Connecting with the Natural World and Embracing our Interconnectedness with Barrie Risman, E-RYT 500

In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, host Amy engages in a captivating conversation with Barrie Risman, a long-time yoga teacher deeply rooted in the Iyengar and Anusara traditions. Barrie's expertise and insights have been recognized in esteemed publications such as Yoga Journal, Yoga International, and Elephant Journal. Together, they delve into the profound notion that our yoga practice extends beyond mere structural alignment, encompassing the intricate balance of our body, mind, and spirit through an elemental approach.Barrie introduces the idea that as we attain a harmonious equilibrium within ourselves, we gain clarity about our core values, our purpose in the world, and our true selves. With time, a remarkable shift occurs, propelling us to transcend our individual identity and realize our profound connection to the web of life, the cycles of nature, and the vast intelligence permeating the universe. Ultimately, we come to understand that we are not separate entities but an integral part of Mother Nature herself.Key Points Explored in the Podcast:·        Yoga as a Path to Natural Harmony: Barrie and Amy engage in a discussion on how the practice of yoga can bring us closer to the natural world, profoundly influencing our sense of self, wisdom, resilience, strength, and awe. By aligning ourselves with the elemental forces of nature, we deepen our connection to the world around us.·        Unveiling the Face of Supreme Consciousness: Barrie introduces the concept of Sakti, the embodiment of supreme consciousness. This powerful insight serves as a reminder of the profound spiritual nature of our existence, intertwining the physical and metaphysical realms.·        Sacred Moments in Nature: Communing with the natural world allows us to experience sacred moments that can be revisited during times of anxiety or despondency. Barrie emphasizes the significance of these moments as a source of solace and rejuvenation.·        The Power of Reflective Practices: Barrie highlights the transformative potential of reflective practices such as journaling and receptive listening. These practices enable us to delve deeper into ourselves, fostering self-awareness, and facilitating personal growth.·        Embracing Grief and Collective Suffering: The hosts explore how to navigate personal and collective grief amidst the current state of the world and humanity's suffering. Barrie offers a heartfelt breathing practice to help us embrace and move through our grief, allowing it to flow rather than remaining stagnant within us.·        The Work That Reconnects: Amy and Barrie discuss the profound work of Joanna Macy called "The Work That Reconnects." This framework offers a transformative path to engage with the interconnectedness of life, guiding individuals to find meaning, purpose, and empowerment in the face of the world's challenges.Join Amy and Barrie in this thought-provoking episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour as they unravel the intrinsic link between our yoga practice, the natural world, and our interconnectedness with all living beings. Discover how embracing this profound connection can lead to a profound shift in our perception and illuminate our path towards self-discovery, healing, and ultimately, oneness with the universe. If you would like to receive the free infographics and handouts that correspond to each episode on the Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast, please subscribe to our segmented email list. You will have the opportunity to determine the Infographic Topics that you would like to receive. When The Yoga Therapy Hour Podcast has a topic that corresponds to your choices, then you will receive an email for that week with the PDF’s for download.Topics you can choose from include: Yoga Th