You are a yoga teacher or a health professional who wants to integrate yoga therapeutically. You want a more holistic, biopsychosocial approach to helping your clients heal. You want to empower them to listen and to learn about their bodies. In From Pain to Possibility, Susi Hately, B.Sc. Kinesiology blends modern understanding of anatomy and biomechanics with the ancient wisdom of yoga. This weekly show will share Susi's best ideas from over 25 years of helping her clients reduce and eradic ...
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Becoming a Movement Detective Part 1 of 3: Eyewitness
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17:45In this episode, I’m kicking off a three-part series on becoming a movement detective. Instead of piling on exercises or trying to “fix” the body, it’s about observing, listening, and asking better questions, like a detective gathering clues. By slowing down and noticing patterns, we start to see what’s really going on beneath the surface. You’ll h…
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How To Stop Making Pain the Problem To Fix | #333
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31:58In this episode, I’m exploring a gap I see so many skilled practitioners fall into, not because they don’t have enough tools or techniques, but because of how they’re approaching pain. Too often, we slip into “fix-it mode,” seeing clients as though something is broken. What I’ve come to understand is that pain isn’t the problem to solve; it’s a sig…
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The Mechanics of Real Change - From Pain to Possibility Part 3 of 3
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24:11In this final episode of my three-part series, I explore what happens when a client doesn’t want to talk. Whether they’re silent, shut down, or resisting the moment is rich with information, not failure. I’ll guide you through how to recognize the power of presence, how to stay grounded when words are few, and how co-regulation begins not with fixi…
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The Mechanics of Real Change - From Pain to Possibility Part 2 of 3
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28:03In this episode I explore what happens after the pain starts to subside, those powerful moments of relief that so often get brushed aside. This is where real change begins. You'll hear how to help your clients (or yourself) recognize what’s present when pain is gone, and why naming that new sensation- calm, spaciousness, stability, creates the foun…
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The Mechanics of Real Change - From Pain to Possibility Part 1 of 3
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35:14In this episode, I’m kicking off a new three-part series called The Mechanics of Real Change. I’m diving deep into what I’ve seen over the past 30 years truly helps people get out of pain, and stay out. I share a story from a recent cycling trip in Italy that helped me see, once again, how solid biomechanics create the foundation for lasting change…
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Coordination Over Contraction - Rethinking Core Retraining: A Client Story | #329
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29:44In this episode, I share the story of a long-time client who’s done all the “right” things but still felt like something was missing. We explore the often overlooked difference between muscle activation and true coordination, and why repetition without repatterning can reinforce compensation instead of healing. Join me as I share insights on how to…
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The 3 Stages of Growing Into an Effective Yoga Therapist | #328
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24:05In this episode, I guide yoga teachers, massage therapists, and movement professionals through the three stages of evolving from teacher to skilled yoga therapist. I explain the “accidental success” phase, the importance of integrating knowledge for clarity and confidence, and how to build a sustainable, trusted practice. I offer practical advice f…
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Planes of Movement - Over Posture Fixes: A Case Study in Coordination vs Compensation | #327
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23:16In this episode, I explore a case study on forward head posture and hypermobility, focusing on chronic neck and shoulder tension. I discuss how movement professionals can support lasting change by prioritizing coordinated movement and somatic awareness over simply correcting posture. I share practical strategies, such as breathwork and targeted exe…
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The Inner Infrastructure of a Sustainable Yoga Business | #326
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27:43In this episode, I offer compassionate guidance for yoga teachers on building a sustainable yoga business. I share my journey, highlight the importance of self-concept, and encourage embracing life’s challenges without waiting for perfect conditions. I advocate for authenticity, presence, and nervous system regulation as keys to thriving profession…
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SI Joint As A Messenger: What Your Shoulders, Rib Cage and Hips Are Saying | #325
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19:17In this episode, I explore the sacroiliac (SI) joint and its part in movement and pain. I encourage you to see the SI joint as a helpful messenger, not just a problem area, highlighting the roles of the ribcage, shoulder girdle, and pelvis. I share practical tips for improving movement patterns and body awareness, empowering you to better understan…
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Pain Isn’t Always the Problem: Compensation Patterns You Might Be Missing | #324
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18:38In this episode, I invite you—especially women—to consider pain as a helpful signal rather than an enemy. I describe how pain often points to hidden compensation patterns in the body, not just injury. I encourage gentle self-observation, focusing on movement transitions and listening to your body’s cues. By understanding pain as a guide, you can di…
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Knee Health Reimagined: Why Movement Quality Matters More Than Muscle Strength | #323
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22:38In this episode, I explore knee health and talk about common concerns regarding knee pain in yoga practice. I maintain that knees are resilient, not fragile, and I highlight the importance of considering the whole body—especially the foot, hip, and breath—when addressing knee issues. I encourage a holistic, integrated approach to movement, focusing…
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In this episode, I explore how traditional anatomy education often overlooks the body’s interconnectedness. I explore a holistic, “woven” approach to understanding movement and the role of fascia. I encourage movement professionals and yoga teachers to shift from treating isolated symptoms to addressing the body as an integrated system, and to deep…
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Understanding the Planes of Movement | #321
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33:32In this episode, I explore the planes of movement—sagittal, frontal, and transverse—and their vital role in reducing physical pain. I explain how these biomechanical principles help movement professionals identify and address compensatory patterns in clients. I emphasize observation, curiosity, and building trust in movement, rather than simply cor…
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The Shoulder Isn’t the Problem: Tracing the Real Patterns Behind Pain | #320
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24:45In today's episode, I share a case study of a client with persistent shoulder pain. I explain how pain often signals deeper, interconnected issues in the body. I highlight the importance of understanding movement patterns, breath, and compensation, encouraging listeners—especially women—to view pain as an opportunity for insight rather than just a …
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In this episode, I describe my program "I Love Kinesiology" which is all about bridging the gap between an academic kinesiology education and practical movement training for yoga teachers and movement practitioners. I share my own journey from getting a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology to weaving yoga into my practice. I emphasize how crucial it …
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Core is Not a Muscle; It is a System | #318
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36:03In this episode, I explore the "core" as an integrated system involving muscles, fascia, breath, and the nervous system. I challenge the common directive to "engage your core" and instead focus on understanding its role in fluid, responsive movement rather than rigid bracing. I highlight the importance of core responsiveness for optimal movement, a…
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Embodied Clarity: Retraining Past Patterns Through Biomechanics, Neuroscience, and a Bit of Woo | #317
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22:21In this episode, I'm offering guidance on how to transition from a 200-hour teacher training to therapeutic practices. I emphasize a return to clarity and authenticity rather than chasing dramatic breakthroughs. I discuss the nervous system's protective patterns and advocate for compassionate, precise movements to foster safety and transformation. …
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The Second Arc: The Stepwise Progression from Cues and Alignment to True Biomechanical and Therapeutic Skill | #316
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21:45In this episode, I outline the transformative journey that yoga teachers go through, from their basic training to mastering advanced therapeutic practices. I introduce what I call the "second arc" of development, where I break down five stages that help enhance skills in biomechanics, nervous system awareness, and therapeutic problem-solving. I emp…
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From Fix-It to Flow: The Therapeutic Shift from Yoga Teacher to Yoga Therapist | #315
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28:40In this episode, I'm speaking to fellow yoga teachers who might feel a bit stuck after their initial 200-hour training. These feelings of limitation can be frustrating, but they can be important milestones on our journey to becoming therapeutic yoga teachers. I break down this growth into five stages: Awareness, Assessment, Adaptation, Attunement, …
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Teaching Yoga for Osteoporosis: It’s About More Than the Pose | #314
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22:11In this episode, I outline some effective yoga teaching strategies for students dealing with osteoporosis. I emphasize creating a safe and supportive environment, moving away from traditional alignment-focused methods toward a more intuitive, presence-based approach. I also highlight the importance of compassionate communication and how creating a …
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Yoga and Osteoporosis: Rewiring the Body’s GPS | #313
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16:08In this episode, I go into how osteoporosis can really affect both our physical health and how confident we feel in our bodies. I talk about why it's so important to build movement confidence and reconnect with ourselves, especially through yoga, to help us trust our bodies again. I introduce the idea of an "internal GPS," or the sensory motor loop…
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What If the Symptom Isn’t the Problem? Reclaiming Power, Precision, and Coherence Through the Body | #312
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14:19In this episode, I explore the deeper meanings behind those nagging symptoms like back pain and shoulder tightness. I stress how important it is to recognize and name the symptoms, understanding them as survival strategies instead of malfunctions. By fostering awareness and patience, I guide you to transform your pain into opportunities for growth …
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Rotator Cuff: Understanding Rotator Cuff Function Through Integration, Not Isolation | #311
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13:09In this episode, I examine the complexities of the rotator cuff, challenging some common myths and stressing a holistic approach to shoulder health. Based on over 30 years' experience, I explain how shoulder pain often comes from compensatory patterns instead of just isolated muscle weakness. I touch upon the need to look at whole-body movement and…
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Becoming the Practitioner Clients Remember: Inside the Functional Synergy Certification | #310
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25:46In this episode, I chat about how my programs empower yoga teachers, movement educators, and healthcare practitioners to effectively manage and reduce physical pain in their clients. I dive into the common challenges we face, like feeling stuck or unsure about helping clients with complex pain issues. I highlight the importance of understanding the…
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When The Body Says No: From Override to Attunement | #309
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19:33In this episode, I explore how our bodies talk to us through pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. I stress how crucial it is to pay attention to those subtle hints before they blow up into bigger problems. I introduce what I call the "cycle of endurance," where we often push through little discomforts, which can lead to more serious issues down the l…
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Precision That Lands - The Art of Guiding Change Without Force
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15:59In this episode, I introduce the idea of "precision that lands" to help ease physical pain and how crucial it is to apply what we know in a way that our bodies can actually absorb, instead of just piling on more effort. I share stories from successful clients to show how getting a grip on body mechanics and clearing out interference can really make…
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Beyond Correcting Movement – Developing Real Connection Between Brain and Body | #307
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20:02In this episode, I advocate for a transformative approach to movement, focusing on the brain-body connection instead of just correcting techniques. I discuss how building awareness and connection can lead to lasting improvements in how we move and feel overall. I share some practical tips for teaching and practicing movement, emphasizing the import…
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Glutes: More Than Strength—Unlocking Safety, Stability, and Pain Relief | #306
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17:27In this episode, I explain the many roles of the glutes beyond just strength and power and discuss how the glutes connect with the nervous system, highlighting why safety and stability are so crucial. I introduce ideas like "danger in me signals" (dims) and "safety in me signals" (sims) to show how our nervous system impacts glute activation. Final…
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Unlearning vs. Retraining – The Neuroscience of Recovery & Pain Relief | #305
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22:15In this episode, I explore the idea of "unlearning versus retraining" to help manage and reduce physical pain. I talk about neuroplasticity and motor control, sharing my own journey of overcoming chronic pain by retraining my movement patterns. I explain how the nervous system replaces old habits instead of erasing them, and I advocate for making g…
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Bridging Yoga with Rehab, PT, and Functional Movement | #304
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34:00In this episode, I discuss how yoga rehab and functional movement can help ease physical pain, with a focus on understanding movement patterns rather than sticking to traditional alignment cues. I chat about the usual hurdles yoga teachers and therapists face and advocate a more dynamic approach to asana, shining a light on how important the nervou…
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In this episode, I talk about my three-month series for private one-on-one clients, sharing how it's structured and the benefits it brings. After my maternity leave, I moved away from one-off sessions and realized how crucial it is for clients to commit and follow a structured plan for real healing. This episode is packed with insights on how dedic…
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Everyday Wins: The Tangible Side of Nervous System Magic | #302
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28:57In this episode, I begin a new series where we'll explore various strategies to help both clients and practitioners address and overcome pain. I'm drawing from my own experiences and I want to inspire you to see that managing pain doesn't have to be complicated—it can actually be pretty straightforward and totally doable if you know what approach t…
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Seeing the Matrix: Why Pain Isn’t the Problem—It’s the Clue | #301
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22:42In this episode, I dive into the idea of "seeing the matrix," which is all about understanding the complex layers of how we move, experience pain, and heal. I focus on noticing how our bodies compensate when something isn't quite right. I use the biopsychosocial model to look at physical, emotional, and psychological health. I introduce three main …
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4 Steps to Becoming a Certified Yoga Therapy Pain Relief Expert | #300
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22:54In this episode, I explore the journey to becoming a certified yoga therapist, focusing on alleviating physical pain. With over two decades of experience, I emphasize the importance of building a healing relationship with clients. I outline a structured, four-step approach to pain relief: establishing a supportive connection, addressing brain-body …
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In this episode, I introduce the Functional Synergy Toolkit, a set of 16 concepts and tools designed to revolutionize pain management and healing. I emphasize the importance of a relational approach, where trust and understanding between the practitioner and client are paramount. Key tools I discuss include the Healing Helix, Client Commitment Blue…
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Is healing pain really as complex as it's often made out to be? While the current drumbeat in the rehabilitation world is that pain is complex, that statement often leads to a lot of resignation for many professionals, which trickles down to clients. Yes, there are layers and work to do, but is it actually complex? I don't think so. When I help som…
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From Doubt to Mastery: The Journey of a Yoga Therapist | #297
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23:46Have you ever felt stuck on your journey as a yoga therapist? Do you find yourself second-guessing your skills or looking for answers outside of yourself? In this episode, we explore the evolution of the yoga therapist and the key phases of growth from doubt to mastery. Join me as I share my insights from 30 years of experience in helping people re…
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Why Manage Pain When You Can Reduce or Eliminate It? | #296
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25:55Do you believe that pain management is the only option for dealing with chronic pain? What if I told you that it's possible to reduce or even eliminate pain entirely? In this episode, I challenge the mainstream narrative around pain and offer a new perspective. Join me as I unpack why solely managing pain may be limiting, and how tuning into our bo…
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Journey of the Healer with Claire MacEachen | #295
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28:12It’s a pleasure to welcome back to the podcast Claire MacEachen, a graduate of my IAYT-accredited yoga therapy program and an accomplished yoga teacher. Today, she is sharing her journey to becoming a healer. Tune in to learn how Claire evolved to become a confident health professional. She’s also sharing how she forms healing connections with her …
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Safety in Selling: Yoga Nidra, Self Regulation and Getting Back Into Your Body | #294
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22:46As part of my mini-series, Safety in Selling, today’s episode features a Yoga Nidra practice designed to help you achieve self-regulation and reconnect with your body. But there’s a twist: this practice is business-focused. Find a safe place to settle in as I guide you, step by step, through this 20-minute Yoga Nidra practice to help you relax and …
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The Nervous System of Sales: Imposter Syndrome and Clearing the Path to Trust | #293
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25:28Today, I’m talking about imposter syndrome and the bundle of thoughts and beliefs that come with it, hindering your ability to sell yourself in a calm, steady manner. Fear and doubt are the biggest culprits—pushing you into a sympathetic fight-or-flight response when leaving your comfort zone. Listen in as I share actions you can take outside of my…
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A Calmer Steadier Approach to Selling with Nona and Karin | #292
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29:05In the next part of my mini-series, Safety in Selling, I’m speaking with two previous guests of the From Pain to Possibility podcast, Nona Jordan and Karin Rossi—current members of my certification final module. And you guessed it: we’re talking about getting comfortable with selling. As both Nona and Karin share, increasing and refining your techn…
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Selling with a Calmer Nervous System with Lory Newmyer | #291
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23:33Today’s episode is especially powerful because it includes a special guest: Lory Newmyer. She’s here to share her experience in selling—and doing so by calming her nervous system. We begin our conversation by discussing Lory’s unique background and her decision (and discomfort) in transitioning from a free yoga teacher to a paid yoga therapist. Lor…
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Selling in Harmony: DIMS, SIMS, and The Power of Self-Regulation | #290
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17:13Welcome to part two of my mini-series, Safety in Selling, designed for health professionals who want to seamlessly integrate yoga into their practices while embracing a sales process that feels aligned and authentic. Tune in and learn what it means to create a sales process that feels safe, empowering, and confident—not by “chasing the yes,” but by…
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Today, I’m tackling a different topic—one that many health professionals may find somewhat uncomfortable: selling. But here’s the thing: whether you like it or not, in order to garner clients, you have to go through a sales process. To help, I’m launching a new mini-series designed to help you sell your service of supporting people in reducing and …
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Yoga Therapy in Intensive Outpatient Care with Austin Chason, C-IAYT | #288
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31:50In this episode, I’m welcoming back Austin Chason, a graduate of my IAYT-accredited yoga therapy program. Austin is sharing how he has continued using yoga to support his mental health and how we can all broaden our perspectives on healing. Tune in to discover how we can help clients become more mindful of the stimuli they’re exposed to and explore…
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This episode is short and simple, designed to connect you to your body and breath. Tune in to bring awareness to nearly every part of your body while simultaneously embracing a simple intention, or sankalpa. Even more than that, you’ll see how that intention resonates within you before enjoying the rest of your day feeling renewed and refreshed. Fi…
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Today’s episode is the second and final part of my Neck Relief Toolkit, where I share the two key compensatory patterns I most often see in clients with neck pain. Even if you’re not a health professional, I guarantee that understanding these will improve your rehab journey. Listen in to hear how simply bringing awareness of these two patterns to y…
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Welcome to part one of my two-part series on reducing and eradicating neck pain. In today’s episode, I explore two essential tools to add to your toolkit when treating clients with neck issues. Listen in as I break these tools down to their foundational core so you can immediately implement them in your practice. I’ll also share why I don’t name mu…
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