Yoga Inspiration

Sharath Ji used to say, "Yoga will show you the way." Those simple words hold the essence of the yoga path. Practice is not about control or achievement. It is about devotion, humility, consistency, and trust in the process itself. Yoga evolves as we evolve. Some days, practice is strong and fiery; other days, soft and subtle. The only way this evolution stops is if we stop practicing. When we show up with respect and steadiness, yoga begins to teach us directly, revealing that the true depth of practice extends far beyond physical postures. The true posture of yoga practice is an inner one. Come not to take, but to give. Bring humility instead of pride, devotion instead of demand. Through abhyāsa, or steady, devoted effort, we cultivate the conditions for saumanasya, the quiet happiness and clarity of mind described in yoga philosophy. Keep practicing. Let your practice change shape, let it reveal your heart, and trust that yoga will continue to show you the way. Deepen your practice with Kino MacGregor and…

In this episode of the Yoga Inspiration Podcast, Kino MacGregor explores one of yoga's most enduring questions: Do we need a teacher? Through personal stories, classical yoga philosophy, and reflections on lineage, she looks at the role of the teacher as guide, the responsibility of the student, and the importance of discernment on the spiritual path. From the Bhagavad Gītā to the modern yoga classroom, this conversation explores how trust, humility, dialogue, and lived experience shape the teacher-student relationship. Kino reflects on the difference between guidance and authority, why teachers are not infallible, and how a healthy relationship with a teacher should strengthen rather than replace a student's own awareness and agency. This episode is an exploration of yoga philosophy, spiritual guidance, lineage, and what it means to keep the teachings alive while allowing them to remain relevant in a contemporary practice. Practice with Kino and explore yoga, Ashtanga, meditation, philosophy, and more on…

In this episode of the Yoga Inspiration Podcast, we explore what it really means to practice yoga beyond the physical postures. Āsana may be where many of us begin, but it is only one part of the larger Ashtanga Yoga method. Kino looks at the tendency to measure progress through increasingly difficult postures and explains why more āsanas do not necessarily mean deeper practice. Instead, the eight limbs of yoga work together, shaping the way we breathe, pay attention, respond to sensation, and relate to ourselves on the mat. We also explore pratyāhāra, the practice of turning attention inward, and how observing sensation without immediately reacting can change both our physical practice and our relationship to the mind. Rather than forcing the body or judging what appears, yoga asks us to become more attentive to what is actually happening. The episode also considers a question that can remain with us throughout a lifetime of yoga: What actually constitutes practice? As the body, circumstances, and āsanas…

In this episode of the Yoga Inspiration Podcast, Tim Feldmann explores what it means to live yoga beyond the mat through the Bhagavad Gītā's teachings on yajña, dāna, and tapas. Yoga is sometimes interpreted as a withdrawal from thought, action, and the responsibilities of ordinary life. Tim looks at why the Gītā offers a different perspective: living a yogic life does not mean stepping away from the world, but learning how to participate in it with greater awareness, responsibility, generosity, and discipline. Through everyday examples, Tim breaks down yajña as selfless action or offering, dāna as generosity and giving, and tapas as the discipline and inner effort required to cultivate positive change. These practices are not limited to formal spiritual rituals. They can be expressed through doing our work well, caring for others, sharing our time and knowledge, practicing kindness, and developing the steadiness to respond more skillfully when life challenges us. At the heart of the episode is a simple…

In this episode, we explore what it really means to be ready for Ashtanga Yoga's Intermediate Series. Second Series is often approached through its physical landmarks: deeper backbends, leg-behind-the-head postures, arm balances, inversions, and demanding strength transitions. But the deeper preparation for Nadi Shodhana is not only physical. It is the development of a mind that is steady enough to meet intensity without becoming overwhelmed. We look at the difference between being able to perform an asana and truly integrating it into daily sādhana, why Primary Series and Intermediate Series have different energetic intentions, and how nervous system regulation, mental steadiness, and consistent practice become essential as the work deepens. The episode also explores readiness for Second Series beyond rigid physical benchmarks, the role of Kapotasana, leg-behind-the-head postures, Karandavasana, the seven headstands, and why the closing sequence is such an important part of integrating the intensity of Nadi…

From Gross to Subtle: The Journey of Ashtanga Yoga Practice In this episode, Kino MacGregor and Tim Feldmann explore the two ends of the yoga spectrum: the gross and the subtle, the dynamic and the still, the effortful and the refined. Ashtanga Yoga asks us to inhabit both worlds, jumping through, sweating, moving the body with strong discipline, and then turning inward, softening into breath, subtle sensation, and the quietude of mind. Drawing from Sanskrit roots and classical teachings, Kino and Tim explain how sthūla, gross or dense practice, and sūkṣma, subtle or refined practice, are not opposites but complementary gateways into yoga. They discuss how the foundational tools of the practice, āsana, prāṇāyāma, and dṛṣṭi, can carry practitioners from surface-level sensation toward deeper layers of awareness. The conversation unfolds around Patañjali's timeless definition of yoga, yogaś citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ, the stilling of the mind's movements. Kino and Tim share stories, personal reflections, and…

In this episode we explore one of yoga's most essential lessons: patience. Drawing from Patañjali's Yoga Sūtras 3.6 and 1.12, we reflect on why everything in yoga unfolds in stages and why true progress comes through the twin practices of steady effort, abhyāsa, and non-attachment, vairāgya. Through personal stories, including my struggle with Pincha Mayūrāsana and unexpected ease in Mayūrāsana, we learn how forcing or rushing can lead to harm, while patience and surrender create the conditions for real growth. Yoga, is like tending a garden. Each posture is a seed, and with care, time, and trust, it will bloom in its own season. Tune in for a reflection on why transformation cannot be rushed, on the mat or in life, and how patience itself becomes one of yoga's greatest teachers. Join Omstars to practice and explore yoga in greater depth. Practice with me on Omstars.

In this episode of Yoga Inspiration, Kino answers student questions about the Ashtanga Yoga Intermediate Series, traditionally known as Nāḍī Śodhana. We explore the structure and purpose of Second Series, including its deep backbends, leg-behind-the-head postures, arm balances, inversions, and the seven headstands. Kino also explains how to know when you are ready to begin Intermediate Series, why perfect postures are not the goal, and how consistency in Primary Series creates the foundation for deeper work. The conversation also covers struggle poses, practicing six days a week, balancing Ashtanga Yoga with running or strength training, building the strength needed for Intermediate Series, working with transitions, and finding a teacher who supports dialogue rather than gatekeeping. Beyond physical progress, Kino reflects on the deeper purpose of Nāḍī Śodhana as nervous system cleansing and energetic refinement. The practice asks us to approach each posture with patience, humility, reverence, and respect.…

At first glance, Ashtanga Yoga may look like a simple sequence of postures. But beneath the surface lies a subtle framework that carries the entire method: Tristhāna, the threefold support of breath, posture, and gaze. In this episode, Kino and Tim explore the deeper meaning of Tristhāna. The word comes from Sanskrit, with tri meaning "three" and sthāna meaning "place" or "support." These three abodes are not just techniques. They are thresholds that guide the practitioner from gross sensation into subtle awareness. Breath is the golden thread linking body and mind. Posture is the seat that establishes presence. Gaze is the discipline that steadies perception. Together, they guide us inward, moving us from the visible body into the subtle body, from surface sensation into deeper stillness. Kino and Tim also reflect on how these pillars extend beyond the mat. Breath becomes a refuge, posture teaches resilience, and gaze becomes discernment. To practice Ashtanga is to realize that we are never not practicing.…

What does it really mean to be a yogi? In this episode, Kino explores the heart of yogic life beyond postures and performance. A yogi, she reminds us, is someone sincerely committed to realizing the Self and who understands that cultivating sattva (clarity, harmony, and balance) is an essential step along the path. Drawing from Patañjali's Yoga Sūtra and the teachings of the three guṇas (sattva, rajas, and tamas), Kino examines how our daily choices, from the food we eat to the words we speak and the actions we take, either cloud the mind or orient it toward truth. She also explores the eight limbs of yoga (aṣṭāṅga) as a practical framework for living a yogic life, demonstrating how each limb supports the cultivation of sattva. This episode is a reminder that being a yogi is not about perfection. It is about showing up with sincerity, choosing clarity over confusion, and returning to the practice again and again. In that sincere effort lies the heart of yoga. Ready to deepen your practice? Explore thousands…

What does it take to build a successful yoga business while staying true to your values? In this episode, Kino MacGregor sits down with business leader and longtime mentor Bruce Barkus to explore the intersection of yoga, entrepreneurship, leadership, and service. Drawing on decades of executive experience leading global companies and years of dedicated Ashtanga Yoga practice, Bruce shares practical insights for yoga teachers, studio owners, and wellness entrepreneurs looking to build sustainable businesses. Together, Kino and Bruce discuss the realities of running a yoga business, from creating business plans and understanding financial metrics to building strong teams, developing company culture, and making strategic decisions for long-term growth. They also reflect on the lessons learned through Miami Life Center and Omstars, and the importance of balancing authentic practice with the demands of business ownership. In this episode: Why yoga teachers need to think like business owners The importance of…

Yoga is more than flexibility or physical strength. At its essence, yoga is the training of the mind. In this episode, Kino MacGregor explores how yoga philosophy, breath, and daily practice help steady the mind, re-pattern habitual thinking, and cultivate inner awareness. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gītā, the Yoga Sūtra, and the teachings of K. Pattabhi Jois, Kino reflects on the deeper purpose of practice beyond physical achievement. Learn how yoga helps us work with fear, emotional patterns, distraction, and the fluctuations of the mind while cultivating steadiness through breath, movement, and concentration. As Pattabhi Jois often said, "Do your practice and think about God." In this episode: • Why yoga is a training of the mind • How practice reveals subconscious thought patterns • The relationship between breath, body, and awareness • What the Bhagavad Gītā and Yoga Sūtra teach about steadiness • How yoga prepares us for challenge, change, and letting go • Why the inner work of practice matters more than…

What does it really mean for practice to deepen? It is not a bigger backbend or a more dramatic shape. It is the quiet transformation that comes from showing up day after day. In this talk, Kino explores how steady effort widens our capacity to feel the full spectrum of life. The highs may feel brighter, and the lows may feel deeper, yet the work is to meet both with awareness rather than attachment. Think of the mind as a garden. When we tend it with practice, wisdom takes root. When we stop tending it, weeds of habit and reactivity return. Kino shares a classical view of the path. Asana is a container where we willingly meet a small dose of discomfort and learn to stay. Breath gives us a way to regulate the field of mind and body. Concentration trains attention so we can see clearly. From this triad, wisdom ripens. She also reflects on teachings that point to the universality of suffering and the freedom that comes from understanding its causes, along with the courage to respond with compassion, joy, and…

Recorded at Nøsen Yoga Retreat in Norway, Kino and Tim explore the deeper benefits of traditional Ashtanga Yoga practice. Together, they reflect on Yoga as both a drop of nectar and an ocean, drawing on the Yoga Sūtra, the Bhagavad Gītā, and the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā. From strength and vitality in the body, to balance in the nervous system, to the quiet of meditation, they share how tradition transforms practice into a path of peace, humility, and self-realization. If this conversation resonates, you can continue your practice inside Omstars. Explore full-length classes, guided series, and teachings from master instructors rooted in tradition. Begin your journey with a 7-day free trial and experience the depth of practice for yourself.

Srivatsa Ramaswami is one of the last direct students of the legendary yogi Tirumalai Krishnamacharya, often regarded as the father of modern yoga. He studied with Krishnamacharya for over three decades, receiving a deeply traditional education in āsana, prāṇāyāma, chanting, and classical yoga texts. He is widely respected as a teacher and scholar of yoga, known for preserving and sharing the Vinyāsakrama method. His work emphasizes thoughtful sequencing, breath-led movement, and adaptation for the individual practitioner. Through decades of teaching, writing, and lecturing around the world, Ramaswami continues to carry forward this living lineage with clarity, precision, and depth. Continue your study with Srivatsa Ramaswami on Omstars! Join our live Vinyasakrama class on Sunday, April 19 on Omstars.com. Then deepen your practice in Ramaswami's 100 Hour Training, May 11–30, available online through Omstars and in person at Miami Life Center.

Avidyā: Lifting the Veil of Ignorance in Yoga Ignorance is rarely felt as ignorance. In yoga, this root affliction is called avidyā, the veil that causes us to mistake impermanence for permanence, suffering for joy, and the non-self for the Self. In this episode, Kino MacGregor explores the meaning of avidyā through the Yoga Sūtras, the Upaniṣads, and Buddhist teachings. Rather than a simple lack of knowledge, avidyā is revealed as an active misperception, a distortion that shapes how we see ourselves and the world. Drawing on Patañjali's teaching that ignorance is the field from which all other afflictions arise (YS II.4), this episode unpacks how subtle and pervasive avidyā can be. It appears not only as confusion, but also as false certainty, attachment to identity, and the clinging to ideas that have not yet ripened into direct experience. Kino also reflects on the Buddhist understanding of avijjā, where ignorance is defined as not seeing the Four Noble Truths. This points to the idea that ignorance is…

Grief is a powerful teacher. It doesn't ask for permission before it arrives—it simply comes, dismantling everything we thought we knew about love, faith, and permanence. It turns the familiar inside out, leaving us raw and exposed to the mystery of loss. In this heartfelt episode, Kino MacGregor, Tim Feldmann, Joseph Armstrong, Edgar Navarro, Frances Cole Jones, Heather Serna, and many others come together to share stories, memories, and reflections about SharathJi; their teacher, guide, and spiritual anchor. Together, they explore how grief becomes part of the path, how lineage continues through love and practice, and how the teachings live on even when the teacher is gone. As Elizabeth Kübler-Ross and David Kessler remind us, "The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not 'get over' the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it. You will heal and you will rebuild yourself around the loss you have suffered. You will be whole again, but you will never be the same. Nor should you be the…

Yoga has never been a path of withdrawal from the world. It is a path of learning how to stand within it without losing clarity. In this episode, we explore the yogic concept of viveka, the capacity to see clearly and discern what is essential from what is transient. Drawing from the Yoga Sūtra, the Bhagavad Gītā, and traditional teachings, we look at how viveka-khyāti, steady and luminous discernment, allows practitioners to act in the world without becoming overwhelmed by it. Through the stories of Arjuna and Virabhadra, this conversation explores how clarity is restored in moments of confusion and how powerful action can arise without hatred, reactivity, or collapse. Yoga teaches that ethical action begins with perception. When the mind becomes steady through practice, discernment naturally emerges. In a world that rewards outrage and confusion, the cultivation of viveka-khyāti becomes a radical and necessary practice. If you want to go deeper into the study and practice of yoga, explore the full library…

Episode Description In this conversation, Kino sits down with Dr. Raj Balkaran to explore the deeper dimensions of yoga practice beyond physical postures. Together they discuss mythology, meaning, and the role of story in shaping how we understand and embody yoga. Dr. Balkaran shares the origins of The Stories Behind the Poses and explains how myth functions as a living teaching tool rather than symbolic decoration. Through stories of Ganesha, Kurmasana, Hanumanasana, and the churning of the cosmic ocean, he reveals how yoga practice is fundamentally about removing ignorance, cultivating wisdom, and learning to meet difficulty with clarity rather than force. The discussion moves through themes of inner transformation, the role of the teacher student relationship, the subtle and gross bodies, and why yoga continues to work on us even when we believe we are only practicing for physical reasons. This episode invites listeners to consider yoga as a lifelong inward journey, where practice becomes a way of…

In this episode of The Yoga Inspiration Podcast, Kino MacGregor sits down with hospital chaplain, writer, and grief expert J.S. Park for a deeply grounding conversation about grief, presence, and what it means to live with an open heart in a world that can feel overwhelming. They explore why grief is not something to fix or overcome, but something to honor, carry, and let transform over time. Kino reflects on communal grief in the Ashtanga world after the loss of a spiritual teacher, and J.S. offers compassionate insight into why we reach for solutions, why closure can be a myth, and how grief changes shape rather than disappearing. Together they talk about treasured objects and rituals as anchors when words fail, the ways spirituality and community can either support or collapse under real-world suffering, and how spiritual practice must include our shared humanity and collective responsibility. J.S. also shares his path from atheism toward faith through witnessing love in community, and they unpack the…

In this episode of the Yoga Inspiration Podcast, Kino MacGregor is joined by Andrew Tanner, yoga teacher of over 20 years, founder of the American Yoga Council and the Berkshire Yoga Festival, and author of So You Want to Open a Yoga Studio. Together they explore what it truly means to be a yogipreneur and how to build a sustainable livelihood in yoga without losing the heart of the practice. Andrew shares why service is the foundation of meaningful work, why the yoga industry has shifted in recent years, and what many teachers and studio owners are navigating right now. A central focus of the conversation is the vision behind the American Yoga Council, including competency-based standards, lineage-respecting accreditation, mentorship pathways, and accountability structures designed to better support teachers, schools, and the future of yoga. This episode is a thoughtful, honest discussion for anyone who teaches yoga, runs a studio, mentors students, or cares deeply about the integrity and evolution of the…

In this episode of the Yoga Inspiration Podcast, I sit down with astrologer and teacher Gahl Sasson for a thoughtful conversation on cycles, change, and finding meaning during times of transition. Together we explore how astrology and yoga intersect as tools for self awareness, timing, and personal growth. Gahl shares insights into understanding cycles of challenge and opportunity, the importance of perspective during uncertain times, and how spiritual practices can help ground us when life feels overwhelming. This conversation offers practical wisdom for anyone navigating change, seeking clarity, or wanting to deepen their relationship with practice as a source of stability and insight. What You'll Learn in This Episode • How astrology can be used as a tool for self reflection rather than prediction • Understanding life cycles and why periods of difficulty often precede growth • The relationship between yoga practice and navigating personal transitions • How awareness and timing can support wiser decision…

This episode is a reflection on a year marked by grief, loss, and profound inner reckoning. I share openly about the death of my teacher, the unraveling of relationships I once trusted, and the disorienting experience of being misunderstood, judged, and rejected in ways I did not expect. What began as a single loss rippled outward, touching every area of my life. Along the way, I was forced to confront painful truths about friendship, projection, and the limits of compassion when others are committed to misunderstanding you. Through it all, one thing remained steady: practice. Yoga has never been performance or achievement for me. It is where effort becomes prayer, where breath becomes an offering, and where I reconnect with something deeper than circumstance. Practice did not erase the pain of this year, but it gave me the strength to keep standing inside it. In this episode, I explore: Grief as a force that reshapes identity, relationships, and belief The difference between honest feedback and cruelty…

In this episode, Kino speaks with trauma-informed yoga educator and activist Terri Cooper to explore the deep connection between yoga and healing. What is trauma, really? Is yoga inherently trauma-sensitive? And how can teachers and students use yoga to navigate emotional activation and create space for true transformation? Terri shares her insights from years of work with Connection Coalition, a nonprofit bringing trauma-informed yoga to youth in underserved communities. You'll also learn accessible tools for emotional regulation, why healing is essential for anyone who teaches, and what society gets wrong about trauma. Listen in to discover how yoga can become a path of profound presence, self-inquiry, and collective healing. Resources & Links: The Connection Course on Omstars Connection Coalition Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day trial at omstars.com. Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops,…

Each year, under the bright full moon of Guru Purnima, yoga practitioners and seekers around the world pause to honor the timeless presence of the Guru, the teacher who removes darkness and reveals the light that has always been within us. This was written in July 2025, the first Guru Purnima Day, after Sharath Jois passed. Our hearts were still heavy with grief and we contemplated what it truly means to walk in the light of the Guru? In the ancient yoga tradition, the Guru is far more than just a transmitter of techniques or philosophy. The Guru is the living embodiment of wisdom, a steady flame passed from teacher to student, generation after generation. The Guru: Not Just a Teacher, but a Living Embodiment Our ancient texts speak clearly about this. The Mundaka Upanishad (1.2.12) tells us: तद्विज्ञानार्थं स गुरुमेवाभिगच्छेत समित्पाणिः श्रोत्रियं ब्रह्मनिष्ठम् ॥ Tad-vijnanartham sa gurum evabhigacchet Samit-panih srotriyam brahma-nishtham "To realize that Supreme Knowledge, one must approach a Guru alone,…

In a world where information is always within reach, it's tempting to believe we no longer need teachers. With a few clicks, we can access ancient texts, videos, and tutorials on nearly any aspect of yoga. But there's something that the internet cannot give you: transmission. Yoga is not simply learned; it is received. And it is only in relationship that this sacred transmission occurs. Our role as yoga teachers is not to entertain or perform. We are not here to serve up a random collection of poses or stories. Our job is to teach yoga to you, to help you understand the significance of the method. Especially in Ashtanga Yoga, where lineage matters and precision holds meaning, we offer a comprehensive system, not a fragmented sampler. What we offer is not just technique; it is a way of being. And that way of being is passed down through a living thread. To understand the teacher-student relationship in yoga, we must return to its roots, in the Sanskrit tradition, in the oral teachings of the Upaniṣads, and…

In this deeply honest and sometimes difficult conversation, Melissa Matt, Kino MacGregor, Peg Mulqueen, Sarah Nelson, and Greg Nardi take a courageous step into the heart of Ashtanga Yoga's ongoing reckoning. This episode asks some of the most pressing and uncomfortable questions facing our community today: Who decides what practice looks like? How are poses given, and what happens when power, hierarchy, and silence intertwine? Drawing from recent events and decades of shared experience, the teachers reflect on accountability, lineage, and the urgent need for new models of integrity. The dialogue is raw, vulnerable, and imperfect but necessary. Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com.

Podcast notes The Quiet Turning: Meditation, Yoga, and the Truth of Impermanence One of the most frustrating instructions I ever received in a meditation class was deceptively simple: Close your eyes and quiet the mind. I remember thinking, if I could do that, I wouldn't be here learning how to meditate. Like so many others, I was searching for peace amidst the chaos of my own thoughts. Fortunately, I stumbled upon an ancient method that didn't demand silence from the start. It welcomed me exactly as I was. And over the years, daily meditation has become a cornerstone of my spiritual path, a way not to escape my thoughts but to learn how to be with them, honestly and gently. Many people believe they can't meditate because their minds are too restless. But that's precisely why meditation works. You don't need to be naturally calm to benefit from the practice, in fact, it's often those with the most inner turbulence who stand to gain the most. The very effort to sit, to observe, to try, even if imperfectly, is…

What does it really mean to practice yoga not just once in a while, but again and again, across years, through resistance, joy, boredom, and transformation? In this episode, Kino and Tim explore the deeper meaning of abhyāsa, the Sanskrit word often translated as "practice," but whose roots reveal something far more enduring: the committed, intentional act of returning. They weave this with the concept of bhāvanā, the inner cultivation of the heart and mind, drawn from early Buddhist teachings. Through stories from the Ashtanga method and personal reflections on the power of repetition, Kino and Tim share how practice is not about performance or perfection, but about shaping who we become through presence. This episode is an invitation to see practice not as a means to an end, but as the path itself. The pose is not the point. Returning is the point. Cultivating presence, breath by breath, day by day, becomes the living path of yoga. When we stop running and return to the moment, we remember, this is the…

The yoga community is like one big family, not united by fancy poses but by a shared love for this ancient practice. It doesn't matter what shapes your body can or can't make; what matters is that you keep showing up and giving your best effort. What binds us is presence, not perfection. The practice calls forth a quiet courage and insight within us and it weaves us into a community of fellow seekers. One of yoga's subtle gifts is clear seeing, not just of the body but of the mind and heart. Its promise is not mere physical skill, but an inner transformation that dissolves confusion and reveals freedom. At the start of every Ashtanga practice, we chant an invocation. It's not just ritual, it's a reminder of why we practice and what we're really here to transform. Key Line: Saṃsāra Halāhala Mohaśāntyai "For the pacification of the delusion (Moha) that is the poison (Halāhala) of Saṃsāra." Quick Word-by-Word Meaning Saṃsāra (संसार): From sam- (together) + √sṛ (to flow) - the endless cycle of birth and death.…

In this insightful episode of the Yoga Inspiration Podcast, Kino MacGregor sits down with longtime Ashtanga practitioner and teacher Wade Oakley to explore the intersection of traditional yoga practice and modern strength training. Wade shares how an early shoulder injury led him to Ashtanga Yoga at the University of Virginia, and how his journey quickly took him to India to study with Sharath Jois. He reflects on practicing in Mysore, balancing academic research with daily sadhana, and what it means to approach yoga with both a beginner's heart and a scholar's mind. The conversation dives into Wade's personal evolution, from golf and weightlifting to yoga, from serious injury and reconstructive surgery to rehabilitation and "prehab" strategies that sustain long term practice. Together, Kino and Wade discuss the sometimes controversial topic of cross training, highlighting how mobility, strength, and yoga can complement each other for healthier movement and more sustainable teaching. Listeners will gain…

In this rare and heartfelt conversation, Kino MacGregor sits down with Sri Shubha, daughter of the legendary T. Krishnamacharya, to share stories and insights from the man often called the father of modern yoga. Sri Shubha offers a deeply personal glimpse into her upbringing in a household where yoga was not just a practice, but a way of life. She reflects on her father's presence, rituals, and teaching style, along with the subtle ways his guidance shifted between students. She also honors her mother's quiet but profound contributions to yoga, revealing how both parents shaped her own path as a teacher. Together, they explore how yoga was introduced to her, why it remains an essential part of her life, and how she prepares for each class she teaches. Sri Shubha shares what she hopes students carry beyond the mat, what matters most when guiding a practitioner, and the balance between breath, alignment, and presence. Listeners will also get a preview of her upcoming live sessions on Omstars, including the…

This bonus episode is a gateway into The Spiritual Hustle, an honest, practical, and soul-centered approach to building a yoga or wellness business. The conversation traces the roots of practice, the call to teach, and the leap of faith it takes to create an online presence that stays true to authentic voice. You'll hear about: • The real challenges (and gifts) of shifting from student to teacher • How to overcome fear and show up authentically online • The power of collaboration and how The Spiritual Hustle was born • What makes this program different from other yoga biz trainings, blending real-world tools with ethical, heart-led guidance For yoga teachers, practitioners, and soul-led entrepreneurs ready to grow with heart and purpose, this conversation offers inspiration and guidance. Because you don't have to hustle alone, we're in this together. Join Kino MacGregor and Bruce Barkus this September for The Spiritual Hustle, a 3-week live course designed to help yoga teachers, practitioners, and wellness…

In this warm and inspiring episode, Kino MacGregor welcomes her dear friend and legendary Ashtanga Yoga teacher David Swenson for a conversation about his new book, Only Dead Fish Go With the Flow. David shares what sparked the idea for the book — a collection of stories, reflections, and wisdom from decades of living yoga on and off the mat. He offers an inside look at the writing journey: the surprises, the challenges of editing, and why he chose the self-publishing route to keep his voice true and unfiltered. David shares a few anecdotes straight out of the book! Kino and David also laugh and reflect on life's simple pleasures — teaching students around the world, staying connected to loved ones, and tending to the fruit trees that thrive under David's careful eye on his Hawaiian land. This episode is a reminder that yoga is more than poses — it's a way of living with courage, humor, and a willingness to swim against the current when your heart says so. Tune in for: Why Only Dead Fish Go With the Flow is…

Join Kino MacGregor, Tim Feldmann, Wade Oakley and Chandana Bhowmick as they discuss what devotion means for each of them. Finding the fuel of devotion in their practice is more sustainable than the fuel of ambition. Hear how they each found the student's heart of love in their relationship with their teachers and how they carry the flame of the practice forward today. In the yogic path, we often associate devotion with sweetness—offering flowers, singing mantras, lighting candles. But true devotion is forged in longing. Longing is love stretched out across time. It is the ache that refuses to settle for surface answers. It is the pull of the soul toward something it remembers but has not yet fully touched. This longing—this burning yearning—is not a problem. It is a sign of awakening. Many of us come to yoga not because life is perfect, but because it hurts. We come to the mat with broken hearts, old questions, unseen grief. And often, we feel that unless we are calm or wise, we cannot be truly devotional.…

In a world filled with conflict, injustice, and harm, how do we respond as yogis? In this episode, Kino explores the powerful yogic concept of *kṣānti*—forbearance, patience, and compassionate endurance—through scriptural sources including the Bhagavad Gītā, the Bodhicaryāvatāra, and the Yoga Sutras. We talk about how yogic activism is possible—and necessary. With examples from Arjuna's awakening on the battlefield, the lives of the Buddha, Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr., we look at how spiritual practice and social action go hand in hand. You'll learn the difference between ego-driven anger and compassionate anger, how to check your motives, and why nonviolent resistance is rooted in yogic ethics. Topics include: - The meaning of *kṣānti* and *titikṣā* in Sanskrit - How Arjuna learned to fight with clarity, not hatred - Personal vs. collective dharma - Why checking our motive is a yogic act - Yogic guidelines for right action in a world on fire Takeaway: We can speak up for justice, stand with others in…

Why We Think It's Important to Keep Practicing Ashtanga Yoga and Why We Hope You Keep Practicing Too Dedicated Ashtanga Yoga practice is a powerful journey worth pursuing, even decades after your first class. Reflecting on more than 25 years of practice, we've discovered profound reasons to stay committed, which we captured in a recent series on why we are still practicing Ashtanga Yoga. Ashtanga Yoga is a lifelong commitment. Practicing Ashtanga Yoga for over 25 years has taught us patience, humility, and dedication. It's not just about achieving the poses but about continual inner transformation. Each practice is a conversation between breath, body, and mind, an honest reflection, and an act of devotion to the lineage. Yoga is a sacred thread that connects us deeply, beyond the physical practice. Yes, the practice is intense. It asks everything of you and sometimes more than you're ready to give. It is understandable why people question it. Injury and struggle are real. But maybe the story of Ashtanga Yoga…

We are, by nature, discriminating beings. We develop taste — for art, food, fashion, architecture. We learn to tell what is real from what is imitation, what is durable from what is fleeting. We become connoisseurs of culture, cuisine, aesthetics. So what happens when that same discriminating capacity is turned inward? This is what yogic philosophy demands. It says: if you can be discerning with worldly things, how much more precious — how much more urgent — is it to become a connoisseur of consciousness? Instead of savoring flavors, we savor states of mind. Instead of curating experiences, we curate clarity. Instead of acquiring possessions, we acquire purity — śuddhi. And instead of merely enjoying the world, we seek to understand the enjoyer — the bhoktā — and realize its unity with the impeller, preritā. The Yoga Sūtras speak of viveka-khyāti — the dawning of discriminative wisdom — as the final stage before liberation (YS 2.26–2.28). This viveka is not cynicism, nor cold analysis. It is the ability to…

In the sacred journey of yoga, the figure of the guru—the teacher, the revealer—is not merely someone who instructs us in techniques. The guru is the light that removes darkness, the presence that dispels confusion, and the voice that calls us back to the Self. The Sanskrit word guru itself is formed from gu, meaning darkness, and ru, meaning remover. The guru is not the source of light—but the one who points us toward it, until we recognize it within. Grace, or kṛpā, is not a transaction. It's not earned. It flows freely, when the heart becomes soft enough to receive it. The final verse of the Guru Stotram offers this reflection: dhyānamūlaṁ guror mūrtiḥ pūjāmūlaṁ guror padam mantramūlaṁ guror vākyam mokṣamūlaṁ guror kṛpā The root of meditation is the Guru's form. The root of worship is the Guru's feet. The root of mantra is the Guru's words. And the root of mokṣa, liberation itself—is the Guru's grace. This grace isn't limited to moments of instruction or dramatic realization. It flows in silence. It is in…

Many of us come to yoga seeking relief. Relief from pain, from restlessness, from uncertainty. And sometimes we find it. But over time, what we discover is more lasting than relief. We discover presence. We discover steadiness. We discover a kind of joy that doesn't have to shout. It only has to be. So we practice. Not to get rid of pain, but to know it. To meet it with clarity and care. And in that meeting, we find something remarkable: joy is still possible. It is a joy that knows sorrow. A happiness that is not threatened by difficulty. This is the depth of saumanasya. Saumanasya is defined by Patañjali as cheerfulness—it could also be translated as "mental clarity," "gentle gladness," or even "spiritual contentment." But this is not about putting on a smile or chasing a feeling. It's the natural radiance of a mind that has become unentangled. In Pāli, the same word appears as saumanassa, and it's spoken of as a kind of mental vedanā—a feeling tone that arises not from external stimulation, but from deep,…

In the closing prayer of the Ashtanga practice, we chant: svasti prajābhyaḥ pari-pālayantāṁ, nyāyena mārgena mahīṁ mahīśāḥ, gobrāhmaṇebhyaḥ śubham astu nityaṁ, lokāḥ samastāḥ sukhino bhavantu. These ancient words are an offering — a prayer for all beings to be protected, for the rulers of the earth to walk the path of righteousness, for all sacred beings to be blessed, and for every living soul across all worlds to experience happiness and freedom. The final invocation, Oṁ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ, repeats the call for peace three times — for peace in the outer world, peace within ourselves, and peace in the unseen cosmic realms. This spirit of universal love is the very heart of yoga. In Sanskrit, the word for this love is prema — drawn from the root pri, meaning "to love" or "to gladden." Prema is not an ordinary affection tied to desires; it is a pure, selfless love that flows naturally into service — seva. In the Bhakti Sūtras, it is said: sa tu prema-rūpā — "True devotion takes the form of pure love." When…

As we go deeper on the spiritual path—whether through yoga, meditation, or self-inquiry—we often discover a paradox: We feel more peace… but we also feel more pain. The highs become transcendent. The lows, unbearable. We start to feel everything more intensely. This intensity is not a mistake. It is the heart of the path. The Buddha says: you have felt more grief than the ocean holds water. This isn't just poetry. It's a spiritual earthquake. This is not to depress us, but to awaken us—to stir our hearts. This stirring is known in Buddhism as saṁvega. This feeling—though unsettling—is a sacred catalyst. It's what Prince Siddhartha felt when he saw old age, sickness, and death. It's what every sincere practitioner eventually encounters: not just the suffering of the world, but the raw truth of our entanglement in it. You begin to see the pain in pleasure—how even joy is tinged with impermanence. You see the subtle violence of craving, the ache beneath distraction. Your old ways of coping no longer work. This…

Sometimes we may not understand why it is necessary to engage in strong practice. This talk dives into how the effects we put into asana practice cultivate a powerful internal fire of purification. This was a talk given after a 4 day immersion with Kino and Tim in Bangkok. Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com. Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here! Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

Kino and Tim discuss how to honor the lineage in the absence of our teachers. They further dive into the definition of what constitutes merit in the practice of Yoga. Ending with a Q&A that captures the spirit of the conclusion of their first week of teaching in Bali Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com. Limited time Offer: Sign up for an Omstars+ membership and Get my FREE course: Ashtanga Mechanics. Sign up Here! Stay connected with us on social @omstarsofficial and @kinoyoga Practice with me in person for workshops, classes, retreats, trainings and Mysore seasons. Find out more about where I'm teaching at kinoyoga.com and sign up for our Mysore season in Miami at www.miamilifecenter.com

Why yoga? Anyone who has practiced for a decade, two decades, or even a lifetime knows that the answer to this question is anything but simple—or perhaps so simple that words fail to capture it. Some truths can only be understood through embodied knowledge, a form of wisdom that arises not from intellectual effort but from deep receptivity. Yoga is a path of insight, not just the accumulation of facts or information, though it does not reject them. It is a path of Vijñāna—a deeper knowing, an awakened consciousness, a means of direct realization. There are realms beyond what the mind can grasp, mysteries that logic cannot solve. But what the mind cannot know, the spirit can perceive, and the soul can experience. This is why lifelong practitioners return to their mats, day after day, year after year. All who have touched this special knowledge—not of the intellect, but of the soul—are called them back, again and again, to what was once glimpsed in moments of deep practice. Practice LIVE with me exclusively on…

Join Kino and Tim as they explore Tristhana, the foundational framework of Ashtanga Yoga that unites breath, body, and mind. Whether you are new to the practice or have been teaching for years, this episode offers a deeper look at how these three elements work together to cultivate presence, focus, and transformation. Breath serves as the bridge between body and mind, asana creates embodiment and healing, and focused awareness sharpens the mind, leading to profound inner growth. Through years of dedicated practice, these principles become the gateway to peace and awakening. Kino and Tim also examine key Yoga Sutras that contextualize the Tristhana method within yoga's spiritual tradition, bringing historical depth and meaning to the practice. This discussion will expand your understanding of Ashtanga Yoga and provide practical insights to integrate into your journey. Practice LIVE with me exclusively on Omstars! Start your journey today with a 7-day free trial at omstars.com. Limited time Offer: Sign up for…

Astrology is more than just predictions. Join Kino and Gahl for a conversation about spirituality, past lives, and how astrology can help guide us along our journey Gahl Sasson makes Kabbalah, astrology and psychology engaging, illuminating, and fun. His book, A Wish Can Change Your Life, (published by Simon & Schuster and co-written with Steve Weinstein), blends wisdom and metaphors from cultures across history and the entire world into an innovative blueprint for personal transformation and material enrichment. His second work, Cosmic Navigator, is the essential reference guide to understanding your astrological makeup. He recently published a book on the astrology of 2018, 2019, and 2020. Thousands have enthusiastically embraced his fresh and stimulating approach to spirituality in lectures and workshops in the United States, UK, Argentina, France, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Singapore, Hong Kong, Moscow, Mexico, Bulgaria, Turkey, and Israel. He is a contributor to the Huffington Post, and Astrology.com,…

With set sequences, rules, and repetitions, Ashtanga is often seen as a devotion to discipline. But if you look closely, it is a delicate orchestration where breath, movement, and focus unite to reveal the clarity within. In today's episode, we reflect on the purpose behind the method, exploring how every inhale, every exhale, and every asana carries intention. Ashtanga challenges us to set aside rebellion, ego, and the need to control, humbling us and inviting trust in the wisdom of the practice rather than forcing outcomes. Through this lens, Ashtanga becomes more than a physical discipline - it transforms into a mirror for self-awareness and growth. By trusting the method and surrendering to its wisdom, we create space for inner stillness to emerge. Join us as we commit to cultivating presence, humility, and the quiet strength to return to the mat, again and again. Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me…

Mary Taylor and Richard Freeman join us to share timeless insights exploring how impermanence and interconnectedness form the foundation of a meaningful life. With wisdom rooted in years of spiritual practice, they reflect on the paradox of happiness – not as something to chase but as a natural state revealed through presence and self-awareness. Our conversation invites us to look beyond rigid structures and external validations, embracing tools like meditation and community to uncover the essence of joy. It's not about perfection or mastery but about showing up for the practice of being present with ourselves and others. In this shared space of connection, we find the courage to hold life's grief and beauty side by side. Through their reflections, Richard and Mary remind us that happiness is not static but a living tradition within us, nurtured by intention and care. Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me…

The lineage of Ashtanga has always been a living tradition carried forward by devoted practitioners. But what happens when the Guru who once held the lineage are no longer present? Without an Acharya to guide us, the responsibility shifts to each of us – to show up, to practice, and to nurture the teachings within ourselves. And it's not about perfection or mastery. It's about presence. The simple act of stepping onto the mat, even amidst doubt or difficulty, keeps the fire of the tradition alive. Through practice, we honor not only the teachers who came before but also the community and future generations who will carry the lineage forward. Perhaps the greatest contribution we can make is to trust in the practice itself. By staying consistent and cultivating fertile ground within, we allow the teachings to flourish ensuring their vitality for years to come. Start the journey now with your free 30-day membership on Omstars.com. Use code: PODCAST. Keep up with us online @omstarsofficial or follow me on…