Elizabeth Elson

We might think of a Supreme Being as a distant Creator or an impersonal energy as opposed to a Divine Person who has a birthday.

After all, how can a Supreme Being have a birthday when such a Being would be beginning-less by definition?

Contemporary yogis usually look to Patanjali’s Yoga-sutras for an introduction to yoga philosophy. But the Yoga-sutras are actually for yogis who already know the underlying philosophy for Patanjali’s particular system of yoga. If you want to understand the philosophy behind all of the classical yoga systems – including Patanjali’s – then you want to study the Bhagavad-gita.

In this engaging episode, yoga instructors Hari-kirtana das and Jen René delve into the nuanced relationship between yoga asana and yoga philosophy. They explore how physical practice can invoke deep emotional responses, the significance of being present in challenging poses, and the idea of experiencing yoga beyond the physical.

Jen René shares her insights on modifying Ashtanga practices to accommodate individual needs, emphasizing the importance of preserving joy and sustainability in one’s practice. The discussion also touches on how yoga teaches tolerance and resilience, referencing key philosophical texts like the Bhagavad-gita. Listeners are encouraged to find their own path in yoga, balancing discipline with self-awareness and compassion.

“Nothing in this world is as sublimely purifying as transcendental knowledge. One who has achieved the perfection of yoga realizes this knowledge within one’s self in due course of time.” – Bhagavad-gita 4.38

But what is “transcendental knowledge” anyway?

We hear a lot about “letting go” in social media and blog posts about contemporary spirituality. In yoga and meditation classes, “let go” is a common cue to release tension in this or that part of your body or mind. In yoga philosophy, it’s usually associated with the idea of letting go of our attachments, accepting when things are beyond our control or, on a deeper level, loosening our grip on ego-driven conceptions of identity.

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive into the intersection of yoga and politics with Jamie Maniscalco, a seasoned political operative and yoga advocate. Jamie shares innovative ideas on how yoga can be introduced into political environments, from the halls of Capitol Hill to grassroots protests. Learn how integrating mindfulness practices can support politicians and their teams, foster better communication across party lines, and even impact legislative processes.
We also explore the broader implications of political engagement through yoga, highlighting its potential to address anger and apathy towards the political system. Jamie’s insights emphasize the importance of personal involvement in democracy and offer practical advice for yoga practitioners looking to make a difference in their communities. Tune in to discover how yoga can play a transformative role in both personal and political spheres.