Age Less / Live More

Recently, my friend returned from a family member's funeral 8 lbs heavier and asked, "What's going on?" Weight gain from stress can be clinically explained by a few different mechanisms. There is emotional eating, where you eat to distract yourself and bury your sorrows, but there is also emotion-induced weight gain, where, during a period of high stress, your psychological state chemically disrupts your hormones. This imbalance can increase (or decrease) hunger and change your body's propensity to store fat. My friend's follow-up question was: "What should I do to lose the weight?" On this week's show, I'll share my advice (food, vitamins, and blood tests) with you. This is by no means a comprehensive solution, but it's a very simple and non intimidating starting point for a journey back to a healthy weight. ------------ Listen & Learn: The plus one/minus one approach to making healthy choices Which vitamins are a smart choice for almost everyone How to see what's actually going on with your body from a blood test ABOUT THE HOST In 2002, I worked for a New York City book publisher doing a job I hated. I drank seven nights a week, abused drugs, and smoked a pack of cigarettes a day. For food, it was pizza and takeout—anything quick and easy to keep me going. No one consciously decides to destroy their health, but over the years, that's exactly what happened. I was bloated and flabby, unable to sleep without alcohol. My eyes were red and puffy, and I struggled to get excited about anything. I had so much potential, so many opportunities, but when you're sick and numb to the world, everything feels impossible and uninteresting. Enter yoga. A friend dragged me to a yoga studio, where I suffered through one of the most uncomfortable experiences of my life. In that first class, I was sweating and dizzy, unable to do even the most basic postures. I was the youngest person there, but the way I moved, I felt like I was 90 years old. I couldn't bend forward, sit cross-legged on the floor, or balance in a tree pose. Looking at myself in the mirror, I remember thinking, "How did I end up in such bad shape?" I hated that first class so much, I knew it was exactly what I needed—so I kept going. People assume yoga classes are meant to be wonderful, peaceful experiences. This is not true. A good class should be the most challenging and uncomfortable hour of your entire day. When you push yourself on the mat, real-life problems become lighter and more manageable almost immediately. Hard yoga = easy life. For the next 380 days, I practiced yoga every single day. While traveling, I used audio or video recordings. If I was in a new city, I'd go to any studio I could find. When my teacher told me to take a day off to rest, I'd ignore the advice and go to a class at another studio. The same way I'd fallen in love with things that were killing me (drugs and alcohol), I'd now fallen in love with something that was feeding me and fueling my growth. And it worked. In six weeks, I lost almost 40 pounds (and had to replace my whole wardrobe). I quit drinking and smoking altogether, and most importantly, I found a renewed passion for life that is truly priceless. I remember walking around New York, still dripping with sweat from class, with a big, stupid grin on my face as if I'd unlocked a special secret. My life was changing. Within six months, I'd quit my job and moved to Thailand. Within a year, I was teaching full-time to packed classes in Bangkok and later, Hong Kong. I opened my first studio in 2006 and that same year began training teachers. To date, I've taught more than 30,000 students and trained more than 3,000 teachers in 41 countries. I love my life and my work, and as a result, I'm in better health mentally and physically than I was in my early 20s. YOGABODY was built on practice, sweat, and struggle. It's the physical manifestation of everything I care about in life, and my greatest hope is that some of my passion for this practice and lifestyle rubs off on you when you walk through these doors. Nothing worth doing in life is easy. Movement is more powerful than meditation. And practice is everything. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Rinse Tea Rinse Rice Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic - makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: FOUR SIGMATIC and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

I receive questions from listeners every day. On this week's Q&A show, I'll answer a few of them, with topics ranging from flexibility for seniors and what technically breaks a fast to Xylitol and Vitamin K2. ------------ Listen & Learn: Is it possible for people over 60 to increase their flexibility Is Xylitol really healthy Does drinking soy milk/espresso count for fasting Is Yin Yoga safe for your joints What is Vitamin K2 good for ABOUT THE HOST In 2002, I worked for a New York City book publisher doing a job I hated. I drank seven nights a week, abused drugs, and smoked a pack of cigarettes a day. For food, it was pizza and takeout—anything quick and easy to keep me going. No one consciously decides to destroy their health, but over the years, that's exactly what happened. I was bloated and flabby, unable to sleep without alcohol. My eyes were red and puffy, and I struggled to get excited about anything. I had so much potential, so many opportunities, but when you're sick and numb to the world, everything feels impossible and uninteresting. Enter yoga. A friend dragged me to a yoga studio, where I suffered through one of the most uncomfortable experiences of my life. In that first class, I was sweating and dizzy, unable to do even the most basic postures. I was the youngest person there, but the way I moved, I felt like I was 90 years old. I couldn't bend forward, sit cross-legged on the floor, or balance in a tree pose. Looking at myself in the mirror, I remember thinking, "How did I end up in such bad shape?" I hated that first class so much, I knew it was exactly what I needed—so I kept going. People assume yoga classes are meant to be wonderful, peaceful experiences. This is not true. A good class should be the most challenging and uncomfortable hour of your entire day. When you push yourself on the mat, real-life problems become lighter and more manageable almost immediately. Hard yoga = easy life. For the next 380 days, I practiced yoga every single day. While traveling, I used audio or video recordings. If I was in a new city, I'd go to any studio I could find. When my teacher told me to take a day off to rest, I'd ignore the advice and go to a class at another studio. The same way I'd fallen in love with things that were killing me (drugs and alcohol), I'd now fallen in love with something that was feeding me and fueling my growth. And it worked. In six weeks, I lost almost 40 pounds (and had to replace my whole wardrobe). I quit drinking and smoking altogether, and most importantly, I found a renewed passion for life that is truly priceless. I remember walking around New York, still dripping with sweat from class, with a big, stupid grin on my face as if I'd unlocked a special secret. My life was changing. Within six months, I'd quit my job and moved to Thailand. Within a year, I was teaching full-time to packed classes in Bangkok and later, Hong Kong. I opened my first studio in 2006 and that same year began training teachers. To date, I've taught more than 30,000 students and trained more than 3,000 teachers in 41 countries. I love my life and my work, and as a result, I'm in better health mentally and physically than I was in my early 20s. YOGABODY was built on practice, sweat, and struggle. It's the physical manifestation of everything I care about in life, and my greatest hope is that some of my passion for this practice and lifestyle rubs off on you when you walk through these doors. Nothing worth doing in life is easy. Movement is more powerful than meditation. And practice is everything. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Raw, Cooked, Boiled, Fried Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: PrepDish - is a healthy meal planning service. When you sign up, you'll receive an email every week with a done-for-you grocery list and instructions for prepping your meals ahead of time. You'll save time and have amazingly delicious meals. Visit: PrepDish and use coupon code "yogabody" for your first 2 weeks for FREE Learn More

People joke that they 'laughed so hard they peed their pants.' However, this is a real problem called stress incontinence—a symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction. The pelvic floor is a complex group of muscles, fascia and connective tissues at the base of your spine that is crucial for bladder control, posture, sexual function, and the health of many vital organs. So what's the problem? Maybe you gave birth to two kids and never resumed your pre-kid exercise routine. Maybe you are 45 years old and haven't done a proper squat since you lifted weights with your buddies in college. For dozens of reasons, modern lifestyles lead to atrophy of the pelvic floor that can manifest overtime into very serious health issues. On the flip side, a strong, toned pelvic floor will help your posture, sexual performance, spinal health, and bladder control. In yoga, you'll feel the difference in almost every pose, and in your everyday life, you'll notice changes throughout the day. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet a kinesiologists who will help demystify this often overlooked region of the body. ------------ Listen & Learn: What the pelvic floor is and why it is important to both women and men Why incontinence and prolapse are huge (and growing) problems Why posture starts at the base of the spine How to strengthen and tone your pelvic floor with daily, 10-minute exercises ABOUT OUR GUEST Adrianne has a degree in kinesiology, with an emphasis on exercise science. She has certifications in Pilates, yoga, the Yoga Trapeze, Zenga, and Barre, among others, and specializes in spinal conditions, pelvic floor issues, and fascial tissue. She served as the fitness specialist at the NASA Langley Research Center and currently runs an eating disorder center in California. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Palm Oil Links & References from the Show: Adrianne's Site Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic - makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: FOUR SIGMATIC and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

A stage hypnotist convinced my friend Burton that he was an undercover spy and needed to find a clue hidden in the forest. There were 600 people in the audience, but Burton was all in. He raced off the stage, returning 10 minutes later, covered in sweat (clearly he had been running around campus), at which point he proudly displayed the 'clue' he'd found. If I didn't know better, I would have thought Burton was a paid actor. The experience was disturbing and I immediately put hypnosis in the 'weird party trick' category of my brain for the next 20 years. That is until I learned about hypnosis as a real-world, clinically proven method of therapy. Hypnotherapy is a largely unregulated industry, similar to yoga, which means there are some amazing, highly trained therapists, alongside a boatload of charlatans. Hypnosis also has a big PR problem because most people associate it with stage shows and tricks, not realizing that clinical efficacy for the treatment of phobias, anxiety, addiction and even pain are very compelling. ------------ Listen & Learn: How lifelong mental patterns can sometimes be broken through hypnosis What the difference between stage hypnosis and hypnotherapy is For which challenges hypnosis shows the greatest efficacy How to choose between self-hypnosis, hypnosis recordings, and in-person therapy ABOUT OUR GUEST Grace Smith is on a mission to make hypnosis mainstream. A renowned hypnotherapist, Grace is the founder of www.gshypnosis.com, the world's number one hypnotherapy hub, as well as Grace Space Hypnotherapy Certification School. Grace is a regular guest on CBS's hit show The Doctors, and her work has been featured in The Atlantic, Marie Claire, Forbes, MindBodyGreen, Buzzfeed, Bustle, InStyle and more. Grace's private clients include celebrities, CEOs, professional athletes, and government officials. She has given keynote speeches and workshops at Procter & Gamble, SummitLive, Women Empowerment Expo, Ritz Carlton, PSEG, Soul Camp, Verizon, and HypnoBiz. She is the author of a new book, Close Your Eyes, Get Free, which you can find on Amazon or Grace's website. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Tanins Links & References from the Show: Grace's New Book Grace's Site Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: PrepDish - is a healthy meal planning service. When you sign up, you'll receive an email every week with a done-for-you grocery list and instructions for prepping your meals ahead of time. You'll save time and have amazingly delicious meals. Visit: PrepDish and use coupon code "yogabody" for your first 2 weeks for FREE Learn More

Think of your body as a three-legged stool with an electrical body (your nervous system), a bacterial body (your microbiome), and a chemical body (your endocrine system). These three legs are largely responsible for your health and well-being, and if one leg gets whacked out from under you, you'll likely fall on your face. Today, let's focus on your chemical body: your hormones. These chemical compounds influence everything from your waistline to your mood, and our modern world is filled with all kinds of toxins that lead to imbalances. Did you know that most plastic water bottles contain estrogen-like BPA compounds that can cause weight gain, or worse? Did you know that many skin care products and soaps contain estrogen-like parabens that can get absorbed through your skin and lead to infertility? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn why our generation is often estrogen dominant—and what we can do to fix it. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why too much estrogen can make you fat, sick, and infertile How sauna treatments can help detoxify xenoestrogens How genetic testing can show you how to manage estrogen How xenoestrogens have ended up in everything from water bottles to skin care products Why plant-based estrogens can also impact some percentage of the population How to optimize your household, lifestyle, and product choices for hormonal balance ABOUT OUR GUEST DR. ANTHONY G. JAY is a scientist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Jay earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Boston University School of Medicine. He is the president of the International Medical Research Collaborative, a non-profit organization based in Boston that trains medical students from around the globe. Dr. Jay is also the CEO of AJ Consulting Company, which specializes in scientific consulting, speaking, and personalized DNA analysis. He is the author of the book Estrogeneration: How Estrogenics Are Making You Fat, Sick, and Infertile. He also has a podcast called Chagrin & Toxic podcast you can find on iTunes or in the show notes. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Raw Dairy Links & References from the Show: Dr. Jay's Site Estrogeneration Book DNA Testing Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic - makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: FOUR SIGMATIC and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

The quality of your life is determined by the quality of your relationships; and yet, for most of us, being in relationship is hard. Most of us find it challenging enough to get our own lives in order, so when you share children, finances, loves and loss with another person, it's never a linear path. What about sex? What about religion? What about independent needs and wants? On this weeks, Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet Allen Wagner, a couple's therapist with his feet firmly planted on the ground. He shares his best insights for getting your head out of your phone and into the heart of the one you love. ------------ Listen & Learn: How many romantic relationships devolve into roommate relationships How to fight fair, versus fighting with pain triggers How to determine deal breakers from minor differences of choices and preference Why therapy can be used by both strong and broken people, for both short and long term objectives Why mental health and mental health care is stigmatized ABOUT OUR GUEST Allen Wagner is a marriage and family therapist based in Los Angeles. He specializes in working with individuals and couples. He helps people with anxiety, depression, and challenges. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Raw Vitamins Links & References from the Show: Allen's Site 5 Love Languages Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: PrepDish - is a healthy meal planning service. When you sign up, you'll receive an email every week with a done-for-you grocery list and instructions for prepping your meals ahead of time. You'll save time and have amazingly delicious meals. Visit: PrepDish and use coupon code "yogabody" for your first 2 weeks for FREE Learn More

This concept of "a pill for an ill" has led hundreds of millions of Americans to take prescription medications every single day. Antidepressants for mood, opioids for pain, and proton pump inhibitors for stomach problems—the list goes on and on. Modern medicine is truly a blessing, but it's gotten out of hand; and in many cases, we've neglected the safer and more obvious choices that are right in front of our faces. Movement is medicine: running, dancing, stretching, and skiing. You sweat and smile, your heart races, and you feel peace when you're done. We all feel better when we move, and yet, we don't do it enough. Why? When exercise is such a sure thing with unmatched health benefits, why does Netflix and Haagen Dazs often win our attention? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet an Olympic Athlete whose parents opted out of the psychiatric drug route and instead threw him head first into swimming and diving. He's on a mission to share his "movement is medicine" concept with the world, and it's something we call need to hear. ------------ Listen & Learn: How at just two years old, Leon was already unmanageable How swimming, diving, and gymnastics calmed him down and gave him focus How this physical outlet turned into a passion, and eventually and Olympic legacy How you too can find your happy place doing a movement or exercise practice you love ABOUT OUR GUEST Leon started swimming and gymnastics from the age of two and took up competitive diving when he was eight. By age 11, he was a national champion. Leon represented Great Britain at three Summer Olympic Games and was a member of the Great Britain team for 16 years. Among his many awards, he's won a Bronze medal in the the 1999 European Aquatics Championships and a Silver medal in the men's 10 meter platform at the 2002 Commonwealth Games. In the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, he won the Silver medal in the men's synchronized 10-metre platform. In 1998, Leon invented the what was then considered the World's most difficult dive. Taylor now works as a public speaker, presenter, conference host, BBC commentator and mentor to members of the British team. He's the other of a book called, Mentor. Nutritional Tip of the Week: How Much Water to Drink Links & References from the Show: Leon's Site Leon's TEDx Talk Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic - makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: http://www.foursigmatic.com/yogabody and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

There are more than 10 times as many microbe cells in your body as human cells, but interestingly, we're exposed to our first bacteria at birth—and from there, the process begins. While two humans are almost identical genetically, their microbiomes can be dramatically different, which accounts for differences in the way they digest food, the way they smell, and even more dramatic differences such as their hormonal response. Microbiome research is fascinating, but still in its infancy. Supplement-makers are quick to label 'good' and 'bad' bacteria, but they are cherry-picking a couple dozen strains from thousands—many of which are still unknown. Advances in lab testing will likely give average people like us the greatest health advantages in years to come; there are already amazing options available to early adopters. Enter microbiome testing. How does it work? You send in a stool sample and get back a detailed report showing exactly what is growing inside you. This can be information overload, for sure, but even with the limited research currently available, you can learn a great deal about how your unique bacterial body functions. On this week's show, you'll meet the founder of Viome, a company on the forefront of microbiome testing. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why the food that is great for you could be kryptonite for someone else How your bacterial body can affect everything from your mood and digestion to your hormones and sleep patterns Why lab testing empowers average people to better understand their bodies and maintain a healthy lifestyle ABOUT OUR GUEST Naveen Jain is an entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is the founder of several successful companies, including Viome, Moon Express, Bluedot, TalentWise, Intelius, and InfoSpace. He is a regular contributor to Forbes, WSJ, INC, and The Huffington Post. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Peanut Oil Links & References from the Show: Viome Site + Discount Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Yoga International, a community of 300,000 students learning about yoga, meditation, and mindful living from hundreds of expert teachers. It has more than 1,000 classes, the most popular of which are 30 Classes in 30 Days Challenge, The Busy Yogi Challenge, and Yoga to Soothe Sciatica with Doug Keller. Yoga International is offering listeners of the Yoga Talk Show a free Essentials of Yoga Therapy course when you sign up for a 30-day trial membership. Learn More

I feel I've let you down. I've hosted pretty much every renowned breathing expert in the world on this podcast, and yet most of my listeners are still not sure exactly how yoga breathing works. On this week's show, my goal is to break down the fundamentals of yoga breathing in a way that you can easily remember and apply to your practice. ------------ Listen & Learn: How all breathing practices are either water, whiskey, or coffee Why it's easy to get confused with gurus and brand names Why most of us over-breathe (and what to do about it) Why the most popular breathing techniques tend to be too extreme How to incorporate all three breathing patterns into your life ABOUT THE HOST Lucas Rockwood is a yoga teacher trainer, digital nomad, green food junkie, and serial entrepreneur. With a formal yoga training background in Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Gravity Yoga, and the Yoga Trapeze, Lucas has studied with some of the most well-respected teachers on the planet. His most influential teachers (all of whom he studied with personally) include Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Paul Dallaghan, Alex Medin, Gabriel Cousens MD, and SN Goenka. Lucas founded Absolute Yoga Academy in 2006, one of the top 10 yoga teacher training schools in the world with 2,000 certified teachers (and counting) and courses in Thailand, Holland, United Kingdom, and The Philippines. In search of nutritional products designed specifically for achy yoga students' bodies, Rockwood worked with senior nutritional formulator, Paul Gaylon, and founded, YOGABODY Naturals, in the back of his yoga studio in 2007. The company has gone from strength-to-strength and is now an internationally-renowned nutrition, education, and publishing organization serving 81 countries. In 2013, Lucas founded YOGABODY Fitness, a revolutionary new yoga studio business model that pays teachers a living wage and demystifies yoga by making the mind-body healing benefits of the practice accessible to everyone. A foodie at heart, Lucas was a vegan chef, and owned and operated health food restaurants prior to diving deep into the yoga world. Lucas is also a highly-acclaimed writer, radio show host, TV personality, business consultant, weight loss expert, and health coach. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Marshmallow Links & References from the Show: FREE download & reference guide Patrick McKeown, The Oxygen Advantage Patricia L. Gerbarg, The Healing Power of Breath Wim Hof, Wim Hof Method Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Yoga International, a community of 300,000 students learning about yoga, meditation, and mindful living from hundreds of expert teachers. It has more than 1,000 classes, the most popular of which are 30 Classes in 30 Days Challenge, The Busy Yogi Challenge, and Yoga to Soothe Sciatica with Doug Keller. Yoga International is offering listeners of the Yoga Talk Show a free Essentials of Yoga Therapy course when you sign up for a 30-day trial membership. Learn More

During the summer between 8th and 9th grade, I watched my classmate Jeff go from about 125 lbs to 180 lbs in six weeks. This scrawny, video game nerd turned into a force to be reckoned with through a combination of hard gym workouts and anabolic steroids he bought from his older brother. I'm not sure if you've ever seen a transformation like this firsthand, but it's not something you easily forget. Enter hormones. They can make you skinny or make you fat. They can give you hot flashes, make you tired, or make you feel young and vital. Your 'chemical body' is responsible for how you look and feel most of the time, and yet it's often out of whack. Hormonal imbalance used to be rare and mostly found in older people, but these days you can find kids with massive hormone imbalances at any school around the world. So what do we do? ------------ Listen & Learn: How hormones can impact just about everything Why birth control pills, food, stress, age, and environment can all affect our chemical body How hormone theory is only a century old How hormone research is still new and developing ABOUT OUR GUEST Randi Hutter Epstein is a medical writer, author, and journalist. She has written for publications including The New York Times and The Washington Post. She is also a lecturer at Yale University and an adjunct professor at Columbia University School of Journalism. She is the author of two books: Get Me Out: A History of Childbirth from the Garden of Eden to the Sperm Bank (2010) and AROUSED: The History of Hormones and How They Control Just About Everything (2018). Nutritional Tip of the Week: Low Fructose Fruits Links & References from the Show: Randi's site Randi's Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Yoga International, a community of 300,000 students learning about yoga, meditation, and mindful living from hundreds of expert teachers. It has more than 1,000 classes, the most popular of which are 30 Classes in 30 Days Challenge, The Busy Yogi Challenge, and Yoga to Soothe Sciatica with Doug Keller. Yoga International is offering listeners of the Yoga Talk Show a free Essentials of Yoga Therapy course when you sign up for a 30-day trial membership. Learn More

Have you ever used a scalp massager made of long, thin wires? For most people, it causes quite the sensation, sending tingles from the back of their neck down their spine. Or maybe you have this reaction when someone whispers in your ear? This pleasurable response to specific auditory and visual stimuli is known as autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR), and is likened to meditation. ASMR is exploding on the internet right now because it is deeply relaxing, extremely pleasurable, and can serve to relieve anxiety and depression in some cases. The ASMR movement is mostly made up of YouTubers and DIY fanatics, but there are also a handful of researchers out there gathering information about the real, therapeutic benefits of this response. On this week's show, you'll meet Craig Richard, PhD, the founder of ASMR University. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why ASMR might be helpful to relieve stress and anxiety Why ASMR audio tracks could be more effective than the viral videos online How this deeply relaxing, neck tingling sensation can help you relax ABOUT OUR GUEST Craig Richard, PhD, first learned about ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) in 2013, but has been experiencing its triggers and effects since childhood. In 2014, he launched ASMRUniversity.com to encourage and report ASMR research and to provide helpful resources to assist with the further understanding of ASMR. Craig is the cofounder of the ASMR Research Project and has produced several ASMR podcasts. He is a professor in the department of biopharmaceutical sciences at Shenandoah University, School of Pharmacy in Winchester, Virginia and the author of a new book, Brain Tingles, available soon on Amazon. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Chili Peppers Links & References from the Show: ASMR University The ASMR Podcast Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Yoga International, a community of 300,000 students learning about yoga, meditation, and mindful living from hundreds of expert teachers. It has more than 1,000 classes, the most popular of which are 30 Classes in 30 Days Challenge, The Busy Yogi Challenge, and Yoga to Soothe Sciatica with Doug Keller. Yoga International is offering listeners of the Yoga Talk Show a free Essentials of Yoga Therapy course when you sign up for a 30-day trial membership. Learn More

Chronic pain—the most common of which is back pain and digestive pain—affects as many as one in four people. Pain plays a crucial role in the body as a clear sign that something is injured, diseased, or in need of extra care. However, when pain becomes chronic, many times the pain signals sent to the brain no longer correspond with any kind of dysfunction. The pain is literally all in the brain, and faulty neural wiring can ruin your life. When people are in constant pain, they will try anything: yoga, meditation, acupuncture, cannabis, and, of course, opioids. Sometimes these solutions work, sometimes they don't, but statistics show that chronic pain is a problem that's getting worse, not better. So what can we do? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we will explore a new type of noninvasive, nondrug treatment for pain that involves electrical stimulation to rewire problematic neural connections, otherwise known as Scrambler Therapy®. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why 100 million Americans have chronic pain Why pain can be present with or without any underlying condition Why the threat-neural matrix complicates your pain Why all pain is in the brain, and the solution to all chronic pain is rewiring this mind-body neural fail ABOUT OUR GUEST Brendon is the co-founder and CEO of Radiant Pain Relief Centres in Oregon, where he uses an exclusive, FDA-cleared technology called Scrambler Therapy® as a safe and simple way to change the mind-body perception of pain. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Lectins Links & References from the Show: Radiant Pain Relief Centres Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: PuraTHRIVE- Discover the breakthrough nutrient delivery system that combines nature and technology to maximize absorption, potency and bioavailability. PuraTHRIVE provides high-quality, guaranteed products that enable people to lead healthier lives. It helps empower people to thrive physically, mentally and spiritually! Visit https://purathrive.com/yogabody to get exclusive 10% off for Yoga Talk Show Listeners Learn More

Have you ever seen a yoga student, runner, or CrossFitter with weird crisscrossed tape on their knees? Have you ever experienced knee pain that kept you from doing your favorite activities? Aside from back problems, knee pain is the most common issue I see in my yoga studios, with the inevitable question being what to do about it. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you will meet physiotherapist Lee Herrington, who works with high-level athletes to correct movement dysfunctions, and help them manage and overcome knee pain. His recommendations are very simple, but not at all intuitive. ------------ Listen & Learn: Movement is medicine, you must move to heal For better or worse, our knees (and the rest of our bodies) will wear out over time, our job is to manage that gracefully Why anterior (front) knee pain is the most common and how alignment in yoga and all other activities can greatly reduce the risk of injury How to 'treat the man, not the scan' when dealing with knee pain Why performance backward thinking is helpful for knee pain ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Herrington is a physiotherapist, senior lecturer in sports rehabilitation at the University of Salford Manchester, and has published more than 100 peer-reviewed papers. His work focuses on the treatment and rehabilitation of sports injuries, specifically anterior knee pain, hamstring injuries, Subacromial Pain Syndrome (shoulder impingement), the 'rugby' shoulder, and rehabilitation following knee surgery (principally ACL reconstruction). Nutritional Tip of the Week: Food Causing Pain Links & References from the Show: Lee on Twitter University of Salford Manchester Profile Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: PuraTHRIVE- Discover the breakthrough nutrient delivery system that combines nature and technology to maximize absorption, potency and bioavailability. PuraTHRIVE provides high-quality, guaranteed products that enable people to lead healthier lives. It helps empower people to thrive physically, mentally and spiritually! Visit https://purathrive.com/yogabody to get exclusive 10% off for Yoga Talk Show Listeners Learn More

Your tight hamstrings, stiff hips, and locked up spine are not going to find freedom on their own—you have to train for mobility. When your body is tight, it affects everything, from your standing and sitting posture to your stride, but when you increase your range of motion, it feels as if you've added an extra room onto your home. Flexible bodies feel free, youthful, and energized. However, getting started with training can be frustrating. On this week's show, you'll meet physical therapist Jen Esquer, who will share her whole-body, 24-hour approach to movement freedom. ------------ Listen & Learn: How to sprinkle mobility training throughout the day rather than trying to fit in one monster session of stretching Why consistency is so important for mobility training (and the weekend warrior mentality doesn't work) Why it's crucial to have a healthy range of motion in poses such as squats, backbends, and hip flexion movements ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Jen Esquer has been involved with movement her entire life. She has worked as a gymnastics coach, a Pilates instructor, and eventually became a physical therapist. Today, Dr. Jen works in private practice, both online and offline, empowering people to heal themselves. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Pili Nuts Links & References from the Show: Dr. Jen's website Dr. Jen's Instagram Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: PuraTHRIVE- Discover the breakthrough nutrient delivery system that combines nature and technology to maximize absorption, potency and bioavailability. PuraTHRIVE provides high-quality, guaranteed products that enable people to lead healthier lives. It helps empower people to thrive physically, mentally and spiritually! Visit https://purathrive.com/yogabody to get exclusive 10% off for Yoga Talk Show Listeners Learn More

My balance has always been terrible. It didn't matter if I was on a skateboard, a balance beam, or in tree pose in yoga; I've always found it incredibly challenging to stay steady. Some people are just better at balance than others, but when I was about 30 years old, I realized my extremely-high arches and tight calves were largely to blame. Today, I still have excessively high arches, but I've managed to stretch and relax them down dramatically, and it's improved my running and walking gate as well as my yoga practice tremendously. Most importantly, I know that strong and flexible feet will positively impact the health of my upstream joints long term. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet Dr. Emily Splichal. A podiatrist and movement expert whose research and teaching around foot health is the best I've found. I just finished her book and am excited for you to meet here. ------------ Listen & Learn: Joint Coupling: why the foundational foot connection and alignment to the floor has cascading up-stream effects into the knees, hips, spine and more Tissue Stress Threshold: the breaking point where you over-stress your feet to the point of pain and in Foot-to-Core Sequencing: why proprioception and neuromuscular awareness is key to healthy walking, sports, and movement patterns At-Home Exercise: "Short Foot" exercise to strengthen, heal and restore food health ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr Splichal is a Podiatrist, Human Movement Specialist and Global Leader in Barefoot Science and Rehabilitation. Originally trained as a surgeon through Beth Israel Medical Center in New York, NY and Mt Vernon Hospital in Mt Vernon, NY Dr Splichal has a deep appreciation for the role of surgical intervention as it relates to orthopedic pathology and offers an un-biased second opinion on the appropriateness of surgical recommendations. She is the author of, Everyday Is Your Runway: A Shoe-Lover's Guide to Healthy Feet & Legs, Barefoot Strong: Unlock the Secrets to Movement Longevity Nutritional Tip of the Week: Curry Powder Links & References from the Show: Dr. Emily's Site VIDEO: Short Foot Tutorial Barefoot Strong Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: PuraTHRIVE- Discover the breakthrough nutrient delivery system that combines nature and technology to maximize absorption, potency and bioavailability. PuraTHRIVE provides high-quality, guaranteed products that enable people to lead healthier lives. It helps empower people to thrive physically, mentally and spiritually! Visit https://purathrive.com/yogabody to get exclusive 10% off for Yoga Talk Show Listeners Learn More

My six-year-old son will approach the person behind the counter at the grocery store and ask, "Do you have anything for kids?" At the doctor's office, he'll ask, "Do you have any candies?" He doesn't break eye contact and his voice is steady, without a shred of insecurity, and it works. People give him things everywhere he goes. This is the power of confidence in action, and it's remarkable to watch. I don't take credit for it, he came out this way; but I have come to believe that confidence is a skill that can be learned. Since confidence is a meta-skill that makes pretty much all other skill acquisition easier, this is something we should all train regularly. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet a woman who wrote the book, Confidence Creator. Her story and her no-nonsense approach can serve anyone at any age ------------ Listen & Learn: Fired from your career job? Try this... Sexually harassed at work? Stay strong Why doing hard things is the bedrock of confidence How confidence can be learned and developed just like any skill The importance of journaling for self-awareness and growth Simple steps you can do right now to build confidence in your life ABOUT OUR GUEST Heather Monahan started from very humble beginnings growing up in Massachusetts, and built a successful career in sales working in real estate and radio in multiple states. Her recent work is focused on coaching and training in the "Monahan Method" and self-confidence is the cornerstone of this approach. Her new book, Confidence Creator, is available on Amazon. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Kombucha Links & References from the Show: Heather's site Heather's Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic - makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: http://www.foursigmatic.com/yogabody and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

If you go to any convenient store, you'll see dozens of "energy" products including bars, drinks, and snacks. Most products are loaded with sugar or caffeine—or both. In the short term, they'll certainly give you energy, but in the long term, they send you spiraling down. High energy is at the cornerstone of health, but we often neglect the very root source of energy—our cellular energy created by the mitochondria. On this week's, Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn how cellular energy can be pivotal for full-body health and wellness. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why these organelle produce ATP which is energy at the cellular level How your lifestyle can impact your mitochondria Why excessive eating creates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depletes energy Why fat is 15x more efficient than sugar at creating cellular energy 4 supplements to boost mitochondria: L-Carnatine, CoQ10, D-ribose, magnesium Why low mitochondria can impact fertility ABOUT OUR GUEST Warren L. Cargal, L. Ac. specializes in age-related diseases tied to diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative issues, and cancer. He is a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist and is also founder and clinical director of Acupuncture Atlanta. He is the author of the book, Your Mitochondria: Key to Health and Longevity. He has practiced Chinese medicine for over 20 years. You can learn more about his site Nutritional Tip of the Week: GMO Soy Links & References from the Show: Warren's Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic - makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: http://www.foursigmatic.com/yogabody and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

Back in 2002, when I couldn't make it to a studio, I would play an old cassette tape and practice to that in my bedroom, hotel room, or even outdoors wherever I was. At-home practice has always been part of my yoga experience, but I'm the type of introvert that gets energy and inspiration from being alone. I'm naturally driven, and I'm harder on myself than any teacher has ever been; so when people asked me how to develop an at-home practice, I always struggled to answer until recently when I've compiled my thoughts and observations. Over the years, I've learned some very specific things from my students that make at-home practice success more probable, and I'll share them all with you on this week's Yoga Talk Show. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why practicing in an old, ragged t-shirt might be hurting your motivation Why the advice to "just do what feels good" is a flawed approach How to setup a home practice room How to keep your practicing going on the road Audio/video classes: do they work? Why social support is key ABOUT THE HOST Lucas Rockwood is a yoga teacher trainer, digital nomad, green food junkie, and serial entrepreneur. With a formal yoga training background in Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Gravity Yoga, and the Yoga Trapeze, Lucas has studied with some of the most well-respected teachers on the planet. His most influential teachers (all of whom he studied with personally) include Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Paul Dallaghan, Alex Medin, Gabriel Cousens MD, and SN Goenka. Lucas founded Absolute Yoga Academy in 2006, one of the top 10 yoga teacher training schools in the world with 2,000 certified teachers (and counting) and courses in Thailand, Holland, United Kingdom, and The Philippines. In search of nutritional products designed specifically for achy yoga students' bodies, Rockwood worked with senior nutritional formulator, Paul Gaylon, and founded, YOGABODY Naturals, in the back of his yoga studio in 2007. The company has gone from strength-to-strength and is now an internationally-renowned nutrition, education, and publishing organization serving 81 countries. In 2013, Lucas founded YOGABODY Fitness, a revolutionary new yoga studio business model that pays teachers a living wage and demystifies yoga by making the mind-body healing benefits of the practice accessible to everyone. A foodie at heart, Lucas was a vegan chef, and owned and operated health food restaurants prior to diving deep into the yoga world. Lucas is also a highly-acclaimed writer, radio show host, TV personality, business consultant, weight loss expert, and health coach. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Quorn Links & References from the Show: Kurma Yoga Mats Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: SeatGeek - Buying tickets can be complicated and confusing, but there is a better way to buy – with SeatGeek. SeatGeek is the smartest, easiest way to get tickets to every type of live event. Whether you're searching for a last minute deal, planning a night out with friends, or need to find the perfect gift, SeatGeek helps you find the best seats at the best prices – fully guaranteed. Just download the SeatGeek app and enter promo code 'YOGA' today. That's promo code 'YOGA' for $20 off your first SeatGeek purchase. Learn More

Most health and diet books focus on reducing your waistline but neglect the most "mission critical" part of your entire body: your brain. The 3 lbs, watery, fatty mass between your ears needs to be fed well and cared for, but most people don't give brain health the attention it deserves. Meet Dr. Lisa Mosconi, neuroscientist and author, and learn how your brain health can be dramatically influenced by food and lifestyle. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why your body can survive on many foods, but your brain is much more picky The importance of essential fatty acids for brain health Why the brain's saturated fat and cholesterol is created by the brain and stored in the brain from childhood—not affected by diet Why too much Omega-6 from seed oils is a problem for inflammation Why a 2:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 is ideal (while most people get 20+:1) Why we need around 4 grams of omega-3's per day Why the brain needs glucose for neuron synthesis and balance Why alcohol enters the brain and dehydrates your brain ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Mosconi holds a PhD degree in Neuroscience and Nuclear Medicine, and is a certified Integrative Nutritionist and holistic healthcare practitioner. She is the Associate Director of the Alzheimer's Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC)/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, She is an adjunct faculty member at NYU and the University of Florence. Dr. Mosconi has published over 100 peer-reviewed papers in medical journals. Her new book, Brain Food: the Surprising Science of Eating for Cognitive Power we'll talk about today. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Cinnamon Links & References from the Show: Dr. Mosconi's Website Brain Food Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: SeatGeek - Buying tickets can be complicated and confusing, but there is a better way to buy – with SeatGeek. SeatGeek is the smartest, easiest way to get tickets to every type of live event. Whether you're searching for a last minute deal, planning a night out with friends, or need to find the perfect gift, SeatGeek helps you find the best seats at the best prices – fully guaranteed. Just download the SeatGeek app and enter promo code 'YOGA' today. That's promo code 'YOGA' for $20 off your first SeatGeek purchase. Learn More

Following the advice of parents, counselors, and health care providers, millions of women take hormonal birth control starting in their teenager years to avoid unwanted pregnancies, regulate their periods, or to control acne. But what if you gain weight, lose your libido, and get depressed? What then? The FDA warns that hormonal birth control could increase the risk of cancer and heart disease too (among other things), but this "fine print" is rarely discussed but potentially life changing. So what do you do? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we'll explore good old fashioned cycle charting—but with a modern twist. Grab your cell phone and a cheap thermometer, and you can now gain very accurate insight into your menstrual cycles in about five minutes per day. ------------ Listen & Learn: How Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) can be just as effective as any other form of birth control How to get started with a basel therometer, a phone, and 5 minutes a day Why even many IUDs now are still using hormones The risk vs. reward of messing with your body's hormones ABOUT OUR GUEST Magdalena Wszelaki is a Certified Holistic Health Coach whose own health journey started from a personal crisis. She is in remissions from Graves' and Hashimoto's and managed to reverse estrogen dominance and heavy metal toxicity. She is a Vipassana meditator and a Level II Reiki practitioner. She coaches people with thyroid and endocrine imbalances. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Activated Charcoal Links & References from the Show: Kindara App The Pill: Are You Sure it's For You? Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: SeatGeek - Buying tickets can be complicated and confusing, but there is a better way to buy – with SeatGeek. SeatGeek is the smartest, easiest way to get tickets to every type of live event. Whether you're searching for a last minute deal, planning a night out with friends, or need to find the perfect gift, SeatGeek helps you find the best seats at the best prices – fully guaranteed. Just download the SeatGeek app and enter promo code 'YOGA' today. That's promo code 'YOGA' for $20 off your first SeatGeek purchase. Learn More

You've got questions, and I've got answers…. join me for this week's Yoga Talk Show special "Q&A Show" where I do my best to help listeners. On this week's show, we cover: my recommending reading list, food allergy testing, 18+6 Meal Timing, vaccines, yoga problems and plant-based pitfalls. ------------ ABOUT THE HOST Lucas Rockwood is a yoga teacher trainer, digital nomad, green food junkie, and serial entrepreneur. With a formal yoga training background in Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Gravity Yoga, and the Yoga Trapeze, Lucas has studied with some of the most well-respected teachers on the planet. His most influential teachers (all of whom he studied with personally) include Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Paul Dallaghan, Alex Medin, Gabriel Cousens MD, and SN Goenka. Lucas founded Absolute Yoga Academy in 2006, one of the top 10 yoga teacher training schools in the world with 2,000 certified teachers (and counting) and courses in Thailand, Holland, United Kingdom, and The Philippines. In search of nutritional products designed specifically for achy yoga students' bodies, Rockwood worked with senior nutritional formulator, Paul Gaylon, and founded, YOGABODY Naturals, in the back of his yoga studio in 2007. The company has gone from strength-to-strength and is now an internationally-renowned nutrition, education, and publishing organization serving 81 countries. In 2013, Lucas founded YOGABODY Fitness, a revolutionary new yoga studio business model that pays teachers a living wage and demystifies yoga by making the mind-body healing benefits of the practice accessible to everyone. A foodie at heart, Lucas was a vegan chef, and owned and operated health food restaurants prior to diving deep into the yoga world. Lucas is also a highly-acclaimed writer, radio show host, TV personality, business consultant, weight loss expert, and health coach. Links & References from the Show: Vaccine Schedule Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: http://www.foursigmatic.com/yogabody and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

When we think about toxins in our food and environment, most people assume the risk is "cancer," and that's true; but the more immediate risk is often hormonal imbalance. Common addictives in foods and skin care products can disrupt your natural endocrine balance and lead to everything from thyroid problems and infertility to weight gain and depression. This is a huge and growing problem, and the solution includes diet and lifestyle choices that aren't always obvious. Health coach, Magdalena Wszelaki shares her personal story of overcoming both Graves and Hashimoto's Diseases as well as her professional advice for finding balance. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why thyroid issues are often a symptom of autoimmune conditions What blood tests to check your thyroid (TSH, Free T3 & T4, TPO & Anti-Tg) Why estrogen dominance is a huge problem for both men and women Why estrogen dominance is a huge problem for both men and women How to eat a PFF (protein, fat & fiber) breakfast to start your day right ABOUT OUR GUEST Magdalena Wszelaki is a Certified Holistic Health Coach whose own health journey started from a personal crisis. She is in remissions from Graves' and Hashimoto's and managed to reverse estrogen dominance and heavy metal toxicity. She is a Vipassana meditator and a Level II Reiki practitioner. She coaches people with thyroid and endocrine imbalances. Nutritional Tip of the Week: A1C Test Links & References from the Show: Magdalena's Website Hormone Balance Cookbook Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: http://www.foursigmatic.com/yogabody and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

Here is one of my favorite interview questions: "What did you get in trouble for most when you were 12 years old?" The answer often reveals more about who someone really is than an hour-long conversation. Why? Because the things we do that drive people crazy are often the things that define us; and with the right application, the things that enable us to shine our brightest. What if your weaknesses were your greatest strength? What if your weirdness made you wonderful? Our guest on this week's Yoga Talk Show reveals how this works. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why your weaknesses might be your superpower Why it's foolish to focus on your weaknesses, and why you should instead focus on your strengths Why "perfect" and "balanced" don't exist so we should not go looking for them Why almost any personality type can find a way to excel at something ABOUT OUR GUEST David Rendall is an author and sought-after speaker with clients that include: The US Air Force, Australian Government, and Fortune 50 companies such as Microsoft, AT&T, United Health Group, Fannie Mae, and State Farm. David has a doctor of management degree in organizational leadership, as well as a graduate degree in psychology. He is the author of four books: The Four Factors of Effective, Leadership, The Freak Factor, The Freak Factor for Kids, and Pink Goldfish. Prior to becoming a speaker, he was a leadership professor, stand-up comedian, and nonprofit executive. David is also an athlete competing in ultramarathons and Ironman triathlons. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Lemon in the Morning Links & References from the Show: David Rendall's Site Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: SeatGeek - Buying tickets can be complicated and confusing, but there is a better way to buy – with SeatGeek. SeatGeek is the smartest, easiest way to get tickets to every type of live event. Whether you're searching for a last minute deal, planning a night out with friends, or need to find the perfect gift, SeatGeek helps you find the best seats at the best prices – fully guaranteed. Just download the SeatGeek app and enter promo code 'YOGA' today. That's promo code 'YOGA' for $20 off your first SeatGeek purchase. Learn More

Colin was on the beach in Thailand and decided to try Fire Poi (fire dancing). A few minutes later, he got tangled up, caught on fire, and burned 25% of his body so badly he was bedridden for months. A former athlete, he was devastated to learn that he might never walk properly again. Fast forward a couple years... Colin not only walks, but he runs, cycles, and swims. He quits his job and becomes a professional tri-athlete competing in 22 countries. As if this wasn't enough of an accomplishment in and of itself, he then climbed the highest peaks on all 7 continents and hit both the North and South Poles setting two world records. O'Brady defines what it means to push beyond your limits, and his story and inspiring work will make you want to set an audacious goal for yourself. ------------ Listen & Learn: How Colin burned 25% of his body in a random accident How the "butterfly effect" can potentially help you transform from "stuck" to "success" How Colin completed the "Explorer's Grand Slam" where he climbed the seven tallest peaks on all 7 continents and hit both the North and South Poles How he started a non-profit off the back of his twp world records ABOUT OUR GUEST Colin O'Brady was born in Olympia, Washington and grew up as an athlete playing soccor and swimming. Col placed first overall amateur at the 2009 Chicago Triathlon and later represented the United States in triathlon competitions in 22 countries and on six continents. He is now a world record holder who climbed the 7 highest peaks on all 7 continents. He's the founder of, BEYOND 7/2, an organization that inspires the next generation to dream big and succeed through dedication to healthy life choices Nutritional Tip of the Week: Autophagy Links & References from the Show: Colin's Website Colin's TEDx Talk Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic makes delicious Mushroom Superfood Blends and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believes in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Visit: http://www.foursigmatic.com/yogabody and use coupon code "yogabody" for 15% off your order. Learn More

The world's bulging landfills mirror our bulging waistlines; and the toxic chemicals we pour down our drains end up in our water supplies, food systems, and eventually into our own bodies. Environmental issues that were previously reserved for special interest groups are now urgent global concerns. As our planet grows to nine billion people, how will the oceans, the forests, and the people survive and thrive? On this week's, Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet an activist who walks his talk in extreme ways. Rob Greenfield biked across the country (twice!), hitched from South American to California (three times!), lived off the grid in a mini house for year, and scrounged food from thousands of dumpsters. He takes his mission very seriously, and his message is clear and simple: your action matter. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why Americans create an average of 4.4lbs of trash per day How Rob hitch-hiked from South America to San Diego with no money Why there is no "one answer" for the environmental problems of the world Why diversity is the key to environmental and cultural balance ABOUT OUR GUEST Rob Greenfield is an adventurer, environmental activist, humanitarian, and dude making a difference. He is dedicated to leading the way to a more sustainable and just world. Rob is the creator of The Food Waste Fiasco, a campaign that strives to end food waste and hunger in the U.S. He has dove into more than two thousand dumpsters across the United States to demonstrate how nearly half of all food in the U.S. is wasted while 50 million (1 in 7) Americans are food insecure. Rob has cycled across the U.S. twice on a bamboo bicycle bringing his message of sustainability and earth-friendly living to the United States. His first bike ride across the U.S. is also now a book, Dude Making a Difference. In 2016 he landed in Rio, Brazil without a penny in his pocket on a mission to travel to Panama, 7,000 miles and 7 countries away, relying on the goodness of humanity. This adventure is a six episode series called Free Ride on Discovery Channel playing worldwide. His travels have taken him to 6 continents and 40 countries. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Lemon for Iron Absorption Links & References from the Show: Visit Rob's Site Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Four Sigmatic - drinking mushrooms and superfoods can be now delicious and easy-to-do with Mushroom Superfood Blends, and Mushroom Elixirs. Four Sigmatic believe in the real magic of functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, as well as other superfoods and adaptogens like rhodiola, eleuthero, and schisandra to help us live healthier, more enhanced lives. Learn More

Have you ever heard someone say, "Flexibility doesn't matter!" or "Stretching makes you weak!" For some reason, the misinformation about flexibility training is rampant, and many students are confused what to do about their locked-up hips, tight hamstrings, and stiff spines. How do you safely and effectively increase your mobility? Since 2007, flexibility training has been a huge part of the YOGABODY world, and we're revisiting this perennial topic this year with new and updated research and practices. Join Yoga Talk Show host, Lucas Rockwood, for a 101-guide to flexibility training on this week's episode. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why "time under passive tension" matters for flexibility Safety myth vs reality of stretching Ideal schedule and timing for mobility gains Nutrition and recovery Realistic expectations and gains ABOUT THE HOST Lucas Rockwood is a yoga teacher trainer, digital nomad, green food junkie, and serial entrepreneur. With a formal yoga training background in Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Gravity Yoga, and the Yoga Trapeze, Lucas has studied with some of the most well-respected teachers on the planet. His most influential teachers (all of whom he studied with personally) include Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Paul Dallaghan, Alex Medin, Gabriel Cousens MD, and SN Goenka. Lucas founded Absolute Yoga Academy in 2006, one of the top 10 yoga teacher training schools in the world with 2,000 certified teachers (and counting) and courses in Thailand, Holland, United Kingdom, and The Philippines. In search of nutritional products designed specifically for achy yoga students' bodies, Rockwood worked with senior nutritional formulator, Paul Gaylon, and founded, YOGABODY Naturals, in the back of his yoga studio in 2007. The company has gone from strength-to-strength and is now an internationally-renowned nutrition, education, and publishing organization serving 81 countries. In 2013, Lucas founded YOGABODY Fitness, a revolutionary new yoga studio business model that pays teachers a living wage and demystifies yoga by making the mind-body healing benefits of the practice accessible to everyone. A foodie at heart, Lucas was a vegan chef, and owned and operated health food restaurants prior to diving deep into the yoga world. Lucas is also a highly-acclaimed writer, radio show host, TV personality, business consultant, weight loss expert, and health coach. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Acrylamide Links & References from the Show: Gravity Yoga Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now Yoga Talk Show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter "yogapodcast" in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

Meet the man who top Athletes like, Cristiano Ronaldo, consult with to make sure they get optimal sleep: Nick Littlehales. Sleep quality makes a huge difference in optimal sports performance and overall health, but most people are simply trying to log more hours—and most of us fall short of our goals. Nick's approach is much more practical, realistic, and takes into account individuality of body type, chronotype, and environment. I've had half a dozen sleep experts on the Yoga Talk Show, and for me, Nick's advice is the most actionable and practical. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why synthetic bedding is probably the best choice Which sleep position is ideal How to count cycles in a week, no hours in a night Why most mattress companies are just smoke and mirrors with made-up terms and medical-sounding jargon that is useless How to create a real sleep den ABOUT OUR GUEST Nick Littlehales is an elite sport sleep coach to some of the biggest names in sports including British Cycling and Team Sky, international footballers, Rugby players, Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Nick has 30 years of experience in the world of sleep science and has spent the last sixteen years working with elite athletes. Many of his clients are household names in the sports celebrity world, and they hire him to optimize their sleep because sleep matters for performance, health, and just about everything else. Nick is the chairman of the UK Sleep Council, and the author of the new book, Sleep: The Myth of 8 Hours, the Power of Naps, and the New Plan to Recharge Your Body and Mind You can learn more at his site: https://www.sportsleepcoach.com/ Nutritional Tip of the Week: Coffee While Fasting Links & References from the Show: Nick's Site Nick's Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now Yoga Talk Show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter "yogapodcast" in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

The world is getting fat at an alarming rate. Two in three adults are overweight or obese, and excess weight is correlated with every degenerative illness across the board. While some overweight people are in perfect health, it's rare and often fleeting as the downward spiral is very predictable—and it happens fast. Here's what you need to understand about the global weight problem. It's not about lack of willpower or discipline, that's an ignorant and uninformed excuse. It's not about lack of exercise, though sedentary lives certainly don't help and movement is always a good thing. The real problem is imbalance: emotional, hormonal, and nutritional. We in a time when stress levels are through the roof, social support systems have crumbled, and most of the food available is various forms of lifeless carbohydrates. So what do you do? How do you find balance in an imbalanced world? I've had the good fortune of unfettered access to some of the leading minds in health and wellness over the past 10 years, and I'll share my best learning with you on this week's Yoga Talk Show. ------------ Listen & Learn: Manage your stress or don't bother Fix your social circle or don't bother 8+16 meal timing Throttle your carbs Baseline your protein Eat healthy fat ABOUT THE HOST Lucas Rockwood is a yoga teacher trainer, digital nomad, green food junkie, and serial entrepreneur. With a formal yoga training background in Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Gravity Yoga, and the Yoga Trapeze, Lucas has studied with some of the most well-respected teachers on the planet. His most influential teachers (all of whom he studied with personally) include Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Paul Dallaghan, Alex Medin, Gabriel Cousens MD, and SN Goenka. Lucas founded Absolute Yoga Academy in 2006, one of the top 10 yoga teacher training schools in the world with 2,000 certified teachers (and counting) and courses in Thailand, Holland, United Kingdom, and The Philippines. In search of nutritional products designed specifically for achy yoga students' bodies, Rockwood worked with senior nutritional formulator, Paul Gaylon, and founded, YOGABODY Naturals, in the back of his yoga studio in 2007. The company has gone from strength-to-strength and is now an internationally-renowned nutrition, education, and publishing organization serving 81 countries. In 2013, Lucas founded YOGABODY Fitness, a revolutionary new yoga studio business model that pays teachers a living wage and demystifies yoga by making the mind-body healing benefits of the practice accessible to everyone. A foodie at heart, Lucas was a vegan chef, and owned and operated health food restaurants prior to diving deep into the yoga world. Lucas is also a highly-acclaimed writer, radio show host, TV personality, business consultant, weight loss expert, and health coach. Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now Yoga Talk Show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter "yogapodcast" in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

LISTENER QUESTIONS! Is borage oil any good? What do you do with heart rate variability data? My kid is sweating like crazy, what do I do? How do I get started on a vegan diet? Are oats any good for breakfast? How do I beat chronic yeast overgrowth? My joints are popping, now what? Your questions, my answers on this week's show! Go a question yourself? Send us a voicemail... ------------ ABOUT THE HOST Lucas Rockwood is a yoga teacher trainer, digital nomad, green food junkie, and serial entrepreneur. With a formal yoga training background in Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Gravity Yoga, and the Yoga Trapeze, Lucas has studied with some of the most well-respected teachers on the planet. His most influential teachers (all of whom he studied with personally) include Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Paul Dallaghan, Alex Medin, Gabriel Cousens MD, and SN Goenka. Lucas founded Absolute Yoga Academy in 2006, one of the top 10 yoga teacher training schools in the world with 2,000 certified teachers (and counting) and courses in Thailand, Holland, United Kingdom, and The Philippines. In search of nutritional products designed specifically for achy yoga students' bodies, Rockwood worked with senior nutritional formulator, Paul Gaylon, and founded, YOGABODY Naturals, in the back of his yoga studio in 2007. The company has gone from strength-to-strength and is now an internationally-renowned nutrition, education, and publishing organization serving 81 countries. In 2013, Lucas founded YOGABODY Fitness, a revolutionary new yoga studio business model that pays teachers a living wage and demystifies yoga by making the mind-body healing benefits of the practice accessible to everyone. A foodie at heart, Lucas was a vegan chef, and owned and operated health food restaurants prior to diving deep into the yoga world. Lucas is also a highly-acclaimed writer, radio show host, TV personality, business consultant, weight loss expert, and health coach. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Nutritional Density Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now Yoga Talk Show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter "yogapodcast" in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

Have you ever heard someone say, "I'm an idea person... I like to start new things, but I'm not the person who finishes them?" You know who does finish things? Winners. Starting is not hard, or interesting, or worth celebrating. Day 92 of your new exercise program, that's celebration time. Year 6 in your new career, that's party time. On this week's show, we'll talk about getting stuff done, finding your dream job, and focusing on stacking successes (not failures). ------------ Listen & Learn: Why you can achieve more by lowering (not raising) your goals Why "fun" is so important on the way to your goals Why it's not always helpful to let others know (publicly) your goals and ambitions How to start with baby steps as you move toward progressively bigger things ABOUT OUR GUEST Jon Acuff is the author six books including his most recent: Finish: Give yourself the gift of done. For over 20 years he's helped big companies tell their stories, including: Home Depot, Bose, Staples, and the Dave Ramsey Team. He's spoken to hundreds of thousands of people at conferences, colleges, companies and churches. Featured regularly on national media, Jon has been seen on CNN, Fox News, Good Day LA among others. You can learn more at his site: www.acuff.me Nutritional Tip of the Week: Chaga Links & References from the Show: Jon's site Jon's books on Amazon Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now Yoga Talk Show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter "yogapodcast" in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

It's Friday night. You're home late from work and desperate to sleep, and yet you can't. You're tired but wired, overworked but over-stimulated. Cortisol has been pumping through your veins all week, and it's not so easy to turn it off. So what do you do? Most people turn to crap foods, alcohol, pills, and binge-watching television series. Why? Because they work. In the short term, they make you feel better; but long term, most of our autopilot stress management techniques turn into self-destructive vice. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, Dr. Mike Dow will share his experiences healing patients with brain fog, busted brains, and general overwhelm. There's no one-size-fits-all solution, but adding healthy stress management tools to your life is always a great idea. ------------ Listen & Learn: How mega-dosing omega-3's helped Dr. Mike's brother recover from a stroke Autogenic therapy: a self-talk, self-hypnosis method for fixing brain drain How to use progressive muscle relaxation to relieve both physical and psychological stress Why our typical toolkit for managing mental and emotional stress is flawed ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Mike Dow is an author, psychotherapist, and the host of lots of different television shows. He makes regular appearances on Dr. Oz, Dr. Drew On Call, The Talk, Wendy Williams, Rachael Ray, Nightline, Good Morning America, The Doctors, The Talk, and Today. He is the author of many books including The Brain Fog Fix, Healing the Broken Brain, and his most-recent book, Heal your Drained Brain. His books are on Amazon and you can learn more at his site: www.drmikedow.com Nutritional Tip of the Week: Collagen Links & References from the Show: Dr. Mike's Site Type II Diabetes Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now Yoga Talk Show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter "yogapodcast" in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

Many people think mineral deficiencies only occur in the developing world where food is scarce; but the reality is that most people are deficient in at least a few vitamins or minerals. Our soils are over-farmed leaving our foods nutrient poor, so even people eating the highest-quality of foods are susceptible to imbalances. Enter: magnesium. It's the 8th most abundant mineral on earth and affects everything from bowel regularity and cramps to sleep quality and digestion. It's found in nuts, seeds, greens, and even rice—and yet, most people only get about 1/2 their daily recommended allowance from food alone. For yoga students, magnesium is one of the top minerals (right up there with sulfur) as it helps muscles relax and balances the nervous system—both essential for bendy bodies. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn why magnesium deficiency is so common, and more importantly, some very simple tests to fix it safely at home. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why most people only get about 200mg of magnesium per day How magnesium dosage will self-regulate by sending you to the toilet if you have too much Why magnesium is essential for ATP (energy) production How to get tested for magnesium deficiency Recommended dosage: up to 600 mg/day of magnesium citrate (orally) or 2 cups of Epsom salts in a bath ABOUT OUR GUEST Carolyn Dean is a medical doctor and naturopath. She has authored and co-authored over 35 books including The Magnesium Miracle, IBS for Dummies, Hormone Balance, Death by Modern Medicine, and 110 Kindle books. She graduated from Dalhousie Medical School in 1978, holds a medical license in California and is a graduate of The Ontario College of Naturopathic Medicine – now the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) in Toronto. She served on the board of Governors of the CCNM for six years. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Polyphenols Links & References from the Show: Carolyn's Site Carolyn's Books Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now Yoga Talk Show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter "yogapodcast" in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

Do you have a friend or family member losing their short-term memory, losing their mental "edge", and just generally slowing down in terms of brain function? If so, this week's Yoga Talk Show delivers insight into neurodegenerative problems and what you can do about them. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's are among the top 3 causes of death worldwide. Toxins, inflammation, and high sugar diets are among the many causes; but fortunately, we have better tools than ever for prevention and reversal of problems. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet Alzheimer's thought-leader, Dr. Dale Bredesen. ------------ Listen & Learn: How cheap genetic testing shows you if you have a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's Disease Why neurodegenerative illnesses are now in the top 3 leading causes of death internationally How meal timing and ketosis can prevent and help reverse problems Why inflammation is a disaster for brain health Why 21st century medicine must focus on data, quantified self, testing and tracking ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Bredesen is an expert in the mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases and is best-known recently for his work with Alzheimer's disease specicically. He's the author of a new book, The End of Alzheimer's. He graduated from Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC and has held faculty positions at UCSF, UCLA and the University of California, San Diego. Dr. Bredesen directed the Program on Aging at the Burnham Institute before coming to the Buck Institute in 1998 as its founding President and CEO. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Complete Protein Links & References from the Show: Dr. Bredesen's Site Dr Bredesen's book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now Yoga Talk Show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter "yogapodcast" in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

"I just want to be happy..." is something you've probably said one thousand times. You want to be happy at work, at home, with your partner and friends—but what does that mean? You've no-doubt felt "happy" while walking on the beach on a warm summer night at sunset, but if you're like me, you've also felt "happy" in a sweaty, controlled mess on your yoga mat—so what's going on? Happiness is something we're all seeking and yet almost no one can define. No wonder we struggle to achieve it. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn about the four chemicals responsible for happiness, and more importantly, how to cultivate them. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why social status & pride are important for serotonin Why the stress hormone cortisol can kill your chances of happiness How early life patterns can influence (but not predict) your habits today Why people get addicted to "runner's high" How to choose healthy ways to trigger happy brain chemicals ABOUT OUR GUEST Loretta Graziano Breuning, PhD, is the founder of the Inner Mammal Institute. She's Professor Ammer-ita at California State University, East Bay, and author of I-Mammal, Habits of a Happy Brain, and The Science of Positivity. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Healthy Oils Links & References from the Show: Inner Mammal Institute Loretta's Books on Amazon Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: FreshBooks - a cloud accounting solution specially designed for small business owners. Join 10 million people using FreshBooks and spend less time on accounting and more time doing the work you love. Freshbooks automates tasks like invoicing, organizing expenses, tracking your time and following up with clients in just a few clicks. It is also offering now yoga talk show listeners a free 30 days trial. Go to freshbooks.com/yoga and enter yogapodcast in how did you hear about us section. Learn More

It was Christmas 2001. I was 23 years old, and I woke up in the back of ambulance after convulsing in a grand mal seizure in front of my parents. I'd managed to wobble through the previous 3 years in steady haze of drug and alcohol abuse, chronic sleep deprivation, and borderline mania, but that holiday season, I bottomed out. There was no more hiding the truth from myself. I was in trouble. I wish I could say that I've always loved yoga, health and wellness—but that's not my story. I took my first swig of gin straight from the bottle at age 13, and I loved it right away. No learning curve. I was never drawn to lotus position or meditation halls in those days. Early in my life, I was obsessed with escaping the overwhelming anxiety and restlessness of my own brain. My yoga story is one of running away from pain, of channeling negative obsessions into positive ones, and finding a toolkit that made me feel well, every time. I turn 40 this year, and as strange as it sounds, I'd never shared my story in its entirety with anyone because it continues to be a deep source of shame for me. With few exceptions, shame is a pretty useless feeling, so I'd like to share my story with you on this week's Yoga Talk Show. My hope is that if you're at a crossroads or a crisis point now, you can perhaps connect with my "rock bottom" story and begin to find your North Star as I did. ------------ ABOUT OUR GUEST Lucas Rockwood is a yoga teacher trainer, digital nomad, green food junkie, and serial entrepreneur. With a formal yoga training background in Hot Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Gravity Yoga, and the Yoga Trapeze, Lucas has studied with some of the most well-respected teachers on the planet. His most influential teachers (all of whom he studied with personally) include Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Paul Dallaghan, Alex Medin, Gabriel Cousens MD, and SN Goenka. Lucas founded Absolute Yoga Academy in 2006, one of the top 10 yoga teacher training schools in the world with 2,000 certified teachers (and counting) and courses in Thailand, Holland, United Kingdom, and The Philippines. In search of nutritional products designed specifically for achy yoga students' bodies, Rockwood worked with senior nutritional formulator, Paul Gaylon, and founded, YOGABODY Naturals, in the back of his yoga studio in 2007. The company has gone from strength-to-strength and is now an internationally-renowned nutrition, education, and publishing organization serving 81 countries. In 2013, Lucas founded YOGABODY Fitness, a revolutionary new yoga studio business model that pays teachers a living wage and demystifies yoga by making the mind-body healing benefits of the practice accessible to everyone. A foodie at heart, Lucas was a vegan chef, and owned and operated health food restaurants prior to diving deep into the yoga world. Lucas is also a highly-acclaimed writer, radio show host, TV personality, business consultant, weight loss expert, and health coach. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Boost Immune System Links & References from the Show: J. Brown's Podcast on iTunes J. Brown's Site Train with Lucas YOGABODY Supplements & Products Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Trapeze Teacher Training -- For passionate yoga students who love inversion yoga, this is an exciting opportunity to train with YOGABODY, the leading educator and manufacturer of inversion slings worldwide. The Yoga Trapeze is the most-popular yoga inversion sling ever with over 100,000 students in 81 countries. Despite the ever-growing demand, there are hardly any professional instructors - until now. We're now accepting applications for The Yoga Trapeze Certification course where you'll learn how to teach both group and private lessons for beginning and intermediate students. Learn More

During the World Financial Crisis of 2008, James Lawrence's mortgage business went belly-up, and he started running, cycling and swimming. He channelled his pain and struggle into training, and became a professional athlete in middle age. His preferred race? The Ironman: a 2.4 mile swim, 112 miles cycling, and 26.2 miles running—all in one day. As gruelling as that sounds, James decided to do 50 Ironman races, 50 days in a row, in all 50 U.S. states. They call him the "Iron Cowboy," and he lives up to his name. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why there's no such thing as a dream that's "too big" as long as you have enough time to make it happen Why fatigue is an injury How it's now more-possible than ever to become a professional athlete The importance of having a good coach ABOUT OUR GUEST James is originally from Calgary, Alberta Canada. He grew up a wrestler and later got into endurance racing to escape the stress of Corporate America. After losing everything in 2008, James turned to his new found passion for triathlon racing and went on to break two world records within three years. In 2015 James completed 50 Ironman distance triathlons, in 50 days, in each of the 50 United States -- The 50-50-50. His first book, Redefine Impossible is available on Amazon. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Bell Peppers Links & References from the Show: James "Iron Cowboy's" Website Redefine Impossible Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Trapeze Teacher Training -- For passionate yoga students who love inversion yoga, this is an exciting opportunity to train with YOGABODY, the leading educator and manufacturer of inversion slings worldwide. The Yoga Trapeze is the most-popular yoga inversion sling ever with over 100,000 students in 81 countries. Despite the ever-growing demand, there are hardly any professional instructors - until now. We're now accepting applications for The Yoga Trapeze Certification course where you'll learn how to teach both group and private lessons for beginning and intermediate students. Learn More

At age 23, I was overweight, drinking too much and smoking constantly. I was stuck in life and wanted a new one, so I finally got up the courage to attend a 10-day meditation retreat just before my 24th birthday. I'd booked and canceled the same retreat once before, and it was a big deal for me to get on the bus from New York City out to rural New Jersey to do nothing... ... But it turns out, it led to a big turning point in my life. Many changes I experienced were subtle and played out over months or even years, but one change happened instantly. I stopped eating animal foods. During the retreat, they didn't serve any meat, so I just kept up with it afterwards, and I felt great. I started reading books and going to lectures. Back then, most of the smart people in nutrition all believed that a low fat, no-meat diet was the best way to go for health. So I was sold. Fast forward 15 years later, I'm still eating this way, but I'm no longer naive enough to think that just cutting burgers from your diet is going to fix your health (in fact, sometimes the opposite is true). But I am absolutely certain that the way we eat today is not the way my grandkids will eat. Our foods system is beyond broken, it's a total disaster. Enter: lab-grown meats. Just like it sounds, this is fish, chicken, and burgers grown from cloned and cultivated cells. It might sound gross, but it also might save the planet. My guest on this week's show just wrote a book about this next revolution in food, CLEAN MEAT. ------------ Listen & Learn: How clean meat is safer than factor foods How clean meat, like clean energy, is way better for the environment Why many foods we eat today are weird if you stop to think about it—so why not this? Why the future of food is probably a lot less convenient than chickens, pigs, cows, corn, rice, wheat and soy ABOUT OUR GUEST Paul Shapiro served for 13 years as a spokesperson and vice president for the Humane Society of the United States. He is the founder of Compassion Over Killing, a TEDx speaker, and an inductee into the Animal Rights Hall of Fame. His first book, Clean Meat, is available on Amazon. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Maca Links & References from the Show: Paul's website Clean Meat Book Website Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: The Yoga Teachers College offers master-level training for those looking to build a career as yoga professionals. Our trainees benefit from the best of modern learning technology combined with old school apprenticeship. Graduates walk away with the skills, confidence and experience needed to become not just teachers, but community and business leaders as well. Whether your goal is to teach part time locally, travel and lead workshops internationally, or to open your own studios, The Yoga Teachers College will support your career every step of the way. Learn More

You probably know that infants that don't receive enough cuddles, hugs, and physical affection suffer from all kinds of developmental problems—the first two years are the most critical, and this is why the first thing a doctor does with a newborn is place it on the chest of the mother or father. But what about middle-aged people? And what about at the end of life? It turns out touch is still crucial to health and wellness, and yet in our modern, physically disconnected society, many people are deprived. On this week's show, you'll meet a neuroscientist who specializes in the importance of touch and how you can use this knowledge to improve your life. ------------ Listen & Learn: How there is no such thing as a touch or sensation without emotion—they are always inseparable Why high fives, back slapping, and social touch improves sports teamwork and performance Why we tend to prioritize external touch sensations when internal touch is just as important How touch deprivation is "highest risk" in infants and elders ABOUT OUR GUEST David J. Linden, Ph.D., is a Professor of Neuroscience at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. His laboratory works on the cellular substrates of memory storage and recovery of function after brain injury. He served as the Chief Editor of the Journal of Neurophysiology. He is the author of The Accidental Mind (2007) and The Compass of Pleasure (2011), and his most recent book, Touch: The Science of Hand, Heart and Mind. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Zinc Links & References from the Show: David Linden's Site David's Books on Amazon Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: The Yoga Teachers College offers master-level training for those looking to build a career as yoga professionals. Our trainees benefit from the best of modern learning technology combined with old school apprenticeship. Graduates walk away with the skills, confidence and experience needed to become not just teachers, but community and business leaders as well. Whether your goal is to teach part time locally, travel and lead workshops internationally, or to open your own studios, The Yoga Teachers College will support your career every step of the way. Learn More

I've spent most my career researching, studying and teaching physical health and wellness only to realize that mental health is the big elephant in the room. In many cases, diet and exercise help, of course; but depression, anxiety and trauma wounds can dig so deep that a more comprehensive, mind-body approach to healing is needed. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet a pioneer in Mind-Body Medicine who has worked with everyone from war-torn refugees to leaders of state. His insights into the mental health pandemic will help you and those you love better manage emotional challenges. ------------ Listen & Learn: 15% of the adult population has clinical depression Why some depression is reactionary and totally expected while chronic or clinical depression persists past reasonable triggers How something as simple as a nutritional deficiency in vitamin D or omega-3's can trigger depression When does empathetic behavior become enabling behavior for depressive tendencies? 3 types of meditation: concentration, mindfulness, and expressive ABOUT OUR GUEST James S. Gordon, MD, a Harvard educated psychiatrist, is a world-renowned expert in using mind-body medicine to heal depression, anxiety, and psychological trauma. He is the Founder and Executive Director of The Center for Mind-Body Medicine and a Clinical Professor in the Departments of Psychiatry and Family Medicine at Georgetown Medical School. Dr. Gordon served as the first Chairman of the Program Advisory Council to NIH's Office of Alternative Medicine and as Chairman of the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Policy under Presidents Clinton and G.W. Bush. He is the author of, Unstuck: Your Guide to the Seven-Stage Journey Out of Depression Nutritional Tip of the Week: Truvia Links & References from the Show: Center for Mind-Body Medicine Unstuck Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Health I.Q. — Yoga Podcast is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. To see if you qualify, get your free quote today at healthiq.com/yogabody or mention the promo code YOGA when you talk to a Health IQ agent. Learn More

After interviewing hundreds of health experts, you learn dozens of industry insights that would otherwise be impossible to gather. Our guest on this week's Yoga Talk Show is a veteran podcaster and wellness journalist, and I invited him on so we can learn the "best of" from his experiences over the years. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why real-time blood glucose monitoring is here now and should become accessible to everyone very soon Why fat, protein, fiber and water are essential for health Why digestive enzymes can be a life saver when bumping up your fiber intake Why we all only get about 150 decisions per day—so we shouldn't waste them on stupid things ore we'll run out of willpower Why you should treat your phone like "key person" in your life ABOUT OUR GUEST Josh Trent is the founder of Wellness Force, Wellness Force Radio and the Fitness + Technology podcast. His work has been featured in major health and wellness publications such as WellnessFX, NASM, and FitTech CES. As the host of Wellness Force Radio, Josh interviews world-class experts in the fields of physical and emotional intelligence, mindset, behaviour change, supplementation, nutrition, health, wellness, fitness, and technology that empower the WFR audience with actionable steps for the wellness journey. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Agave Links & References from the Show: Josh Trent's Site Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Health I.Q. — Yoga Podcast is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. To see if you qualify, get your free quote today at healthiq.com/yogabody or mention the promo code YOGA when you talk to a Health IQ agent. Learn More

One of the best ways to love your body is to stop poisoning it with excess sugar, starch and carbohydrates. This sounds obvious, but it's actually a huge challenge. Excess sugar is everywhere and without careful study, most everyone walks around with chronically elevated blood sugar levels. In the short term, this affects your mood and waistline; in the long term, it reduces your healthspan and lifespan very dramatically. ------------ Listen & Learn: Carbs vs net carbs – what's the difference? Why there is no need to be scared of white sugar How whole grains can actually be a problem Why to focus on the fabulous four: fiber, fat, protein and greens ABOUT OUR GUEST Kelly LeVeque is a holistic nutritionist based in Los Angeles, California. Kelly loves to cook. She believes in real food, real ingredients and a clean diet. The Be Well kitchen is constantly buzzing. Kelly loves creating tasty, clean, nutrient-dense recipes and dishes. She loves sharing them even more. Kelly completed her Postgraduate Clinical Nutrition education through UCLA and UC Berkeley. She is a regular contributor for numerous health, wellness and lifestyle publications. She is also a certified health coach, yoga instructor and personal trainer. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Agave Links & References from the Show: Kelly's Site Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Health I.Q. — Yoga Podcast is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. To see if you qualify, get your free quote today at healthiq.com/yogabody or mention the promo code YOGA when you talk to a Health IQ agent. Learn More

Why do so many yoga and meditation teachers talk in the third person, add in huge pauses between words, and hold awkward eye contact while teaching? Where did this caricature of a "spiritual person" come from, and is there really any point? As a career yoga teacher, I've fallen into just about every trap there is, including adopting "yoga speak," appropriating Eastern cultures (disrespectfully), and role playing a yogi. Unfortunately, this behaviour pushes more people away than it attracts, and I've done my best in recent years just to be myself. Our guest on this week's Yoga Talk Show has built a huge online following basically making fun of people like me—and his jokes are so true, you can't ignore him. Beyond comedy, JP Sears is really a satirist, and his knowledge and true messages are worth listening too. He's a smart guy. ------------ Listen & Learn: How comedy can be a great teaching tool Why self-awareness is so important on any path of personal or spiritual growth Why there is so much role playing in yoga communities Why it's important to laugh at yourself (sometimes) ABOUT OUR GUEST JP Sears is an emotional healing coach, international teacher, author and Youtube creator. He is a Holistic Coach Advanced Practitioner through the Holistic Coaching Institute and was a faculty member for the C.H.E.K. Institute from 2006-2013. Youtube channel has: 500K subscribers and 50 million views Nutritional Tip of the Week: Cheap Salt vs Expensive Stuff Links & References from the Show: JP's Site JP's Youtube Channel JP's New Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Health I.Q. — Yoga Podcast is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. To see if you qualify, get your free quote today at healthiq.com/yogabody or mention the promo code YOGA when you talk to a Health IQ agent. Learn More

Can you imagine if your mother died of a sudden brain aneurysm, your young husband died of a heart attack, and then your father-in-law passed away from cancer all in the span of 9 years? This is Amy Morin's story, and she has since turned her immense grief and suffering into strength and balance. Death, pain, battling with emotions are the focus on this week's Yoga Talk Show. ------------ Listen & Learn: How to train your brain to think realistically about your situation Why we need to learn to control our emotions The importance of positive action during crisis, regardless of how you feel Why death and dying are so taboo and yet ever-present ABOUT OUR GUEST Amy Morin is a psychotherapist and the author of, 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do. Her advice has been featured by numerous media outlets including Time, Fast Company, Success, Business Insider, Oprah.com, Fox News, CNN, CNBC, and Today. She also appeared in a Red Bull TV show called Visions of Greatness. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Sodium Links & References from the Show: Amy's Main Site Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Health I.Q. — Yoga Podcast is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. To see if you qualify, get your free quote today at healthiq.com/yoga or mention the promo code YOGA when you talk to a Health IQ agent. Learn More

At one of my first personal growth and development retreats, I wrote down my goals to build a huge health and wellness center with yoga, a restaurant, diet programs, and more. Financially, I wanted it to be so successful that I spent the latter half of my life giving away wealth (think a yoga version of Bill Gates). This HUGE goal got me really excited when I was 25, but it was just too big and too abstract to pull out any specific actions I could implement right then. It's great to think big, but what do you right now to get started? What is your 1 week, 1 month, and 1 year plan? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we learn about incremental (but very significant) growth using the "Better than Before" mindset where we simply put one foot in front of the other and embrace the process without an over-obsession on the destination. This has been hugely important for me and my goals, many of which I have achieved surprisingly quickly (my Bill Gates status is still a work in progress). I think you'll find it helpful. ------------ Listen & Learn: Rewards versus treats Inner vs. outer expectations: how to differentiate and utilize How to utilize the strategy of treats to increase "self mastery" Strategies to quit sugar (internal vs. external) Rethinking procrastination ABOUT OUR GUEST Gretchen Rubin is the author of several books, including bestsellers, Better Than Before, The Happiness Project and Happier at Home. Gretchen started her career in law and was clerking for Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor when she realized she wanted to be a writer. She is also an accomplished speaker and podcaster herself. Her show is called: Happier with Gretchen Rubin. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Cinnamon Links & References from the Show: Gretchen's Main Site Gretchen's Books on Amazon Why We Get Fat (book) Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Health I.Q. — Yoga Podcast is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. Go to healthiq.com/yogabody to support the show and see if you qualify. Learn More

I'm often praised for my productivity. I have two kids, three businesses, 28 staff, and a hectic travel schedule. So how do I manage to get it all done? To be honest, I'm not sure I do. Work-life balance is not something I pretend to know anything about because in order to keep the wheels on the bus, I have to selectively neglect major chunks of life. Everything comes at a cost, including a super-productive life. I share with you my experience because most-everyone I know wants to become more productive. We want to get more done in less time, reach our goals quickly, and become creative output machines. But why? And what are you really building? And do you understand yourself enough to make that happen? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we're going to explore productivity: how it works, how to cultivate it, and why it should (or should not) be a priority. There is no one-size fits all solution, but there are small, foundational actions you can take to get more done and hopefully not exploded your life in the process. ------------ Listen & Learn: How to increase energy by focusing on the fundamentals of health: sleep, nutrition and exercise How Chris' wacky lifestyle experiments gave him insight into human behavior and productivity Why time deadlines and external pressure can be great motivators for highly productive days How to ensure you're doing your work rather than doing unpaid work for social media websites like Facebook and Instagram The importance of having a reason "why" in order to be productive ABOUT OUR GUEST Chris Bailey turned down two job offers after graduating from university and spent a full year exploring the study of productivity. His research included living in total isolation for 10 days, only using his cell phone for an hour a day, waking up at 5:30am every morning, and working 90-hour weeks. His work has received national and international media attention from outlets like The New York Times, Lifehacker, Fast Company, Fortune, and New York Magazine among others. His book: The Productivity Project: Accomplishing More by Managing Your Time, Attention, and Energy is available on Amazon. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Conventional vs Organic Apples Links & References from the Show: Chris' Productivity Site Chris' Books on Amazon Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: The Yoga Teachers College offers master-level training for those looking to build a career as yoga professionals. Our trainees benefit from the best of modern learning technology combined with old school apprenticeship. Graduates walk away with the skills, confidence and experience needed to become not just teachers, but community and business leaders as well. Whether your goal is to teach part time locally, travel and lead workshops internationally, or to open your own studios, The Yoga Teachers College will support your career every step of the way. Learn More

"I can't meditate," is one of the most common phrases I hear in the yoga studio. Students somehow feel that since they cannot sit still or calm their mind, they are unable to practice meditation—but the opposite is true. The very fact that you cannot sit still or clear your mind, is exactly why you need to practice. But how do you learn? And where do you get started? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet a meditator and innovator who has created the world's first, drop-in yoga center in Los Angeles. Through her book, her studio and her mobile phone app, she is reaching hundreds of thousands with a very simple message: unplug your mind, recharge your soul. ------------ Listen & Learn: How meditation can be as simple as 3 minutes daily The 3 things that happen in just about any meditation How meditation slows mental and physical aging How to find the right practice for you ABOUT OUR GUEST Suze Yalof Schwartz is the CEO and Founder of Unplug Meditation (a bricks and mortar meditation center), the author of Unplug: A Simple Guide To Meditation for Busy Skeptics and Modern Soul Seekers, and the creator of the Unplug Meditation App. In 2012 Suze learned a three minute meditation that completely changed her life and career. Today, Suze's mission is to make meditation simple, powerful and interesting enough so that everyone will want to practice it and experience the benefits for themselves. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Green Papaya Links & References from the Show: Unplug Meditation Center Unplug App Unplug Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Trapeze Teacher Training -- For passionate yoga students who love inversion yoga, this is an exciting opportunity to train with YOGABODY, the leading educator and manufacturer of inversion slings worldwide. The Yoga Trapeze is the most-popular yoga inversion sling ever with over 100,000 students in 81 countries. Despite the ever-growing demand, there are hardly any professional instructors - until now. We're now accepting applications for The Yoga Trapeze Certification course where you'll learn how to teach both group and private lessons for beginning and intermediate students. Learn More

There are two types of people who say that flexibility doesn't matter. The first group is stiff as a board and want an excuse for their lack of mobility. The second group consists of people who have always been flexible, the dancers and gymnasts who flop into the splits like it's nothing. For the rest of us, flexibility absolutely matters. It impacts our posture, our walking and running gates, and even our potential for injury. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet a yoga teacher working with professional athletes to improve their mobility—and the stakes couldn't be higher. These are people whose body is their business. They need to train hard, recover fast, and injury prevention is a top priority. ------------ Listen & Learn: How mobility training gets integrated into professional sports training How yoga teachers can add value to athletes, adapting their teaching and language to meet students where they're at Why flexibility training should be done after (not before) strength or conditioning How flexibility training can temporarily reduce power and joint stability, but why that doesn't mean you should avoid it ABOUT OUR GUEST Dana Santas, also known as the "Mobility Maker," is a mind-body coach for professional sports teams. She is the yoga expert for CNN Health, and an international speaker helping people breathe, move and feel better. Dana is currently the yoga, mobility & breathing coach for the Orlando Magic, Tampa Bay Rays, Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, Toronto Blue Jays, Houston Texans, Tampa Bay Lightning & World Wrestling Entertainment. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Best Meat to Choose Links & References from the Show: Dana Santa's Mobility Maker Site Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: The Yoga Teachers College offers master-level training for those looking to build a career as yoga professionals. Our trainees benefit from the best of modern learning technology combined with old school apprenticeship. Graduates walk away with the skills, confidence and experience needed to become not just teachers, but community and business leaders as well. Whether your goal is to teach part time locally, travel and lead workshops internationally, or to open your own studios, The Yoga Teachers College will support your career every step of the way. Learn More

Nice Guy Syndrome is when men try so hard to be liked and helpful that they end up miserable and alone. The people-pleasing, caretaker role is something that initially sounds great but often leads to huge meltdowns in personal and professional relationships. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we depart from our usual discussions about nutrition, anatomy and alignment to explore interpersonal relationships, particularly men's complex and often confused role. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why avoiding conflict creates more problems than it solves Why dysfunctional relationships are the norm Why cooperative reciprocal relationships should be the goal Caring vs. caretaking – what's the difference? ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Glover is a marriage and family therapist and is an internationally-recognized authority on the Nice Guy Syndrome. Through his book, online classes, workshops, podcasts, blogs, consultation, and therapy groups, Dr. Glover has helped change the lives of countless men and women around the world. Nutritional Tip of the Week: White Sugar Links & References from the Show: Dr Glover's Site & Book Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Trapeze Teacher Training -- For passionate yoga students who love inversion yoga, this is an exciting opportunity to train with YOGABODY, the leading educator and manufacturer of inversion slings worldwide. The Yoga Trapeze is the most-popular yoga inversion sling ever with over 100,000 students in 81 countries. Despite the ever-growing demand, there are hardly any professional instructors - until now. We're now accepting applications for The Yoga Trapeze Certification course where you'll learn how to teach both group and private lessons for beginning and intermediate students. Learn More

Your habits around food, exercise and lifestyle largely dictate your health. What do you eat for breakfast? What is a "fun night out" for you and your friends? How often do you get outdoors, run, cycle or play? In our youth, our healthy habits tend to come naturally, but as we age, unhealthy habits creep in—and they are so hard to break. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we'll unpack habit change and how to cultivate it in your life. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why persistence is the key to change How to leverage crisis and pain for changes Why we should look for questions more than answers How modern agriculture and food processing makes it difficult to stay healthy How you can begin make changes that will compound over time ABOUT OUR GUEST Cyndi O'Meara is a nutritionist, best-selling author, health and wellness expert, and the founder of Changing Habits. She is the author of dozens of publications including her book: Changing Habits Changing Lives that became an instant best seller. You may have seen Cyndi the recent documentary, What's With Wheat or seen her interviewed or profiled in dozens of publications and websites. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Green Pasta Any Good? Links & References from the Show: Cyndi's Changing Habits Website Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: The Yoga Teachers College offers master-level training for those looking to build a career as yoga professionals. Our trainees benefit from the best of modern learning technology combined with old school apprenticeship. Graduates walk away with the skills, confidence and experience needed to become not just teachers, but community and business leaders as well. Whether your goal is to teach part time locally, travel and lead workshops internationally, or to open your own studios, The Yoga Teachers College will support your career every step of the way. Learn More

Did you know that newborn babies are born with 200+ chemical toxins in their bodies? Or that polar bears often have off-the-charts levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) despite living in remote areas? We live in a pollute word: our water, air, and food supplies filled with toxins and end in our body and can lead to scores of health problems. Cancer is obviously the biggest risk, but hormonal imbalances are the more immediate threat—and they contribute to everything from PMS and polycystic ovarian syndrome to infertility and erectile dysfunction. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why anything that stands in the way of optimal health should be considered a "toxin" Top 7 Toxins: food quality, emotional baggage, toxic thoughts, movement, dishonesty, poor sleep, loneliness How there are 80,000 chemicals on earth, 700 in most adult bodies, and 200+ in most infants Why POPs (persistent organic pollutants) are a lingering "forever" problem ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Minich has a Ph.D. in Medical Sciences (Human Nutrition and Metabolism) and a M.S. in Human Nutrition and Metabolism. She has also studied Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She is the author of 5 books. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Asia Food Choices? Links & References from the Show: Food And Spirit Website Stephen Genuis BUS Study (blood, urine, sweat) Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: Ask Lucas a Question Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to our sponsor: Trapeze Teacher Training -- For passionate yoga students who love inversion yoga, this is an exciting opportunity to train with YOGABODY, the leading educator and manufacturer of inversion slings worldwide. The Yoga Trapeze is the most-popular yoga inversion sling ever with over 100,000 students in 81 countries. Despite the ever-growing demand, there are hardly any professional instructors - until now. We're now accepting applications for The Yoga Trapeze Certification course where you'll learn how to teach both group and private lessons for beginning and intermediate students. Learn More