Want to roll up your mat and find yoga and mindfulness in your day-to-day life?
Living Yoga is a podcast that features interviews with leading voices in mindfulness, holistic health and spiritual activism. It’s hosted by author and yoga teacher Darren Main and features guests who are experts on topics like mindfulness, meditation, stress management, nutrition, exercise physiology and much more!
If you want to learn how to live your best life, then subscribe now! Thanks again for listening and enjoy the show!
Want to roll up your mat and find yoga and mindfulness in your day-to-day life?
Living Yoga is a podcast that features interviews with leading voices in mindfulness, holistic health and spiritual activism. It’s hosted by author and yoga teacher Darren Main and features guests who are experts on topics like mindfulness, meditation, stress management, nutrition, exercise physiology and much more!
If you want to learn how to live your best life, then subscribe now! Thanks again for listening and enjoy the show!
Yoga isn’t just for handstands and highlight reels. In this episode, Darren Main sits down with legendary teacher Janet Stone for a candid, grounded conversation about perimenopause and how yoga can support this powerful life transition.
Janet shares her lived experience of the “zone of chaos” when old routines stop working, and offers a yogic toolkit for steadiness: breath practices to calm an over-fired system, strength and bone-supporting asana, meditation for navigating mood and identity shifts, and the medicine of community. They unpack the biology in plain language (declining progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone; brain fog; sleep changes; insulin resistance) and talk about practical compassion in the studio and at home. This episode also invites men and partners into the conversation so they can show up with awareness, respect, and actual support.
You’ll hear how Janet’s teaching has evolved to meet real bodies at every age, why “advanced” sometimes looks like Child’s Pose, and how reframing midlife as an initiation into elderhood can be deeply liberating.
✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please drop a comment, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.
RESOURCES
Janet Stone's Website: https://www.janetstoneyoga.com
Listen to Janet's Music
Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow
FREE STUFF!
FREE Meditation Course: Mindfulness for Busy Minds- Anyone can learn to meditate—even you!
https://darrenmain.net/free-meditation-course
FREE Book: Inspired Practice: Wisdom From the Heart of India: A collection of quotes from Modern teachers and ancient texts.
https://darrenmain.net/inspired-practice-book
FREE Yoga Class: Join Darren for a Free online practice.
https://darrenmain.net/first-class-free
Darren sits down with longtime friend and author Lucid Dawn to explore how binaries limit us far beyond gender and why yoga’s aim of union invites a more fluid, honest way of being. They unpack manufactured divides, the “dark side” of spiritual bypassing, and how practice helps us hold grief, rage, joy, and love without splitting ourselves in two. Lucid shares insights from their book Dispelling the Binary and a forthcoming course, and the two preview their roles as co-lead teachers in the upcoming Green Yogi Teacher Training.✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please drop a comment, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.RESOURCESJoin Lucid Dawn and Darren Main in The Green Yogi Teacher Training: https://www.mygreenyogi.com/gy200hourLucid Dawn: http://www.lucidyoga.com/Read: Dispelling the Binary https://amzn.to/4oB9TmmConnect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/followFREE STUFF!FREE Meditation Course: Mindfulness for Busy Minds- Anyone can learn to meditate—even you! https://darrenmain.net/free-meditation-courseFREE Book: Inspired Practice: Wisdom From the Heart of India: A collection of quotes from Modern teachers and ancient texts.https://darrenmain.net/inspired-practice-book
In this Living Yoga episode, Darren talks with Vahid Coskun, a Washington, DC–based teacher and author of Practice Beyond the Postures. He shares his path from collegiate athlete to hot-yoga instructor and how observing students revealed common mental patterns on the mat—blame, guilt, people-pleasing, and outsourcing authority. We explore breath as the bridge between body and mind, why resistance is normal, and curiosity as the most honest intention.Vahid also reflects on growing up Muslim in Turkey, stepping away from organized religion, then returning to spirit; choosing change rather than being changed; and how teachers can honor students’ timing without losing depth.RESOURCESVahid’s Website: https://www.wellnessassemblyservices....Read: Practice Beyond the Postures https://amzn.to/4pV4DvrConnect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/followFREE STUFF!FREE Meditation Course: Mindfulness for Busy Minds- Anyone can learn to meditate—even you!https://darrenmain.net/free-meditatio...FREE Book: Inspired Practice: Wisdom From the Heart of India: A collection of quotes from Modern teachers and ancient texts.https://darrenmain.net/inspired-pract...FREE Yoga Class: Join Darren for a Free online practice. https://darrenmain.net/first-class-free✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.
Adam Spillman was a whitewater kayaker whose life blew up at 30 with a stage IIIC testicular cancer diagnosis and over 200 tumors. After brutal chemo, surgery, and a disciplined daily practice of breathwork, meditation, and yoga, Adam is now five years cancer-free. He talks with Darren about the moment everything changed, how to make friends with discomfort, and why paying attention is the first medicine. We also get practical advice for life after crisis, and how yoga helps you rebuild identity when the old one collapses.
RESOURCES
Adam Spillman https://www.adamspillman.com/
Yoga Samadhi Columbia Gorge https://www.columbiagorgeyoga.com/
Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow
✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.
Yoga teacher, political strategist, and activist Reggie Hubbard shares his journey from using yoga to survive a toxic job to teaching “active peace” in the middle of political and personal storms. We talk about transforming pain into service, building inclusive yoga spaces, navigating the world’s chaos without losing your center, and how a stroke taught him the urgency of self-care. It’s a candid, inspiring conversation about mindfulness, justice, and the messy beauty of being human.
RESOURCES
• Connect with Reggie Hubbard: https://activepeaceyoga.com/
• Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow
✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.
In this episode, Darren Main welcomes long-time friend and seasoned yoga teacher Jason Bowman for a deep and honest conversation about navigating difficult times through the lens of yoga and Buddhism. They explore the question so many of us find ourselves asking: When will this be over? From personal practice to community support, grief to resilience, and triggers to transformation, this dialogue offers both wisdom and humor for living more consciously in uncertain times.
Jason also shares insights from his work as co-director of The Castro Room yoga studio and teacher training program in San Francisco.
• Connect with Jason Bowman – jasonarthurbowman.com
• The Castro Room – thecastroroom.com
• Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow
✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.
Darren Main speaks with holistic coach Toby Gant about the challenges of navigating a polarized world with mindfulness and compassion. Together, they explore how yoga and spiritual practice can help us break free from group think, develop a strong inner compass, and find common ground—even in the face of division.
From family dynamics and political polarization to personal triggers and spiritual activism, this conversation is a masterclass in applying yogic philosophy to real-world issues. Toby shares his personal journey from a conservative religious upbringing to becoming a leader in wellness and transformation. With warmth and humor, he reminds us that the power to heal, connect, and awaken lives within each of us.
RESOURCES
Toby Gant: https://www.shekholistic.com/
Connect with Darren Main https://darrenmain.net/follow
✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Living Yoga, Darren Main reconnects with author and surfer-yogi Kori Hahn to talk about her latest book, A Temple of Her Own. With unflinching honesty and deep wisdom, Kori shares how a painful breakup, delivered via email, became the unlikely beginning of a powerful inner transformation. Whether you’re in the midst of your own “Kali moment” or simply looking for inspiration to live more authentically, this episode will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and reminded that every temple begins with a blueprint—and sometimes that blueprint is born in the mess.
RESOURCES
Kori Hahn’s books:
✨ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, follow, and share it with someone who needs a little inspiration today.
In this episode, Darren Main and Pete Guinosso dive into the world of yoga teacher trainings. They break down the various types of trainings and share tips on finding the perfect fit for you. Discover how these trainings can spark personal growth and transformation, highlighting Pete Guinosso’s program as a standout example of a life-changing experience.
CONNECT WITH PETE GUINOSSO
CONNECT WITH DARREN
In this episode of Living Yoga, Darren Main chats with Zach Beach, a Bay Area yoga teacher and author, about the deeper aspects of yoga beyond the physical poses. They delve into the practice of love and compassion, exploring how yoga can help us connect with our true nature. Zach shares insights on setting intentions, the healing power of compassion, and the role of self-love in transforming ourselves and the world. Tune in to discover how yoga can cultivate love and compassion in all areas of life.
CONNECT WITH ZACH BEACH
READ: The Seven Lessons of Love
CONNECT WITH DARREN
Join Darren Main and Marisa Toriggino as they explore how Ayurveda can enhance sleep quality by aligning with natural cycles. Learn about the impact of doshas on sleep and discover practical tips for a better night's rest, including meal timing and limiting screen time. Marisa shares a calming Ayurvedic sleep snack recipe and highlights the importance of personalized guidance from an Ayurvedic practitioner. Embrace holistic self-care for rejuvenating sleep.
CONNECT WITH MARISA TORIGGINO
CONNECT WITH DARREN
Darren Main delves into the dark side of the yoga world with special guest Matthew Remski, author of "Surviving Modern Yoga" and co-host of the Conspirituality Podcast.
They candidly discuss the abuses perpetrated by K. Pattabhi Jois and other prominent gurus, exposing the hidden dangers within these spiritual communities. Through personal stories and critical analysis, Darren and Matthew shed light on the complexities of power, consent, and accountability in the modern yoga movement, offering listeners valuable insights on how to navigate these challenging issues while maintaining their wellness journey.
RESOURCES
Matthew Remski
Surviving Modern Yoga by Matthew Remski
Darren Main
Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic by Darren Main
FREE COURSE: Mindfulness for Busy Minds
Join Darren as he sits down with Leslie Howard, a renowned yoga teacher with a focus on the pelvic floor, in this enlightening episode.
Leslie discusses the unique needs of transgender individuals, including those undergoing hormone replacement therapy and gender confirmation surgery. Delving into the essentials of trans yoga, they explore how gender affirming care can transform lives within the LGBTQ+ community. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how yoga can support trans women, trans men, and non-binary individuals through their journeys. Don't miss this powerful discussion on transgender yoga, the broader transgender debate, and the vital message that gender affirming care saves lives.
READ: Pelvic Liberation: Using Yoga, Self-Inquiry, and Breath Awareness for Pelvic Health
Almost all of us struggle with depression or know someone who does. In this episode, renowned mental health advocate and author of So-Called Normal, Mark Henick, shares his personal journey through depression and suicidal thinking and provides insightful tips and practical advice for those struggling with depression.
Join Darren Main and Mark Henick as they delve into the transformative potential of holistic health practices like yoga and meditation in addressing the complexities of depression and suicidal thinking.
RESOURCES
• If you or someone you know needs support, you can contact the National Suicide Hotline. Send an SMS Text to 988
Connect With Mark Henick
Connect with Darren Main
Darren's Website, Social Media and Free Meditation Course
In this insightful episode, we delve into the art of teaching yoga during challenging and stressful times. Join the conversation between Darren Main and Amy Ippoliti, the author of The Art and Business of Teaching Yoga: The Yoga Professional's Guide to a Fulfilling Career.
Amy Ippoliti, celebrated for her innovative approach to yoga and wellness, shares her expertise in adapting yoga practices to meet the demands of contemporary life.
This episode is not just a discussion; it's a treasure trove of wisdom for yoga teachers looking to deepen their impact and provide a sanctuary of calm and resilience through their teaching. Whether you're a seasoned yoga instructor or new to the field, this conversation between Darren Main and Amy Ippoliti offers valuable perspectives and tools to help you guide your students through these turbulent times.
RESOURCES
• Learn More about Amy Ippoliti:
• Learn More about Darren Main
purchase: The Art and Business of Teaching Yoga: The Yoga Professional's Guide to a Fulfilling Career
Join Darren Main in this insightful episode of 'Living Yoga' as he chats with Sarah Ezrin, author of 'The Yoga of Parenting.' Dive deep into the transformative world of yoga and how it offers valuable parenting tips, advice, and hacks. Learn how the ancient practices can be the key to stress management for parents, ensuring self-care, balance, and holistic well-being. From breathwork to mindful meditation, discover the tools every parent needs in their arsenal. Don’t miss out on this union of yoga wisdom and modern-day parenting insights. Subscribe for more enlightening interviews and yoga-based solutions.
READ: The Yoga of Parenting
CONNECT AND FOLLOW
Now that The Supreme Court has overturned Roe V. Wade and states are criminalizing abortion and passing more restrictive abortion laws, millions of women have fewer choices and are left to navigate healthcare decisions without the support of a trusted doctor or clinics.
• How can women in states that have criminalized abortion end a pregnancy safely?
• When is it safe to get an abortion using abortive drugs?
• How can women get medical advice remotely in states that have abortion bans?
• When should a woman see a doctor about complications?
• How do I minimize legal risk when discussing reproductive medicine with a healthcare provider?
In this episode, Nurse Practitioner and wellness coach Jill Baker offers important advice for making reproductive health care choices in our post Roe v. Wade world. She discusses issues like Morning-After pills, abortive pills that induce a miscarriage, IUDs, and legal issues faced by both women and their healthcare providers. She also offers important guidance about when to seek medical attention should complications arise while using abortive drugs at home.
_______________
RESOURCES
Jill Baker Wellness: https://www.jillbakerwellness.com
Abortions Resources and Services
All-Options Hotline- 888-493-0092 https://www.all-options.org
Planned Parenthood https://www.plannedparenthood.org
National Network of Abortion Funds https://abortionfunds.org
Repro Legal Helpline https://www.reprolegalhelpline.org/sm...
Abortion on Demand https://abortionondemand.org
Self Managed Abortion https://abortionpillinfo.org/en/using...
Follow Darren on social media and learn more about his work- https://darrenmain.com/follow-darren
FREE FOR A LIMITED TIME
Mindfulness for Busy Minds Video Course: https://darrenmain.com/busy-minds
BOOKS BY DARREN
Yoga and the Path of the Urban Mystic https://darrenmain.com/urban-mystic
Inner Tranquility: A Guide to Seated Meditation https://darrenmain.com/inner-tranquility
River of Wisdom: 108 Life-Changing Reflections https://darrenmain.com/river-of-wisdom
Spiritual Journeys along the Yellow Brick Road https://darrenmain.com/yellow-brick-road
The Yogi Entrepreneur
Check out Darren’s other channel, The Yogi Entrepreneur https://darrenmain.com/yogi-entrepren...
This episode was sponsored by yogis just like yourself. If you feel inspired to support future episodes, you can leave a tip in any amount here: https://darrenmain.com/support-living...
Kori Hahn is the author of Rituals of the Soul and founder of a community gathering place called the Santosha Society, which is dedicated to travel, surfing, and the soulful.
Learn More about Kori Hahn: https://santoshasociety.com/
Purchase: Rituals of the Soul: Using the 8 Ancient Principles of Yoga to Create a Modern & Meaningful Life https://amzn.to/3KNL1ot
This episode was sponsored by yogis just like yourself. If you feel inspired to support future episodes, you can leave a tip in any amount here: https://darrenmain.com/support-living-yoga
FREE FOR A LIMITED TIME
Mindfulness for Busy Minds Video Course: https://darrenmain.com/busy-minds
Yoga is wonderful, but for students practicing with various limitations as and unique challenges or who use a wheelchair, it’s hard to know where to start or how to practice.
In this conversation, Jivana Heyman, a certified yoga teacher and author, will offer tips on how to adapt the practice to make it more accessible for everyone.
FREE VIDEO COURSE: Mindfulness for Busy Minds (limited time)
This video course will teach you everything you need to avoid frustrating pitfalls and get started with regular practice so that you can start living a healthier, happier life. Jumpstart your meditation practice today! Free Registration
A conversation with activist, yoga teachers and author of A Queer Dharma, Jacoby Ballard.
RESOURCES
FREE VIDEO COURSE