In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Ashton Szabo. Ashton Szabo is the Co-Owner, Manager, and Lead Teacher at Alchemy Yoga & Meditation Center — one of the largest and most renowned yoga studios, meditation hubs, and wellness cafés in Ubud, Bali. Alchemy also has a thriving location in Uluwatu, with a brand-new studio opening soon in Canggu.   An incredibly gifted meditation teacher and yogi, Ashton blends the wisdom of Non-Dual Śaiva Tantra, mantra meditation, and a deeply embodied approach to mind, body, and spirit. His teachings bridge ancient tradition with modern insight, making them accessible to anyone seeking transformation.   In this conversation, we explore: 1:35 – Purpose & vision – Why you do what you do and what inspired your creations 7:36 – Lineage & roots – Where your teaching tradition comes from 8:30 – What is yoga? – Beyond postures, styles, or techniques 11:25 – Global suffering – How to understand and hold space for it 13:05 – Goddess traditions – What they offer us today 13:35 – The ego – Its role in growth and challenge 17:26 – Sameness & uniqueness – How yoga reveals both 19:59 – Asana as self-expression – Uncovering individuality through movement 23:31 – Understanding the mind – Its influence on perception 26:03 – Patanjali’s “Chitta Vritti Nirodhah” – Modern interpretation 27:31 – Empty mind? – Debunking the myth 28:22 – Immersion in being – Living fully in your experience 28:40 – Tradition vs. modern life – Bridging monastic styles with today’s world 31:04 – Mind as trap or liberation – Navigating fear and insight 34:45 – What is meditation? – Beyond the technique 35:34 – Pitfalls in meditation – When it becomes unhelpful 36:47 – Deeper self-connection – Tapping into your true self 37:26 – Where meditation matters most – Key moments of transformation 38:00 – The power of mantra – Why it works deeply 39:56 – When the mind resists – Working with mental obstacles 40:20 – What is divinity? – Defining and relating to the divine 42:47 – Awakening potential – Is it possible for everyone in this lifetime?     This episode is perfect for anyone curious about the deeper dimensions of yoga, meditation, spirituality, and self-realisation — and for those wanting to understand how ancient Tantric teachings can illuminate our modern search for meaning.   Connect with AshtonInstagram: @yogawithashtonWebsite: Alchemy Yoga & Meditation Center   Upcoming 100-Hour Ether Meditation Teacher Training — Bali📅 8th–20th September 2025Learn more & register: Meditation Teacher Training Bali