Yoga Therapy Hour with Amy Wheeler

Hosted by Amy Wheeler

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Welcome to "The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast," a harmonious blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, brought to life by Amy's expertise in psychology and public health. With over 100,000 downloads, this podcast delves deep into the principles of yoga therapy, offering expert interviews, practical solutions, and profound insights into real-life challenges. From its inception, the first four seasons have been instrumental in elevating the domain of yoga therapy, emphasizing the pivotal role of lifestyle medicine in addressing both our mental and physical well-being. As we transition into Season 5, 6 & 7, Amy broadens the horizon, reaching out to the masses. Here, listeners will unravel how yoga therapy, when intertwined with lifestyle engineering, can serve as a powerful tool for holistic healing, touching the realms of the mind, body, and spirit. Subscribe now and be part of a transformative journey that bridges the essence of embodied mental health with the spirit's depth. Join Amy in redefining mental and physical wellness. Also, leave us a review if you are enjoying the podcast and consider supporting us at the Optimal State & Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon page - https://www.patreon.com/yogatherapyhour Go to www.TheOptimalState.com for more details on how to improve your mental and emotional health!

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60 recent

37 min

Prāṇāyāma and Modern Breathwork: What's the Difference?

Are prāṇāyāma and modern breathwork the same thing, or do they represent fundamentally different approaches to working with the breath? In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour , Amy Wheeler explores one of the most common questions arising in yoga therapy, wellness, and healthcare today. While both prāṇāyāma and modern breathwork involve conscious breathing practices that can influence stress, mood, attention, and overall well-being, their origins, purposes, and underlying frameworks are quite different. Drawing from the Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali , the classical Haṭha Yoga texts, and contemporary scientific research, Amy examines how ancient yogic teachings understood the relationship between breath, prāṇa, and consciousness—and how those teachings compare with modern approaches that focus on nervous system regulation, respiratory physiology, emotional health, and performance. Whether you are a yoga therapist, healthcare professional, yoga teacher, or curious practitioner, this episode offers a deeper understanding of how traditional wisdom and modern science can inform our work with the breath. In This Episode, We Explore: The Sanskrit meaning of prāṇa and āyāma Why prāṇāyāma is more than a breathing technique The distinction between breath and prāṇa in classical yoga Prāṇāyāma's place within Patañjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga Key teachings from the Yoga Sūtras on breath regulation, concentration, and meditation How Haṭha Yoga expanded prāṇāyāma through nāḍīs, chakras, kuṇḍalinī, bandhas, and mudrās The central role of kumbhaka (breath retention) in traditional practice Classical prāṇāyāma techniques including Nāḍī Śodhana, Ujjāyī, Bhastrikā, Śītalī, Sūrya Bhedana, and Bhrāmarī The presentation of prāṇāyāma in the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā , Śiva Saṃhitā , and Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā Modern breathwork approaches such as diaphragmatic breathing, coherent breathing, box breathing, the Wim Hof Method, and resonance breathing. Scientific perspectives on breathing, including autonomic nervous system regulation, heart rate variability, carbon dioxide tolerance, respiratory physiology, and emotional regulation How yoga therapists can integrate traditional teachings and contemporary evidence when working with clients Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804 The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158 School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool

46 min

Breath as a Portal: Conscious Connected Breathwork with Laurie Angress

In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour , Amy Wheeler welcomes yoga therapist, meditation teacher, and breathwork facilitator Laurie Angress for a thoughtful conversation about conscious connected breathwork and its potential to serve as a portal into deeper self-awareness, healing, and connection. Laurie shares her personal journey into breathwork, including how curiosity led her to explore a practice that initially felt unfamiliar, despite decades of experience in yoga, meditation, and yoga therapy. What she discovered was a powerful yet accessible approach that helped her access emotional release, profound stillness, and deeper layers of inner knowing. Together, Amy and Laurie explore: What it means to think of breath as a "portal" The relationship between breath, presence, and self-discovery How conscious connected breathwork differs from traditional prāṇāyāma practices The role of curiosity, beginner's mind, and willingness in transformational practices Laurie’s experience training with Seven Directions Breathwork Why trauma-sensitive facilitation and nervous system awareness are essential in breathwork settings The importance of agency, choice, and pacing during intense inner experiences Emotional release, embodiment, and the wisdom that can emerge through breath Music as a supportive element in the breathwork journey The distinction between ethical breathwork facilitation and cathartic group experiences How breathwork may support the integration of plant medicine experiences The intersection of breathwork, meditation, Yoga Nidra, and contemplative practice Presence as the ultimate goal—not fixing, changing, or seeking a particular outcome Laurie also shares a deeply personal story about a breathwork session that occurred just hours before the passing of her aunt. The experience became a powerful reflection on love, grief, support, and the mystery of human connection. Throughout the conversation, Amy and Laurie emphasize that conscious connected breathwork is not about chasing extraordinary experiences. Rather, it is about creating a safe and intentional space where individuals can meet themselves more fully, cultivate presence, and reconnect with what matters most. Whether you are a yoga therapist, meditation practitioner, healthcare provider, or simply someone curious about the healing potential of breath, this episode offers a grounded and compassionate exploration of how breath can become a bridge between the seen and unseen, the conscious and unconscious, and the ordinary and sacred dimensions of life. About Laurie Angress Laurie Angress is a Certified Yoga Therapist, meditation teacher, Yoga Nidra facilitator, and Conscious Connected Breathwork Facilitator. Her work integrates nervous system awareness, mindfulness, embodiment practices, and breathwork to support healing, self-discovery, and connection. Laurie is passionate about creating trauma-sensitive spaces that honor the unique experience of each individual while inviting greater presence, compassion, and inner wisdom. www.MindfulYogaTherapy.net @illuminated_breath on IG Key Takeaway "The breath is always available to us. Sometimes it helps us relax. Sometimes it helps us release. Sometimes it helps us remember who we are." Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com Our Book is Coming Summer 2026! "Application of Therapeutic Yoga in Integrative Health" by Wheeler & Sullivan Optimal State Mobile App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804 The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158 School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification

52 min

From Āsana to Lived Experience: Yoga, Tantra, Somatics, and Lived Experience

In this solo episode, Amy Wheeler explores a fascinating question: What happens when we look beneath the physical practice of yoga and return to its deeper purpose? Beginning with the history of āsana, Amy traces how yoga postures evolved from simple meditation seats into the diverse practices we know today. Along the way, she examines the Tantric influence of the Śiva Saṃhitā, the rise of embodied awareness in modern somatic practices, and the importance of lived experience as a pathway to understanding ourselves more deeply. The episode invites listeners to consider how yoga therapy can serve as a bridge between ancient wisdom and contemporary understandings of human experience, healing, and transformation. In this episode, Amy discusses: • The Sanskrit root of āsana and its original meaning as a seat or stable posture for meditation • The role of āsana in the Yoga Sūtras and why Patañjali devoted only a few verses to posture • The evolution of āsana through the Haṭha Yoga tradition, including the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā, Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā, and Śiva Saṃhitā • Why the Śiva Saṃhitā is considered one of the most Tantric of the major Haṭha Yoga texts • The concepts of prāṇa, nāḍīs, chakras, and kuṇḍalinī as experiential maps of human transformation • How modern somatic approaches emphasize interoception, self-awareness, and embodied regulation • The importance of first-hand lived experience in understanding consciousness and healing • The connection between lived experience, yoga therapy, and the study of consciousness • How Indigenous ways of knowing value observation, participation, relationship, and direct experience • Why lived experience may be one of the most important meeting points between yoga, science, and healing Closing Thoughts One of the enduring gifts of yoga is its invitation to investigate experience directly. Whether we approach that inquiry through Classical Yoga, Tantra, somatic practice, lived experience, or Indigenous wisdom traditions, each reminds us that transformation begins with attention. The path of yoga therapy is not simply about changing symptoms or improving function. It is also about learning to observe, inhabit, and understand our lived experience more fully. In doing so, we may discover that the body, breath, mind, and spirit have been teaching us all along. Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804 The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158 School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool

49 min

Finding Your Way Back: Trust, Truth, and Regulation Through the Body

Episode Summary In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour , Amy sits down with Danielle Burke, a certified yoga therapist and licensed professional counselor, to explore what happens when traditional talk therapy meets embodied practice. Danielle shares her journey from mental health counseling into integrative wellness, where she now blends yoga therapy, somatic awareness, and lived experience to support clients in reconnecting with themselves. Together, they explore what it means to feel “stuck in your story,” how breath and body awareness interrupt that pattern, and why self-awareness is not just insight—but a skill that must be practiced. This conversation offers a steady and honest look at anxiety, burnout, overgiving, and the quiet work of learning to trust yourself again. Through the lens of the yamas and niyamas, Danielle brings forward a practical framework for navigating uncertainty, building inner stability, and reducing unnecessary suffering. Key Themes Explored 1. When Talk Therapy Isn’t Enough Danielle reflects on her work as a licensed counselor and the moment she recognized something was missing—clients could process their experiences cognitively, but often remained disconnected from their bodies. Yoga therapy offered a way to integrate both. 2. The Body as the Entry Point Clients often arrive stuck in patterns of thinking, or unable to access their thoughts at all due to overwhelm. Danielle highlights a simple but profound observation: many people stop breathing when recounting difficult experiences. Reconnecting to breath becomes the doorway back to regulation and presence. 3. Self-Awareness as a Practice, Not a Trait Awareness is not assumed—it is cultivated. Through consistent practice, clients begin to recognize their internal states, expand their capacity for choice, and shift from automatic reaction toward intentional response. 4. Working with Anxiety Without Trying to Eliminate It Rather than attempting to “fix” anxiety, Danielle reframes the work: Can you recognize it? Can you stay with it? Can you also notice what else is present? This introduces the possibility of holding multiple truths at once, rather than being defined by a single state. 5. The Yamas and Niyamas as a Regulatory Framework Ethical principles such as ahiṃsā (non-harming/kindness) and svādhyāya (self-study) become practical tools for daily living. They support clients in discerning how they want to show up—for themselves and in relationship with others. 6. Caregivers, Overachievers, and the Cost of Self-Abandonment Danielle’s primary clients are often women who have spent years supporting others while losing connection to their own needs. The work becomes one of reclaiming worth, voice, and internal alignment. 7. Letting Go of Control (Īśvara Praṇidhāna in Practice) Through simple, real-life moments—like dogs barking during a podcast—Danielle illustrates how acceptance reduces suffering. The shift is subtle but powerful: From “this shouldn’t be happening” → to “this is happening, and I can still be here.” 8. Change Requires Doing Something Different Insight alone is not enough. Sustainable change comes through practice, patience, and a willingness to step outside familiar patterns—even when those patterns are uncomfortable. What a Session with Danielle Looks Like Sessions are adaptive and client-centered, typically including: Reflective conversation and active listening Gentle inquiry and pattern recognition Breath awareness and regulation practices Movement or physical practice (when appropriate) Yoga Nidra or guided meditation Personalized tools such as journaling prompts or recorded practices The process remains grounded in yoga philosophy while accessible to clients regardless of their familiarity with yoga. Notable Reflections “Awareness gives us choice. And choice gives us power.” “The only way to change is to do something different.” “We can hold more than one experience at the same time.” About Danielle Burke Danielle Burke is a certified yoga therapist and licensed professional counselor with over a decade of experience in mental health. She now works through an integrative wellness model, combining yoga therapy, somatic practices, and psychological insight to support clients in reconnecting with their bodies, their values, and their sense of self. Based in interior Alaska, Danielle works with clients both in person and online. Connect with Danielle Burke Website: www.inlightandlovewellness.com Instagram: @inlightandloveyt LinkedIn: Danielle Burke Closing Reflection This conversation invites a steady reconsideration of how we relate to ourselves. Not through force or perfection, but through awareness, practice, and a willingness to meet what is here—one moment at a time.

37 min

Satyam & Ahiṃsā: Telling the Truth Without Harm

In this solo episode, Amy Wheeler explores the second yama, satyam (truthfulness) , and its essential relationship to the first yama, ahiṃsā (non-harming) . This conversation moves beyond simple definitions and into the lived complexity of speaking truth in real relationships, real bodies, and real moments. Drawing from personal reflection—including her own experience with illness and voice—Amy invites listeners into an honest inquiry: When do we speak too much, not enough, or avoid the truth altogether? In This Episode Satyam as Inner Coherence Satyam is not simply “telling the truth.” It is the alignment between: Perception Understanding Expression When these are out of sync, confusion and disconnection follow. When they align, communication becomes clear, steady, and trustworthy. Amy emphasizes that most misalignment comes from incomplete information ( avidyā ) and unexamined assumptions. As clarity improves, so does our ability to speak in a way that others can receive and trust. Ahiṃsā as the Container Ahiṃsā is not just the absence of harm. It is the active cultivation of: Safety Care Stability in relationship Satyam lives inside ahiṃsā. Truth must be expressed in a way that reduces harm and supports connection. This creates an ongoing inquiry: What am I saying that may cause harm? What am I avoiding that also creates harm? Avoidance and harshness are two sides of the same imbalance. The Role of Relationship The yamas are relational practices. They are not abstract ideals. Amy highlights that we refine truth through feedback: Honest, grounded relationships help us see clearly Misaligned or dishonest environments distort our perception Over time, trustworthy relationships support the emergence of a deeper, more stable truth. Ṛtam: The Deeper Truth The episode introduces ṛtam (cosmic order) as the underlying intelligence of reality. Ṛtam → what is (the larger truth) Satyam → how we align with and express that truth Amy describes this as learning to release control and personal agenda, allowing timing, context, and perspective to mature. Truth is not only about correctness—it is about alignment with something larger than the individual viewpoint. A Nervous System Lens Truth is not just cognitive—it is physiological and relational. In sympathetic activation → truth can become sharp and reactive In withdrawal → truth can become suppressed or avoided In regulation → truth becomes attuned and constructive Interoceptive awareness becomes a guide: Changes in breath, tension, or sensation signal misalignment The body often recognizes incoherence before the mind does Clinical and Practical Application In therapeutic settings, satyam is not blunt disclosure. Instead, it includes: Regulated presence Attuned listening Reflective language Often, simply reflecting a client’s words allows truth to emerge without force. Truth becomes something discovered, not imposed. Key Reflection Questions Amy offers a simple but powerful framework: Is it true? (satyam) Is it kind? (ahiṃsā) Is it the right time, context, and relationship? (ṛtam) This triad supports more skillful communication and reduces unnecessary harm. Closing Insight Truthfulness is not a fixed achievement. It is a lifelong refinement. It asks for: Self-awareness Courage Regulation Willingness to be wrong Trust in something larger than personal perspective As Amy reminds us, this work unfolds over time, through relationships, and through the willingness to see ourselves clearly. Sanskrit Words of the Episode Ahiṃsā – Non-harming; active care in relationship Satyam – Truthfulness; inner and outer coherence Ṛtam – Cosmic order; the deeper truth beyond personal perspective Avidyā – Misperception; incomplete or incorrect understanding Support the Podcast Join the Patreon community Explore the Optimal State Mobile App (iPhone & Android) Pre-order Applications of Therapeutic Yoga in Integrative Health by Amy Wheeler & Marlisa Sullivan https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Therapeutic-Yoga-Integrative-Health/dp/1032888628/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RFZ3L5MCCNPH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I7harQDOLulfRbd3dx2vVa5VUZa840PHcWB7dDiT3_bB2nravzO7_9Xs9shMhcy2Iwu0wtTA1PxeUG4TTugEQJuK_OEpvzQ-OyVvtsUkXsc.ViqLrL-EQPX7s09wZF6_2eCpLCimHa7Ohfbw-F7Yuk4&dib_tag=se&keywords=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheeler&qid=1775224796&sprefix=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheele%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

52 min

Living the Niyamas: Ethics, Self-Study, and the Practice of Inner Alignment

Episode Overview In this thoughtful and grounded conversation, Amy Wheeler sits down with Marlysa Sullivan, a physical therapist, yoga therapist, and educator working within the Veterans Administration and at Notre Dame of Maryland University. Together, they explore the Niyamas from The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali as living practices—less about rigid rules and more about ongoing self-inquiry, ethical reflection, and alignment in daily life. Rather than presenting the Niyamas as fixed ideals, this episode invites a more nuanced approach: one that considers context, relationship, and the evolving nature of what it means to act with integrity. The conversation weaves together classical yoga philosophy, modern clinical experience, and real-world application, offering a grounded pathway for both practitioners and clinicians. Key Themes Explored Ethics as a Living Inquiry Ethical practice is not static. Marlysa emphasizes that what is “right” depends on context, relationship, and discernment. This requires ongoing reflection: What is most relevant, kind, and supportive in this moment? Śauca (Clarity and Inner Cleanliness) The discussion reframes purity away from moral judgment and toward clarity. Rather than “fixing what is wrong,” the practice becomes one of noticing what clouds perception—habit patterns, past impressions, and emotional residue—and gently clearing space for more skillful action. Santoṣa (Contentment as Stability and Action) Contentment is explored as a steady inner ground, not passivity. True contentment allows for both acceptance and meaningful action. The conversation highlights the balance between deficiency (chronic dissatisfaction) and excess (avoidance or spiritual bypassing). Tapas (Right Effort and Friction for Growth) Tapas is described as the willingness to meet discomfort in service of transformation. It is the moment where inner clarity meets outward action—often requiring courage to move beyond familiar patterns. Svādhyāya (Self-Study and Honest Reflection) The practice of self-study calls for humility and relational support. Amy and Marlysa emphasize the importance of trusted relationships that can reflect blind spots and support deeper self-awareness. Īśvara Praṇidhāna (Surrender and Letting Go of Outcome) Surrender is presented as an essential counterbalance to effort. One does the work with integrity, then releases attachment to results. This is especially relevant in complex systems, where control is limited and trust becomes necessary. Integrating Kriyā Yoga The final three Niyamas—Tapas, Svādhyāya, and Īśvara Praṇidhāna—are explored as Kriya Yoga, a practical pathway for transformation. Together, they form a cycle: Act with intention Reflect with honesty Surrender the outcome This dynamic process supports both personal growth and therapeutic presence. Clinical and Real-World Application Drawing from her work in the Veterans Administration, Marlysa highlights how these teachings translate into practice: Healing is not one-size-fits-all; each individual responds differently Curiosity supports humility and clinical effectiveness Relationship and co-reflection are essential for growth Yoga therapy must move beyond biomechanics to include meaning, perception, and lived experience The conversation reinforces that how we approach a simple movement—like stretching a hamstring—often reflects how we approach life itself. Practical Reflection For those beginning to work with the Niyamas: Start with the one that feels most relevant or meaningful Reflect on where you tend toward excess or deficiency Use curiosity as a guide rather than judgment Engage trusted others in your process of reflection Closing Insight This episode reframes ethics not as obligation, but as an enlivening and relational practice. When approached with curiosity and sincerity, the Niyamas become a guide for living with clarity, integrity, and connection—to oneself and to others. Learn More Visit Marlysa Sullivan: www.marlysasullivan.com Explore the foundations in The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804 The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158 School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool Our new book- https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Therapeutic-Yoga-Integrative-Health/dp/1032888628/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RFZ3L5MCCNPH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I7harQDOLulfRbd3dx2vVa5VUZa840PHcWB7dDiT3_bB2nravzO7_9Xs9shMhcy2Iwu0wtTA1PxeUG4TTugEQJuK_OEpvzQ-OyVvtsUkXsc.ViqLrL-EQPX7s09wZF6_2eCpLCimHa7Ohfbw-F7Yuk4&dib_tag=se&keywords=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheeler&qid=1775224796&sprefix=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheele%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

48 min

Posture, Presence, and the Language of the Body with Posture Ellie

In this episode, Amy sits down with Posture Ellie , a posture specialist based in the Peak District of England, whose work bridges movement, awareness, and human transformation. Ellie shares her personal journey from corporate burnout and disconnection to discovering yoga as a turning point—one that ultimately led her to specialize in posture as a powerful, accessible entry point into healing. Together, they explore a central reframe: posture is not about “standing up straight.” It is about how the body moves, adapts, and expresses lived experience. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Posture as a Living System Ellie challenges the common idea of posture as rigid alignment. Instead, she describes posture as fluid, responsive movement—an expression of how well the body functions as an integrated whole. From Symptoms to Root Cause Rather than chasing tension or pain, posture work invites us to restore movement where it has been lost. This shift moves the work from symptom relief toward deeper resolution. Interoception as a Learned Language Amy and Ellie discuss how body awareness is not immediate—it develops over time. Many people begin disconnected from sensation and gradually learn to “read” their body through consistent practice. The Missing Middle of Movement Modern life often swings between stillness (desk, car, couch) and intensity (gym, running). Ellie highlights the importance of restoring gentle, everyday movement—the “middle ground” our bodies are designed for. Patterns of Stress in the Body The conversation explores two common expressions of stress: Over-efforting / rigidity (often high-achieving, driven individuals) Collapse / withdrawal (protective, energy-conserving patterns) Both influence breathing, posture, and nervous system regulation in distinct ways. Breath, Posture, and the Nervous System Postural patterns directly affect breathing mechanics. Restricted diaphragmatic breathing can reinforce stress responses, while restoring breath capacity can support regulation. From Numbness to Feeling A powerful theme in this episode is the movement from disconnection to awareness. Many people initially feel “nothing,” only to later recognize long-held tension and emotion as awareness grows. Posture as a Gateway to Self-Relationship Over time, posture work becomes more than physical. It becomes a way of listening, responding, and relating to oneself with greater clarity and care. Key Insight Posture is not something you hold. It is something that emerges when the body is supported, responsive, and free to move. About the Guest Posture Ellie is a posture specialist and educator helping people reduce pain, improve movement, and reconnect with their bodies. Her work draws from yoga, the Egoscue Method, and a deep understanding of how modern lifestyles shape the human body. She is the author of Posture Power , a practical and empowering guide to understanding and improving posture. Website: www.posture-ellie.com Instagram: @postureellie Book: Posture Power → https://watkinspublishinglinks.com/posture-power Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804 The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158 School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool Our new book- https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Therapeutic-Yoga-Integrative-Health/dp/1032888628/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RFZ3L5MCCNPH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I7harQDOLulfRbd3dx2vVa5VUZa840PHcWB7dDiT3_bB2nravzO7_9Xs9shMhcy2Iwu0wtTA1PxeUG4TTugEQJuK_OEpvzQ-OyVvtsUkXsc.ViqLrL-EQPX7s09wZF6_2eCpLCimHa7Ohfbw-F7Yuk4&dib_tag=se&keywords=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheeler&qid=1775224796&sprefix=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheele%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

42 min

The Niyamas and the Neuroscience of Inner Regulation: Creating the Conditions for Change

Episode Description In this episode, Dr. Amy Wheeler continues the Season 10 exploration of the Eight Limbs of Yoga as a regulatory framework , turning inward toward the Niyamas —the personal disciplines that shape how we care for ourselves and engage in inner work. Rather than presenting the Niyamas as a checklist of ideals, this conversation reframes them as practices that create the internal conditions for nervous system regulation, clarity, and meaningful change . At the heart of this episode is a grounded inquiry: What happens when we reduce internal noise, increase awareness, and release the need to control everything? Through both classical teachings and modern neuroscience, Amy explores how daily practice (sādhana) supports a shift from overwhelm and reactivity toward steadiness, discernment, and trust. Key Themes Explored The Niyamas as Inner Regulation The Niyamas are not about perfection or moral pressure. They are about how we stabilize the internal environment so that clarity and integrity can naturally arise. You Cannot Offer What You Do Not Embody Our internal state directly shapes our professional presence. When we are cluttered, overwhelmed, or unreflective, it impacts how we show up with others. From Discipline to Daily Practice The Niyamas are lived through small, consistent actions—organizing our space, pausing for reflection, regulating the body, and observing the mind. Top-Down and Bottom-Up Regulation True transformation includes both: Working with the mind (top-down) Working with the body and physiology (bottom-up) Yoga therapy offers a unique bridge between these two approaches. The Niyamas Through a Neuroscience Lens Śauca (Clarity and Purification) Reducing allostatic load —our chronic stress burden—by organizing our external and internal environments. Less clutter leads to less cognitive overload, allowing the mind to settle and the prefrontal cortex to function more effectively. Santoṣa (Contentment) A present-moment orientation that shifts the brain’s predictive bias . As regulation increases, the brain becomes less focused on past threat and more open to possibility, safety, and “I am okay right now.” Tapas (Disciplined Effort) The steady repetition that builds new neural pathways. Tapas is neuroplasticity in action —choosing new responses, reinforcing them over time, and gradually reducing reactivity. Svādhyāya (Self-Study) Developing meta-awareness and interoception —the ability to observe thoughts, emotions, and sensations without immediately reacting. This creates a pause where new choices become possible. Īśvara Praṇidhāna (Surrender) Releasing excessive control reduces sympathetic overactivation and increases tolerance for uncertainty. When we soften the need to control everything, the nervous system becomes more flexible, resilient, and open to possibility. Clinical Insight When people struggle with the Niyamas, it is rarely a lack of discipline or integrity. More often, it reflects: High allostatic load (chronic stress) Nervous system dysregulation Limited access to internal safety From this perspective, the work is not to try harder, but to create conditions where regulation is possible . A Practical Reframe Instead of asking: Am I doing the Niyamas correctly? We might ask: What is increasing my internal noise? What helps my system settle? Where can I reduce load, even slightly? From there, the Niyamas begin to emerge rather than be forced . Integration with the Yamas The Yamas (social disciplines) and Niyamas (personal disciplines) function as a continuous loop: Inner regulation supports relational clarity Relational harmony reduces internal stress Together, they create a self-reinforcing cycle of regulation, discernment, and well-being . Reflection for Listeners Take a moment to reflect: Where in your life is there unnecessary cognitive or sensory load? What helps you return to a sense of “okayness” in the present moment? Where might you benefit from more effort—and where might you need to release control? Closing The Niyamas invite a steady relationship with yourself. Not as a project to fix— but as a system to support. As internal noise decreases and awareness increases, regulation becomes more accessible, Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804 The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158 School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool New Book Coming Out August 10 th , 2026 https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Therapeutic-Yoga-Integrative-Health/dp/1032888628/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RFZ3L5MCCNPH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I7harQDOLulfRbd3dx2vVa5VUZa840PHcWB7dDiT3_bB2nravzO7_9Xs9shMhcy2Iwu0wtTA1PxeUG4TTugEQJuK_OEpvzQ-OyVvtsUkXsc.ViqLrL-EQPX7s09wZF6_2eCpLCimHa7Ohfbw-F7Yuk4&dib_tag=se&keywords=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheeler&qid=1775224796&sprefix=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheele%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

47 min

Santoṣa: Meeting Life Without Resistance

In this conversation, Amy sits down with Colleen Carroll for a thoughtful exploration of Santoṣa —often translated as contentment, but experienced as something much more nuanced. Rather than presenting contentment as a passive or idealized state, this episode examines it as a living practice—one that unfolds in the middle of uncertainty, chronic pain, changing identities, and the natural fluctuations of life. Together, they explore how the human tendency to strive, fix, and move away from discomfort can obscure what is already present. Through personal stories and clinical insight, they reflect on how contentment is not something we achieve once and for all, but something we return to—again and again—with awareness and discernment. In This Episode, We Explore What Santoṣa really means beyond the idea of “being content” The relationship between striving, dissatisfaction, and the nervous system Why contentment is not complacency—and how to recognize the difference How chronic pain and life disruption can become entry points into practice The role of awareness in seeing what has always been available How external environments (beauty, ritual, home space) can support internal regulation The importance of titration ( krama ) when working with distress or trauma Contentment as a doorway into mindfulness rather than an endpoint The role of relationships and co-regulation in shaping our experience of contentment Discernment in relationships—when to stay connected and when to create space Key Reflections from the Conversation Contentment is not the absence of difficulty. It is the capacity to remain in relationship with what is present, without immediately trying to change it. There is a subtle but important shift from striving for happiness to recognizing moments of ease already available. This shift often requires a willingness to pause and observe rather than act. For many, contentment becomes most accessible not in ideal conditions, but in moments of limitation—when the usual strategies no longer work. These moments can reveal new pathways of awareness, including a more honest relationship with the body and mind. The practice of Santoṣa is not about overriding pain or difficulty. Instead, it involves titrating attention—moving gently between what is challenging and what is supportive, building capacity over time. External environments can play a meaningful role. Beauty, order, ritual, and sensory experiences can help orient attention toward steadiness, making internal awareness more accessible. Relationships matter. Contentment can be supported through connection, but also disrupted through environments that do not align with one’s values or nervous system needs. Discernment becomes part of the practice. Contact Colleen www.colleencarrollyoga.com Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804 The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158 School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool New Book Coming Out August 10 th , 2026 https://www.amazon.com/Applying-Therapeutic-Yoga-Integrative-Health/dp/1032888628/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1RFZ3L5MCCNPH&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I7harQDOLulfRbd3dx2vVa5VUZa840PHcWB7dDiT3_bB2nravzO7_9Xs9shMhcy2Iwu0wtTA1PxeUG4TTugEQJuK_OEpvzQ-OyVvtsUkXsc.ViqLrL-EQPX7s09wZF6_2eCpLCimHa7Ohfbw-F7Yuk4&dib_tag=se&keywords=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheeler&qid=1775224796&sprefix=applications+in+therapeutic+yoga+wheele%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

51 min

Daily Practice, Inner Guidance, and the Living Experience of Sādhana with Lee Mejewski

Episode Overview In this conversation, Amy sits down with Lee to explore the role of daily practice— sādhana —as a living, evolving process rather than a fixed routine. Together, they reflect on what it means to cultivate steadiness in the mind, nervous system, and heart, and how consistent practice becomes a pathway toward deeper self-understanding, inner guidance, and connection to something greater than oneself. The discussion moves beyond technique and into lived experience—how practice shapes perception, builds trust, and gradually shifts one’s relationship to stress, identity, and life decisions. Key Themes Explored Sādhana as a Living Practice Rather than a checklist or obligation, sādhana is described as something that evolves over time—from structured daily sessions to an ongoing state of awareness woven throughout the day. From Effort to Integration Lee shares how practice can begin as something we do and gradually become something we are —an orientation toward presence, clarity, and responsiveness in daily life. Stability Through Routine Both Amy and Lee reflect on how consistent routines support nervous system regulation, especially in contrast to the disruption that comes with travel and constant change. The Role of Direct Experience Sustained practice is not maintained through discipline alone, but through experience. When individuals feel the shift—greater calm, clarity, or ease—they naturally return to practice. Witnessing vs. Identifying A central shift in practice is the movement from being immersed in thoughts and emotions to observing them. This creates space for discernment and choice. Inner Guidance and Trust Lee describes a deepening relationship with an internal “voice” or guidance system that develops through consistent practice. Trust is built gradually, through experience rather than belief. Different Pathways of Awareness The conversation acknowledges that inner guidance can arise in different ways—auditory, somatic, intuitive, or visual—depending on the individual. Spiritual Practice and Health Outcomes The episode highlights emerging research showing that spirituality and consistent inner practice are associated with improved physical, mental, and social health outcomes. Education and Responsibility in Yoga Therapy A key tension explored is whether sādhana should be optional or foundational within yoga therapy training. The conversation points toward a shared responsibility among educators to model and transmit its value. Therapist Presence as Intervention The qualities of the therapist—presence, compassion, equanimity, and self-awareness—are described as central to client outcomes, often more influential than specific techniques. Notable Reflections Daily practice can begin with structure, but over time becomes integrated into how we live and relate to each moment. The shift from “What do I want?” to “What is being asked of me?” reflects a deepening of trust and perspective. Even brief practices—such as 5–10 minutes of meditation—can create measurable physiological and emotional shifts. We cannot guide others beyond our own level of awareness; our personal practice directly shapes our clinical impact. Practical Takeaways Begin with what is accessible: even short, consistent practices can create meaningful change. Anchor practice to a consistent time and place when possible to support continuity. Notice the effects of practice—not just during, but in how you relate to others and your environment. Allow your practice to evolve rather than holding it to a fixed structure. Approach sādhana as a lifelong relationship, not a temporary intervention. Closing Reflection This episode invites a quiet reconsideration of what it means to practice. Rather than striving for the “right” method or perfect routine, the conversation points toward something more steady: a willingness to return, to listen, and to stay in relationship with oneself over time. From that place, both clarity and direction begin to emerge. Learn More About Lee Lee is the founding director of Yoga for Health Institute, where she leads therapeutic yoga programs, professional trainings, and international retreats. Her work includes long-standing student communities and specialized offerings such as the Beyond Cancer retreat program, supporting individuals in navigating health challenges through consistent practice and inner development. You can learn more about her work here: www.yogaforhealth.institute Contact Amy Wheeler: www.TheOptimalState.com 📚 New Book Coming August 10, 2026! Dr. Amy Wheeler's and Marlysa Sullivan new book, Applying Therapeutic Yoga in Integrative Health: A Guide for Re-Imagining Well-Being , will be released on August 10, 2026 and is available for pre-order now on Amazon . Bridging the timeless wisdom of yoga with modern neuroscience, psychology, and integrative healthcare, this practical guide explores how therapeutic yoga can support well-being beyond symptom management. Whether you're a healthcare professional, yoga therapist, or simply passionate about holistic health, this book offers evidence-informed tools for fostering balance, connection, and lasting transformation. Pre-order your copy today on Amazon and be among the first to read it when it launches. Optimal State App for iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/optimal-state/id1604424804 The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yoga-therapy-hour-with-amy-wheeler/id1564687158 School of Integrative Health at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health Master of Science in Yoga Therapy at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy Explore NDMU’s Post-Master’s Certificate in Therapeutic Yoga Practices, designed specifically for licensed healthcare professionals: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/yoga-therapy/post-masters-certificate-in-therapeutic-yoga-practices Try our Post-Bac Ayurveda Certification Program at NDMU: https://www.ndm.edu/academics/integrative-health/ayurveda/post-baccalaureate-ayurveda-certification #IntegrativeHealth #HealthcareEducation #InterprofessionalEducation #GraduateSchool #NDMUproud #SOIHproud #SOIHYoga #SOIHAyurveda #NDMUYoga #NDMUAyurveda #SOIHGraduateSchool