Keen on Yoga Podcast

Ep 279 Adam Keen – Touch in Yoga Teaching

Keen on Yoga Podcast

Show Notes

Discover the nuanced role of physical touch in yoga, including its profound benefits and significant risks. In this episode, yoga teacher Adam explores the power of touch as a tool for connection, affirmation, and energy work, while addressing the dangers of abuse, boundary setting, and how to incorporate touch thoughtfully and ethically. Key Topics · The significance of touch in embodying energy and cultivating connection in yoga · Personal experiences and crises of touch during the COVID-19 pandemic · The impact of touch on healing and the importance of positive affirmation · Recognizing and preventing physical and sexual abuse in yoga settings · Establishing consent, feedback, and trust to create a safe environment · The difference between assistance, adjustments, and forcing body shapes · Safeguards such as consent cards and open communication with students · Principles for ethical touch: gentle, clear, affirmative, and gradual · The role of trust, relationship building, and sensitivity to personal boundaries · Alternatives to adjustments, emphasizing support through presence and subtle cues CONNECT WITH ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/

WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga LISTEN Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/keen-on-yoga-podcast/id1509303411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5iM9lcw52JskHUZ2eFvVxN

More from Keen on Yoga Podcast

Oct 18, 2026

Adam explores how to maintain motivation for yoga practice during different seasons of energy and life. He shares practical tips, philosophical insights, and personal stories to help practitioners stay connected to their practice and deepen their understanding of yoga beyond the physical postures. Key Topics · The natural seasons of energy and motivation in yoga practice · Practical strategies to overcome lack of motivation, including variation and focal points · The importance of ritual and consistency in yoga practice · Understanding the deeper purpose of yoga beyond physical postures · The impact of aging on motivation and how to adapt · The role of the breath and diaphragm in deepening practice · The relationship between yoga practice and self-inquiry · The significance of personal connection and inspiration in teaching and practice · The concept of yoga as a lifelong journey with ups and downs · The importance of integrating yoga into daily life for meaning and connectioSUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/

Oct 11, 2026

James discusses the research on the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā, its historical context, and the significance of different manuscript recensions. We explore the evolution of yoga texts, the importance of original sources, and the challenges of translating and interpreting ancient practices. James and Adam explore the evolution of yoga practices, the influence of different traditions, and the scholarly insights into ancient texts and their relevance to modern yoga.

Oct 4, 2026

Adam explores the complex nature of modern yoga, its roots, cultural influences, and the importance of context and intention in practice. He discusses how yoga can be a sacred space for self-discovery and the challenges of balancing tradition with contemporary practice. Key Topics · The evolution of yoga from pre-twentieth century to today · The importance of context and intention in yoga practice · The cultural and spiritual roots of yoga and their influence on modern classes · The role of sacred space and symbolism in yoga · The difference between traditional yoga and modern wellness classes · The influence of Western physical culture on yoga · The significance of Indian philosophy and symbolism in yoga · The challenge of cultural appropriation and authenticity in teaching yoga SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST: https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/ CONNECT WITH ADAM https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga WATCH https://www.youtube.com/@keenonyoga

Sep 27, 2026

From Blues to Bhakti - Krishna Das shares his profound spiritual journey from childhood to meeting Maharaji, exploring the transformative power of chanting, devotion, and spiritual practice. Discover insights into the nature of love, the importance of surrender, and the timeless wisdom that guides his life. This episode is remastered from the original interview that took place in April, 2022 MAIN TOPICS · Krishna Das's early spiritual experiences and musical background · The transformative peyote experience and its impact on his worldview · Meeting Maharaji and the profound effect of his presence · The significance of chanting and devotional practice in spiritual growth · The nature of love, surrender, and the guru-disciple relationship · The role of music and sound in awakening consciousness · Insights into Indian spirituality and the guru tradition · Krishna Das's reflections on life, death, and the eternal CONNECT WITH KRISHNA DAS Website: https://krishnadas.com/ IG: @krishnadasmusic SUPPORT KEEN ON YOGA Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf FULL PODCAST LIST https://www.keenonyoga.com/keen-on-yoga-podcast-guests/

Sep 20, 2026

Adam explores the profound significance of the neck in yoga practice, its role as a bridge between inner energy and outer expression, and how proper alignment can influence physical and mental well-being. Key Topics

See all episodes →