EPISODE 268

Yoga: Anticolonial Philosophy

with Dr. Shyam Ranganathan

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

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:

Yoga Philosophy

Book: Yoga: Anticolonial Philosophy

Yoga: Anticolonial Philosophy Study Group

Follow Dr. Shyam Ranganathan on Instagram @yogaphilosophy_com

Follow Dr. Shyam Ranganathan on Facebook

Other 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

Leave a review on Itunes

Ask a question for the podcast on the Yoga Teacher Resource website or on SpeakPipe

SUBSCRIBE TO THE YOGA TEACHER RESOURCE PODCAST

ITUNES

SPOTIFY

ANDROID

WEEKLY PODCAST UPDATES

Don’t miss out on future episodes!

JOIN THE PODCAST EMAIL LIST

You are very welcome here!

EMAIL LIST

Join the email list to receive weekly updates about the podcast, subscriber-only bonus content, and notice about events & workshops.

SIGN ME UP!

FACEBOOK GROUP

The Yoga Teacher Resource Facebook group is a great place to discuss episodes of the podcast, share ideas and resources, give and receive support, and network with other yoga teachers.

JOIN THE GROUP

IMPACT COACHING

A coaching container for yoga teachers that includes systems, support, and accountability. Includes on demand library of over 50 continuing education workshops.

LEARN MORE & SIGN UP