practice.
What is Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga?
Not a class. A practice.
What is Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga?
community amor
in imageJUEVES
MYSORE MORNING
@mysore_shala14
GRACIAS POR CADA DÍA QUE INICIAMOS JUNTXS 💚
community amor
JUEVES MYSORE MORNING @mysorе_chula14 GRACIAS POR CADA DÍA QUE INICIAMOS JUNTXS 💚 community amor
MYSORE MORNING
@mysore_shala14
GRACIAS POR CADA DÍA QUE INICIAMOS JUNTXS 💚
community amor
JUEVES MYSORE MORNING @mysorе_chula14 GRACIAS POR CADA DÍA QUE INICIAMOS JUNTXS 💚 community amor
❤️❤️ meanwhile, at the yoga club
in imageA couple of good reps in at The Yoga Club
meanwhile, at the yoga club ❤️❤️
meanwhile, at the yoga club ❤️❤️
meanwhile, at the yoga club ❤️❤️
meanwhile, at the yoga club ❤️❤️
Resistance Training for Ashtanga:
I follow a push/pull/leg split, 3/on 1/off. I dont follow a neat m/w/f 7 day a week schedule— I rotate as best I can.
I like to lift and then practice shortly after, or I try to practice early and lift later (8 hours later, in fact).
When I’m short on time, I do a full body work out 2-3x a week, alternating between compound pushing and pulling movements.
If I’m in a hypertrophy (mass building) phase, im lifting for about an hour. If I’m in a maintenance phase, its about 30 minutes. If i need an attitude adjustment, its a group class.
I follow a push/pull/leg split, 3/on 1/off. I dont follow a neat m/w/f 7 day a week schedule— I rotate as best I can.
I like to lift and then practice shortly after, or I try to practice early and lift later (8 hours later, in fact).
When I’m short on time, I do a full body work out 2-3x a week, alternating between compound pushing and pulling movements.
If I’m in a hypertrophy (mass building) phase, im lifting for about an hour. If I’m in a maintenance phase, its about 30 minutes. If i need an attitude adjustment, its a group class.
in imagePullup
Bench Press
RDL
Bench Press
RDL
in imageI didn't believe
yoga would fix my
posture.
But I stand
corrected.
yogajala.
@mindtnemat
yoga would fix my
posture.
But I stand
corrected.
yogajala.
@mindtnemat
in imagewhy I go to the gym to
shala.
shala.
Yoga practice is like playing a musical instrument.
We must practice for both skill and pleasure.
At first its scales, and then its compositions. Soon, we create our own music. We iterate and iterate. We remix. Freedom comes through experience and discipline.
At some point we burn the method. We destroy the reference. The joy in creation must be met in equal parts by destruction for the dance to be sustained. And this is how a purposeful life becomes art.
Only from formlessness can a form be created.
We must practice for both skill and pleasure.
At first its scales, and then its compositions. Soon, we create our own music. We iterate and iterate. We remix. Freedom comes through experience and discipline.
At some point we burn the method. We destroy the reference. The joy in creation must be met in equal parts by destruction for the dance to be sustained. And this is how a purposeful life becomes art.
Only from formlessness can a form be created.
in imageIt is this ability to relate
part of the process of karma
creation mindset where we are
part of the process of karma
creation mindset where we are
Yoga practice builds resilience— something i really encourage.
I’m sort of known for my resilience, which is a nice way of saying I’ve seen some sh*t and seem fairly well adjusted. I even got to write about resilience during times of political unrest for @yogajournal . I’m also known as well as my transparent, explicit approach to yoga and life.
I’m full of nonsense and laughter— with high concienciousness, and low agreeability. I help people understand yoga by becoming a team player— again, with high conscienciousness and low agreeability 😅😅 Independent thinkers who can be team players are like improv triple threats.
The secret to life is “Yes, and.”
Here’s my CV For the last half decade, including the trauma porn.
2020 Covid + RIP Brother & Sister-in-Law + first Functional Ashtanga training + Parents in lockdown in Mexico after moving w/brother & him dying.
2021 Opened @theyoga.club (omg no way)
2022 Evolved functional Ashtanga to Ashtanga Tech with Cory & Heather
+ Hit by car while biking + broken wrist and rib
2023 Turned 40
+ Hit by bicyclist and broken ankle and reinjured rib + huge success with peer support initiatives
2024 Quit Drinking and kept on rehabbing + changed my body radically (again) + took on the neighborhoods drug problems
2025 Infinite Possibilities
I’m the friendly neighborhood ashtanga yoga teacher, whose mysore program has been going at it uninterruptedly since 2013.
I struggle to marry commerce and art in this format, so do bear with the high brow-low brow of it. I have a lot of opinions after doing this for 12 Years, and I hope to cast a wide net. .
I’m sort of known for my resilience, which is a nice way of saying I’ve seen some sh*t and seem fairly well adjusted. I even got to write about resilience during times of political unrest for @yogajournal . I’m also known as well as my transparent, explicit approach to yoga and life.
I’m full of nonsense and laughter— with high concienciousness, and low agreeability. I help people understand yoga by becoming a team player— again, with high conscienciousness and low agreeability 😅😅 Independent thinkers who can be team players are like improv triple threats.
The secret to life is “Yes, and.”
Here’s my CV For the last half decade, including the trauma porn.
2020 Covid + RIP Brother & Sister-in-Law + first Functional Ashtanga training + Parents in lockdown in Mexico after moving w/brother & him dying.
2021 Opened @theyoga.club (omg no way)
2022 Evolved functional Ashtanga to Ashtanga Tech with Cory & Heather
+ Hit by car while biking + broken wrist and rib
2023 Turned 40
+ Hit by bicyclist and broken ankle and reinjured rib + huge success with peer support initiatives
2024 Quit Drinking and kept on rehabbing + changed my body radically (again) + took on the neighborhoods drug problems
2025 Infinite Possibilities
I’m the friendly neighborhood ashtanga yoga teacher, whose mysore program has been going at it uninterruptedly since 2013.
I struggle to marry commerce and art in this format, so do bear with the high brow-low brow of it. I have a lot of opinions after doing this for 12 Years, and I hope to cast a wide net. .
in image2023 Turned 40
+ Hit by bicyclist / broken ankle / reinjured rib
2024 Quit Drinking + kept on my yoga + took some responsibility
+ Hit by bicyclist / broken ankle / reinjured rib
2024 Quit Drinking + kept on my yoga + took some responsibility
Pain can wake us up. It means its time to adjust. But how?
The Yoga of Synthesis is a holistic approach to spiritual practice that integrates the four major yogic paths—Karma Yoga (selfless service), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Jnana Yoga (knowledge), and Raja Yoga (meditation and mind control)—to develop all aspects of the practitioner: body, heart, intellect, and soul. Popularized by Swami Sivananda, it acknowledges that most individuals benefit from a balanced cultivation of these diverse faculties rather than an exclusive focus on one path.
In the context of Ashtanga Yoga, this synthesis naturally unfolds through the eight limbs outlined by Patanjali, where physical practice (asana), ethical living (yama and niyama), breath work (pranayama), and meditative absorption (dhyana and samadhi) together mirror this integrative approach.
It’s systems thinking in spiritual form: each element supports and influences the others, creating a dynamic interplay that guides the practitioner toward self-realization.
The Yoga of Synthesis is a holistic approach to spiritual practice that integrates the four major yogic paths—Karma Yoga (selfless service), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Jnana Yoga (knowledge), and Raja Yoga (meditation and mind control)—to develop all aspects of the practitioner: body, heart, intellect, and soul. Popularized by Swami Sivananda, it acknowledges that most individuals benefit from a balanced cultivation of these diverse faculties rather than an exclusive focus on one path.
In the context of Ashtanga Yoga, this synthesis naturally unfolds through the eight limbs outlined by Patanjali, where physical practice (asana), ethical living (yama and niyama), breath work (pranayama), and meditative absorption (dhyana and samadhi) together mirror this integrative approach.
It’s systems thinking in spiritual form: each element supports and influences the others, creating a dynamic interplay that guides the practitioner toward self-realization.
in imageor the not self or the
the world.
The natural entropy that is
the world.
The natural entropy that is
Colonizers gonna colonize.
Oppressors going to oppress.
Its your body, its your choice.
These aphorisms help push back against self-reinforcing loops of domination—social, cultural, political, even spiritual. It’s a systems insight dressed in streetwise wisdom. Could I be any more explicit? Hello!
In Systems Thinking, Donella Meadows would call this a reinforcing feedback loop—where the outputs of a system feed back into it and amplify its behavior. Oppression, like colonization, is often maintained not by a single decision or act, but by persistent patterns, institutions, and narratives that replicate themselves over time.
This is why practices like Ashtanga Yoga can be quietly revolutionary. When practiced with awareness, they cultivate true inner freedom—and the ability to see, question, and ultimately disrupt these harmful loops. But yoga divorced from its roots—or co-opted by the very systems of oppression it seeks to dissolve—can also become just another tool of colonization. Which is why the how and why of practice matter as much as the what.
Discipline matters, but independent thinking, high conscientiousness and empowered agency should be the emergent properties from practice.
In reclaiming bodily autonomy, ethical clarity, and collective responsibility, you’re not just doing yoga—you’re decolonizing it.
Oppressors going to oppress.
Its your body, its your choice.
These aphorisms help push back against self-reinforcing loops of domination—social, cultural, political, even spiritual. It’s a systems insight dressed in streetwise wisdom. Could I be any more explicit? Hello!
In Systems Thinking, Donella Meadows would call this a reinforcing feedback loop—where the outputs of a system feed back into it and amplify its behavior. Oppression, like colonization, is often maintained not by a single decision or act, but by persistent patterns, institutions, and narratives that replicate themselves over time.
This is why practices like Ashtanga Yoga can be quietly revolutionary. When practiced with awareness, they cultivate true inner freedom—and the ability to see, question, and ultimately disrupt these harmful loops. But yoga divorced from its roots—or co-opted by the very systems of oppression it seeks to dissolve—can also become just another tool of colonization. Which is why the how and why of practice matter as much as the what.
Discipline matters, but independent thinking, high conscientiousness and empowered agency should be the emergent properties from practice.
In reclaiming bodily autonomy, ethical clarity, and collective responsibility, you’re not just doing yoga—you’re decolonizing it.
Mysore, 2015
in imageMysore, 2015
agcu
agcu
Curiosity may have killed the cat, but satisfaction brought him back.
Inquiry and curiosity are powerful allies in reckoning with fear and helplessness.
These feelings are a tell that the prefrontal cortex has been impacted. This part of the brain has been demonstrated to be an important structure for executive functions.
No wonder we feel stuck. But feelings aren’t facts. If we can notice this stuff, we can start breaking the cycle by using our techniques. Thats the yoga.
So, be curious.
In love, in life, in your practices.
Inquiry and curiosity are powerful allies in reckoning with fear and helplessness.
These feelings are a tell that the prefrontal cortex has been impacted. This part of the brain has been demonstrated to be an important structure for executive functions.
No wonder we feel stuck. But feelings aren’t facts. If we can notice this stuff, we can start breaking the cycle by using our techniques. Thats the yoga.
So, be curious.
In love, in life, in your practices.
in imageCuriosity may have killed the cat but it is the thing that keeps me p
I am curious about my body and my mind and my spirit. And
I am curious about my body and my mind and my spirit. And
also 2015 xoxo @davidgarriguesyoga
in imagealso 2015
хохо Gdavidgarriguesyoga
хохо Gdavidgarriguesyoga
in imageBKS Iyengar at 59 years old
BKS Iyengar: The strength of the nerves created with regular and correct practice of backbends is so enormous...
BKS Iyengar at 59 years old
BKS Iyengar: that when, by the grace of God, the light of Spirit dawns...
BKS Iyengar: The strength of the nerves created with regular and correct practice of backbends is so enormous...
BKS Iyengar at 59 years old
BKS Iyengar: that when, by the grace of God, the light of Spirit dawns...
in imageYoga & Gound Healing
with Emma Gaal
July 12. 7:45-8:45 am. Dog Daze Social Club
@elevateeverythingdc
with Emma Gaal
July 12. 7:45-8:45 am. Dog Daze Social Club
@elevateeverythingdc
so much recipricol joy in watching my peoples journies
sustaining loving kindness precious bellweather, my daily crucible bringing honor
to my teachers
to my teachers
in imagesustaining loving kindness
bringing honor to my teachers
precious bellweather, my daily crucible
bringing honor to my teachers
precious bellweather, my daily crucible
afternoon ashtanga vinyasa
T-WTh 5:30
practice assisting weekend
(july 26-27)
T-WTh 5:30
practice assisting weekend
(july 26-27)
in imageaiternoon ashtanga
vinyasa
T-WTh 5:30
practice assisting
weekend
(july 26-27)
в
See the schedule
vinyasa
T-WTh 5:30
practice assisting
weekend
(july 26-27)
в
See the schedule
Okay, let’s talk about Ashtanga yoga, or rather, what it’s become in the hands of the market.
I’ve often spoken about systems and how they behave, and what I see happening with Ashtanga, particularly on platforms like Instagram, is a classic example of a distortion of purpose within a system.
We have a practice, Ashtanga, that by its very nature demands discipline, patience, and internal focus – tools for transformation and self-realization. It’s designed to help us understand ourselves and regulate our nervous systems, to feel better from the inside out.
Yet, what we often see is a system, driven by commercial imperatives, that reduces it to a “visual commodity.” Suddenly, it’s about aesthetics, hyperflexible bodies, and “bite-sized” content.
This isn’t the whole picture, is it? It’s a feedback loop where what’s easily digestible and visually appealing gets amplified, even if it sacrifices the true essence.
Even I, in my own work, might find myself in a situation where I’m participating in the very system I critique, currently running an ad and using my six-pack (fleeting though she may be) as a vehicle for presenting information to get people into yoga and meditation.
That’s the challenge of working within complex systems – there’s often a degree of complicity just by being a part of them. But the critical point is to always remember the true goal of the system.
Ashtanga, despite these external pressures and misrepresentations, persists. Why? Because, as with any truly effective system, it works. It provides real self-love and deep understanding for those willing to commit and dig deeper. It’s a powerful reminder that while external pressures can distort and simplify, the underlying purpose and effectiveness of a well-designed system can still endure for those who seek its authentic benefits.
Come practice.
I’ve often spoken about systems and how they behave, and what I see happening with Ashtanga, particularly on platforms like Instagram, is a classic example of a distortion of purpose within a system.
We have a practice, Ashtanga, that by its very nature demands discipline, patience, and internal focus – tools for transformation and self-realization. It’s designed to help us understand ourselves and regulate our nervous systems, to feel better from the inside out.
Yet, what we often see is a system, driven by commercial imperatives, that reduces it to a “visual commodity.” Suddenly, it’s about aesthetics, hyperflexible bodies, and “bite-sized” content.
This isn’t the whole picture, is it? It’s a feedback loop where what’s easily digestible and visually appealing gets amplified, even if it sacrifices the true essence.
Even I, in my own work, might find myself in a situation where I’m participating in the very system I critique, currently running an ad and using my six-pack (fleeting though she may be) as a vehicle for presenting information to get people into yoga and meditation.
That’s the challenge of working within complex systems – there’s often a degree of complicity just by being a part of them. But the critical point is to always remember the true goal of the system.
Ashtanga, despite these external pressures and misrepresentations, persists. Why? Because, as with any truly effective system, it works. It provides real self-love and deep understanding for those willing to commit and dig deeper. It’s a powerful reminder that while external pressures can distort and simplify, the underlying purpose and effectiveness of a well-designed system can still endure for those who seek its authentic benefits.
Come practice.
in imageEMPHASIZING
know, POSES
EMBRACE ITS
know, POSES
EMBRACE ITS
If you can quit ashtanga, you never started.
This implies that the asana and sequence are what make it authentic— get a grip. Authenticity in Ashtanga Yoga isn’t owned by a family’s sequence.
This is an indigenous insight practice.
It’s a living system.
Held up by people all over the world.
Taught in basements, bedrooms, clubs, and community halls.
Passed down not just by bloodline, but by commitment.
Yes—social media can flatten it, can turn philosophy into posture.
But it can also connect, educate, expand access.
It’s not the platform.
It’s how we use it.
I don’t have to code switch to belong here.
Queer, white, scrappy, tall, vain, neurospicy—I practice.
That’s the thread.
Study. Integrity. Self-reflection. Daily tools.
They make us easier to be around.
That’s the real flex.
And that’s what keeps Ashtanga alive.
#ashtangayoga #authenticyoga #mysorestyle #livingtradition #yogaphilosophy #yogaispractice #systemsnotstyles
This implies that the asana and sequence are what make it authentic— get a grip. Authenticity in Ashtanga Yoga isn’t owned by a family’s sequence.
This is an indigenous insight practice.
It’s a living system.
Held up by people all over the world.
Taught in basements, bedrooms, clubs, and community halls.
Passed down not just by bloodline, but by commitment.
Yes—social media can flatten it, can turn philosophy into posture.
But it can also connect, educate, expand access.
It’s not the platform.
It’s how we use it.
I don’t have to code switch to belong here.
Queer, white, scrappy, tall, vain, neurospicy—I practice.
That’s the thread.
Study. Integrity. Self-reflection. Daily tools.
They make us easier to be around.
That’s the real flex.
And that’s what keeps Ashtanga alive.
#ashtangayoga #authenticyoga #mysorestyle #livingtradition #yogaphilosophy #yogaispractice #systemsnotstyles
in imageCultural resilience is a positive indicator.
IT'S, WHEN I USE
WHO LOOKS LIKE ME
IT'S, WHEN I USE
WHO LOOKS LIKE ME
in imageAshtanga
Vinyasa:
Tuesday-
Wednesday-
Thursday
5:15-6:30p
Assisting
Weekend:
July 26-27
@michaeljoelhall
Vinyasa:
Tuesday-
Wednesday-
Thursday
5:15-6:30p
Assisting
Weekend:
July 26-27
@michaeljoelhall
yoga at 5:15
@theyoga.club
@theyoga.club
in imageyoga at 5:15
Stheyoga.club
Stheyoga.club
WTF is an Ashtanga Influencer?
The internet is creating celebrities instead of role models— and it sounds more Bravo Housewife than it does richard alpert at harvard.
Being visible doesn’t mean being knowledgable.
Having followers doesn’t mean having integrity.
And floating in handstand doesn’t make you a leader.
Influence isn’t wisdom.
Popularity isn’t pedagogy.
Pretty doesn’t equal prepared.
Teaching Ashtanga—really teaching it—takes time, mentorship, oversight, and a commitment to serve.
Not just perform.
And definitely not to posture. How much “peer support” is really a marketing/influence tactic?
We’ve already seen what happens when charisma outpaces ethics. Look around. They physical embodiments of this read are taking money out if the hands of local economies and putting it in their own. Its Ashtanga Amyway, and if youre buying, your supplying. Ask any one of my chilean or argentinian ashtanga friends. Theyll tell you how global white teachers fuck their marketplace.
Lets hear it for one more sexual impropriety!
Ashtanga Yoga is a wisdom tradition.
A system of tools to help you show up better, live better, lead better.
We don’t need more influencers.
We need better leaders.
Support your local Ashtanga shala.
#ashtangayoga #yogaintegrity #ethicsinleadership #notjustasana #ashtangawisdom #yogaisasystem #truthmatters
The internet is creating celebrities instead of role models— and it sounds more Bravo Housewife than it does richard alpert at harvard.
Being visible doesn’t mean being knowledgable.
Having followers doesn’t mean having integrity.
And floating in handstand doesn’t make you a leader.
Influence isn’t wisdom.
Popularity isn’t pedagogy.
Pretty doesn’t equal prepared.
Teaching Ashtanga—really teaching it—takes time, mentorship, oversight, and a commitment to serve.
Not just perform.
And definitely not to posture. How much “peer support” is really a marketing/influence tactic?
We’ve already seen what happens when charisma outpaces ethics. Look around. They physical embodiments of this read are taking money out if the hands of local economies and putting it in their own. Its Ashtanga Amyway, and if youre buying, your supplying. Ask any one of my chilean or argentinian ashtanga friends. Theyll tell you how global white teachers fuck their marketplace.
Lets hear it for one more sexual impropriety!
Ashtanga Yoga is a wisdom tradition.
A system of tools to help you show up better, live better, lead better.
We don’t need more influencers.
We need better leaders.
Support your local Ashtanga shala.
#ashtangayoga #yogaintegrity #ethicsinleadership #notjustasana #ashtangawisdom #yogaisasystem #truthmatters
in imageTHREE OR THEY CAN
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
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
love from
my mentor —
I really
appreciate this
my mentor —
I really
appreciate this
in imagedavidgarriguesyoga
If you're in the
Washington DC
area, I recommend
you study with
gmichaeljoelhall
and his amazing
community that
provides equitable
pay
• to all of the
teachers.
GMICHAELJOELHALL
MEMBERSHIP SUPPORTS EQUITABLE COMPENSATION
Home
THE YOGA CLUB
Grown
Yoga
love from
my mentor -
Ireally
appreciąte this
REAL YOGA
REAL PEOPLE
7:30-10:00A
SLIDING SCALE
MEMBERSHIP
MYSORE STYLE
ASHTANGA YOGA
SCIENCE-BACKED
E INDIVIDUALIZED
EFFECTIVE
MORE INFORMATION
@THEYOGA.CLUB
THEYOGA.CLUB/
If you're in the
Washington DC
area, I recommend
you study with
gmichaeljoelhall
and his amazing
community that
provides equitable
pay
• to all of the
teachers.
GMICHAELJOELHALL
MEMBERSHIP SUPPORTS EQUITABLE COMPENSATION
Home
THE YOGA CLUB
Grown
Yoga
love from
my mentor -
Ireally
appreciąte this
REAL YOGA
REAL PEOPLE
7:30-10:00A
SLIDING SCALE
MEMBERSHIP
MYSORE STYLE
ASHTANGA YOGA
SCIENCE-BACKED
E INDIVIDUALIZED
EFFECTIVE
MORE INFORMATION
@THEYOGA.CLUB
THEYOGA.CLUB/
Chasing perfect alignment in Ashtanga is a trap. The body is not a static structure. It is a living system that changes daily. Fixating on an idealized form can absolutely lead to strain, frustration, and duh injury.
Turning the practice into some sort of like rigid stick that has a sharp edge rather than a dynamic process of growth. Alignment should serve internal balance, not just external aesthetic. Forcing form can cause harm. Alignment should support the body, not push it into shapes. It isn't ready for.
Turning the practice into some sort of like rigid stick that has a sharp edge rather than a dynamic process of growth. Alignment should serve internal balance, not just external aesthetic. Forcing form can cause harm. Alignment should support the body, not push it into shapes. It isn't ready for.
in imageMICHAEL JOEL HALL
Ashtanga Yoga Teacher, Shala Director, and Founder
CHASING PERFECT
FRUSTRATION, AND,
EXTERNAL AESTHETIC.
Ashtanga Yoga Teacher, Shala Director, and Founder
CHASING PERFECT
FRUSTRATION, AND,
EXTERNAL AESTHETIC.
in imageDaily dose of misfit medicine 💊
Secret Yoga Club
Mysore magic thanks to @michaeljoelhall @theyoga.club
Just what jefe needed after a 6hr flight and 4hrs of sleep 💀
Secret Yoga Club
Mysore magic thanks to @michaeljoelhall @theyoga.club
Just what jefe needed after a 6hr flight and 4hrs of sleep 💀
Daily dose of misfit medicine 💊
Secret Yoga Club
Mysore magic thanks to @michaeljoelhall @theyoga.club
Just what jefe needed after a 6hr flight and 4hrs of sleep 💀
Secret Yoga Club
Mysore magic thanks to @michaeljoelhall @theyoga.club
Just what jefe needed after a 6hr flight and 4hrs of sleep 💀
Daily dose of misfit medicine 💊
in imageDisinterested husky
Let's rock! (CORE drills)
Thanks @michaeljoelhall for the inspo!
Let's rock! (CORE drills)
Thanks @michaeljoelhall for the inspo!
A peek at my video from Assisting Ashtanga 101– beyond physical adjustments. Catch it on my youtube channel! Link in profile 🙂
in imageThe Importance of Svadhyaya
Assisting is a mirror and it shows you how you show up. Are you pushing? Are you fixing, over identifying with students' success?
Spiritual Assistance Principles
ASSIST WITH INTENTION
Approach assisting as a meaningful act of spiritual support.
FOCUS ON YAMA/NIYAMA
Emphasizing ethical disciplines enriches the assistance experience.
TAPAS WITH AHIMSA ON PURPOSE
Non-harming forms the foundation of effective and compassionate and practice assistance. Do it on purpose.
ENCOURAGE SELF-STUDY
Promote svadhyaya to deepen personal understanding in yoga.
Spiritual Assistance Principles
1. ASSIST WITH INTENTION – Approach assisting as a meaningful act of spiritual support.
2. FOCUS ON YAMA/NIYAMA – Emphasizing ethical disciplines enriches the assistance experience.
3. TAPAS WITH AHIMSA ON PURPOSE – Non-harming forms the foundation of effective and compassionate and practice assistance. Do it on purpose.
4. ENCOURAGE SELF-STUDY – Promote svadhyaya to deepen personal understanding in yoga.
5. SURRENDER TO THE PROCESS – Ishvara pranidhana cultivates trust and openness during assis
Assisting is a mirror and it shows you how you show up. Are you pushing? Are you fixing, over identifying with students' success?
Spiritual Assistance Principles
ASSIST WITH INTENTION
Approach assisting as a meaningful act of spiritual support.
FOCUS ON YAMA/NIYAMA
Emphasizing ethical disciplines enriches the assistance experience.
TAPAS WITH AHIMSA ON PURPOSE
Non-harming forms the foundation of effective and compassionate and practice assistance. Do it on purpose.
ENCOURAGE SELF-STUDY
Promote svadhyaya to deepen personal understanding in yoga.
Spiritual Assistance Principles
1. ASSIST WITH INTENTION – Approach assisting as a meaningful act of spiritual support.
2. FOCUS ON YAMA/NIYAMA – Emphasizing ethical disciplines enriches the assistance experience.
3. TAPAS WITH AHIMSA ON PURPOSE – Non-harming forms the foundation of effective and compassionate and practice assistance. Do it on purpose.
4. ENCOURAGE SELF-STUDY – Promote svadhyaya to deepen personal understanding in yoga.
5. SURRENDER TO THE PROCESS – Ishvara pranidhana cultivates trust and openness during assis
@greg.cooke @drmvoiceandyoga
@theyoga.club
@theyoga.club
in imageYOU DID IT!
Madeline Miskie-Jaeger
10 Mile #2975 F 40 to 44
Madeline Miskie-Jaeger completed the Annapolis 10 Mile
Finish Time 2:07:23
12:45 min/mile
3,506th Place out of Overall
1,739th Place F - Gr
236th Place
PRELIMINARY
Greg Cooke
10 Mile #816 M 75 to 79 Kensington M
Greg Cooke completed the Annapolis 10 Mile Run
Finish Time 2:02:30
12:15 min/mile
3,292nd Place out of 4,174 Overall
1,676th Place out of 1,999 M - Gender
2nd Place out of 17 M - 75 to 79
PRELIMINARY
@greg.cooke @drmvoiceandyoga @theyoga.club
Madeline Miskie-Jaeger
10 Mile #2975 F 40 to 44
Madeline Miskie-Jaeger completed the Annapolis 10 Mile
Finish Time 2:07:23
12:45 min/mile
3,506th Place out of Overall
1,739th Place F - Gr
236th Place
PRELIMINARY
Greg Cooke
10 Mile #816 M 75 to 79 Kensington M
Greg Cooke completed the Annapolis 10 Mile Run
Finish Time 2:02:30
12:15 min/mile
3,292nd Place out of 4,174 Overall
1,676th Place out of 1,999 M - Gender
2nd Place out of 17 M - 75 to 79
PRELIMINARY
@greg.cooke @drmvoiceandyoga @theyoga.club
Franklin School- the guy who built that built @theyoga.club — ❤️Adolf Kluss circa the 1880s
in imageFranklin School- the guy who built that built @theyoga.club – ❤️Adolf Kluss circa the 1880s
There was a slide towards authoritarianism inside of Ashtanga yoga communities world wide in the 2010s. It happens. Heres how to look out for it in your community. Catch the whole thing on my youtube.
in imageThe Slide Toward Authoritarianism
Feedback turns into obedience.
risk drifting
and dynamics:
unquestioned
amed as
ion."
Warning: Authoritarianism DIALOGUE DISAPPEARS | Points reframed as [provoc]ation." | Once [one] believes thei[r view is] the truth,
Feedback turns into obedience.
risk drifting
and dynamics:
unquestioned
amed as
ion."
Warning: Authoritarianism DIALOGUE DISAPPEARS | Points reframed as [provoc]ation." | Once [one] believes thei[r view is] the truth,
I love DC.
in imagemy voice of protest because our Bill of Rights is eroding.
We're a city full of valedictorians and if you've made it here after any
We're a city full of valedictorians and if you've made it here after any
re : ashtanga people critiquing asana performance
in imagestrongcamps
J pandora., chillwithme, cødy • interstellar.
You rarely see people who
compete in sports outside
the gym argue over exercise
It's usually those whose only
physical practice is training-
...
That get emotionally triggered
over training systems
It's less the importance of
exercise,
Than it is a void of meaningful
physicality in life
re : ashtanga people
critiquing asana
performance
J pandora., chillwithme, cødy • interstellar.
You rarely see people who
compete in sports outside
the gym argue over exercise
It's usually those whose only
physical practice is training-
...
That get emotionally triggered
over training systems
It's less the importance of
exercise,
Than it is a void of meaningful
physicality in life
re : ashtanga people
critiquing asana
performance
What does it mean to have an internal landscape? Ashtanga emphasizes the inner experience.
More over on my youtube.
More over on my youtube.
in imageInternal Experience in Ashtanga Yoga
• Emphasis on internal experience over external instruction
• Talking vs. Doing
• Understanding through practice
• Emphasis on internal experience over external instruction
• Talking vs. Doing
• Understanding through practice
Yoga is a straightforward path towards liberation from narrowmindedness and the suffering it brings. Some teachers miss the mark— oops— by confusing success in shapes vs an expanded consciousness capable of holding boundless compassion.
A good teacher combats cognitive dissonance and spiritual bypassing by openly discussing advantages AND lamenting the disadvantages inherent in each of us as we take on spiritual practice.
See my whole video “Ashtanga Teacher Qualifications (uh oh!)” on youtube. Link in bio.
A good teacher combats cognitive dissonance and spiritual bypassing by openly discussing advantages AND lamenting the disadvantages inherent in each of us as we take on spiritual practice.
See my whole video “Ashtanga Teacher Qualifications (uh oh!)” on youtube. Link in bio.
in imageUnderstanding Nonlinear Dynamics
Two Models of Teachers
Linear Judgement
Judged by Visible Achievements
Workshops & Certifications
Physical Abilities
Modern
Want to practice longer?
Enjoy it.
Practitioners who grasp non-linear systems can sustain longer and more beneficial practices.
You don't always run into the necessity of deep learning when you're privlidged
Two Models of Teachers
Linear Judgement
Judged by Visible Achievements
Workshops & Certifications
Physical Abilities
Modern
Want to practice longer?
Enjoy it.
Practitioners who grasp non-linear systems can sustain longer and more beneficial practices.
You don't always run into the necessity of deep learning when you're privlidged
when you want your yoga to help you change politics vs when you want your yoga to be politics
in imagePeople not voting on principle because they have the privilege to not be adversely affected by the outcome. when you want your yoga to help you change politics vs when you want your yoga to be politics
One of the most radical things we can do in an economy that commoditizes our attention is to focus on what we want, not what someone else tells us to.
in imagewe can do is to pay attention to what we want to pay attention to and not
around us but it shouldn't get in the way of our capacity to create and to
around us but it shouldn't get in the way of our capacity to create and to
Go!!!
in imageGo!!!
FREE AND ONLINE EVENT
ART + WELLNESS
SEPTEMBER 10, 12-1 PM
Intentional Movement
with Mimi Rieger
@mimiriegeryoga
PIHIILLIIPS
PhillipsCollection.org
FREE AND ONLINE EVENT
ART + WELLNESS
SEPTEMBER 10, 12-1 PM
Intentional Movement
with Mimi Rieger
@mimiriegeryoga
PIHIILLIIPS
PhillipsCollection.org
Suerte de tener a mis amigos. 🌴
dc >> playa
playa >> dc
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
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
Now
thats
a warrior
pose
thats
a warrior
pose
in image@nationalportraitgallery
praxis
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.
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.
in imagejenreneyoga
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.
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.
in imageDecultifying Ashtanga Yoga 🙂
sarahraenelson_bodywork
@michaeljoelhall speaks
to this thought of
decentralizing teachers
much more eloquently
than I
Take a listen
YouTube vid
S
sarahraenelson_bodywork
@michaeljoelhall speaks
to this thought of
decentralizing teachers
much more eloquently
than I
Take a listen
YouTube vid
S
I just love hearing about these kinds of yoga shalas and shifts.
in imagehave been working very hard / I just love hearing about these kinds of yoga shalas and shifts.
I was taught to teach in a / I just love hearing about these kinds of yoga shalas and shifts.
I was taught to teach in a / I just love hearing about these kinds of yoga shalas and shifts.
praxis:
theory in practice
theory in practice
in imageThanks to @michaeljoelhall for the back strengthening prep
praxis: theory in practice
praxis: theory in practice
I’m gonna break down 25 red flags for high pressure groups and colts according to Dr. wong. My hope is to present the concept of a secular, humanist Ashtanga. The full videos on youtube 🙂
in imageBuilding Spaces on Reason, Empathy, and Inclusivity
Dr. Anastasia Somerville Wong's Work
Dr. Anastasia Somerville Wong's Work
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
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
Does your organization support healthy self esteem and a growth mindset… or dependence? Full video on YouTube.
in imageReassures that doubts are normal
Self-Esteem
Supports questioning
-Doubt vs Self-Esteem
Reliance on leaders
PREVA
Self-Esteem
Supports questioning
-Doubt vs Self-Esteem
Reliance on leaders
PREVA
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
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
Red Flags 5! Charismatic Leaders claiming specialness. Did the follower counts or ethno-exoticism get confused for efficacious, long-term practitioner support? More on youtube!
in imageIt's just something I noticed.
As a man of hubris, I appreciate my power in a yoga room comes from those
with a sense of claim they have unique the best knowledge when they don't
As a man of hubris, I appreciate my power in a yoga room comes from those
with a sense of claim they have unique the best knowledge when they don't
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.
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.
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.
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
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
High Pressure Dynamics and Surveillance is NOT ok!
The federal government is now monitoring people for anti-authrotiarian views on the Internet and blocking critics of the right from entering the united states. Its not just geopolitics, though.
I once had an Ashtanga Yoga Teacher so high on her own stash she contacted a trusted friend @chocoestates and mentor of mine to tell them that @pegmulqueen was a danger to me because she regularly encouraged me to write.
People are so out of their own scope of practice, and they dont even know it.
Prg and Kristen (not friends independently) regularly made me believe Imy words were powerful and worthy. that ashtanga professor made me believe i was untrustworthy. People are sooooo controlling, and I missed it!
Im amicably divorced— my charisma is both fine and it has its limits. i’m old enough now to have enough data about myself to understand that.
It’s really simple – – are the rules of your organization in place to foster an independent community based on values and personal mastery, or is the organization solely designed to establish the leader in a position of unquestionable authority? More on YouTube!
The federal government is now monitoring people for anti-authrotiarian views on the Internet and blocking critics of the right from entering the united states. Its not just geopolitics, though.
I once had an Ashtanga Yoga Teacher so high on her own stash she contacted a trusted friend @chocoestates and mentor of mine to tell them that @pegmulqueen was a danger to me because she regularly encouraged me to write.
People are so out of their own scope of practice, and they dont even know it.
Prg and Kristen (not friends independently) regularly made me believe Imy words were powerful and worthy. that ashtanga professor made me believe i was untrustworthy. People are sooooo controlling, and I missed it!
Im amicably divorced— my charisma is both fine and it has its limits. i’m old enough now to have enough data about myself to understand that.
It’s really simple – – are the rules of your organization in place to foster an independent community based on values and personal mastery, or is the organization solely designed to establish the leader in a position of unquestionable authority? More on YouTube!
in imageSurveillance occurs not in the community spirit but in a way.
Disobedience is Punished
Are your decisions being control. | Opposition to Critical Thought | der-approved sources encouraged | Contradictory or confu
Right?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu...
Surveillance occurs not in the community spirit but in a way.
Disobedience is Punished
Are your decisions being control. Opposition to Critical Thought der-approved sources encouraged Contradictory or confu
Right?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu...
Surveillance occurs not in the community spirit but in a way.
Disobedience is Punished
Are your decisions being control.
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confus
Right?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu
Surveillance occurs not in the community spirit but in a way.
Disobedience is Punished
Are your decisions being control.
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu
Right?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu
Disobedience is Punished
Are your decisions being control. | Opposition to Critical Thought | der-approved sources encouraged | Contradictory or confu
Right?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu...
Surveillance occurs not in the community spirit but in a way.
Disobedience is Punished
Are your decisions being control. Opposition to Critical Thought der-approved sources encouraged Contradictory or confu
Right?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu...
Surveillance occurs not in the community spirit but in a way.
Disobedience is Punished
Are your decisions being control.
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confus
Right?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu
Surveillance occurs not in the community spirit but in a way.
Disobedience is Punished
Are your decisions being control.
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu
Right?
Opposition to Critical Thought
der-approved sources encouraged
Contradictory or confu
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!
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
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
A big red flag for an organization? Resistance to outside input and censored sources. Withholding information that could help others in order to maintain power is disgustingly common. More on YouTube.
in imageaccepted.
cited sources.
independent research outside
cited sources.
independent research outside
Laruga makes the pain of time delays in systems understandable. She also talks about opportunism. I really appreciate this. It’s all about service
in imageLaruga makes the pain of time delays in systems understandable. She also talks about opportunism. I really appreciate this. It's all about service
Organizations that limit agency and critique internally are inevitably going to be fragile. Pragmatically, its not great to be around.
More on youtube!
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
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
Whistleblowers are often shunned. Luckily for us, it’s actually a good sign of a toxic group. When the priority is protecting the group and not the members of the group, there’s a problem. And it’s an easy one to spot!
Manipulation comes in all kinds of forms— intellectual, emotional, professional.
Look for shunning and a lack of respect for nonmembers. Looks for discrediting. If an organization lacks transparency and accountability, it’s likely toxic.
Manipulation comes in all kinds of forms— intellectual, emotional, professional.
Look for shunning and a lack of respect for nonmembers. Looks for discrediting. If an organization lacks transparency and accountability, it’s likely toxic.
in imagepotential friction points in
Financial penalties
Respects decision
Respect for De[parture]
Threats for Leaving vs Respect for Departure
Threats for Leaving
Employs[ment]
Slande[r]
potential friction points in
Financial penalties
Respects decision
Respect for De[parture]
Threats for Leaving vs Respect for Departure
Threats for Leaving
Employs[...]
Slande[r]
discussed, you're going to
potential friction points in
Financial penalties
Respects decision
Respect for De[parture]
Threats for Leaving vs Respect for Departure
Threats for Leaving
Employs[...]
Slande[r]
discussed, you're going to
andon pipeline growth in
paranoia and Conflict in Yoga Communities
Financial penalties
Respects decision
Respect for De[parture]
Threats for Leaving vs Respect for Departure
Threats for Leaving
Employs[ment]
Slande[r]
potential friction points in
Financial penalties
Respects decision
Respect for De[parture]
Threats for Leaving vs Respect for Departure
Threats for Leaving
Employs[...]
Slande[r]
discussed, you're going to
potential friction points in
Financial penalties
Respects decision
Respect for De[parture]
Threats for Leaving vs Respect for Departure
Threats for Leaving
Employs[...]
Slande[r]
discussed, you're going to
andon pipeline growth in
paranoia and Conflict in Yoga Communities
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!
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
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
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!
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
"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
Being straightforward about what tools you use (and why!) is a great way to build trust. Making people do things just because you say so is not. Consent with clarity is really the name of the game.
More on youtube!
More on youtube!
in imagereliably reproducible are turned into proof of a cult's power or a high
Be upfront about what you're doing and look for consent. Content Disclosure & Consent Mind-Altering Practices vs Content Disclosure & Consent Mind-Altering Practices pressured into vn rituals Experienced frequ
so many times without knowing what it meant. | Mind-Altering Practices vs Content Disclosure & Consent | Mind-Altering Practices | Participants pressured into unknown rituals | Experienced frequ... | Dread
Be upfront about what you're doing and look for consent. Content Disclosure & Consent Mind-Altering Practices vs Content Disclosure & Consent Mind-Altering Practices pressured into vn rituals Experienced frequ
so many times without knowing what it meant. | Mind-Altering Practices vs Content Disclosure & Consent | Mind-Altering Practices | Participants pressured into unknown rituals | Experienced frequ... | Dread
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!
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
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
me while my students are trying to practice
in imageme while my students are trying to practice
Gays in a nutshell:
me while my students are trying to practice
Gays in a nutshell:
me while my students are trying to practice
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 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
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
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.
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...
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...
How do charismatic leaders draw folks in? Through love bombing and cloutsharing. Its easy to miss at first. Ya gotta look for the pattern. Its why I examine the community vs commodity angle. I think you can spot a correlating variable.
That stuff works, and it leads to crazy shame for the people it works on. 🤮
More on youtube.
That stuff works, and it leads to crazy shame for the people it works on. 🤮
More on youtube.
in imagevulnerable people who may not know better. Targeting the vulnerable with 'love-bombing' and idealistic goals Vulnerable Individuals Excessive Attention ain Trust eats
This is different from a new student requiring attention versus a seasoned
Targeting the vulnerable with 'love-bombing' and idealistic goals
Vulnerable Individuals
Excessive Attention
n Trust
If someone annoys you telling someone dislikes what you say they should be
This is different from a new student requiring attention versus a seasoned
Targeting the vulnerable with 'love-bombing' and idealistic goals
Vulnerable Individuals
Excessive Attention
n Trust
If someone annoys you telling someone dislikes what you say they should be
in imagemichaeljoelhall
michaeljoelhall Yoga practice has an external form and an
internal form. The external can show up nicely in pictures...
michaeljoelhall Yoga practice has an external form and an
internal form. The external can show up nicely in pictures...
in imagemichaeljoelhall
ol
michaeljoelhall If someone wants to practice yoga because
they think it looks cool, let them do it....
ol
michaeljoelhall If someone wants to practice yoga because
they think it looks cool, let them do it....
notes from india 2016
in imageA cow just stole this
woman's chips
10:39 AM //
While she was swimming.
10:39 AM V/
Hahaha
10:39 AM
She was kinda rude to the
staff-- so I died laughing.
10:39 AM V/
Karma
10:40 AM
How is practice?
@michaeljoelhall
10:41 AM
notes from india 2016
woman's chips
10:39 AM //
While she was swimming.
10:39 AM V/
Hahaha
10:39 AM
She was kinda rude to the
staff-- so I died laughing.
10:39 AM V/
Karma
10:40 AM
How is practice?
@michaeljoelhall
10:41 AM
notes from india 2016
in imagemichaeljoelhall
Mysenl
Ton
МАк В.
SEREro (UoTED)
Lua (1 will)
чте--
Sara Harrison (Iwinl!)
Pe ie dasaja
lune eney wting Fw:
Дсола
Чавгіле
solLy
"Namlena Post practie)
Jadcie.
Monan
(alreadydid!!)
Еа ртка (ко, сей voRI
brooke
11/8/16 (VOTF)
michaeljoelhall They come together to support each other
with love. They care very dearly about the well being of ot...
Mysenl
Ton
МАк В.
SEREro (UoTED)
Lua (1 will)
чте--
Sara Harrison (Iwinl!)
Pe ie dasaja
lune eney wting Fw:
Дсола
Чавгіле
solLy
"Namlena Post practie)
Jadcie.
Monan
(alreadydid!!)
Еа ртка (ко, сей voRI
brooke
11/8/16 (VOTF)
michaeljoelhall They come together to support each other
with love. They care very dearly about the well being of ot...
in imageKAPOTASANA IS
NOTFA POKE MON
Zü5
YOU DO NOT NEED TO
U-DO
CATCH
EMALL
@michaeljoelhall
NOTFA POKE MON
Zü5
YOU DO NOT NEED TO
U-DO
CATCH
EMALL
@michaeljoelhall
in image@michaeljoelhall
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.
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
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
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.
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
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
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!
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
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
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?
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
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
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.
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
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
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.
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...
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...
Amor:
Mi equipo de yoga con mi equipo de crossfit en historias @jaimescandont
@marielchapoy
@kopoyoga
@impetusfitnesss love from washington dc
to
playa dc
Mi equipo de yoga con mi equipo de crossfit en historias @jaimescandont
@marielchapoy
@kopoyoga
@impetusfitnesss love from washington dc
to
playa dc
in imagelove from washington dc to playa dc
@kopoyoga in tha house
Super DjSet por @jaimescandont
@jaimescandont @marielchapoy @kopoyoga @impetusfitnesss
Amor: Mi equipo de yoga con mi equipo de crossfit en historias
love from washington dc to playa dc
@kopoyoga in tha house
Super Dj Set por @jaimescandont
@jaimescandont @marielchapoy @kopoyoga @impetusfitnesss
Amor: Mi equipo de yoga con mi equipo de crossfit en historias
@kopoyoga in tha house
Super DjSet por @jaimescandont
@jaimescandont @marielchapoy @kopoyoga @impetusfitnesss
Amor: Mi equipo de yoga con mi equipo de crossfit en historias
love from washington dc to playa dc
@kopoyoga in tha house
Super Dj Set por @jaimescandont
@jaimescandont @marielchapoy @kopoyoga @impetusfitnesss
Amor: Mi equipo de yoga con mi equipo de crossfit en historias
distractions
my friends and I have real talk. xoxo
in imagelaurenashtangayoga
laurenashtangayoga
my friends and I have real talk.
XOXO Viev
Valid critique
Gmichaeljoelhall
Boost post
• • •
laurenashtangayoga 2d • Author
@michaeljoelhall what are your
thoughts?
Reply
michaeljoelhall 2d
@laurenashtangayoga | think it's
overly vague, doesn't identify Taylor
Hunt, and doesn't speak to other
levels of abuse beyond sexual. It's a
nothing statement and I fear that it's
meant to preempt further
conversation. I don't trust that it's in
good faith by everyone who signed it. I
would wonder if the people who have
come forward are pleased with it. It is
so tone deaf. I can't imagine that they
are.
Reply
Hide
michaeljoelhall 2d
laurenashtangayoga
my friends and I have real talk.
XOXO Viev
Valid critique
Gmichaeljoelhall
Boost post
• • •
laurenashtangayoga 2d • Author
@michaeljoelhall what are your
thoughts?
Reply
michaeljoelhall 2d
@laurenashtangayoga | think it's
overly vague, doesn't identify Taylor
Hunt, and doesn't speak to other
levels of abuse beyond sexual. It's a
nothing statement and I fear that it's
meant to preempt further
conversation. I don't trust that it's in
good faith by everyone who signed it. I
would wonder if the people who have
come forward are pleased with it. It is
so tone deaf. I can't imagine that they
are.
Reply
Hide
michaeljoelhall 2d
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
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
in imageof the notion that the body is a linear mechanical object.
If I input this and this I get this result.
In order to effectively work with and connect with your body you have to
If I input this and this I get this result.
In order to effectively work with and connect with your body you have to
in image@jenreneyoga
You're still
doing
Ashtanga if...
READ THIS IF YOU HAVE IMPOSTER SYNDROME.
@jenreneyoga
You're still
doing
Ashtanga if...
READ THIS IF YOU HAVE IMPOSTER SYNDROME.
@jenreneyoga
I haven’t had time for 26 + 2 in months and months but I always have time for this.
in imageI haven't had time for 26 + 2 in months and months but I always have time for this.
None of this is normal.
THE SYSTEMATIC DISMANTLING OF DEMOCRACY STANDS IN DIRECT OPPOSITION TO THE YOGIC ETHICS OF AHIMSA (NON-VIOLENCE), SATYA (TRUTH-TELLING), ASTEYA (NON-STEALING), BRAHMACHARYA (RIGHT USE OF ENERGY), AND APARIGRAHA (NON-HOARDING). WE ARE HERE, WE LOVE YOU, AND WE ARE NOT GOING ANYWHERE.
I haven't had time for 26 + 2 in months and months but I always have time for this. None of this is normal. THE SYSTEMATIC DISMANTLING OF DEMOCRACY STANDS IN DIRECT OPPOSITION TO THE YOGIC ETHICS OF AHIMSA (NON-VIOLENCE), SATYA (TRUTH-TELLING), ASTEYA (NON-STEALING), BRAHMACHARYA (RIGHT USE OF ENERGY), AND APARIGRAHA (NON-HOARDING). WE ARE HERE, WE LOVE YOU, AND WE ARE NOT GOING ANYWHERE.
None of this is normal.
THE SYSTEMATIC DISMANTLING OF DEMOCRACY STANDS IN DIRECT OPPOSITION TO THE YOGIC ETHICS OF AHIMSA (NON-VIOLENCE), SATYA (TRUTH-TELLING), ASTEYA (NON-STEALING), BRAHMACHARYA (RIGHT USE OF ENERGY), AND APARIGRAHA (NON-HOARDING). WE ARE HERE, WE LOVE YOU, AND WE ARE NOT GOING ANYWHERE.
I haven't had time for 26 + 2 in months and months but I always have time for this. None of this is normal. THE SYSTEMATIC DISMANTLING OF DEMOCRACY STANDS IN DIRECT OPPOSITION TO THE YOGIC ETHICS OF AHIMSA (NON-VIOLENCE), SATYA (TRUTH-TELLING), ASTEYA (NON-STEALING), BRAHMACHARYA (RIGHT USE OF ENERGY), AND APARIGRAHA (NON-HOARDING). WE ARE HERE, WE LOVE YOU, AND WE ARE NOT GOING ANYWHERE.
Article by: Karl Dalén
Photo by: Jason Andrew
for @dagens_nyheter — Sweden’s largest newspaper
Narrated by me, translated by openAi.
Photo by: Jason Andrew
for @dagens_nyheter — Sweden’s largest newspaper
Narrated by me, translated by openAi.
in imageWashingtonbor slår på kastruller i protest mot Trump
drunk says Hall.
For downtown Washington to the suburbs.
That's why this action is so important.
drunk says Hall.
For downtown Washington to the suburbs.
That's why this action is so important.
Long time Mysore Style Ashtanga Yoga teachers — the ones who have been teaching consecutively for a decade or more— what have you learned?
Long time Ashtanga Yoga Teachers who no longer teach, why not? Please share in the comments.
Long time Ashtanga Yoga Teachers who no longer teach, why not? Please share in the comments.
in imagedecade like consecutively and with the same population.
over this period of time.
depth date but don't anymore and I'm curious as to why they don't teach
over this period of time.
depth date but don't anymore and I'm curious as to why they don't teach
a powerful answer from my friend/first apprentice
in imagea powerful answer from my friend/first apprentice
but I'll try to make this one succinct
But I look back on it with such fondness and as a complete chapter
So also just because social media isn't real
but I'll try to make this one succinct
But I look back on it with such fondness and as a complete chapter
So also just because social media isn't real
this is what maggie was responding to.
in imagedecade like consecutively and with the same population. this is what maggie was responding to.
over this period of time.
this is what maggie was responding to.
depth date but don't anymore and I'm curious as to why they don't teach this is what maggie was responding to.
over this period of time.
this is what maggie was responding to.
depth date but don't anymore and I'm curious as to why they don't teach this is what maggie was responding to.
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
AND IT DOESN'T
the inspo for my reel.
I have not listened to the album, thanks for asking (nobody asked ).
I have not listened to the album, thanks for asking (nobody asked ).
in imagethe inspo for my reel.
have not listened to the
allbum, thanks for asking
(nobody asked).
@incorrectmethod
Me realizing I don't have to
practice six days a week in order
to practice yoga every day
@incorrectmethod
have not listened to the
allbum, thanks for asking
(nobody asked).
@incorrectmethod
Me realizing I don't have to
practice six days a week in order
to practice yoga every day
@incorrectmethod
in imageCOLLIDER
FUNCTIONAL ASHTANGA YOGA SYSTEMS
FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
COLLIDER
michael joel hall
fuck
my impulse
control
FUNCTIONAL ASHTANGA YOGA SYSTEMS
FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
COLLIDER
michael joel hall
fuck
my impulse
control
from Collider
in imageYou're not alone in seeing the dysfunction. Find the people who can also see it. Create spaces—even informal ones—where honest conversation is possible. Some of my most powerful teaching happened in hallway conversations after class. People would share what they were noticing, validate each other's perception, realize they weren't crazy for seeing what they saw. Community isn't about creating another system. It's about creating conditions where truth-telling is possible. 3. Practice Non-Identification You are not your role. You are not your title. You are not the system. Every time you come to your mat and just breathe—you practice remembering this. You practice being the awareness that sees the system rather than being consumed by it. 4. Work at the Smallest Scale That Matters Don't try to reform the entire organization. You can't. The system will eat your efforts and
5. Know When to Leave
Sometimes the most intelligent response is to exit a pathological system.
Not every system can be reformed from within. Sometimes the healthiest thing you can do is leave—find a different job, find a different teacher, build a different community.
This isn't failure. It's discernment.
Several of my federal students eventually left government work. Not in rebellion, not burned out, but consciously—recognizing that the system wasn't serving their development anymore, and choosing something different.
The practice gave them the capacity to see clearly, which gave them the courage to choose differently.
Final Thoughts: You're Not Broken—You're Just Seeing Backwards
5. Know When to Leave
Sometimes the most intelligent response is to exit a pathological system.
Not every system can be reformed from within. Sometimes the healthiest thing you can do is leave—find a different job, find a different teacher, build a different community.
This isn't failure. It's discernment.
Several of my federal students eventually left government work. Not in rebellion, not burned out, but consciously—recognizing that the system wasn't serving their development anymore, and choosing something different.
The practice gave them the capacity to see clearly, which gave them the courage to choose differently.
Final Thoughts: You're Not Broken—You're Just Seeing Backwards
My friend/yoga student brought this cartoon up with me today
in imageWhen you've done a pose multiple times & your teacher says "don't over do it!" and you realize choice is harder than discipline. My friend/yoga student brought this cartoon up with me today
but this one was actually me this AM. Thanks for doing the chant with me @electric_cool_aid !
in imageWhen you've an hour into Mysore & someone decides to do the chant outloud. but this one was actually me this AM. Thanks for doing the chant with me @electric_cool_aid!
in image#ashtangacollider
NON-GRASPING / LESS WANTING
DEPRIVATION
SUFFICIENCY
Scarcity Mindset
REFRAME
APARIGRAHA AS
"I HAVE ENOUGH"
Enoughness
Denying Needs
Envy & Dropouts
Distinguish
Needs from
Grasping
Meeting Needs
Sustainable Practice
Address When
to Let Go or Hold
Address
Comparison
Recognize
Grasping Patterns
Discern When
to Let Go
....
NON-GRASPING / LESS WANTING
DEPRIVATION
SUFFICIENCY
Scarcity Mindset
REFRAME
APARIGRAHA AS
"I HAVE ENOUGH"
Enoughness
Denying Needs
Envy & Dropouts
Distinguish
Needs from
Grasping
Meeting Needs
Sustainable Practice
Address When
to Let Go or Hold
Address
Comparison
Recognize
Grasping Patterns
Discern When
to Let Go
....
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