What should you think about during meditation?

Are you supposed to stop your thoughts?

And how do you actually meditate properly?

In this episode of The Spirit of Yoga, Burkhard explores one of the most common misunderstandings in meditation for beginners: the belief that meditation is a form of thinking, problem-solving, or mental reflection.

Meditation is often confused with contemplation, creativity, or planning. While insights and ideas may arise in quiet moments, classical yogic meditation points in a different direction. The practice is not about analyzing experience, improving thoughts, or searching for answers. It is about learning meditation without thinking — cultivating awareness rather than mental activity.

Burkhard explains how meditation begins with attention to a simple object such as the breath, the heart center, or bodily sensation. The aim is not to think about the breath, but to observe it directly. Thoughts, emotions, and perceptions naturally appear and pass, much like clouds moving through the sky.

Through this perspective, meditation becomes an exploration of presence: witnessing experience without judgment, without grasping, and without identifying with the constant movement of the mind.

This episode offers a clear and grounded understanding of how to meditate properly, returning meditation to its original intention within the yogic and contemplative traditions — awareness itself.

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Can meditation really change your reality?

What is the difference between self improvement vs mindfulness?

And how does meditation and emotional healing transform the way we relate to life?

In this episode of The Spirit of Yoga, Burkhard is joined by Ilona for an in-depth conversation on mindfulness in yoga, Kundalini energy, breathwork, and embodied awareness.

Ilona shares her early beginnings in meditation, her background in comparative religious studies, and her exploration of consciousness beyond intellectual understanding. Together they examine why presence and transmission matter more than information, especially in an age dominated by technology and artificial intelligence.

This episode explores:

– mindfulness in yoga as lived embodiment – the difference between self improvement vs mindfulness – practical tools for emotional regulation – how to approach Kundalini awakening safely – the power of breathwork for emotional balance – how meditation supports emotional healing in daily life

A grounded and intelligent exploration of consciousness, awareness-based practices, and the human capacity for transformation.

Hosted by Burkhard Guest: Ilona Podcast: The Spirit of Yoga

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How do you approach your yoga practice?

Are you focused on self-improvement and achieving results, or are you embracing mindfulness and simply being present?

In this episode of The Spirit of Yoga, Burkhard explores the balance between mindfulness and self-improvement in yoga. Discover why relaxation is just as important as performance, and how detachment can help you transform your practice. We also delve into the role of mindfulness in overcoming stress and burnout—both in yoga and in life. Tune in to explore how shifting your mindset can deepen your practice and enhance your well-being.

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Why can’t we fully be ourselves in relationships?

How does trauma shape the way we love?

Is it possible to create authentic relationships through healing?

In this episode of The Spirit of Yoga, Burkhard is joined by Shane for a deep exploration of trauma healing, mindful dating, and the path back to authenticity. Together they reflect on how early experiences shape self-worth, vulnerability, and connection, and how yoga and awareness can support healthier, more honest relationships.

This conversation invites you to reflect on what it truly means to show up as yourself.

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Why do super successful people still struggle with unhappiness?

Can wealth and meditation truly bring inner peace?

In this episode of The Spirit of Yoga, Burkhard delves into why success alone doesn’t guarantee happiness. He explores the importance of balancing truth and peace in life, highlighting the challenges we face when trying to speak the truth without causing harm. How can we communicate honestly and still create peace? Tune in to discover how truth and peace can coexist in a harmonious life.

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How do we respond wisely when we are under pressure?

What helps us choose clarity instead of reactivity?

Where do courage and integrity truly come from?

In this episode of The Spirit of Yoga, host Burkhard explores how yoga wisdom invites us to pause, observe, and respond wisely in times of crisis. Rather than reacting from fear or helplessness, yoga teaches balance, humility, and commitment to the greater good.

This episode reflects on courage and integrity as lived practices—rooted in awareness, grounded action, and a deep sense of responsibility toward our communities and the planet. A quiet invitation to step forward with clarity, even when the path feels uncertain.

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How do we find hope when life feels heavy?

How can yoga and meditation support us in stressful times?

What does it mean to live with less resistance?

In this episode of The Spirit of Yoga, host Burkhard speaks with Ama, who shares her personal self love journey from Lebanon to Bali. Through her experience with yoga and meditation and an in-depth mindfulness practice, Ama reflects on how inner work can soften stress, open new perspectives, and bring a sense of calm into everyday life.

This conversation explores playful mindfulness, holding space for others, and how yoga goes far beyond the physical practice. A gentle reflection on hope, presence, and living with more awareness.

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In this episode of The Spirit of Yoga, Burkhard dives into the concept of self-love and self-acceptance. How do we truly love ourselves without falling into extremes—too much self-importance or self-criticism? Is it possible to embrace both our strengths and weaknesses without judgment?

In this session, we explore how to find balance in our self-appreciation, recognizing that loving ourselves fully means accepting both the light and the shadows. By embracing imperfections and letting go of rigid standards, we can develop a healthier relationship with ourselves, others, and the world around us.

Join us as we discuss the journey of self-love, understanding our limitations, and the transformative power of peace within.\

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