Host Matt Huy discusses the abstract concepts of kundalini, chakras, prana, and nadis. These are often considered “subtle energies” in yoga but they do not align with scientific findings. Using Bertrand Russell's teapot analogy, Matt explains the need for critical thinking and the burden of proof. He compares these concepts to love—a real yet abstract idea. While acknowledging the spiritual benefits individuals experience in yoga, Matt explores whether these energies are physical entities and he emphasizes an approach integrating current scientific knowledge with traditional practices.

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Matt welcomes Dr. Holger Cramer, a leading researcher in complementary and integrative medicine, to discuss the scientific evidence behind yoga's impact on health. They explore Dr. Cramer's extensive research on yoga's benefits for cancer patients, low back pain, asthma, and its role in mental health, particularly depression. The conversation delves into the safeness of yoga, comparing injury rates with other forms of exercise, and the complexities of studying yoga scientifically. Dr. Cramer emphasizes the importance of systematic reviews and meta-analyses in consolidating available evidence while addressing the challenges inherent in yoga research. The episode concludes with a peek into ongoing studies on post-COVID fatigue and the potential future direction of yoga research.

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

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Resources mentioned:

Buy Jules’ book: https://amzn.to/48Hmtd2
Jules’ website: https://www.julesmitchell.com/
Follow Jules on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julesyoga/
Join Matt’s email newsletter: https://www.matthewhuy.com/5-truth-bombs

Host Matthew Huy interviews Jules Mitchell, author of Yoga Biomechanics, who shares her background in yoga and biomechanics, discussing the integration of scientific principles into yoga practice. The conversation delves into the definition and application of biomechanics in yoga, the significance of tissue mechanics, and the influence of stretch tolerance on range of motion. They also explore the latest research on stretching, hypertrophy, and pain management, and discuss the implications for yoga teaching. Jules emphasizes the importance of research literacy and practical application for yoga teachers. Additionally, she provides insights into managing hamstring tendinopathy and the role of load in tissue recovery. The episode concludes with a discussion on the value of integrating scientific knowledge into yoga while maintaining the magic and experiential aspects of the practice.

00:00 Introduction to the Enlightened Anatomy Podcast

00:27 Meet Jules Mitchell: Journey into Biomechanics

05:27 The Importance of Biomechanics in Yoga

07:06 Understanding Forces and Tissue Mechanics

11:41 Debunking Myths: Foot Placement in Tree Pose

18:18 The Role of Science and Research Literacy in Yoga

28:26 Diving into Stretching Research

30:09 Pain and Stretch Tolerance

33:51 Exploring Hypertrophy

39:50 Understanding Hamstring Tendinopathy

48:24 Yoga Teacher's Role in Managing Tendinopathy

50:03 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Download 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher right now.

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Download my free e-book 5 Truth Bombs to Make You a More Confident Yoga Teacher.

For yoga teaching tips, follow me on Instagram. Or, like my Facebook page.