Finding Harmony Podcast

Yoga as a Lifeline: Surviving Loss and Finding Strength

In this heartfelt episode of Finding Harmony, hosts Harmony Slater and Russell Case sit down with longtime yoga practitioner and teacher Ana Hollis. Ana opens up about her journey with Ashtanga yoga, a practice that has been a pillar of strength through major life transitions, including motherhood, the loss of her husband, and the challenges of aging and injury.
With over two decades of experience, Ana shares how yoga has provided a steady foundation, helping her navigate physical and emotional obstacles. From early days practicing with few resources in San Antonio to teaching at her own shala, Ana’s story reflects resilience and a profound commitment to the Ashtanga community. She discusses how the Ashtanga method—taught by renowned teachers like Tim Miller and Sharath Jois—has evolved to support practitioners across generations and capabilities.
This conversation offers inspiring insights into the ways yoga can be adapted for all stages of life, as well as practical wisdom for aging practitioners. Join us as Ana talks about how her practice continues to evolve and how it has empowered her through the highs and lows of life.
Highlights:
Ana’s early journey into yoga and its powerful role in her life transitions
How yoga supported her through grief and loss
Insights into teaching Ashtanga to diverse students in San Antonio
Adapting yoga practice for aging and injury recovery
Her experiences with esteemed teachers Tim Miller and Sharath Jois
The power of community and support within the Ashtanga tradition
Find your Spiritual Archetype!
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Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser
Join Harmony’s Inner Circle Mentorship:Explore pranayama, yoga philosophy, Sanskrit mantras, and more in Harmony’s private mentorship program. Learn more here.
Upcoming Events:
Don’t miss the opportunity to practice with Sharath Jois on his U.S. tour, which concludes in San Antonio from November 16-20. Learn more and register at Sonima.com.

Unraveling the mysteries of prana and subtle energy

In this transformative episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, hosts Harmony Slater and Russell Case are joined by legendary yoga teacher and author, Tias Little. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of the spiritual path, Tias shares his journey, beginning with his introduction to yoga by his mother in the 1970s. Raised in a family immersed in comparative religion, Tias integrates the psycho-spiritual aspects of yoga into his practice and teaching, blending Buddhist psychology and the ancient wisdom of asana.
Listeners will be captivated as Tias delves into the mysterious forces of prana, the subtle body, and how yoga is so much more than physical postures. He explains how breath, meditation, and movement align to release deep-seated stress and tension in the body, leading to greater awareness and connection to the self. Tias also invites listeners to explore the inner asana—what happens at a deeper level during practice, beyond the forms.
Tias shares personal insights into the progression of yoga from physical rigor to inner stillness, offering wisdom on how practitioners can refine their sensitivity and explore the subtle rhythms of life. This episode also highlights Tias's upcoming Yoga of the Subtle Body training, which provides a unique opportunity to study with a master teacher and deepen your connection to the subtler aspects of yoga.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of prana and subtle body awareness in yoga
Integrating meditative states into physical asana practice
The progression from athletic postures to subtle, internal work
How breath and movement connect us to life’s rhythms
The significance of slowing down and refining sensitivity in practice
About Tias Little:Tias Little is a renowned yoga teacher and the author of Yoga of the Subtle Body. He has been teaching and practicing for over 30 years, blending Eastern philosophies with his deep understanding of the human body and subtle anatomy. Tias has studied with luminaries such as Robert Thurman and Swami Satchidananda, and his teachings integrate both the physical and meditative aspects of yoga. His work has inspired thousands of practitioners to explore the deeper dimensions of their practice. Tias teaches through his Santa Fe-based Prajna Yoga and offers online courses, including the Yoga of the Subtle Body training.
Learn with Tias Little:
Free Teaching from Yoga of the Subtle Body: https://www.shambhala.com/courses/yoga-of-the-subtle-body-free-teaching-sign-up/#a_aid=harmonyslater&a_cid=421e692d
Yoga of the Subtle Body Cours: https://courses.shambhala.com/yoga-of-the-subtle-body/#a_aid=harmonyslater&a_cid=421e692d
Website: Prajna Yoga
Instagram: @prajnayogatraining
Connect with Harmony and Russell:
Website: Finding Harmony Podcast
Instagram: @harmonyslateryoga | @russellcaseyoga

When All Else Fails Ask a Woman: A Feminist Approach to Yoga

In this special episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater sits down with the renowned international teacher and healer, Nischala Joy Devi. Known for her groundbreaking work in combining Yoga with Western medicine, Nischala shares her journey and the development of her heart-centered teachings. With decades of experience, Nischala discusses her contributions to The Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease and the Commonweal Cancer Help Program, explaining how Yoga can assist those facing life-threatening illnesses.
Nischala also delves into her mission to bring the feminine back into spirituality through her work on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. She reflects on her latest edition of The Secret Power of Yoga, a unique, feminine interpretation of the Sutras. Through these teachings, listeners will gain insight into a more heart-centered, compassionate approach to life, spirituality, and healing.
Tune in as Nischala explains how Yoga helps individuals on their path to personal healing and spiritual growth, expanding beyond the boundaries of traditional practices to embrace a more holistic approach. Whether you're new to Yoga or have been practicing for years, this episode will inspire you to explore the depth of Yoga’s healing power.
Key Topics Discussed:
Integrating Western medicine and Yoga for heart disease and cancer patients
The sacred teachings of Yoga from masters around the world
The role of feminine energy in spiritual practices
A heart-centered approach to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
The mystical power of the Chakras for healing and transformation
Connect with Nischala Joy Devi:
Website: nischaladevi.com
Social Media: @nischaladevi
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser
Join Harmony’s Inner Circle Mentorship:Explore pranayama, yoga philosophy, Sanskrit mantras, and more in Harmony’s private mentorship program. Learn more here.

Enneagram Insights to Align Life, Yoga, and Business

In this captivating episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, host Harmony Slater dives deep into the world of the Enneagram with executive coach Nicole McDonough. Together, they explore the power of the Enneagram as a dynamic system that offers insight into our personalities, inner wounds, and patterns of behavior.
Nicole shares her journey of discovering the Enneagram and how it has influenced her coaching and personal life. She explains how this spiritual personality typing tool can help you unlearn childhood survival mechanisms, understand unconscious motivations, and foster growth and healing.
In this conversation, you'll learn:
The core principles of the Enneagram and how it can guide personal and professional development
The importance of understanding your own Enneagram type and how it shapes your interactions
How the Enneagram can deepen your self-awareness and improve relationships with others
Practical insights into identifying and working with your Enneagram type for emotional well-being
The impact of nervous system regulation on self-discovery and growth
Whether you're new to the Enneagram or a seasoned enthusiast, this episode offers profound insights that can inspire you to explore this system more deeply. Tune in for an enlightening and empowering conversation!
Find out more about Nicole!
Connect with Nicole McDonough:Website: Nicole McDonough CoachingLeadership Superpowers Guide: Download Here
Learn more about the Enneagram:
https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser
Join Harmony’s Inner Circle Mentorship:Explore pranayama, yoga philosophy, Sanskrit mantras, and more in Harmony’s private mentorship program. Learn more here.

Embracing Change: Yoga, Aging, and the Art of Letting Go

In this episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony and Russell sit down with Lauren Peterson, a foundational Ashtanga Yoga teacher with a background in dance and acting. Lauren has spent over 30 years teaching and practicing yoga, contributing her time to organizations like Yoga Gives Back and the Monte Nindo Eating Disorder Center. She shares her fascinating journey from a professional ballet dancer in New York to a renowned yoga teacher in Los Angeles and Malibu, where she has taught Ashtanga Yoga for decades.
Lauren discusses her initial foray into yoga through Iyengar and Ashtanga, recounts her transition from dance to yoga, and reflects on the challenges of aging and accepting changes in her practice. She highlights the importance of presence and listening to the body, using yoga to be more present in all aspects of life, including parenting and acting.
Lauren shares stories of celebrity yoga moments, her work with Yoga Gives Back, and how traveling to India deepened her connection with yoga. The conversation wraps up with inspiring insights into the evolving journey of yoga, aging, and the beauty of embracing the limits of one's practice.
Key Topics:
Lauren’s background in professional ballet and transition to Ashtanga Yoga
The healing power of yoga for both physical and emotional challenges
Lessons learned from teaching yoga and traveling with Yoga Gives Back
Insights into balancing yoga practice with aging and physical limitations
Celebrity stories and experiences as a yoga teacher in Los Angeles
How yoga helps cultivate presence and awareness in everyday life
The role of yoga in acting and how both disciplines inform one another
Yoga Gives Back: Lauren and Harmony talk extensively about Yoga Gives Back, an organization that helps underserved communities in India through yoga fundraising initiatives. Lauren shares information about the upcoming Yoga Gives Back Retreat in Nagano, Japan, and invites listeners to get involved.
Connect with Us:
Follow Lauren Peterson on Instagram: @ohlaurenpeterson
Learn more about Yoga Gives Back and join their events at YogaGivesBack.org
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser

Decolonizing Yoga: Exploring the Roots of Yoga Philosophy

In this thought-provoking episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, Harmony Slater and Russell Case  sit down with philosophical scholar and teacher, Dr. Shyam Ranganathan, to explore the deeper aspects of yoga philosophy, ethics, and autonomy. Dr. Ranganathan dives into the true purpose of yoga as a tool for independence, and how the practice has been shaped—and sometimes distorted—by colonial and cultural influences.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the roots of yoga, understanding how devotion to sovereignty, through practices like Ishvara Pranidhana, leads to Kaivalya, a state of autonomy. Dr. Ranganathan also touches on the challenges of decolonizing yoga, the philosophical lens necessary for true yoga practice, and the importance of questioning the cultural baggage that modern yoga carries.
Dr. Ranganathan’s reflections on the Yoga Sutras, the role of language, and how philosophy intertwines with meditation will inspire anyone looking to deepen their understanding of yoga beyond physical asana. This episode is a must-listen for both seasoned practitioners and those new to the philosophy of yoga.
Key Topics Discussed:
Decolonizing yoga and returning to its philosophical roots
The ethical and philosophical dimensions of yoga practice
The real meaning behind Ishvara Pranidhana and Kaivalya
Breaking free from the constraints of past habits (Tapas)
The intersection of personal freedom and yoga philosophy
How colonization has shaped modern yoga practices
Connect with Dr. Shyam Ranganathan: https://www.shyam-ranganathan.info/
 
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser

The Mind-Body Connection in Overcoming Autoimmune Disorders

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of the Finding Harmony Podcast, host Harmony Slater sits down with coach Alyssa Van Alstyne to discuss the intersection of women’s health, autoimmune disorders, and the powerful role that coaching plays in uncovering and healing the root causes of physical symptoms. Alyssa shares her personal journey with hyperthyroidism and how she navigated a challenging diagnosis through both medical and holistic approaches. Together, they explore the connection between mental, emotional, and spiritual health and how it impacts physical well-being.
Alyssa and Harmony reflect on their similar experiences with autoimmune disorders, revealing how deeply the mind and body are connected. They delve into the importance of receiving support, managing stress, and addressing the deeper layers of health that often go unacknowledged in traditional medicine.
If you’re navigating health challenges, autoimmune disorders, or just want to explore a more holistic approach to healing, this episode is filled with wisdom and practical insights.
Topics Covered:
Women’s health and autoimmune disorders
The importance of holistic health approaches
The mind-body connection in healing
How coaching can help heal physical and emotional symptoms
The role of stress and trauma in autoimmune conditions
Navigating the medical system while embracing holistic practices
Resources:
Follow Alyssa Van Alstyne on Instagram @vanalstynealyssa
Book a session with Alyssa through her Calendly link https://calendly.com/alyssavanalstyne/clarity-session
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser
Disclaimer: The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as such. All opinions expressed by the hosts, guests, or participants are solely their own and do not reflect the views of any companies or organizations they may be affiliated with. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.

Healing the Earth with Mindful Practices and Energy Work

In this episode of Finding Harmony, host Harmony Slater and co-host Russell Case have a deep and enlightening conversation with Cynthia Jurs, a Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhist practitioner who has spent over 30 years traveling the globe, placing sacred Earth Treasure Vases in special locations to promote healing and protection for our planet. They explore Cynthia’s spiritual journey, the origin and significance of Earth Treasure Vases (ETVs), and how meditation and spiritual practices can foster global healing. 
 
Cynthia shares how her meeting with a 106-year-old Lama in the Himalayas led to her life’s mission of healing the Earth through this sacred practice. The conversation delves into the power of synchronicities, the role of meditation, and the importance of honoring indigenous traditions and locations. Cynthia also reveals personal stories of magical moments from her global pilgrimages, including powerful encounters with nature, such as queen bees and whales. The discussion brings forth the sacred connection between humanity and the Earth, encouraging listeners to play their part in global healing.
 
If you're feeling drawn to reconnect with the Earth, join Cynthia for her monthly Full Moon meditations and other healing practices offered by the Gaia Mandala Global Healing Community. 
 
What You’ll Learn:
- The story behind Earth Treasure Vases and their spiritual significance.
- The intersection of Tibetan Buddhism, Earth healing, and indigenous practices.
- How sacred objects and meditation practices can bring healing energy to the planet.
- Cynthia’s personal encounters with spiritual synchronicities while placing the vases.
- The importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies for Earth’s healing.
- Ways to participate in global healing through community meditation and offering practices.
 
Connect with Cynthia Jurs:
- Learn more about Cynthia’s work and her Earth Treasure Vases at [gaiamandala.net](https://gaiamandala.net)
- Join Cynthia’s monthly Full Moon Meditations and stay connected through the Gaia Mandala community
- Check out Cynthia’s book: Summoned by the Earth: Becoming a Holy Vessel for Healing Our World
 
Upcoming Events:
- Join Cynthia at her retreat in upstate New York at the end of September.
- She will be giving a talk at Tibet House in New York City during the Full Moon. Visit [https://www.summonedbytheearth.org/live-events) for more information.
 
Other ways to connect with Cynthia
https://earthtreasurevase.org/about-us/founder/
https://gaiamandala.net/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20yAjtjxPPY&t=4s
https://gaiamandala.net/practice
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser

Karma and Emptiness: The Buddhist Way To Transform Pain into Freedom

In this gem of an episode, Harmony and Russell dive deep into the philosophy of Tibetan Buddhism with the wise and joyful Hector Marcel, President of the Three Jewels Outreach Center in New York City, Tibetan Buddhism Teacher, and Meditation Expert. Hector shares his journey from Argentina to Australia and eventually to New York City, where he discovered Tibetan Buddhism. This conversation is full of laughter, wisdom, and thought-provoking ideas about karma, suffering, reincarnation, and the power of meditation.
The discussion touches on the misconception that spiritual practices will eliminate suffering and explains how enlightenment can be found by transforming how we experience life’s challenges. Hector emphasizes the importance of facing our negative karmas, the mind-body connection, and why joy is integral to moving through suffering.
Key Topics Discussed:
Hector's Journey: From Argentina to Tibetan Buddhism
Hector recounts his fascinating journey from fleeing political unrest in Argentina to embracing Tibetan Buddhism. His personal story illustrates how life’s unexpected turns can lead to profound wisdom and spiritual transformation.
Discovering Meditation and Buddhism
Hector recalls his initial reluctance to embrace meditation and Buddhism and how a series of serendipitous events, including a dream and accidentally crashing a buddhist party led him to a lifelong commitment to Tibetan teachings.
Understanding Karma and Reincarnation
Hector offers a clear and insightful explanation of karma, reincarnation and how these concepts are tied to the Buddhist understanding of consciousness and the mind.
The Role of Meditation and Pretending
One of the episode’s key takeaways is how meditation can help change our relationship to reality and how “pretending” enlightenment can actually lead to real awakening.
Finding Joy in Suffering
Hector discusses how we can find joy even in moments of suffering by shifting our mindset and understanding that our perception creates our experience of reality.
Exploring Emptiness and the Nature of Reality
The concept of emptiness is explored in depth, particularly how things don’t have an inherent nature, and how our projections create our experiences.
The Path to Enlightenment vs. Nirvana
Hector explains the difference between Nirvana and full Buddhahood, offering insights into what it means to reach enlightenment and how it can be achieved not just for oneself but for all living beings.
Join Hector Marcel & Three Jewels:
Connect with Hector at Wakeupist on Instagram.
Learn more about his work at Three Jewels, a nonprofit offering meditation, yoga, and philosophy classes in New York City.
Connect with Harmony (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser

Discovering the Self: From Alberta to an Ashram in India

Harmony Slater and Bobbi Paidel, host of the Curious Yogi podcast, dive deep into a compelling journey of self-discovery and transformation. From a remote town in Alberta to an ashram in India, Bobbi shares how yoga helped her overcome scoliosis, addiction, and mental health struggles. Her story is a testament to the power of dedicated practice, spiritual teachings, and a life-altering shift toward meditation, pranayama, and asana.
They discuss finding balance between Eastern and Western practices, navigating spiritual awakening, and living with grace amidst life's chaos. Bobbi's insights reveal how even the simplest routines, like creating a "Toilet Temple," can anchor us in moments of stillness and clarity. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a curious seeker, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on embracing life's challenges with an open heart.
 
Key Topics Discussed:
Bobbi's journey from Alberta to India and her life-changing experiences at the ashram.
The role of yoga and meditation in overcoming addiction and mental health issues.
Integrating Eastern spiritual practices into a Western lifestyle.
The spiritual significance of scoliosis and how it can shape one’s journey.
The importance of daily practices such as meditation, pranayama, and asana for mental clarity and spiritual growth.
The concept of the "Toilet Temple" as a metaphor for finding peace and stillness in everyday life.
Navigating spiritual awakening in a modern, interconnected world.
Connect with Us (We love to hear from you!)
Harmony Slater's Website: http://harmonyslater.com
Finding Harmony Community 
https://harmonyslater.com/harmony-slater-coaching
⁠Find Harmony on Instagram⁠
Follow the Finding Harmony Podcast on IG
⁠Two Minute Breathwork Session⁠
Yoga Gives Back Fundraiser
More about Bobbi:
Originally from western Canada, Bobbi is a yogi with more than 20 years of in-depth experience. She has devoted her life to living and sharing the spiritual principles of yoga sadhana as taught by her Guru in the Advait Vedant tradition. Bobbi has spent more than ten years living primarily in northern India, where she has immersed herself in the yogic lifestyle. 
 
Along with being a registered yoga teacher (Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Meditation), Bobbi is also a certified Ayurvedic Yoga Massage practitioner and experienced in pilates (mat)  and alignment-based bodywork. She shares extensive knowledge of body mechanics from a lifetime of competitive dance training and a bachelor’s degree in dance.
 
Bobbi is a space holder for Y12SR (Yoga of the 12 Step addiction recovery), the host of a Curious Yogi Podcast, and the co-founder of Positive Lamb Foundation - a registered charity supporting children affected by HIV in India. Bobbi teaches with authenticity and respect to the yogic traditions, while adding her light-hearted flair, making her classes joyful and accessible for all. 
 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bobbipaidel/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/bobbipaidelyoga
Website: http://bobbipaidel.com