Show Notes
In this conversation with power yoga pioneer Bryan Kest, Derek and Larry discuss the evolving perception of yoga among men, emphasizing its multifaceted benefits as a workout that addresses strength, flexibility, and mental well-being.
Kest shares his insights on different styles of yoga, particularly Yin Yoga and Power Yoga, and on how a personal practice can transform over time, especially in relation to aging and injury. The discussion highlights the importance of adapting yoga practices to individual needs and the long-term health benefits of maintaining a consistent yoga routine. In addition, Kest challenges the conventional notions of strength and success, urging listeners to appreciate the simple joys of life and prioritize wellness over societal expectations.
Other topics include (1) the profound impact of yoga on personal growth; (2) the importance of quieting the mind; (3) breath as a focal point in a practice; (4) the balance between strength and calmness; (5) the cultural pressures that often lead to ego-driven behaviors; and (6) the need to find a personal practice that resonates with individual needs.
Connect with Bryan Kest
Website
Autobiography of an American Yogi by Bryan Kest
Support and stay connected with the GTY
Website: https://www.gtypodcast.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gtypodcast/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@guystalkingyogapodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/guystalkingyoga
More from Guys Talking Yoga
In this conversation, Josh Blatter shares his journey into yoga, discussing how he transitioned from a restaurant chef to a yoga teacher. He emphasizes the importance of foundational practice, the benefits of yoga for men including learning how to connect with your body, learning to feel what you feel as you move, as well as discovering the deep inner strength in your smaller, stabilizing muscles that help with so many other activities. The discussion highlights the significance of yoga in personal growth and healing, encouraging listeners to explore their own practice, and that it is never too late to start one’s practice.
Derek and Larry dive into the world of Bhakti Yoga with Josh Kane, founder of Gandiva Yoga based in New Haven, CT. Discover how Josh's journey from acting and music to yoga has shaped his life and teachings. Learn about the transformative power of yoga, the importance of spiritual practice, and the unique experiences at Esalen.
“One day I got a call from somebody who said, there's a problem with the yoga mats out there. They're very slippery, toxic, and not eco-friendly. Do you have any alternatives? I don't know why he called a rug pad business, but he called us and I just happened to answer the phone. As I chatted with him in the back of my mind I was thinking ‘Are there that many people doing this?’”
Mark Oppenheimer, author and former columnist for The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Nation, GQ, Slate, and The Wall Street Journal, is a professor at Washington University in St. Louis, where he focuses on politics, religion, and Jewish life and culture. After reading his 2024 Wall Street Journal article, Embracing My Inner ‘Yoga Man’ — in which he reflects on discovering yoga and his local studio during the COVID years — Derek and Larry invited Mark to discuss the benefits he’s experienced as a newcomer to the practice. Their conversation explores his journey from initial skepticism to embracing yoga’s challenges, joys, and community, and how it has shaped his life beyond the mat.
In this conversation, Las Vegas based yoga educator, yoga teacher, and massage therapist Jules Mitchell shares her journey from discovering yoga in college to becoming a leading voice in the field. She emphasizes the importance of understanding tissue behavior, effective stretching, and the broader implications of yoga practice. We explore the challenges and opportunities for men in yoga, touching on societal norms, the need for male role models, and the transformative power of yoga in fostering self-awareness and community. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, this episode offers valuable insights for integrating yoga into your life to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being.