Deepen Your Yoga Practice

In this very special 100th episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc reflects on the heart of yoga after years of conversations exploring philosophy, anatomy, nervous system science, meditation, ethics, spirituality, teacher training, and more. To celebrate this milestone, Lauren asked True Love Yoga teachers and 300-hour trainees one simple question: “What is something you wish your students knew?” The answers were deeply aligned and beautifully human. In this episode, Lauren explores themes of belonging, self-acceptance, autonomy, breath, nervous system awareness, compassion, and the reminder that yoga is not about becoming perfect — it’s about becoming more honest, aware, and connected while fully inside your humanity. This episode is a love letter to students, teachers, community, and the evolving practice of yoga itself. In This Episode: Why you already belong in yoga spaces The importance of autonomy and modifying practices Self-acceptance as the practice itself Learning to listen to your body Why breath matters more than you think Yoga beyond perfectionism and productivity culture Consistency over intensity Compassion, awareness, and being beautifully human Mentioned in This Episode: Ahimsa (non-harm) Aparigraha (non-grasping/non-attachment) Ujjayi breath The Eight Limbs of Yoga True Love Yoga Teacher Trainings Practice Reflection Questions: What would it feel like to believe I already belong? Where can I practice more compassion toward myself? What is my body communicating to me lately? Am I approaching yoga as performance or relationship? What happens when I allow myself to be imperfectly human? Learn more about Lauren, classes, trainings, and retreats at:https://www.trueloveyogakc.com/ Listen to more episodes of Deepen Your Yoga Practice:https://deepen-your-practice.castos.com/

7/13/26 • 08:20

In this episode, Lauren sits down with Dr. Auburn Ellis—an E-RYT 500, educator, and founder of Soul Yoga Fest KC—to explore the roots and power of Kemetic Yoga, breathwork, and inclusive practice. Together, they unpack how yoga evolves across a lifetime, how cultural lineage shapes practice, and how breath becomes a source of true internal power—on and off the mat. Dr. Auburn shares her journey from Chicago Public Schools teacher to yoga educator, her deep connection to Kemetic Yoga (rooted in ancient Egyptian traditions), and how her work bridges movement, history, art, and community care. This conversation is both grounding and expansive—inviting us to deepen our practice through awareness, curiosity, and connection. ✨ In This Episode, We Explore: What Kemetic Yoga is and where it comes from The role of geometry, breath, and alignment in this lineage How yoga evolves through different phases of life The meaning of internal power beyond physical strength Yoga as a global, evolving tradition Creating inclusive and accessible yoga spaces How to integrate yoga into everyday life (especially busy seasons) Upcoming Workshop with Dr. Auburn Ellis Breath & Internal Power: A Kemetic Yoga Workshop July 18 | 2:00–3:30 PM True Love Yoga (In-Person + Virtual) 1.5 CE Hours (Yoga Alliance Eligible) In this 90-minute experience, you’ll explore: Kemetic yoga postures + flow Breathwork (rule of four breathing) Journaling + reflection The connection between art, science, and the body ✨ Beginner-friendly | All levels welcome Sign up: https://www.trueloveyogakc.com/ Connect with Dr. Auburn Ellis Instagram: @dr_auburn Soul Yoga Fest KC – August 9 Teaching at True Love Yoga + YTT Continue Your Practice This episode invites you to ask: What does internal power mean in this phase of my life? How can I integrate breath into my everyday moments? Where can I expand my understanding of yoga’s roots? Listen + explore more: https://deepen-your-practice.castos.com/

7/6/26 • 18:22

Why does yoga work? Not in the sense of magical claims or wellness hype—but genuinely, why do so many people feel better when they practice consistently? In this episode, Lauren explores the deeper mechanisms behind yoga’s transformative power through the lenses of nervous system regulation, breath, embodiment, ritual, movement variability, interoception, community, and spirituality. This conversation bridges modern physiology with ancient yogic wisdom and asks a larger question: What is it about yoga that continues to resonate so deeply across thousands of years and countless evolving forms? Lauren reflects on how yoga transformed her own life—not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, relationally, and spiritually—and unpacks why the practice continues to help so many people reconnect with themselves. ✨ In This Episode, We Explore: Yoga and nervous system regulation Breath as a bridge between body and mind Interoception and self-awareness Movement variability and embodiment Ritual, repetition, and meaning Community and co-regulation Spirituality, awe, and transcendence Why yoga is more than flexibility The modern relevance of yoga practice Why yoga creates lasting transformation for so many people Key Themes Nervous system regulation Breathwork and pranayama Embodiment and mindfulness Ritual and sacred practice Yoga philosophy and modern science Community healing Spiritual connection and awe Movement and emotional resilience ‍♀️ Mentioned in This Episode Lauren discusses: Yoga as a tool for regulation rather than perfection Interoception and emotional resilience The importance of ritual and predictability Co-regulation in yoga communities Why yoga is not “magic,” but still deeply powerful How awe and spirituality shape human experience Reflection Questions How does yoga work for you personally? What shifts when you slow down enough to listen inwardly? What parts of yoga help you feel most connected? Where in your life do you most need regulation, ritual, or community right now? Continue Your Practice Explore more episodes of Deepen Your Yoga Practice: Deepen Your Yoga Practice Podcast Learn more about classes, workshops, retreats, and trainings at: True Love Yoga

6/29/26 • 12:31

What makes a yoga class truly transformational? Why do some classes stay with us for years—even when we can’t remember the exact sequence? In this episode, Lauren explores the deeper elements that create meaningful, lasting experiences in yoga spaces. Beyond advanced postures or perfectly designed sequences, transformational classes are often built through nervous system safety, authentic teacher presence, intentional pacing, ritual, music, philosophy, and community. Lauren unpacks the psychology and energetics behind impactful classes and reflects on how yoga teachers can create spaces where students feel safe enough to soften, connect, and grow. This episode is especially valuable for yoga teachers, yoga teacher trainees, and anyone curious about why yoga can feel profoundly healing and connective. ✨ In This Episode, We Explore: Why transformation is not the same as intensity Nervous system safety in yoga classes Co-regulation and teacher presence Predictability, pacing, and sequencing Music, silence, and emotional resonance Ritual and repetition in yoga practice The role of philosophy and storytelling Community and collective experience Why authenticity matters more than perfection The mysterious “something” that makes certain classes unforgettable Key Themes Trauma-aware teaching Nervous system regulation Sequencing as storytelling Emotional resonance in movement Ritual and rhythm Authenticity over performance Yoga philosophy in modern teaching Building inclusive yoga spaces ‍♀️ Mentioned in This Episode Lauren discusses: The importance of nervous system regulation for teachers Why options and modifications create safety Her set-sequence class Abhyasa and practicing without music The difference between performance and presence in teaching How yoga teachers can create transformational spaces without trying to “perform” transformation ✨ Interested in Teaching Yoga? If this conversation resonates, True Love Yoga offers: 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training For aspiring teachers and dedicated students wanting to deepen their understanding of yoga, sequencing, anatomy, philosophy, and teaching methodology. 300-Hour Advanced Teacher Training For certified yoga teachers ready to refine their voice, deepen their knowledge, and create more impactful and transformational class experiences. Learn more: True Love Yoga Teacher Training Continue Your Practice Reflection questions from this episode: What yoga classes have stayed with you and why? When do you feel safest and most authentic in practice? How do rhythm, ritual, and community shape your experience? What does transformation actually feel like in your body? Listen to more episodes: Deepen Your Yoga Practice Podcast

6/22/26 • 22:17

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores some of the most common physiological claims made in yoga spaces and asks: Are they actually true? From detox claims to inversions, immunity, lymphatic flow, and the pineal gland, this episode takes a thoughtful, evidence-based look at what yoga does and does not do for the body. Inspired by The Physiology of Yoga by Andrew McGonigle and Matthew Huy, Lauren unpacks several common yoga myths with curiosity, nuance, and respect for both yogic tradition and modern science. In this episode, she explores: Whether inversions really send more blood to the brain If inversions or shoulder stand stimulate the pineal gland or thyroid Whether Kapalabhati or breath of fire detoxifies the body If sweating in hot yoga removes toxins Whether yoga improves lymphatic drainage If yoga “boosts” the immune system Why truthfulness and precision matter when we teach and practice yoga Lauren also emphasizes that dispelling these myths does not make yoga less powerful. Instead, it helps us practice and teach with more honesty, precision, and trustworthiness. Yoga still offers profound benefits — including nervous system regulation, improved circulation, greater awareness, and support for overall wellbeing — but we do not need to exaggerate those benefits in order to appreciate them. Mentioned in this episode: The Physiology of Yoga by Andrew McGonigle and Matthew Huy Key takeaway: Understanding the body more clearly does not take away the magic of yoga. It makes the practice more intelligent, skillful, and grounded in truth. trueloveyogakc.com

6/15/26 • 13:40

Shownotes In this episode, Lauren sits down with True Love Yoga Teacher Training graduate Kayla Hower to explore her journey into yoga, her experience in teacher training, and her upcoming workshop centered around creativity and self-connection. Kayla shares how yoga evolved from an occasional workout into a grounding, life-supporting practice—especially through motherhood and her work in community-based social services. Together, Lauren and Kayla discuss imposter syndrome, personal growth, and how yoga becomes something we live, not just something we do. They also dive into Kayla’s upcoming workshop, A Creative Practice, which blends gentle yoga, meditation, and accessible creative expression through neurographic drawing. This episode is an invitation to: Try something new Let go of perfection Reconnect with creativity and play ✨ In This Episode, We Explore: How yoga becomes a lifelong support system Navigating imposter syndrome in teacher training The shift from “doing yoga” to living yoga Yoga as a tool for presence in helping professions Creativity as play, self-care, and nervous system support Why trying something new deepens your practice Upcoming Workshop with Kayla A Creative Practice June 20 | 12:00–1:30 PM True Love Yoga A cozy, accessible workshop blending: Grounding Hatha + Yin yoga Meditation for creativity and self-connection Neurographic drawing (no experience needed) Use code WORKSHOP for $5 off (members) Learn more + sign up: https://www.trueloveyogakc.com/ Connect with Kayla Follow Kayla on Instagram: instagram.com/mindbodycreative.kayla Continue Your Practice If you’re feeling inspired by Kayla’s journey, this is exactly the kind of growth and exploration we cultivate inside our Yoga Teacher Trainings at True Love Yoga. Learn more: https://www.trueloveyogakc.com/yoga-teacher-training/ Listen to more episodes: https://deepen-your-practice.castos.com/

6/8/26 • 17:21

What does it mean to return—not just to a place, but to yourself? In this episode, Lauren explores the practice of returning through the lens of yoga, ritual, and retreat. She shares her personal journey of leading retreats on the Greek island of Amorgos and why she continues to go back—not for novelty, but for depth, connection, and remembrance. This conversation weaves together: The yogic concept of abhyasa (steady practice) The nervous system benefits of familiar, intentional spaces The difference between vacations and retreats And how returning can become a powerful spiritual practice Lauren also shares details about her upcoming 2027 retreat and extends an invitation for listeners to experience this practice of returning for themselves. ✨ In This Episode, We Explore: Why returning is a core yogic practice How familiar spaces deepen nervous system safety Retreat vs. vacation: awareness vs. consumption The sensory and spiritual experience of Amorgos, Greece Community as a catalyst for transformation Listening to the “pull” (and working with resistance) How retreat experiences ripple into everyday life Retreat Invitation: Amorgos, Greece Amorgos Aegialis Hotel & Spa July 31 – August 7, 2027 Join Lauren for a 7-night retreat experience designed to help you reconnect, reset, and return to what matters. What’s included: Daily yoga + meditation Incredible meals (including a daily brunch buffet ✨) Spa access + complimentary massage Time to explore, rest, and connect Transfers from the port ✨ Early Bird: $400 off for a limited time Details + registration https://www.laurenleduc.com/retreat-2 Continue Your Practice If this episode resonates, consider: What are you being called to return to? Where does your nervous system soften? What feels like home in your practice? Listen to more episodes: https://deepen-your-practice.castos.com/

6/1/26 • 13:55

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc closes out the chakra series with an exploration of the Crown Chakra (Sahasrara)—the center of awareness, unity, and connection to universal consciousness. Unlike the lower chakras, which focus on building safety, identity, expression, and agency, the crown chakra invites us to soften our grip on all of it. It is not about becoming something new, but about remembering what has always been true. Located at the top of the head, Sahasrara is associated with: Unity and non-separation Awareness and witnessing Consciousness and transcendence Connection to something larger than the individual self Lauren explores how the crown chakra connects to key yogic philosophical concepts, including: Advaita Vedanta (non-duality) The relationship between Atman (self) and Brahman (universal consciousness) Moksha (liberation) as realization rather than attainment Teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, including non-attachment (vairagya), devotion (bhakti), and equal seeing (samadarshana) The episode also explores what balance and imbalance can look like in this chakra: Balanced: Sense of connection and unity Inner peace independent of circumstances Humility, curiosity, and presence Ability to witness thoughts without attachment Imbalanced: Disconnection, cynicism, or lack of meaning Spiritual bypassing or dissociation Avoidance of real-world responsibility Feeling “above” or disconnected from life Lauren emphasizes that true connection to the crown chakra is not about escaping life—but about engaging more fully with clarity, compassion, and awareness. Practices to Support the Crown Chakra: Meditation and witnessing awareness Breath awareness and gentle pranayama Self-inquiry and contemplation Mantra and sound (including Om) Time in stillness and nature Seva (selfless service) Journaling Prompts: Where do I feel most connected in my life right now? Where do I feel separate or disconnected? What am I holding onto that could soften? Who am I beyond my roles, titles, and identities? This episode is an invitation to remember that you are already whole, already connected, and already part of something much greater than the individual self. trueloveyogakc.com

5/25/26 • 10:47

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores one of yoga’s most foundational teachings: Ahimsa, or non-harming. While Ahimsa is often translated simply as “be kind” or “do no harm,” the reality is far more complex—especially in modern life. What does non-harming mean in a world where participation itself creates impact? How do we live ethically when harm is, at times, unavoidable? This episode offers a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of Ahimsa as an ongoing practice of awareness, discernment, and responsibility, rather than a rigid rule or moral ideal. Lauren explores: The meaning of Ahimsa in thought, word, and action Its historical roots in Jainism, Buddhism, and early yogic philosophy The tension between ascetic (renunciate) and householder paths Insights from the Bhagavad Gita on action, dharma, and ethical responsibility Why non-action can sometimes cause harm How Patanjali presents Ahimsa as a guiding principle, not an absolute The realities of practicing Ahimsa in modern systems (technology, consumption, work, etc.) The role of discernment (viveka) in ethical decision-making Why boundaries, repair, and accountability are part of non-harming The difference between Ahimsa and spiritual bypassing Lauren also emphasizes that Ahimsa is not about perfection, purity, or passivity. Instead, it is about cultivating awareness, making thoughtful choices, and taking responsibility when harm occurs. This episode invites listeners to move away from overwhelm or guilt and toward sustainable, grounded, and compassionate action. Journaling Prompts Where can I reduce harm in my life right now? Where do I feel overwhelmed, and what is one sustainable shift I can make? How can I practice discernment rather than perfection? Where might I need clearer boundaries? What does non-harming look like in my current season of life? trueloveyogakc.com

5/18/26 • 17:08

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc takes a deep dive into one of the most talked-about areas in yoga: the hips. Many yoga students describe their hips as “tight” or believe they need to “open” them more. But hip health is far more complex than simply stretching deeper. The hips are powerful load-bearing joints that influence posture, low back health, knee alignment, balance, walking, running, and stability. Rather than focusing only on flexibility, healthy hips require a balance of mobility, strength, and neuromuscular control. In this episode, Lauren explores: The anatomy of the hips, including bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and fascia How the ball-and-socket hip joint is designed for both stability and movement The major muscle groups that influence hip movement Why anatomical variation affects range of motion between individuals The difference between mobility and flexibility Why extreme hip stretching is not always beneficial Common hip patterns and issues seen in yoga students The role of strength training and stabilization in hip health How yoga can support functional hips through both strength and mobility Practical tips for improving hip health in a sustainable way Lauren also discusses the relationship between hip sensations and the nervous system, explaining why hip work can sometimes feel intense and why intensity does not always equal effectiveness. For yoga teachers, the episode includes important teaching considerations such as: Avoiding forced alignment Offering non-hierarchical options for students Watching for compensations in the knees and lower back Encouraging functional movement rather than chasing extreme shapes The goal of hip work in yoga is not extreme flexibility, but balanced, resilient movement that supports the body for life.

5/11/26 • 22:16

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores one of the most important and often misunderstood questions in yoga philosophy: Does yoga teach that we are separate from the world, or that we are one with it? This conversation dives into two foundational philosophical frameworks that shape the way yoga has been understood for thousands of years: dualism and non-dualism. Lauren explores the historical roots of these ideas, how they show up in classical yogic texts, and why modern yoga often blends them together. She also discusses how these philosophies influence the way we relate to our thoughts, our identities, our relationships, and the world around us. In this episode, you’ll learn: What dualism and non-dualism actually mean The role of Samkhya philosophy in the Yoga Sutras The distinction between Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (material reality) The philosophy of Advaita Vedanta and the teaching that Atman and Brahman are one How teachers like Swami Vivekananda shaped the way yoga philosophy was introduced to the West Why modern yoga often blends different philosophical traditions The strengths and limitations of both dualist and non-dualist approaches How these philosophies show up in meditation, relationships, activism, and asana practice Rather than asking practitioners to choose between separation and unity, this episode explores how both perspectives can serve our growth and help reduce suffering. Dualist practices can help us create space between ourselves and our thoughts, emotions, and identities. Non-dualist perspectives can cultivate compassion, connection, and a sense of shared humanity. Yoga philosophy invites us not to choose one rigid framework, but to continue asking deeper questions about the nature of reality and the self. Journaling Prompts Where do I cling most strongly to identity? Where do I need stronger boundaries? Where do I feel deeply interconnected? Which philosophy resonates more with my temperament: dualism or non-dualism? Can I hold both perspectives at once? Ultimately, yoga is not a single unified philosophy but a family of traditions responding to human suffering across time. The inquiry itself may be more important than the answer.

5/4/26 • 15:03

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the koshas, the five layers or sheaths of the self in yogic philosophy. If you have ever felt physically fine but emotionally drained, mentally overwhelmed but spiritually clear, or energized but disconnected, this episode offers a framework for understanding those layered experiences. Yoga has long taught that we are not just a physical body — we are layered beings with physical, energetic, mental, emotional, intuitive, and spiritual dimensions. Lauren explores: The historical origins of the kosha model in the Taittiriya Upanishad How the koshas were originally used in Vedantic philosophy The difference between the traditional and modern interpretation of the koshas The five koshas and how they function: Annamaya Kosha — the physical body Pranamaya Kosha — the energy or breath body Manomaya Kosha — the mental and emotional body Vijnanamaya Kosha — the wisdom or intuitive body Anandamaya Kosha — the bliss body How these layers show up in modern life through work stress, social media, relationships, and everyday overwhelm Practical ways to support and care for each kosha Reflection questions to help identify which layer feels loudest, neglected, or most peaceful This episode reminds us that yoga is not just about caring for the body. It is also about learning to listen inwardly, tending to the deeper layers of the self, and remembering that we are not one-dimensional. Journaling Prompts Which kosha do I live in most often? Which kosha do I neglect? When do I feel most whole? What practices nourish my deeper layers? What does bliss actually feel like to me? Listen and explore the many layers of your being through the lens of yoga philosophy.

4/27/26 • 18:58

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc continues her chakra series with the third eye chakra, also known as Ajna — the chakra of intuition, insight, discernment, and perception. Located between the eyebrows, the third eye is often associated with inner wisdom and clear seeing. But in this episode, Lauren approaches it not as mystical abstraction, but as a grounded and practical center of awareness — a bridge between logic and intuition, intellect and inner knowing. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the third eye chakra is and where it is located The meaning of Ajna in Sanskrit The symbolism of the third eye, including the two-petaled lotus Historical and philosophical roots of this chakra in tantric and Hatha yoga traditions How Ajna relates to viveka (discernment), svadhyaya (self-study), dhyana (meditation), and jnana (wisdom) Modern interpretations of the third eye through the lens of awareness, emotional intelligence, and perspective Signs of a balanced, overactive, or underactive third eye chakra Yoga, breathwork, meditation, and lifestyle practices to support clarity and intuition The difference between intuition and impulsivity Why the third eye is less about mystical powers and more about seeing clearly and living wisely Lauren also shares practical reflection questions and a short closing contemplation to help you connect with your own inner wisdom. This episode is part of a larger chakra series, and Lauren recommends going back to the intro chakra episode and the lower chakra episodes for deeper context if you’d like.

4/20/26 • 14:35

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc breaks down the shoulder in a way that is practical, accessible, and grounded in sustainable movement. This is Shoulders 101 — an anatomy-forward conversation about mobility, stability, pain patterns, and how to care for your shoulders in yoga and daily life. Lauren explains that the shoulder is not just one joint, but a complex system of joints, bones, muscles, fascia, and ligaments that work together to create both range of motion and support. She explores how yoga places many different demands on the shoulders through poses like Downward Dog, Plank, Chaturanga, arm balances, binds, and backbends — and how better understanding this area can help create longevity and ease in practice. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the shoulder is a complex, not a single joint The 4 key joints of the shoulder system The role of the scapula, humerus, clavicle, rib cage, and thoracic spine How the rotator cuff, serratus anterior, traps, rhomboids, pecs, lats, and deltoids affect movement Common pain patterns and restrictions in yoga Why the shoulder wants mobility, but demands stability How to approach Downward Dog, Plank, Chaturanga, overhead shapes, and binds more skillfully Why shoulder health is about capacity, coordination, and awareness, not perfect alignment Mobility Drills Mentioned in the Episode Foam rolling the upper back / thoracic spine Dynamic Thread the Needle Open Book twists Doorframe pec stretch Downward Dog at the wall / melting the chest with the breath Overhead lat stretch with side bend Child’s Pose with hands walked to each side Cross-body posterior shoulder stretch Strength / Stability Drills Mentioned in the Episode Scapular push-ups Wall slides Banded external rotation Side-lying external rotation Y raises / banded Ys Incline tricep push-ups / Chaturanga prep at the wall or on a bench Mini Self-Assessments Mentioned Arms overhead test Wall slide test Plank tolerance test Choose one mobility drill and one strength drill to practice 3 times a week for a month and notice how it changes your Downward Dog, Plank, and daily posture. If you enjoyed this episode and want more anatomy deep dives, let Lauren know at lauren@trueloveyogakc.com

4/13/26 • 28:52

In this tender and nuanced episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the structure of spiritual leadership — and what happens when charismatic teachers fall from grace. Every few years (or lately, every few days), a spiritual teacher, wellness figure, or thought leader becomes entangled in allegations of misconduct, abuse of power, or ethical breach. When their work has meant something to us, that moment can feel disorienting. This episode is not about amplifying headlines. It’s about examining something deeper and more enduring: Where did the guru–student model originate? How did ancient lineage-based mentorship evolve into modern celebrity spirituality? Why does spiritual authority feel regulating to our nervous systems? What is projection, and how does it distort teacher–student dynamics? What are common red flags in hierarchical spiritual communities? How can non-dual language be weaponized to bypass accountability? What does healthy spiritual leadership actually look like? How do we practice devotion without dependence? Lauren explores the psychology of projection, the risks of pedestal dynamics, and how both teachers and students can become distorted within unchecked hierarchy. She offers six ways to practice yoga without slipping into unhealthy guru culture: Keep your agency Diversify your teachers Trust your nervous system Value community over charisma Separate teachings from personality Maintain critical thinking Yoga has always been about liberation. Mature spiritual practice does not require blind faith — it requires discernment, humility, and the willingness to stay human.

4/6/26 • 15:31

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores two often-overlooked senses that transform yoga from movement into embodiment: interoception and proprioception. Interoception is your ability to sense what’s happening inside your body — breath, heartbeat, hunger, emotional sensations, effort versus strain. Proprioception is your ability to sense where your body is in space — balance, alignment, movement, orientation. Lauren breaks down: The neuroscience of interoception (insula, emotional awareness, nervous system regulation) How proprioceptors in muscles, fascia, and joints act as your body’s internal GPS Why trauma, stress, and digital overload can disrupt these senses How yoga retrains embodied awareness Why these skills matter for safety, longevity, emotional regulation, and aging well Practical ways to build interoception and proprioception on and off the mat Teaching tips for cueing sensation over shape This episode invites you to pause and ask two simple but profound questions: How do I feel? Where am I? Because yoga is not just about movement. It’s about awareness.

3/30/26 • 13:32

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the five kleshas — the root causes of suffering described in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (Book II, Sutras 3–9). These ancient psychological insights, compiled around 400 CE and influenced by Samkhya philosophy, offer a powerful framework for understanding why we repeat patterns, cling to identities, avoid discomfort, and fear change. Lauren unpacks: What the kleshas are historically and where they appear in the sutras The five kleshas: Avidya (misperception), Asmita (ego-identification), Raga (attachment), Dvesha (aversion), and Abhinivesha (fear/clinging to life) How they show up in modern life — social media, productivity culture, politics, parenting, wellness culture, and relationships Why the kleshas are not sins, but universal human tendencies How meditation, self-study (svadhyaya), non-attachment (vairagya), and conscious pause help loosen their grip This episode is not about self-judgment. It’s about compassionate awareness. The kleshas are proof you are human — not failing at yoga. Freedom, Lauren reminds us, is not removing suffering from the world. It’s loosening the grip suffering has on your perception.

3/23/26 • 16:11

n this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the throat chakra (Vishuddha) — the energetic center of expression, authenticity, and refinement. Rather than approaching the throat chakra as a mystical abstraction, Lauren presents it as a deeply practical bridge between the heart and the mind — where inner truth becomes outer speech. You’ll learn: The traditional symbolism of Vishuddha (ether element, blue color, seed mantra HAM) How the throat chakra relates to the nervous system and vagus nerve Signs of underactive and overactive expression The connection between posture, neck tension, breath, and voice tone The role of mantra, chanting, humming, and sound in regulation Satya (truthfulness) and Right Speech in yogic philosophy On- and off-the-mat practices to cultivate aligned communication Shadow work prompts for authentic self-expression How throat chakra work supports leadership and legacy This episode is an invitation to refine how you speak — not to speak louder, but to speak clearly, kindly, and in alignment with your values.

3/16/26 • 12:36

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores what it means to “spring clean” the energetic body — in a way that is philosophically grounded, nervous system informed, practical, and free from magical thinking. Spring is traditionally associated with renewal, circulation, and momentum. In Ayurveda, it is kapha season — characterized by heaviness, dampness, and stagnation. In yoga philosophy, it is a time to invite renewed prana flow. Lauren unpacks: What the subtle or energetic body includes (prana, nadis, chakras, koshas) A modern interpretation of energetic health (nervous system tone, emotional residue, digital overstimulation, thought loops) Signs your energy body may need clearing Five practical ways to “spring clean” your energy: Clearing physical stagnation through movement Breathwork for energetic reset (Kapalabhati, Bhastrika, Ujjayi, long exhale breathing) Emotional composting (shadow work and integration) Attention hygiene (digital and cognitive detox) Ritual and intention reset (saucha and sankalpa) You’ll also hear chakra-specific spring reset ideas for those following the chakra series. Spring cleaning isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about removing what blocks who you already are.

3/9/26 • 15:58

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc breaks down what it actually means to “engage your core” in yoga. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about abs or holding your breath. Lauren walks you through: What muscles make up the core (hint: it’s not just your six-pack) The difference between bracing vs. hollowing Breath-friendly strategies for core engagement How and when to use Uddiyana and Mula Bandha Why breath retention = strain, not yoga Core cues for common yoga poses Red flags for gripping, bracing, or over-cueing Special considerations for pelvic floor, pregnancy, low back pain, and more This is a must-listen for yoga teachers and curious students who want to move with more intention, stability, and breath. You’ll leave with clearer language, deeper understanding, and core strategies that support long-term practice.

3/2/26 • 21:54

In this solo episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores five of the most commonly repeated myths about yoga history—and offers a clearer, more honest perspective in their place. Drawing inspiration from Doug Keller’s Yoga History course, Lauren dives into the real roots of yoga, from Vedic texts and Śramaṇa traditions to modern postural yoga. She explains how yoga evolved over centuries as a diverse family of practices—not a single, unchanging system—and how understanding its historical complexity deepens our personal and teaching practices. If you’ve ever wondered where yoga really comes from, or questioned how modern vinyasa fits into an ancient lineage, this episode will challenge, inspire, and expand your view. Sources  Mark Singleton, Yoga Body: The Origins of Modern Posture Practice (OUP).  James Mallinson & Mark Singleton, Roots of Yoga (primary sourcebook).  Geoffrey Samuel, The Origins of Yoga and Tantra (Cambridge). 

2/23/26 • 14:49

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc breaks down the science of stretching—what it is, how it works, and how to make it safer and more effective within your yoga practice. Learn about the role of your nervous system, fascia, and five key types of stretching (static, dynamic, active, passive, and resistance/PNF), and walk away with tools to stretch mindfully and intelligently. Lauren also addresses common myths (like “more flexibility is always better”) and explores how strength supports long-term flexibility and joint stability. Whether you're a yoga teacher or curious practitioner, this episode offers valuable insight to support a sustainable, well-rounded practice. What You’ll Learn: The role of the nervous system in stretching What fascia is and how to support it Five major types of stretching (and how to use them) How stretching helps (and doesn’t help) prevent injury Why strength is essential for flexibility Hypermobile bodies and how to support them Why yoga is more than stretching Reflection Questions: Where might strength support your flexibility? Where do you feel safe to soften? Mentioned: Yoga Sutra 2.46: Sthira Sukham Asanam PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) Fascia hydration and load adaptation Nervous system tools for safe mobility Listen now: https://deepen-your-practice.castos.com Explore More: Learn about Lauren’s 300-hour YTT at True Love Yoga Follow Lauren on Instagram: @laurenleduc Check out Lauren’s book: Embody Your Inner Goddess

2/16/26 • 13:06

In this episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc continues her chakra series by diving into the heart chakra—Anahata, the center of love, integration, and emotional wisdom. She explores how the heart serves as a bridge between the lower and upper chakras, connects the physical and spiritual self, and reflects the qualities of compassion with boundaries. Lauren shares signs of imbalance, practices to strengthen this energetic center, and the importance of self-love and resilience. She also ties the heart chakra to yogic concepts like bhakti, ahimsa, and metta, offering practical tools both on and off the mat, including heart-opening postures, boundary work, grief rituals, and breath-led movement. Whether you're navigating heartbreak, working on emotional balance, or seeking deeper integration, this episode will support you in cultivating an open but supported heart. This episode also highlights Lauren's book, Embody Your Inner Goddess, and True Love Yoga’s 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training, where each chakra is explored in depth throughout the yearlong curriculum. Takeaways Anahata is the fourth chakra, representing love, integration, and compassion. It bridges the lower (earthly) and upper (spiritual) chakras. A balanced heart supports empathy, connection, and emotional boundaries. Imbalances may show up as numbness, people-pleasing, isolation, or martyrdom. Anahata relates to the lungs, shoulders, immune system, and vagus nerve. Philosophical connections include Bhakti Yoga, Ahimsa, Metta, and Karuna. Practices include heart-opening postures, grief rituals, metta meditation, and breathwork. Boundary setting is essential to giving from a place of wholeness. Grief and heartbreak are not flaws—they are part of an intelligent heart. Yoga teaches us to stay present with discomfort and to love bravely.

2/9/26 • 10:22

Is it true that we store trauma in our hips? In this thoughtful solo episode, Lauren unpacks a commonly repeated phrase in yoga classes: “we store emotion in the hips.” She explores where this idea comes from, whether it’s metaphorical or literal, and what both science and yoga philosophy actually say. Drawing from her own experience, current neuroscience, fascia research, and classical yogic teachings, Lauren examines how trauma, stress, and emotion can shape our bodies—especially the hips. She offers nuanced insight into nervous system holding patterns, the role of fascia in sensation, and how yoga helps us cultivate awareness and regulation, rather than force emotional release. Lauren also shares why she avoids using language like “this pose releases trauma” in her classes, and instead offers a more compassionate, inclusive, and empowering approach to emotional experience on the mat. This episode invites yoga practitioners and teachers alike to approach sensation with curiosity, emotion with compassion, and the body with reverence. Topics Include: Where the phrase “we store trauma in the hips” comes from The role of the nervous system and chronic tension What fascia actually does and doesn’t do Scientific vs. metaphorical interpretations of body memory Yogic concepts like samskaras, svadhyaya, pratyahara, and discernment Responsible language choices for yoga teachers How to guide students toward awareness without forcing catharsis Practice invitations: Notice sensation without attaching a story Allow emotions to arise without pressure Honor your body’s natural process with patience and compassion For further exploration: If this topic resonates with you, you’ll love our 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training at True Love Yoga—where we dive deep into the intersection of yoga, science, and self-inquiry. Early bird enrollment for the March 2026 cohort ends January 31, 2026. Learn more at trueloveyogakc.com/yoga-teacher-training

2/2/26 • 14:23

n this deeply grounded and timely episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the experience of moral injury, political despair, and nervous system exhaustion through a yogic and trauma‑informed lens. Naming the quiet undercurrent many people are carrying—grief, unease, confusion, and ethical disorientation—Lauren offers language, compassion, and structure for staying human, regulated, and engaged without burning out. Rather than bypassing reality or amplifying fear, this episode invites discernment over reactivity, service over self‑sacrifice, and sustainability over urgency. Drawing on yoga philosophy, nervous system science, the Bhagavad Gita, the gunas, and concepts like Abhyasa and Vairagya, Lauren reframes non‑attachment as clarity, not indifference—and joy as a form of resistance, not denial. Listeners are guided through practical reflections and nervous‑system‑supportive practices to help them identify their unique role in collective care, protect their inner resources, and stay ethically engaged without losing themselves. Reflection Questions from the Episode: What is mine to carry? What is not mine to carry? What kind of service feels sustainable for me right now? What helps me stay human?

1/26/26 • 20:35

In this heartfelt episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the concept of Dharma—your soul's sacred path—and how yoga can help you uncover and align with your purpose. She offers yogic definitions of Dharma and Swadharma, draws on teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, and shares signs of alignment and misalignment in body, mind, and spirit. Lauren invites listeners to explore their inner knowing through journaling, curiosity, embodied practice, and the transformative potential of Yoga Teacher Training. This episode includes practical tools, reflective prompts, and encouragement to walk your unique path with clarity and courage. Lauren also shares details about the True Love Yoga 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, starting March 2026—with $500 off if you enroll by January 31, 2026. If you feel the nudge toward YTT, this episode is for you. ‍♀️ Explore Dharma through: Yogic and modern definitions of Dharma Teachings from the Bhagavad Gita Physical and emotional signs of alignment Practices to connect to your inner truth Tools to begin uncovering your unique path A gentle invitation to step toward yoga teacher training Free Guide: Are You Ready to Become a Yoga Teacher? Learn more or apply now: True Love Yoga 200-Hour YTT

1/19/26 • 09:39

In this fiery episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, Lauren Leduc explores the solar plexus chakra, or Manipura—the energetic center of personal power, confidence, and purposeful action. Lauren breaks down this chakra’s associations with fire, transformation, self-trust, and discipline, connecting it to yogic philosophy through concepts like Tapas (spiritual discipline), Swadharma (individual purpose), and Karma Yoga (selfless action). She discusses the signs of balanced and imbalanced Manipura energy, offers powerful on- and off-the-mat practices to build confidence and ignite your inner fire, and encourages listeners to step into leadership with clarity, courage, and compassion. This episode includes journaling prompts to help you align with your purpose and closes with a warm reminder: you have the right to take up space and move forward with confidence. Whether you're deepening your chakra study or just learning to trust your intuition, this episode is your invitation to burn brightly—with purpose. Mentioned: Lauren’s book: Embody Your Inner Goddess True Love Yoga’s 300-hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training

1/12/26 • 10:08

In this first episode of 2026, Lauren invites you into a softer, soul-rooted approach to the new year—one grounded in sankalpa, the yogic practice of heartfelt intention. Rather than setting rigid resolutions, this episode offers an embodied path of becoming through sankalpa (intention), abhyasa (consistent practice), and vairagya (non-attachment). Lauren reflects on her personal sankalpa for the year—“I am mastery”—and unpacks what it means to align with your deepest truth through gentle discipline and devotion. You’ll learn: What sankalpa is and how it differs from resolutions How to align your goals with your heart’s deepest wisdom The power of small, sustainable habits (abhiyasa) Why non-attachment (vairagya) brings maturity and grace How to regulate your nervous system in busy seasons The deeper meaning of mastery in yoga and life Journaling prompts are included to help you clarify your 2026 sankalpa and anchor it in your daily life. ✨ Whether you're craving a more sustainable way to show up for yourself or looking to deepen your practice with intention, this episode will meet you right where you are. ‍♀️ Offerings Mentioned: Abhyasa: A Ritual Practice at True Love Yoga – Sundays in Kansas City 200-Hour and 300-Hour Yoga Teacher Trainings – Enroll now at True Love Yoga Yoga Practice Journal – Track your consistency and deepen your embodiment Explore more at LaurenLeduc.com ✍️ Journaling Prompts (from the episode): What quality do I long to embody this year? What feeling do I want to cultivate more often? What inner truth is ready to surface? From your answers, create a present-tense, affirmative sankalpa—a guiding light for your year ahead.

1/5/26 • 17:19

This special episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice is not just a podcast—it’s a ritual. Lauren Leduc guides you through a year-end letting go ceremony grounded in yogic philosophy, self-inquiry, and mindfulness. With candlelight, journaling, breathwork, and personal reflection, you’ll be invited to honor the end of 2025 and create space for clarity and purpose in 2026. Grab your journal, light a candle, make some tea, and settle in. Or listen once while walking or driving, then return for the guided practice. ️ You’ll explore: Yogic pillars of Svadhyaya (self-study) and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender) Integration and rest as forms of spiritual practice How Abhyasa and Vairagya help us release what no longer fits Seasonal wisdom from Ayurveda and how winter supports deep digestion Journaling prompts to reflect on what you’re proud of, what you’ve learned, what you’re ready to let go of, and what you’re calling in Journal Prompts Include: What am I most proud of from 2025? What version of myself am I ready to release? What word or feeling do I want to leave behind? What do I want to feel in 2026? What dreams are gently tapping at my door? You’ll be invited to burn, bury, or release your reflections as a physical act of letting go—and then to tune in to your inner knowing to welcome what’s next. Upcoming Events at True Love Yoga: Dec 31: Release, Reset & Renew with Avey & Liz (10–11:30am) Jan 1: Breathe, Flow & Set Your Intention for 2026 with Lauren Join us to move, reflect, and step into the new year with presence. Want to go deeper in 2026? Explore our Yoga Teacher Trainings: Learn more

12/29/25 • 09:30

In this contemplative episode of Deepen Your Yoga Practice, host Lauren Leduc invites you to pause and honor the Winter Solstice—a sacred seasonal threshold that marks the darkest day of the year and the return of the light. Through a blend of yogic philosophy, Ayurveda, and personal ritual, Lauren explores the deeper meaning of this powerful time and how we can align with its energies for spiritual and energetic renewal. You'll hear reflections on the solstice as a moment of stillness, surrender, and clarity, and how it calls us toward self-study (Svadhyaya), truth (Satya), and trust (Ishwara Pranidhana). ✨ Topics include: The solstice as a sacred samita (moment between) Yogic concepts of tamas, rajas, and sattva Aligning with the Ayurvedic transition from vata to kapha Building ojas (vitality) in winter Yoga limbs: Pratyahara, Dharana, Svadhyaya, Ishwara Pranidhana Warming and nourishing practices for winter Rituals for honoring the solstice (movement, meditation, journaling, nature walks) Why dormancy is not death—it's restoration ️ Suggested Rituals: Candlelit slow flow or yin practice Trataka (candle gazing) meditation Journaling on what’s gestating in the dark Silent tea or meal ritual Nature walks at sunrise or sunset Next Week: Join Lauren for a letting go ritual to close the year. Bring a journal, candle, and open heart. ‍♀️ Practice with us: True Love Yoga offers yin and restorative yoga weekly to support seasonal alignment. Deepen your path through our 200-hour and 300-hour Yoga Teacher Trainings. Learn more

12/22/25 • 06:42