Yoga is a system of moral philosophy that has long been overlooked by Western scholars and appropriated by the fitness industry. Dr. Shyam Ranganathan, author of Yoga: Anticolonial Philosophy provides context for the dissonance between modern yoga and its roots. We discuss how to frame yoga practice authentically, how philosophy is the unifying force between varied practices, and why decolonization requires embracing discomfort.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:
00:00 Yoga and personal agency
05:53 The role of philosophy in understanding yoga
09:52 Challenges and rewards of yoga practice
15:34 The problem of modern yoga
22:15 Defining colonialism, philosophy, and ethics
26:12 Understanding Yoga: Capital Y vs. Small Y
28:27 Why embracing dissonance is key for decolonization
29:14 Philosophy's role in decolonization
31:26 The physical and emotional impact of philosophy
40:53 Teaching yoga in a capitalist society
46:32 Conclusion and further resources
EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES:
Book: Yoga: Anticolonial Philosophy
Yoga: Anticolonial Philosophy Study Group
Follow Dr. Shyam Ranganathan on Instagram @yogaphilosophy_com
Follow Dr. Shyam Ranganathan on Facebook
LINKS AND RESOURCES:
Follow YTR on Instagram @yoga.teacher.resource
Join the Yoga Teacher Resource email list
Join the Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook Group
Learn more about the Impact Club
Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe