Stress and overwhelm are part of life, but how we approach them can make all the difference. This episode explores the transformative role of acceptance in managing these emotions. Stress is a natural response to challenges, but when it becomes chronic, it can harm both physical and mental health. Overwhelm, on the other hand, often leads to feelings of paralysis and being stuck. The discussion highlights how resisting reality can amplify these feelings, draining energy and making problem-solving harder. Acceptance, however, allows us to pause, acknowledge the present moment, and move forward with clarity and resilience.

The episode also shares practical tools like journaling, breathing exercises, and grounding techniques to calm the nervous system and regain perspective. Setting boundaries, asking for help, and letting go of perfectionism are essential strategies for cultivating resilience. The speakers draw inspiration from Michael J. Fox's approach to acceptance, emphasizing that it is not resignation but understanding and finding a way forward. With self-compassion and mindful practices, listeners are encouraged to embrace stress as part of the human experience and transform overwhelm into growth. This thoughtful conversation provides actionable steps for navigating life’s challenges with grace and strength.

Episode Chapters

00:00:00 - Accepting the River of Life

00:01:56 - Navigating Stress, Overwhelm, and Acceptance

00:04:16 - Understanding Stress and Its Impact

00:06:12 - Stress, Overwhelm, and the Brain

00:08:14 - Navigating Stress and Overwhelm: A Bodily Experience

00:11:16 - Acceptance: The Path Through Overwhelm

00:14:06 - Accepting What You Cannot Change

00:16:45 - Taming Overwhelm Through Lists and Breathing

00:18:12 - Grounding Techniques and Acceptance Practices

00:20:52 - Emotional Writing Reduces Stress and Promotes Problem-Solving

00:23:07 - Embracing Imperfection and Asking for Support

00:25:16 - Reflecting on Short Episodes

Michael’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/

Ping, a yoga teacher from Thailand, shares her transformative journey from growing up in chaotic Bangkok to finding healing and authenticity through yoga, psychedelics, and personal growth. After moving to Canada in her 20s, Ping began a profound exploration of altered states of consciousness, including experiences with psilocybin and DMT, which helped her confront themes of death and rebirth. These experiences shifted her perspective on life, inspiring her to embrace the present moment and seek deeper connections.

Ping’s healing path also led her to explore trauma therapy, yoga, and community support, integrating practices like Internal Family Systems and shadow work. Through ego deaths and awakenings, she released old narratives and embraced her true self. A pivotal experience in Bali helped her heal wounds of self-worth and strengthened her commitment to building compassionate spaces for others.

Ping reflects on the impermanence of emotions, navigating the highs and lows of life with acceptance. She emphasizes the importance of surrendering to the flow of life, practicing mindfulness, and finding a supportive community. Her story highlights the power of integrating yoga, psychedelics, and self-awareness as tools for deep healing and transformation.

Listener Note: This episode includes discussions on sensitive topics such as trauma, death and suicide, and psychedelic experiences. Some content may be uncomfortable for certain listeners, so please take care of your emotional well-being while listening.

Episode Chapters

00:00:00 - Reviewing the Podcast to Spread Yoga

00:02:28 - From Thailand to Yoga: Ping's Journey

00:05:19 - Discovering the World and Finding Belonging

00:09:13 - From Mojave to Portland: A Road Trip Journey

00:11:26 - Exploring Death and the Other Realm Through Psychedelics

00:29:52 - Facing Childhood Trauma Through Eye-Gazing

00:32:40 - Embracing the Shadow Self

00:37:07 - From Skeptic to Mystic: An Awakening Journey

00:45:07 - The Duality of Life: Embracing Contrasts for Growth

00:49:14 - Embracing the Journey: Healing Through Presence and Flow

00:53:31 - Exploring Psychedelics Safely with Guidance

00:56:44 - Embracing Surrender: The Path to Fulfillment

00:59:20 - Embracing Different Perspectives and Self-Acceptance

Ping’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ping.presence/

Discover the profound connection between breath, energy, and consciousness in this insightful discussion with Akshay Bhatt, a practitioner of yoga and Ayurveda. The conversation explores the transformative practice of pranayama, or breath control, as a gateway to understanding the mind and body on a deeper level. Akshay explains how the practice of elongating the breath, retaining exhalations, and techniques like Brahmari (humming) can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and unlock profound states of awareness.

The speakers delve into the ancient teachings of the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Raja Yoga, revealing how breathwork aligns with the pranic body, the subtle energy field that governs vitality and balance. Akshay also shares practical tips for integrating pranayama into daily routines, emphasizing its role in managing emotions, improving focus, and preparing for meditation.

The discussion touches on the nuances of energy-based practices, such as Reiki and Pranic Healing, which help expand and balance prana (life force energy). Listeners will gain a fresh perspective on how conscious breathing not only supports physical health but also cultivates emotional resilience, spiritual awareness, and an enhanced sense of inner peace. This episode invites you to transform your daily habits through the power of breath.

Episode Chapters

00:00:00 - Exploring Pranayama: The Fourth Limb of Yoga

00:03:58 - Hatha Yoga: The Foundation for Raja Yoga

00:10:23 - Sensing the Subtle Energy Between Palms

00:15:16 - Pranic Healing and the Heart's Centrality

00:19:48 - The Power of Subtle Body Expansion

00:23:04 - The Power of Prana: Exploring the Pranic Body and Breath Practices

00:29:16 - Breath Holding and Oxygen Advantage

00:35:20 - Pranayama and Meditation Techniques for Relaxation

00:42:09 - Chakra Chanting and Meditation

00:43:16 - Chakra Activation through Mantra and Breath

00:45:43 - Observing Chakra Energies and the Mind

00:49:13 - Integrating Pranayama into Daily Life

00:52:21 - The Power of Breath in Meditation

Akshay’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akshaybhatyoga/