Ep 243 Adam Keen – My Ashtanga Teaching Manifesto

Adam addresses the theme of abuse in Ashtanga yoga in light of more recent allegations. He explores the contrasting archetypes of teachers in the context of Ashtanga yoga, focusing on the strict adherence to tradition and the implications for student progression. Finally he lays out his personal Ashtanga teaching code of conduct and what students can expect when they come to a class, retreat, course or workshop with him.

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga

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Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN

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Key Points

· A strict teacher is often seen as a good teacher.

· Traditional methods can create deep fault lines in education.

· Commitment to the Ashtanga method is paramount for some teachers.

· Teachers who shout at students may be deeply committed to tradition.

· The purity of the Ashtanga method is a significant focus for some instructors.

· Sacrifice is often required to achieve advanced levels in yoga.

· The number of times a teacher has been to Mysore can indicate their commitment.

· Respect for traditional methods can lead to rigid teaching styles.

· Student progression may be hindered by strict adherence to perfection.

· The balance between tradition and flexibility is crucial in teaching.

Elizabeth Kadetsky discusses her book 'First There Is A Mountain', detailing her experiences with Iyengar Yoga and the cultural dynamics surrounding it. She reflects on her journey to writing the book, her experiences in India, and the complexities of dietary practices within the yoga community. The discussion also touches on the historical context of Hindu nationalism, Iyengar's legacy, and the evolution of yoga practices over time. Kadetsky shares her insights on the nuances of yoga culture, the impact of her research, and her current approach to yoga.

www.elizabethkadetsky.com | @ekadetsky

LISTEN

Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN

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Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga

Key Points

· Elizabeth Kadetsky is a writer and professor at Penn State.

· Her book 'First There Is A Mountain' was published in 2004.

· Kadetsky's first trip to India was in 1997, leading to her research on Iyengar Yoga.

· Iyengar Yoga emphasizes alignment and the use of props.

· Dietary practices in yoga can reflect cultural and communal identities.

· Kadetsky experienced cultural shock when practicing yoga in India compared to the West.

· Iyengar's influence on yoga is significant but complex, involving historical and cultural dynamics.

· The rise of Hindu nationalism has impacted the perception of yoga in India.

· Kadetsky sees her book as a reflection of its time, capturing a specific moment in yoga history.

· Her current yoga practice focuses more on meditation and breath rather than strict physical exercise.

Ep 241 Adam Keen – Healing Through Touch in Yoga Adam explores the complex and evolving role of touch in yoga practice. He discusses the historical context of touch in yoga, the healing potential of positive touch, and the challenges of safeguarding both students and teachers in a modern environment where boundaries have shifted. Keen emphasizes the importance of understanding good touch versus bad touch, advocating for a respectful and sensitive approach to physical interaction in yoga classes. He concludes with a call for thoughtful engagement with touch, recognizing its significance while also acknowledging the risks involved.

www.keenonyoga.com | @adam_keen_ashtanga

LISTEN

Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN

WATCH

https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga

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Subscribe, like and share our videos

Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf

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FOLLOW

Website: www.keenonyoga.com

Instagram: @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga

Key Points

· Touch in yoga has evolved significantly over the decades.

· Modern boundaries around touch have made it a contentious issue.

· Positive touch can aid in healing from past negative experiences.

· Consent cards and verbal agreements have limitations.

· Good touch should feel affirming and supportive, not corrective.

· Teachers must navigate touch with sensitivity and respect.

· Physical adjustments can sometimes lead to injury or discomfort.

· Building a relationship with students is essential before using touch.

· Feedback mechanisms are crucial for ensuring safe touch practices.

· Touch should enhance the yoga experience, not detract from it.