Ep #134: Harmony Within: Nurturing Mental Health Through Yoga Philosophy with Dr. Brendan

Discover the profound connection between yoga philosophy and mental health in this enlightening podcast discussion. The conversation explores how traditional yogic principles like Ahimsa (nonviolence), Satya (truthfulness), and Saucha (cleanliness) can enhance mental well-being by promoting self-respect and mindfulness in everyday life. Michael and Dr Brendan delve into the concept of Asteya (non-stealing), extending it beyond physical theft to include the conservation of one's time, attention, and energy. Emphasis is placed on the importance of setting boundaries to protect personal energy and prevent burnout, a practice embodied in the principle of Brahmacharya, which focuses on energy preservation. This includes managing how one interacts with technology and social media to maintain mental health and overall vitality. The discussion highlights the role of self-discipline (tapas) in pushing through challenges, the value of self-study (svadhyaya), and the balance needed to achieve personal growth and self-care. The dialogue touches on integrating these practices into daily life, showing how yoga can lead to better self-awareness, enhanced relationships, and a healthier approach to mental challenges. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their energy management and how they can apply yogic principles to improve both personal well-being and interactions with others, paving the way for a fulfilling and balanced life. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 02:56 - Asteya: Beyond Physical Theft and Time Stealing 05:21 - Setting Boundaries: Time Thieves and Technology Use 12:15 - Find Your Balance: Giving and Setting Boundaries in Relationships 16:27 - The Importance of Setting Boundaries and Showing Respect 19:04 - Setting Boundaries with Yourself and Others 23:42 - The Value of Time and Filtering Messages 26:34 - The Importance of Brahmacharya for Energy Preservation 33:13 - Understanding Sexual Energy and Celibacy for Spiritual Growth 37:24 - The Importance of Tapas in Self-Discipline 41:15 - Finding Balance Between Pushing and Pulling in Yoga Practice 44:49 - The Importance of Tapas and Self-Discipline 55:24 - Cultivating More Presence for Mental Health Dr. Brendan’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psychiatry4soul/ --- About Going Pro Yoga: At Going Pro Yoga, we help yoga teachers become even better by teaching them new skills and giving them the tools they need to make their yoga classes safe, fun, and special for everyone. **Right now you can try Going Pro Yoga FREE for 7-days and sample: All Tools Needed to Master Cueing, Sequencing, and Alignment Video Library of over 75 fully Sequenced Classes, Sequence Chunks, and Flows FIRST EVER Yoga Cueing System with Over 160 poses and Hundreds of Variations Wisdom Talks from over 20,000 Hours of Teaching Experience Anatomy and Injury Prevention as it relates to Yoga. To Learn More, Visit Going Pro Yoga, and⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Start your 7-Day Free Trial⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! For more information about in-person trainings in Bali,⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.elementsofpoweryoga.com/advancedtrainings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠