JC, Our Own Personal Jesus?
Navigating the Complexity of Modern Yoga: A Conversation with Dr. John Campbell
With Easter break just around the corner, Russell and I wanted to have a conversation about our tendencies as yoga students and spiritual seekers to project our “need for a saviour” onto our yoga teachers (especially the male ones!)
So we thought, who better to call then our dear friend John Campbell, who's not only a Certified Ashtanga yoga teacher (male), but also holds a PhD in Religious Studies from Columbia University!
John brings a depth of knowledge and insight that illuminates our discussion on modern yoga, the cult of personality, and the essence of being present in the moment.
In the realm of modern yoga, the boundaries between what's considered “traditional” and what's labeled “contemporary” are often blurred, and we're left to navigate (without much guidance) a complex construct of spirituality, personal wellness, and self-discovery.
In our quest for personal transformation, we don't realize we're living in a mirrored universe full of projections (both positive and negative) that are really pointing us back to ourselves.
We have a tendency to thrust the perfection of our own spiritual aspirations onto our teacher, elevating them to a holy status, like a superheroes or demigod. This projection, while a harmless misunderstanding rooted in admiration and hope, more often then not, takes us stumbling down a path of disillusionment. We forget that our teachers, like all of us, are human.
But what can we do to stop this very natural tendency to elevate our teachers and mentors by putting them up on a pedestal?
I'll give you a hint… It involves slowing down, becoming more present, and questioning your beliefs.
As we continue along the neverending path of personal development and spiritual practice, it's crucial to remember the power of cultivating even MORE awareness, the reality of impermanence, and the importance of starting again… and again.
When we embrace these principles, Harmony, we discover our practice not only transforms our lives, but also contributes to the well-being of those around us!
One of the best practices I know that truly helps us strengthen these three principles is pranayama (or breathwork).
If you’re feeling like you’re ready to move your practice beyon asana come join us inside the Finding Harmony Community to deepen your understanding of yoga!
April 1st we start a 5 Day Breathwork (Pranayama) Challenge where you can explore simple breathing practices to calm your mind and regulate your nervous system! >>> FREE 5-day Breathwork Challenge
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✨ May 24 - 28, 2024 - Lisbon, Portugal
✨ May 30 - June 3, 2024 - Nosen Retreat Center, Norway
✨ June 26-30, 2024 - Munich, Germany
✨ July 1 -10, 2024 - Alacati, Turkey
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I'm so excited to announce my new Finding Harmony Community!
To kick things off… I'll be hosting a FREE 5-day Breathwork Challenge inside our NEW Community Space (Starting April 1st)… and you're gonna get so much goodness inside!
What you'll find inside:
The opportunity to kick start your pranayama practice: whether you join live or watch the replay, you'll have access to this 5-Day Challenge whenever it works best for you!
Get personalized support: receive guidance from me and join the conversations happening inside a diverse and expansive yoga community.
Community & Connection: build relationships with like-minded yoga students and teachers, so you can feel supported + connected, even when practising alone in your home!
I hope you'll come along on this exciting new journey!
Join the Finding Harmony Community!
Work With Harmony:
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Two Minute Breathwork Session
Learn more about John Campbell:
FIND JOHN TEACHNG AT: NEWBURGH YOGA SHALA, NY
Work With Russell:
INSTAGRAM I RAC-DESIGN ART IG I WEBSITE
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The Finding Harmony Podcast is hosted and produced by Harmony Slater and co-hosted by Russell Case.
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