Ep. 170 Richard Rosen – Exploring the Meaning of Yoga Beyond Asana

Richard Rosen (www.m-yoga.org/richard-rosen  |
@richardrosenyoga)


Adam interviews Richard Rosen, a yoga teacher and author, about
his background in yoga and his book, Yoga FAQ. They discuss the
evolution of yoga texts, the influence of yoga on Western
psychology, and the potential for yoga to suppress emotions. They
also explore the role of asana in yoga, the trend of yoga anatomy
in classes, and the need for assessing students and structuring
classes effectively. 


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This conversation covers various topics related to yoga,
including accessibility and challenges, the importance of
beginner's courses, the practice of pranayama, the significance
of savasana, meditation and concentration, the relevance of
Sanskrit in yoga, and influences on modern yoga. Richard Rosen
shares his insights and experiences, highlighting the need for a
balanced and patient approach to yoga. He also discusses his
guilty pleasure of writing silly poetry and draws inspiration
from various writers and books.


 


Takeaways


Yoga is more than just asana; it is a comprehensive practice
encompassing philosophy, meditation, and self-discovery.


The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, while a foundational text, can be
seen as life and world-denying, and may not fully align with
modern yoga practices.


The Vedas, Upanishads, and other ancient texts provide valuable
insights into the history and philosophy of yoga, but they can be
challenging to read and interpret.


The popularity of yoga has led to the evolution of different
styles and approaches, and teachers need to have a solid
understanding of the tradition and the needs of their students.


Yoga anatomy can be useful for teachers, especially in
therapeutic contexts, but it should not overshadow the broader
aspects of yoga practice. Yoga should be accessible to all, but
it is important to approach it cautiously and seek proper
guidance to avoid injury or discouragement.


Beginner's courses can provide a solid foundation for yoga
practice and help new students ease into the practice gradually.


Pranayama, the practice of breath control, can be challenging to
teach and may require patience and perseverance from both the
teacher and the student.


Savasana, the relaxation pose, is an essential part of yoga
practice and can help develop self-awareness and a witness
consciousness.


Meditation and concentration are integral to yoga and can be
practised both on and off the mat.


Learning Sanskrit can deepen one's understanding of yoga and its
traditional texts, but it is not necessary for all practitioners.


Various individuals and schools, including B.K.S. Iyengar,
Pattabhi Jois, and Indra Devi, have had significant influences on
modern yoga.


Richard Rosen finds joy in writing silly poetry and draws
inspiration from writers such as Ian Banks, Stanislaw Lem, and
José Saramago.


 


"Yoga doesn't affect the union, it reveals a union that
pre-existed and will always exist."


"In any meditation practice, the world should be included in the
meditation."


"I'm a little bit unhappy with flow classes."


"We can't put it to rights here, but yeah."


"Nobody wants to breathe."


"There's consequences often times."