Age Less / Live More

Danish people regularly score as the happiest people in the world, but it's a small, flat, wet country; taxes are ridiculously high, and the weather is generally bad. So what's going on? What do the Danes know that we don't? Among their secrets is a concept called Hygge, the experience of pleasant togetherness that is an ever-present part of Danish culture from food and family, to home and meal times. It's that cozy, contented, supportive feeling you get at a holiday dinner—only the Danes do their best to create this feeling daily. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn how to add some Hygge to your life. ------------ Listen & Learn: Hygge: the experience of pleasant togetherness Why the Danes are the most content people in the world How to make your daily life special and significant Why we should optimize on quality of life not the bling of life Why the digital age creates this burning desire for human connection ABOUT OUR GUEST Louisa Thomsen Brits was born in Uganda to a Danish mother and English father. Louisa is a mother of four, an amateur naturalist and wild swimmer. She has been a radio restaurant and arts critic and a tribal belly dance teacher. She writes about the art of living, the nature of things, our common life and the rhythms and rituals that unite and define us all. Her recent book is called, The Book of Hygge, The Danish Art of Living well and is available on Amazon and major booksellers. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Mushrooms Links & References from the Show: The Book of Hygge Ted Talk on Danish Culture & Hygge 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 Teachers College -- 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 chili pepper and mustard can help with muscle cramps? Did you know that your acid blocking digestive aids could actually make your problem worse over time? We all have unprecedented access to information, supplements, and even prescription medications—but how do you know where to start? On this week's, Yoga Talk Show, we'll uncover home remedies, common misunderstandings, and plant seeds for a healthier you. ------------ Listen & Learn: How cannabis can be a helpful for nerve pain specifically Why proton-pump inhibitors might be one of the most-dangerous, widely used drugs Why rebound hyper-acidity can result after taking PPI's How NSAIDs are abused and can destroy gut health and heart health problems Why transient receptor potential channels (TRP channels) can be stimulated with mustard, hot pepper, or vinegar to reduce muscle cramping ABOUT OUR GUEST Joe and Terry Graedon of "The People's Pharmacy" have been teaching, writing, and broadcasting information to help people make informed decisions about their health for more than 40 years. Joe holds a Masters in Pharmacology and Terry earned a PhD in Anthropology. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Ketchup & Mustard Links & References from the Show: People's Pharmacy Info about NSAID dangers Info about TRP channels 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 Wonder Wheel -- Yoga mats and blocks have been around for decades, but the Yoga Wonder Wheel™ by YOGABODY is the latest addition to any at-home practice room or yoga studio that will help you take your postures to the next level. Deep, awe-inspiring backbends are what draw most people to the Wonder Wheel initially, but backbends are just the beginning. You'll also build balance, core strength, release tension, and find ways to practice challenging poses that are otherwise inaccessible. The Wonder Wheel was designed for use in YOGABODY's professional yoga studios and training centers in Barcelona, Spain, so it's bigger, stronger, lighter, and backed by an unmatched warranty compared with any other wheel on the market. On top of that, it's less expensive and comes with a complete at-home DVD so you can get rolling in minutes. Learn More

Do you know yourself? Really? Do you know what makes you tick and what drives you... what lights you up and what dims your fired? Self-awareness doesn't come naturally, like all forms of intelligence, it's cultivate and learned over time—but very few people take the time to invest in this skill. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn how both internal and external self-awareness can be meta-skills in modern life. ------------ Listen & Learn: Internal vs. external self awareness Why self-acceptance can be better than self-esteem Why the tendency is to avoid giving feedback when we really need it Why you must be picky about whom you receive feedback from The Dinner of Truth: find a "loving critic" and ask them what the most appreciate and what most drives you crazy Calm acceptance: how people ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Tasha Eurich is an organizational psychologist, researcher, and New York Times best-selling author. Tasha has contributed to The Guardian, TED.com, The Huffington Post, Entrepreneur, and CNBC.com. Her work has been featured in Business Insider, Fortune, Forbes, The New York Times, Fast Company, and New York Magazine, as well as several peer-reviewed journals. She was named a "Top 100 Thought Leader" by Trust Across America, a "Leader to Watch" by the American Management Association, and one of Denver Business Journal's "40 Under 40." Tasha is the author of two best-selling books, Bankable Leadership, and INSIGHT. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Creatine Links & References from the Show: Meyers Briggs Online Quiz (free one) Insight Quiz Tasha'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: Yoga Teachers College -- 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

It's easy to get excited about the newly-imported Brazilian berry with crazy-high antioxidant levels; but what about the weeds and wild foods growing your backyard? When it comes to micronutrients, the simple rule "fresh is best" usually wins, and no matter where you live, there is a ridiculous amount of wild food available that is so nutritionally-superior to anything in the grocery store, some of it is even considered medicine. On this week's show, we'll talk about how to get started with wild foods and weeds. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why you should start with dandelion leaves The difference between a decoction vs. infusion Why Japanese knotweed is better than red wine for resveratrol Purslane: much better source for Omega-3's than flax or chia Lambsquarter: super potent superfood Why Russian autumn olives are an amazing wild berry Why comfrey can be amazing for healing injuries (topically and even orally) Nettles: how to use for tea and nutrition ABOUT OUR GUEST Brett Mayette is a passionate cook, organic grower, forager, and herbalist for over 20 years. He is the founder of, Conscious Cuisine, designed to help you discover and incorporate the wonders of wild plants into your life – without being a professional chef or even a nutrition expert. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Collagen Links & References from the Show: Wild Wisdom of Weeds Book Brett's Site, Conscious Cuisine 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

Did you know that your muscles would be a bloody pile of melted, soft-serve ice cream if not for fascia? This web of connective tissues literally hold your body together—and most of us aren't really even sure how to pronounce the word! On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet the king of fascia research and teaching, Tom Meyers. ------------ Listen & Learn: How this plastic-wrap-like tissue holds your entire body together How low circulation tissues like fascia, cartilage, tendons and ligaments can heal through seepage and synovial fluids Why stressing tendons and ligaments can make them stronger Why a skilled body worker is more important than the type of bodywork you receive The 3 main types of bodywork: relaxation massage, therapeutic massage, and integrative massage Potential healing aims of bodywork: increase inflammation response, reduce electrical (nerve) activity to an area, or improve circulation ABOUT OUR GUEST Tom Myers is the author of Anatomy Trains, the co-author of Fascial Release for Structural Balance, and numerous articles for trade magazines and journals that have been collected in the books Body3, The Anatomist's Corner, and Structural Integration: Collected Articles. He has also produced over 15 DVDs and numerous webinars on visual assessment, Fascial Release Technique, and the applications of fascial research. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Decaf Coffee Links & References from the Show: Anatomy Trains BOOK: Anatomy Trains 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: Bamboo Handstand Blocks -- Want to Learn Handstand or Improve Your Hand Balancing Practice? Most people think that handstand involves putting your hand flat on the floor and simply pushing down—but that's not right! Check out photos of people doing handstands, and you'll see that the more advanced students "grip" the floor using their hand like a claw. Your fingers form arches and your palms forms a dome, and you create a dynamic, muscle and bone support structure for your entire body to balance on. The Bamboo Handstand Blocks by YOGABODY were designed for our professional yoga studios in Barcelona, so they are beautiful, durable, easy-to-clean, safe, and natural. Yoga students have used standard yoga blocks for years, but these blocks are completely different: they are smaller, stronger, non-slip, easy-to-clean, and designed specifically to build grip strength for inversions. Learn More

How did our planet form? How did life begin? Most of us have no idea how to explain this foundational, existential question. Evolutionists say that all life has stemmed from a series of random mutations that began with the big bang 13.8 billion years ago; creationists say that a higher power created the universe and all life as we know it. When examined with even the slightest bit of scrutiny, both arguments fall ridiculously short of plausibility. In a departure from our typical health and wellness topics, my guest and I attempt to shed new light on the age old question: "How did we get here?" I think you'll find this interesting, thought-provoking, and perhaps a little frustrating. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why science is often wrong Why the scientific process is actually a process of "getting it wrong" before anything is right How there are undeniable signs of evolution in both the plant and animal kingdoms How there are undeniable signs of intelligent design in our very DNA Why science cannot answer the big social questions of today including things like right and wrong, moral decisions, and hierarchy of life—so how do we answer them? ABOUT OUR GUEST Perry Marshall is a world-renowned business consultant probably best known for his pioneering work in pay per click marketing, the 80/20 principle in practice, and his approach to scientific advertising. His most recent work is an exhaustive study of evolution vs. intelligent design. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Turmeric vs. Curcumin Links & References from the Show: Perry's Book 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: Yoga Teachers College -- 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

What if what's keeping you from achieving your goals and building the life you truly desire came down to your constant, nagging habit of procrastination? What if you had a simple tool to reverse your impulse to stall with an impulse for action? What if you're over-thinking and under-doing just about everything? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn the "5 second rule," and it's so elegant, and so simple, it could truly transform your life in the coming months. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why 1/3 of us are totally unsatisfied Why we must experience constant and never-ending growth to be satisfied as human beings Why thinking is not the answer to progress (doing is) How counting down from 5 forces mindfulness and reverses procrastination ABOUT OUR GUEST Mel Robbins is a motivational speaker, author, and thought leader in personal growth and development. Her TEDx Talk on "How To Stop Screwing Yourself Over" has over 10 million views across 37 countries. She is the author of two best-selling books, The 5 Second Rule, and, "Stop Saying You're Fine". Her books have been translated into 4 languages. If you haven't seen her TED talk, you've probably seen her on Good Morning America, Dr. Phil, Dr. Oz, Oprah, The Today Show or Fox News. She was named America's Outstanding News Talk Show Host at the 2014 Gracie Awards. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Sleepy Teas Links & References from the Show: Mel's site Mel'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: 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

Did you know that your "vision" and your "eyesight" are not the same thing? Did you know that your eye health can impact your mental and emotional health as well? Most of us are familiar with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), but poor light or lack of full spectrum light affects just about everyone—even in the sunniest destinations in the world. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we'll explore the Body-Eye connection with Dr. Berne. ------------ Listen & Learn: How eyesight is static, but vision is dynamic and affected by dozens of factors How emotional trauma can be stored in the eyes The difference between sensation (visceral feelings) & emotion (the story associated with past) Why "light is food" and creates electrical impulses affecting your brain and body constantly Why it's essential to get at least 30 minutes of full spectrum light daily How to hack your home environment for better light therapy results ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Berne is a doctor of optometry and offers a unique form of physical therapy for the eyes. This holistic method helps children with a variety of developmental delays from autism to Attention Deficit Disorder. Dr. Berne uses primitive reflex therapy, movement therapy, vision therapy, light/color therapy, craniosacral therapy and nutritional counseling to aid patients with neurological problems. Dr. Berne teaches workshops and retreats around the world and is on the faculty at The Esalen Institute in Big Sur, CA, where he leads retreats on healing the eyes and vision. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Water During Food Links & References from the Show: Dr. Sam Berne'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: Hot Yoga Teacher Training Course -- If you're a passionate Hot Yoga student and fed up with the conventional 9-to-5 jobs; if your yoga practice is one of the most important things in your life; and if you're excited by the extraordinary growth of the yoga market then perhaps you're ready to take the next step and become a certified teacher. Absolute Yoga Academy is the leading educator of Hot Yoga professionals internationally. Since 2006, our training programs have transformed passionate yoga students into highly-qualified teachers, and the success of our graduates speaks for itself. Learn More

Your body responds to the stress of a busy morning with the same biochemical responses it would have if a tiger pounced on you in the jungle. Intellectually, these two events are completely different, but your body can't tell them apart. Genetically, we evolved to "survive," and our modern world feels very dangerous even though we actually live safe lives of luxury (relatively speaking). Mindfulness is the conscious practice of focusing your awareness on the here and now (in all its comfort, pain, and wonder), and while the term is thrown around flippantly, the research behind it is fascinating. Your body and mind are not just connected, they are actually one interwoven system; and by returning to the present moment, you mental and physical health will improve measurably. ------------ Listen & Learn: How the simple act of paying attention and staying present could turn back the clock and physiologically make you younger How the mind-body connection is a misnomer—they are intrinsically intertwined Why we want to be responsive not reactive Why stress is the worry that something is going to happen (which may or may not be true) and that the result will be negative (which may or may not be true) ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Ellen Langer, Ph.D., is known as the mother of mindfulness. She is a social psychologist and the first female professor to gain tenure in the Psychology Department at Harvard. She is the author of 11 books and more than 200 research articles written for general and academic readers on mindfulness. Her books include Mindfulness; The Power of Mindful Learning; On Becoming an Artist: Reinventing Yourself Through Mindful Creativity; Counterclockwise: Mindful Health and the Power of Possibility; and The Wiley Mindfulness Handbook. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Stinging Nettle Links & References from the Show: Langer Mindfulness Institute Chris' Website Ellen'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: Hurts So Good - Self-Massage Balls -- They allow you to release tension, break up sliding surface dysfunctions, and improve circulation in and around your muscles and tendons, ligaments, and fascia. In our modern lives, our movement patterns tend to be very habitual. We sit, stand, drive, and walk; but we often lack the dynamic range of motion that our bodies are designed for. Hurts So Good Massage Balls are designed to empower yoga students, office workers, and athletes at all levels to do profound deep tissue work on their own as needed, as often as every day. These balls are named, Hurts So Good for a reason. Most people immediately find them intense in a wonderful, tension-relieving way. Learn More

Poor sleep can cause hormonal imbalances, weight gain, impair your immune system, reduce your mental clarity, and contribute to dozens of other health problems. Sleep is a huge sticking point for your health, but most of us (including me) struggle with it—so what do we do to improve? Where do we even start? This week's guest shares his best research and tips for sleep hygiene, responsible use of sleep aids, common mistakes, and the best tech for a restful night sleep. ------------ Listen & Learn: How to use alcohol wisely for sleep quality The difference between sleep drive (adenosine pathway) and sleep rhythm (your circadian cycle) The importance of REM sleep for mental restoration and stage 3 & 4 sleep for physical restoration How you can dreams in any stage, but REM-phase is most-likely to produce dreams How REM is a very light state, indistinguishable for waking brain waves Why sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure that is non-responsive to medication Why melatonin is a hormone and should be used with care, dosages are often way too high Dr. Breus's 5-Steps Success with Sleep How to define Why nobody with insomnia should not nap ABOUT OUR GUEST Michael J. Breus, Ph.D., is a Clinical Psychologist and both a Diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine and a Fellow of The American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He was one of the youngest people to have passed the Board when he was just 31 years old. With a specialty in Sleep Disorders, he is one of only 163 psychologists in the world with his credentials and distinction. Dr. Breus is on the clinical advisory board of The Dr. Oz Show and is a recurring guest on the show. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Black Pepper Links & References from the Show: Dr. Breus' Website S+ Sleep Tracker Beddit Tracker 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 Business Mastery Podcast -- Yoga Business, Teaching & Entrepreneurship. Join yoga teacher, trainer and serial entrepreneur, Lucas Rockwood, as he delivers both tactical and strategic plans for building a teaching business, retaining clients, and earning a great living doing what you love. If you're a yoga teacher, trainer, or studio owner, this insider information straight from the horse's mouth is invaluable. Each show compresses months worth of real-world experience into a 15-minute, actionable episode. Learn More

Why do some people suffer from overwhelming food cravings, multiple times per week—and others never have cravings at all? Why do some of us feel addicted and out-of-control with food while others could take it or leave it? Food is information, and modern foods are often filled with addicting, pleasure-center stimulating information that we can easily get hooked on. So what do you do about it? How do you change this behavior and never binge again? Dr. Glenn Livingston will share his personal and professional expertise in this area. ------------ Listen & Learn: How Glenn ate as much as 7,000 calories per day, but learned to overcome it Why character trumps willpower—and how you can use that to your advantage Why it's less important to uncover the "why" behind cravings and instead uncover the "how" to fix it Why lizard brain says: "Do I eat it, mate with it or kill it," and how this can cause problems ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Glenn Livingston is a psychologist and former CEO of a large consulting firm that serviced Fortune 500 clients including many in the food industry. You may have seen his (or his company's) previous work, theories, and research in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Chicago Sun Times, The Indiana Star Ledger, The NY Daily News, American Demographics, or any of the other major media outlets you see on this page. You may also have heard him on ABC, WGN, CBS radio, or UPN TV. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Wine and Cortisol Links & References from the Show: Never Binge Again 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: 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

Did you know that your morning coffee blocks alpha brain waves states and that your evening glass of red wine encourages it? Did you know that the blue light from your cell phone affects both your hormones and your brainwave states? Our modern world tends toward imbalance, and the first step in the direction of health is understanding the how and why behind the imbalances so you can take action to create a better you. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we'll be discussing brain wave states, neuro-feedback, mind-body practices, and more. ------------ Listen & Learn: How neurofeedback allows you to "see" what's going on in your brain Why food, lifestyle and modern thought patterns often leave us imbalanced The importance of DHA/EPA for brain health Delta: deep meditation, sleep, stillness (collective unconscious / oneness) Theta: memory, revelry, daydreaming, REM sleep, meditation, childlike thoughts Alpha: flow state of creativity, pleasant focus, super-learning, peak performance, synchrony Beta: waking, problem-solving, busy work, active-focused work ABOUT OUR GUEST Chris is a Neuroplastician and NLP Master who was mentored by Dr. Richard Bandler himself. He's a student of Shaolin, Qigong, Tai Chi, and Kung Fu. Chris uses all these tools along with nutrition, psychology, health and fitness training to help people overcome mental blocks and live an inspired life. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Resveratrol Links & References from the Show: Chris' Website Book: The Brain that Changes Itself Bluelight Improves Cognitive Performance 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: Bamboo Handstand Blocks -- Block training leads to straighter, stronger handstands. When you "grip" the block, it trains your hands, forearms and shoulders to dynamically lift and balance your body in inversions. The Bamboo Handstand Blocks by YOGABODY were designed for our professional yoga studios in Barcelona, so they are beautiful, durable, easy-to-clean, safe, and natural. Yoga students have used standard yoga blocks for years, but these blocks are completely different: they are smaller, stronger, non-slip, easy-to-clean, and designed specifically to build grip strength for inversions. Learn More

Politically, the world is more polarized and terrorized than ever before. Even the wealthiest countries in the world are experiencing record levels of terror and violent attacks—so what do we do? Can yoga and meditation create a grassroots movement for change? Why must we focus inside before can change our communities? On this week's, Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet, Amandine Roche, an international peacekeeper using yoga a key part of her mission. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why world peace must start with inner peace What PTSD is and how to combat it with yoga and meditation How Amandine faced suicide bombers, kidnapping, and on-going violence on her peace-keeping missions Why we are all responsible for world peace ABOUT OUR GUEST Amandine Roche is a Human Rights lawyer, yoga and meditation teacher who has worked throughout the world including in Asia, S. America, many African countries, and in war-torn Afghanistan. She teaches yoga and meditation in Afghanistan, including to members of the Taliban on her mission for world peace. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Spirulina Chlorella Links & References from the Show: Amandine's Website Vipassana Meditation 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 Wonder Wheel -- Experience Deeper Yoga Backbends, Better Balance & Build Core Strength with the Yoga Wonder Wheel! Yoga mats and blocks have been around for decades, but the Yoga Wonder Wheel™ by YOGABODY is the latest addition to any at-home practice room or yoga studio that will help you take your postures to the next level. Deep, awe-inspiring backbends are what draw most people to the Wonder Wheel initially, but backbends are just the beginning. You'll also build balance, core strength, release tension, and find ways to practice challenging poses that are otherwise inaccessible. Learn More

When I turned 24, I started this weird experiment eating just plant foods. I'm a chronic over-committer, and here I am 15 years later, still eating 100% plant-based. This is a complicated path that's not right for most, but it's worked for me—and I've just gotten some blood tests to see how I'm doing. Overall, I'm in some of the best shape of my life, but there are a few things I certainly need to address. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why my homocystine levels are a little high How my liver function is on the low side of normal—and what I can do about it Why I might think about eating more iron-rich foods or supplementing iron Why all these issues could be related to impaired digestion and/or impaired liver function ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Stephen Lewis and Janet Lewis are the founders of Doctor's Nutrition. Doctor's Nutrition provides Evidence-Based Nutrition™ information, where you get information based on years of experience treating patients with natural compounds and verifying the results with pre and post lab tests. Located in Longview, Texas, Doctor's Nutrition offers medical lab services in or near your hometown without the need for expensive office visits and long waits. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Flax and Chia Gas Links & References from the Show: Doctor's Nutrition 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 Teacher College -- The Definitive Mind-Body Fitness Training for Career-Minded Professionals. 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. Learn More

As health seekers, we obsess over the micro-changes in our food and fitness routines. Micro changes are fun and interesting, but it's much wiser to first address the big elephants in the room. One of those big beasts is sugar in all its various forms. It causes weight gain, metabolic imbalance, premature aging, and contributes to just about every illness imaginable. The good news is you can monitor, reduce, and manage your blood sugar very effectively at home once you know how. On this week's show with Dr. Ritamarie, you'll learn the in's and out's of how to balance your blood sugar. ------------ Listen & Learn: How sugar impacts your hormonal balance and lead to weight gain Why sugar in small quantities is essential but in high doses is toxic Why sugar is everywhere and unless you've avoiding it, you're probably over-eating it Why belly fat is the worst type of fat Why dietary fat and body fat are not the same thing How chromium, magnesium and DHA can help with sugar metabolism ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo is a bestselling author, speaker, and internationally-recognized nutrition and women's health authority. She combines the ancient healing wisdom of whole fresh foods and herbs with modern scientific research to help people reclaim their health. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Fasting With Coffee Links & References from the Show: Dr. Ritamarie's Site Blood Glucose Monitor (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: Hurts So Good! Yoga Massage Balls -- Hurts So Good Massage Balls allow you to release tension, break up sliding surface dysfunctions, and improve circulation in and around your muscles and tendons, ligaments, and fascia. Hurts So Good Massage Balls are designed to empower yoga students, office workers, and athletes at all levels to do profound deep tissue work on their own as needed, as often as every day. These balls are named, Hurts So Good for a reason. Most people immediately find them intense in a wonderful, tension-relieving way. Learn More

Breathing for health can be learned in quickly and its benefits experienced in as little as 10 minutes, and yet this practice is all but lost from most modern yoga classes. Yoga that should revolve around breath as the central, unifying theme are suddenly missing this most-important mind-body integrating practice altogether. How did yoga lose its way? On this week's show, you'll meet breathing teacher, Max Strom, who is helping to revitalize the age-old tradition of yoga breathing—and doing it in an accessible and extremely practical way. ------------ Listen & Learn: How 90% of communication in relationships is non-verbal, so digital relationships are extremely limited Why the Seattle Seahawks, the U.S. Military, and top athletes everywhere are using breath work for optimal performance Why 30% of the population uses sleeping medications when breathing could really help Why the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that by 2020, depression would be the leading disability worldwide ABOUT OUR GUEST Max Strom is a teacher, speaker, and author of the books: A Life Worth Breathing and There is No APP for Happiness. His innovative method incorporates exercises, breath-work, and breath-based yoga movement to generate personal health and growth. As a speaker, Max has presented his method at the first Wellness Symposium in Saudi Arabia, The Inner Idea Conference, the Happinez Festival in the Netherlands, The Singularity University in the Silicon Valley, The Sea Island resort, on TEDx, as well as many yoga conferences. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Carbonated Water Links & References from the Show: Max's TEDx Talks Max's 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: Wonder Wheel -- Yoga mats and blocks have been around for decades, but the Yoga Wonder Wheel™ by YOGABODY is the latest addition to any at-home practice room or yoga studio that will help you take your postures to the next level. Deep, awe-inspiring backbends are what draw most people to the Wonder Wheel initially, but backbends are just the beginning. You'll also build balance, core strength, release tension, and find ways to practice challenging poses that are otherwise inaccessible. Learn More

80% of people will suffer from back pain at some point in their life, often debilitating pain, but most problems are undiagnosed, self-diagnosed, and it can be chronic. So what do you do? For better or worse, it seems that your spinal health must be taken into your own hands. If you're going to have a healthy back, you'll need to educate yourself and take action. This week's guest, Dr. Stuart McGill, will help you do just that. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why proximal stability is essential for functional human movement Why tight hamstrings might not be the cause of back pain and how back pain might actually cause tight hamstrings (chicken vs. egg) Why nerve tightness might be the real issue Why disks are hydrophilic and require movement to hydrate How lying down on your belly for 3 minutes, and then walking around can help Why spine hygiene is essential to remove pain ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Stuart M. McGill is a professor of spine biomechanics at the University of Waterloo (Waterloo, ON, Canada). His advice is often sought by governments, corporations, legal experts and elite athletes and teams from around the world. Difficult back cases are regularly referred to him for consultation. Any product associated with this website has been tested in Dr. McGill's laboratory at the University of Waterloo, ON, Canada. Learn more at: www.BackFitPro.com Nutritional Tip of the Week: Worst Food In The Grocery Store Links & References from the Show: Femoroacetabular Impingement Back Fit Pro 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: Yoga Teacher College -- The Definitive Mind-Body Fitness Training for Career-Minded Professionals. 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. Learn More

Everyone is familiar with vegetarians, vegans, and macrobiotics... but what about reducetarians? This new movement focuses less on hard-line extremes, and instead, encourages any and all steps toward a healthier, happier, and more compassionate diet. As we always emphasize at YOGABODY, balance is always the goal, and it's also the most elusive. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet the founder of this reductionist approach to eating, Brian Kateman. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why hard-line diets are not necessarily the right choice for everyone How to think about food systems holistically in terms of personal health and environmental health Why factory farms are responsible for 15% of greenhouse gases, 10x the amount of water as plant-based alternatives How Average Americans eat 270 lbs of meat per year Why "clean meat" or lab-grown meats could be the future of foods ABOUT OUR GUEST Brian Kateman is cofounder and president of the Reducetarian Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing meat consumption in order to create a healthy, sustainable, and compassionate world. Brian is the editor of The Reducetarian Solution: How the Surprisingly Simple Act of Reducing the Amount of Meat in Your Diet Can Transform Your Health and the Planet. He has appeared in dozens of media outlets including The Washington Post, Vox, The Huffington Post, National Geographic, The Atlantic, Forbes, Fast Company, Salon, The Los Angeles Times, Fox News, NPR and The Daily Mail. He is an instructor in the Executive Education Program at the Earth Institute Center for Environmental Sustainability at Columbia University. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Ghee Links & References from the Show: Reducetarian Solution Book Reducetarian 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: Yoga Teacher College -- The Definitive Mind-Body Fitness Training for Career-Minded Professionals. 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. Learn More

When you're a teenager, you get acne. As you age, you get wrinkles, sun spots, and sagging skin. No matter what age you are, your skin is probably something you think about each morning when you wake up and look in the mirror. Whether is redness, dryness, bags under the eyes, or just general age, we all want to look and feel our best. Skincare can be superficial, but its impact on our lives is undeniable. So how to do approach is with a yoga mindset? How do we do it naturally? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet, Rachael Pontillo, who will share her research and personal experience transforming faces around the world. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why vitamin A deficiency can cause or contribute to acne How acne medications can be toxic and even cause birth defects Why rancid fats, inflammatory foods, grains, and dairy can cause skin problems Why skin care is often an "inside job" How to think holistically and not get overwhelmed by all the skin problem triggers in our modern world ABOUT OUR GUEST Rachael Pontillo is the bestselling author of the book Love Your Skin, Love Yourself, and co-author of The Sauce Code. She's a Certified Health Coach, licensed aesthetician; and natural skincare formulator and educator. She's the president and co-founder of the Nutritional Aesthetics™ Alliance, the creator of the the blog, Holistically Haute™, as well as the 6-week online course, Create Your Skincare. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Canola Oil Links & References from the Show: Rachael's Site & Blog Accutane Retin-A 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: Wonder Wheel -- Yoga mats and blocks have been around for decades, but the Yoga Wonder Wheel™ by YOGABODY is the latest addition to any at-home practice room or yoga studio that will help you take your postures to the next level. Deep, awe-inspiring backbends are what draw most people to the Wonder Wheel initially, but backbends are just the beginning. You'll also build balance, core strength, release tension, and find ways to practice challenging poses that are otherwise inaccessible. Learn More

80% of the opioid drugs in the world are consumed in the United States, and addiction, abuse, and even death are commonplace across all demographics in society. Why such growth in abuse? One word: pain. Back pain, knee pain, mental and emotional suffering—all of these conditions are driving consumers to their doctors (or the streets) in search of relief. Living with chronic pain can be debilitating, but we want to use drugs and surgery as a last resort. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll beet Dr. Joe Tatta, pain expert and best-selling author on pain management. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why "pills for pain" has been the norm for the past 50-years USA consumes about 80% of the world's opioids 20K/year deaths correlated or caused by opioid medications Why the mind-body connection to pain cannot be ignored Pain catastrophizing: negative rumination about pain issue Food is your pharmacy, movement in medicine ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Joe Tatta is a doctor of physical therapy, board certified nutrition specialist and functional medicine practitioner who specializes in treating persistent pain and lifestyle-related musculoskeletal, metabolic and autoimmune health issues. His mission is to create a new paradigm around treating persistent pain and reverse our global pain epidemic. He is the creator of the Healing Pain Online Summit and The Healing Pain Podcast designed to broaden the conversation around natural strategies toward solving persistent pain. Dr. Tatta is the author of Heal Your Pain Now; A Revolutionary Program to Reset Your Brain and Body for a Pain-Free Life. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Lucuma Links & References from the Show: Dr. Joe Tatta's Website Acute Childhood Experiences (ACE) Research Healing Back Pain 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 Teacher College -- The Definitive Mind-Body Fitness Training for Career-Minded Professionals. 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. Learn More

What does "organic" labeling really mean? If I ask five Yoga Talk Show listeners, I'll get five different answers. And new growing methods stack complexity on complexity with hydroponics and aquaponics now falling under "organic" certification as well. On this week's show, we'll unpack certification, and more interesting still, we'll look at various growing techniques in detail and speculate on the future of food. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why the term "organic" is owned and controlled by USDA Why organic food can have non-organic certified fertilizer How universal organic regulations really only began in 2002 Why chemical farming kills of the bacteria in the soil (hence 3 year waiting period for conversion to organic) Why aquaponics is not new and has been around forever in various forms How aquapoanics uses 80% less water than conventional farming How aquaponics produces both fish and short grow cycle edible vegetables ABOUT OUR GUEST Ro is the cofounder and co-owner of A Bee, a certification agency responsible for ensuring that USDA organic products meet the NOP organic standard. Ro has an interest in all things sustainable and serves as the director of the open-use nonprofit "I'm In Community". Nutritional Tip of the Week: Salt Links & References from the Show: A Bee Agency 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: Liquid Energy-B -- If you're a vegetarian, live a high-stress lifestyle or are over 50 years of age, there's a very good chance you need to supplement with vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is one of the few vitamins that our body doesn't produce on its own. If you don't eat or supplement with B12, you will develop a deficiency that could lead to anemia, nerve damage, mood and mental health problems. The good news is that B12 supplementation is extremely safe, inexpensive, and is now available in the most bio-available and absorbable form, methylcobalamin. Learn More

In 1990, the Human Genome Project began, and by 2003, roughly 20,000 human genes had been sequenced. This is exciting, but it's also just the first step. How can we use this data to understand human health, longevity and wellness? What can our genetics tell us about our proclivity for certain activities and our susceptibility for certain illnesses? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet Naturopath, Bob Miller, who will help you decode the code that is your genetic heritage. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why genetic testing is the future of medicine How you're making and using antioxidants Genetics: code for enzymes which are the worker bees of the body How to get started with testing your DNA ABOUT OUR GUEST Robert Miller earned his naturopathic degree from Trinity School of Natural Health and is board certified. Bob has served as a traditional naturopath for 20 years, and has spent the last several years engaged almost exclusively with genetic variants and related research. He works with a company called, Professional Health Products, to formulate an Epigenetics line of products for use by health care providers. Bob lectures at nationwide seminars to educate physicians and health care practitioners about genetic variants and nutritional supplementation for achieving optimal health. He also was recently named to the Functional Medicine University's advisory board. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Acai Berry Links & References from the Show: Bob's website 23andMe Genetic 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: Limited Edition Aqua Yoga Trapeze -- People loved our limited edition, AQUA-colored Yoga Trapeze so much, it sold out a week after we received them in stock! Good news: we have them back in stock. Bad news: they are flying off the shelves already, so if you are interested click on the link below. Learn More

Hypnotherapy has been around since the 1950's, yet most people still think of it as a party trick. In reality, there is mounds of data to support the power of mind over body when in a suggestible, alpha state that is easily induced through hypnosis. Rather than losing touch with reality or leaving your body, hypnosis is actually a state of hyperawareness where you become more open to change. Often used for weight loss, quitting smoking, and overcoming negative thought patterns, hypnosis can be a powerful tool in your mind-body wellness toolbox. Hypnosis itself doesn't cure addiction or force you to lose weight; instead, it helps you deal with your underlying issues, the root causes of destructive behaviors so change can occur naturally. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why hypnosis puts you into an alpha brain wave state How to use positive affirmations to plant seeds for change How meditation music, guided hypnosis, and at-home self-hypnosis can be very effective Why your body has a negative memory bias and how to create positive anchors instead ABOUT OUR GUEST Rene is a registered nurse, a success coach and Certified Clinical and Transpersonal Hypnotherapist. She helps people overcome fear, anxiety, and procrastination. Rene serves as the Director and Instructor for the Orlando Florida Externship Program for the Institute of Interpersonal Hypnotherapy and is the author of a new book called, How Big is Your But? available on Amazon. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Edible Essential Oils Links & References from the Show: How Big is Your But (book) Rene Brent's Site Tony Robbins – Unlimited Power Creative Visualization 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: Hot Yoga Teacher Training -- Absolute Yoga Academy is the leading educator of Hot Yoga professionals internationally. Since 2006, our training programs have transformed passionate yoga students into highly-qualified teachers, and the success of our graduates speaks for itself. This course consists of a strategically-planned curriculum that turns yoga students into yoga teachers in just four weeks' time—every time—and our successful graduates and our successful studios are proof of the program's efficacy. Learn More

What if your immune system went haywire and starting attacking your body's nervous system affecting your vision, your sensations, your mobility, or other bodily functions? Auto-immune conditions are extremely common, and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of the more devastating diseases in this category. Whether you or someone you know has MS or not, you can learn a great deal about myelin health, proper nutrition, and balanced living from people who do—because for them, it can be a question of life or death. On this week's show, you'll meet an author, coach and expert, Andrea Hanson who is thriving despite her MS diagnosis in 2000. ------------ Listen & Learn: How MS attacks your nervous system Why diagnosis is getting earlier and better How MS can be progressive or relapsing / remitting Diagnosis: MRI shows wearing down of myelin on nerves (like holes) ABOUT OUR GUEST Andrea Wildenthal Hanson is a speaker, bestselling author, and master certified life coach. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2000, Andrea empowers people to become their own wellness hero, instead of the victim of a disease. She is the author of two books: Stop Carry the Weight of Your MS and Live Your Life Not Your Diagnosis. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Garlic Onions Links & References from the Show: Andrea's website Terry Wahls, MD 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 Teachers College -- 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

If given the opportunity, would you climb Mt. Kilamanjaro in nothing but your shorts and sneakers? Would you trust a stuntman-turned-breathing guru with you life? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet a guy who did just that—and survived to write a book about it. The guy is Scott Carney, and his teacher is former YTS guest, Wim Hof. This is a wild and somewhat reckless tale, but it'll inspire you to push the limits of your own comfort zone, your imagined physical limitations, and perhaps live a more inspired life. ------------ Listen & Learn: How Wim Hof breathing is very similar to the drug, Diamox, used by high altitude climbers to speed up respiration Why we've become too comfortable, too spoiled, and too numb to the world around us How cold exposure and controlled hyperventilation (used intelligently) can be a powerful part of a healing regime How our guest managed to summit Kilamanjaro in nothing but sneakers and a pair of shorts ABOUT OUR GUEST Scott Carney is an investigative journalist and anthropologist. He is a senior fellow at the Schuster Institute for Investigative Journalism and a Scripps Fellow at the Center for Environmental Journalism in Boulder, Colorado. What Doesn't Kill Us is his most recent book; other works include The Red Market and A Death on Diamond Mountain. Scott was a contributing editor at Wired for five years and his writing also appears in Mother Jones, Men's Journal, Playboy, Foreign Policy, Discover, Outside and Fast Company. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Cook vs Raw Links & References from the Show: Rhonda Patrick on cold therapy Bohr Effect (acid/alkaline of the blood) Scott's Site What Doesn't Kill Us (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: Teacher Trapeze Training -- 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. 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. Learn More

Science has linked meditation with longevity through the study of telomeres, the chromosomal caps that are an indication of cell health. By mitigating our stress response specifically, research indicates that mindful practices down-regulate our stress response and up-regulate telomerase production, an important protein for the health of these chromosomal caps. What does all that mean? Basically, it means meditation can make you live longer in the future and live healthier right now. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet Dr. Elissa Epel, one of the leading researchers on stress, cell aging, and telomeres. ------------ Listen & Learn: How telomeres are the protective caps on the ends of our chromosomes, just like the plastic tip on a shoelace How short telomeres release cytokines or die—both of which are very negative How chronic inflammation (from cytokines) can contribute or even cause diseases and illnesses Why meditation can mitigate stress response and be protective of telomeres Why abuse, violence and trauma can literally shorten your life Why vagal nerve tone can reduce the stress response ABOUT OUR GUEST Elissa Epel is psychologist who studies stress, aging, and obesity. She is the director of UCSF's Aging, Metabolism, and Emotion Center (AME) She consults to the National Institutes of Health on various initiatives related to human behavior and how to change it, and is on the Steering Council of the Mind and Life Institute that supports research on contemplative practices. She has been studying stress and biology for almost 20 years now. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Protein Links & References from the Show: The Telomere Effect Book Acute Childhood Experiences Studies (ACE) Telomeres Defined Telomeres, Lifestyle, Cancer, and Aging Shamatha Project 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: Hurt So Good Massage Balls -- Natural Rubber Creates Human-Like Deep Tissue Massage Experience on Soft Tissues Hurts So Good Massage Balls allow you to release tension, break up sliding surface dysfunctions, and improve circulation in and around your muscles and tendons, ligaments, and fascia. In our modern lives, our movement patterns tend to be very habitual. We sit, stand, drive, and walk; but we often lack the dynamic range of motion that our bodies are designed for. Learn More

In almost every yoga class, the teacher will emphasize the importance of breath—but what does that really mean and why does it matter? If you ask, you'll likely hear that you're adding oxygen to your blood or improving your circulation. But is that true? It turns out that most yoga breathing actually reduces oxygen in the blood and increases CO2. To add to this paradox, more CO2 is actually a good thing and results in more oxygen to the cells. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn how and why. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why C02 is actually your friend How C02 relaxes muscle tissue (great for stretching) Why nose breathing encourages diaphragmatic breathing, increases NO2, and arterial oxygen uptake How reduced breathing increased saliva in the mouth, a sign of parasympathetic nervous system dominance and higher CO2 Why 30% of population has Rhinitis and how reduced breathing can help How reduced breathing impacts your spleen (yes, your spleen!) ABOUT OUR GUEST Patrick completed his clinical training in the Buteyko Breathing Method at the Buteyko Clinic, Moscow, Russia, a training accredited by Professor Konstantin Buteyko himself. Patrick suffered from asthma as a kid and discovered the Buteyko Method at the age of 26 and has been asthma-free since then, a feat that over 20 years of medication had failed to accomplish. In a career spanning 15 years, Patrick has since also become a bestselling author and expert on the topic of optimal breathing for improved health, well-being and fitness. Among the eight books Patrick has written, two have consistently remained in the top ten best sellers on Amazon.com: He is the author of 3 books: Close Your Mouth, Asthma Free Naturally, and The Oxygen Advantage®. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Water filters Links & References from the Show: The Oxygen Advantage Website The Psychology and Physiology of Breathing (book) The Bohr Effect Who is Konstantin Buteyko? 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 Trapeze Teacher Training course in San Diego -- The Yoga Trapeze Teacher Training course is conducted in beautiful Fallbrook, California. This quiet city is easily accessible from either Los Angeles or San Diego airports making it a convenient and affordable travel destination. Fallbrook is home base for Sage Yoga Studios, run by Yoga Trapeze certified teachers, Reyna and Lee Beckler. The weather is great, the cost travel is very reasonable, and the yoga studio is ideal for a training of this type. 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. Learn More

You wake up in the morning with the best of intentions, but soon, you're lost in Facebook and email. You wanted to do 30-minutes of exercise before work, but you end up a reading CNN.com instead. At work, your task list seems endless; and at home, it's even worse. Time management is something we all have to struggle with, and on this week's Yoga Talk Show, my guest, Kevin Kruse, and I uncover some simple strategies and tactics to help you get more done with less. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why the current trend to "hustle" is short-sighted and often backfires Why you only have about 2-4 good, productive hours of work per day Why 1-2 hours after waking is your "prime time" for productive work How to block your social media newsfeed and hide your social media apps from yourself on your phone How to do more with less ABOUT OUR GUEST Kevin Kruse is a NY Times BESTSELLING AUTHOR and entrepreneur who built and sold several, multimillion dollar technology companies, winning both Inc 500 and Best Place to Work awards along the way. Kevin is the author of several books including Employee Engagement 2.0, 15 Secrets Successful People Know About Time Management, Employee Engagement for Everyone, and We: How to Increase Performance and Profits Through Full Engagement, which was named one of the top leadership books in 2011. Kevin writes regularly as a contributor for Forbes.com and Huffington Post, and has published over 100 articles for various publications on topics related to leadership, engagement and entrepreneurship. He delivers keynotes to audiences around the world. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Diet Religions Links & References from the Show: Kevin's Site Newsfeed Blocker 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: Primavera Sound -- Primavera Sound is a music festival that happens every summer in Barcelona between the end of May and beginning of June (this year the dates are 31.05.2017 - 06.04.2017) and it has a wide range of bands of all generations. Learn More

If you go to your doctor for a routine checkup, he or she will usually run very limited blood tests because of cost considerations and limited health insurance coverage. For anyone interested in optimal health, this is not much of a "checkup" at all since you're not checking much of anything. You could have low Vitamin D (almost certainly), elevated C-Reactive Protein (very likely) and a high A1C (very common) without knowing it. Today, we have the ability to go "rogue" and take our health into our own hands. Just like you can order a designer cocktail at your local bar, you can also order up your own blood tests and hire someone to help you review them. Rather than comparing your results to the national averages (which means a bunch of sick people), a qualified professional can help you analyze your results and help you work toward optimal health, not average health. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet Dr. Stephen Lewis and Janet Lewis, founders of Doctor's Nutrition, an innovative company that advises you on blood work and helps you interpret the data. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why most doctors do extremely limited blood tests Why your results are usually green light or red light only, and the yellow range (warning!) is almost completely ignored How to go "rogue" and take your health into your own hands Why you should get an A1C test for a 3-month snapshot of your blood glucose management Why you should get your T3 (not just TSH) tested for thyroid health ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Stephen Lewis and Janet Lewis are the founders of Doctor's Nutrition. Doctor's Nutrition provides Evidence-Based Nutrition™ information, where you get information based on years of experience treating patients with natural compounds and verifying the results with pre and post lab tests. Located in Longview, Texas, Doctor's Nutrition offers medical lab services in or near your hometown without the need for expensive office visits and long waits. Nutritional Tip of the Week: Alkalized Water Links & References from the Show: Doctor's Nutrition 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: Cork Yoga Block This block was originally developed for the YOGABODY Fitness Studio Group because we needed an all-natural, eco-friendly, and non-slip prop to use in our public classes. Traditional, synthetic blocks are ugly, slip with sweat, and have an unpleasant hand-feel. Hence, Corky the Block was born! Yoga students use Corky the Block in dynamic Vinyasa Yoga practices, deep stretching Gravity Yoga sessions, and in advanced arm balancing and back-bending. A block is an essential yoga prop, and Corky the Block is a beautiful addition to your practice room. Learn More

Is it possible to live a life without trash? Could you reduce your waste by 50%? 75% or More? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet the founder of the "Zero Waste" movement, Bea Johnson who claims she and her family lived for an entire year producing just 1 liter of waste. Nothing about modern life is sustainable, and while Bea's solution might be out-of-reach for most, it's something we can all learn and take inspiration from. ------------ Listen & Learn: Learn the 5R's: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rot How to do more with less Why buying better quality items that last longer is an environmentally responsible choice Why just because something says it's recyclable (in theory) doesn't mean it can actually be recycled in reality Getting started tips for "zero waste" beginners ABOUT OUR GUEST In 2008, Bea Johnson and her family adopted a zero waste lifestyle; they since produce a mere liter of waste per year. With her blog and bestseller Zero Waste Home (translated in 13 languages), Bea launched a global movement and continues to inspire a growing community to live simply and take a stance against needless waste. Her methodology is based on 5R's: "Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rot, and only in that order". She shatters misconceptions, proving that zero waste can not only be stylish, but also lead to significant health benefits, and time and money savings. She speaks at universities, corporate events and conferences all over the globe, including Google, Adobe, the European Parliament and the United Nations. She has completed five international tours for a total of 150+ speeches in 20+ countries on 5 continents. She has appeared on TV shows and in publications everywhere, from The Today Show to BBC Breakfast. Passionate and optimistic, she has become a guru for many and is a spokesperson for the zero waste lifestyle or, as the New York Times stated, "The Priestess of Waste-Free Living". She is a Grand Prize winner of The Green Awards, and a French native who currently lives in Mill Valley, California. Nutritional Tip of the Week: 8 plus 16 Meal Timing Links & References from the Show: Zero Waste Blog Zero Waste Home 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: Awesome Toes -- Yoga Toe Spreaders & Separators for Nighttime, Yoga Practice & Running Awesome Toes! naturally stretch your feet after a long day of work. Loved by anyone who wears high-heeled shoes, work boots, or spends all day on their feet. They also help stretch the shortened connective tissues of your feet so they regain their natural shape and range of motion. Awesome Toes! can be used at night, while watching TV, while practicing yoga, and even in wide-toed athletic shoes for running. Most toe separators on the market fall off or break during activities, but Awesome Toes! are designed for durability and comfort during yoga practice, dance rehearsals and while engaging in sports. Learn More

Children around the world are suffering from learning, development, and behavioral problems at record rates. Mindfulness can be taught as a secular way to train the mind and body to assist our youth. Mind-body wellness is typically something we explore as adults, but it's never too early to start, and the sooner and the better. Our guest this week is an expert on teaching mindfulness to young people, and for any parent, educator, or soon-to-be caregiver, this is a must-listen. Listen & Learn: How mindfulness can be described as a quality of intention, balance and compassion as we navigate through life Or as a stance of attention where we not where our intention and state-of-mind is in real time Why social and emotional learning in schools can be a great help in working through some of the bigger problems with developing children How secular mindful practices can be quickly and openly adopted in school systems Why it's important to take a few deliberate breaths before you leave the house, say goodbye, start or end your day How to have kids identify the eye color of friends, teachers, and you so that it acts as a forcing function for concentration ABOUT OUR GUEST She was a co-investigator in a multi-year, multi-site research study at UCLA's Mindful Awareness Research Center/Semel Institute on the impact of mindfulness in education. She has spoken at the Mind & Life Institute; the University of California at Los Angeles; the University of Massachusetts; the University of Kansas; Columbia University; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center; San Diego Children's Hospital; the Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Woodacre, California; the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies in Barre, Massachusetts; the National University of Singapore; Mahidol University, in Bangkok; Casa Tibet, in Mexico, and many other prestigious institutes in the United States and abroad. Her work has been covered by The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, USA Today, National Public Radio, various yoga journals, and CBS Morning News. Links & Resources Susan's Main Site Mindful Games Book Nutritional Tip: Caffeinated Tea 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: Hot Yoga Teacher Training TAKE THE NEXT STEP! Join Absolute Yoga's 200-Hour Hot Yoga Alliance accredited course in beautiful Koh Samui, Thailand. Sign up now and get an early discount! This training is for: Serious students who want to teach Passionate yoga practitioners Students who want to share hot yoga with the world Extremely small class sizes, great training facility and a dedicated team! Next course starts in October! Learn More

When most people think of health and wellness, sex is not usually top-of-mind, but it should be. Most couples have bad sex rarely, and most want to have great sex all the time. What's gone wrong? We are sexual beings, and we relate to the world sexually. On this week's show, you'll meet sexologist, Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, who shares her experience and research navigating this often-taboo topic that affects all our lives. Listen & Learn: How happy-naked-love-time can be a great alternative play technique that can replace or enhance love-making Why communication is usually the key ingredient to make any sexual relationship work How to explore fantasy, role play, power dynamics, and kink without shame or guilt How passion and sexuality change as we age and what to do about it ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Jenn Gunsaullus, sociologist and sexologist, is a frequent speaker about sexual empowerment, healthy relationships, body image, erotic play, sexual health, women's empowerment & nurturing, and mindfulness. She has presented two TEDx Talks, is a writer on sex and relationships, and a recurring intimacy expert on the San Diego morning news. Her educational video series has over a million hits on YouTube. Links & Resources: Dr. Jenn's Den Nutritional Tip: Spice Rack Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to Our Sponsor: Yoga Trapeze Teacher Training The Yoga Trapeze is the #1 most popular yoga inversion sling in the world, and both our January and April teacher training courses are completely sold out. Good news! We've just opened up September 2017 for applications, and so this is an opportunity for you to gain the professional skills and confidence needed to teach professionally this exciting new style of yoga. Learn More

About once or twice a week, I'm completely exhausted and yet I can't fall asleep until one or two in the morning. This "wired and tired" feeling is common among most busy people, and while we often blame it on our busy careers, our life as parents, or just the ups and downs of daily life, the reality is that these chemical imbalances compound over time and can lead to pretty serious health problems. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet a medical doctor pioneer whose work spans from natural childbirth and plant medicine to women's health and endocrine balance. Please meet Dr. Aviva Room. ------------ What You'll Learn: Overworked adrenals vs. true adrenal fatigue—what's the difference? How "tired and wired" is a vicious circle Cortisol can be the "wear and tear" hormone Why adrenal fatigue = adrenal depletion How your chemical body (hormones), electrical system (nerves) and bacterial body (microbiome) are all interconnected Tips for sleep, food, and lifestyle balance Why ultradian rhythms (every 90-120 minutes) are crucial to understanding your own body Chronobiology: the effects of solar- and lunar-related rhythms Links & Resources: Aviva Romm, MD's website Book: The Adrenal-Thyroid Revolution Ultradian Rhythms ABOUT OUR GUEST Medical Doctor, Aviva Romm is a midwife, herbalist, and Yale-trained MD, Board Certified in Family Medicine with Obstetrics, as well as a graduate of Dr. Weil's Integrative Medicine Residency. Aviva is a leader in botanical medicine and is the author of 7 books on natural medicine, including the textbook Botanical Medicine for Women's Health (Elsevier) and her latest book, The Adrenal Thyroid Revolution (Harper One, January 2017). Nutritional Tip: Fructose intake 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: Burlington Yoga Conference For years Burlington, Vermont, has been a destination for health, natural living, organic food, and yoga. With a dozen independently operated Yoga studios and wellness centers in the greater community. BYC's mission it to unite yoga students, teachers and studios as well as to empower and support individuals along the yogic path. Learn More

There is a myth that weight lifting makes you big and muscle-y. More than any time in history, medical doctors and fitness experts are recommending weight training as one of the best ways to improve your overall health because the results speak for themselves. From hormonal balance and bone strength, to joint stability and weight management, resistance training is very hard to beat—and it's not just for guys. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet body-positive, plant-based trainer, Lacy J. Davis, who is breaking stereotypes and helping women transform their lives. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why sarcopenia (muscle loss) affects almost everyone over the age of 30, and why we all need to focus on skeletal muscle maintenance and growth Why resistance training is a great way to encourage bone strength Why body image and eating disorders are propagated by the media, and how you can find balance in your life Why the 5 people you spend the most time with have a huge influence on your health and fitness goals Links & Resources: Lacy's Website Rise & Resist Podcast Liberation Barbell ABOUT OUR GUEST Lacy J. Davis is the founder of Super Strength Health. She is a health and wellness coach, personal trainer, public speaker, podcaster, writer, eating disorder recovery specialist, body love advocate, and artist located in Portland, OR. She is passionate about plant-based nutrition and body positivity. Nutritional Tip: Weight Loss Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes Thanks to Our Sponsor: Hurts So Good Massage Balls Hurts So Good Massage Balls allow you to release tension, break up sliding surface dysfunctions, and improve circulation in and around your muscles and tendons, ligaments, and fascia. Relieve tight muscles knots, aches and pains any time, on your own Improve blood flow to targeted areas for nourishment and elimination of waste Release and relieve compressed nerves such as carpel tunnel and sciatica Assist in scar tissue elasticity and correct healing Learn More

Most people assume that a healthy heart is beating slowly and steadily. The truth is a healthy heart is agile, highly variable, and changing with every inhale and exhale. The measurement of your real-time, beat-to-beat variance is called, Heart Rate Variability, and it's something every yoga student should learn. In a matter of minutes, you can "see" what's going on in terms of your nervous system and emotional self, and more importantly, you can breath and visualize to change it when needed. On this week's show, you'll meet, Howard Martin, a leading voice at HeartMath. ------------ What You'll Learn: How a heart-based approach to daily living can create positive change to meet global challenges The importance of neuro-cardiology, the study of the heart's own nervous system How the heart is sending more signals to the brain than it receives Why the heart is an electrical organ, the strongest source of bio-electricity (40x's more than the brain) and projects its electromagnetic field 3-4 feet around you How emotional activity can impact your electromagnetic field Why "coherence" is a state of psycho-physiological balance, the goal of much of our mind-body wellness How heart rate variability (HRV) can tell you more about your nervous system status and emotional health 3 steps to heart-based breathing Links & Resources: HeartMath site HeartMath Research ABOUT OUR GUEST Howard Martin is one of the original leaders who helped Doc Childre found HeartMath and has been with the organization since its inception in 1991 serving as a key spokesperson and executive. In 1999 he co-authored with Doc Childre, The HeartMath Solution. Howard is also a contributing author of the new book, Heart Intelligence, Connecting with the Intuitive Guidance of the Heart. During his career with HeartMath and the Global Coherence Initiative, Howard has delivered educational programs to tens of thousands of people including: Fortune 100 companies, government agencies, all four branches of the U.S. military, and school systems in over 50 cities on four continents. Nutritional Tip: Bulk Tea vs Bag Tea Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Hurts So Good Massage Balls Hurts So Good Massage Balls allow you to release tension, break up sliding surface dysfunctions, and improve circulation in and around your muscles and tendons, ligaments, and fascia. Relieve tight muscles knots, aches and pains any time, on your own Improve blood flow to targeted areas for nourishment and elimination of waste Release and relieve compressed nerves such as carpel tunnel and sciatica Assist in scar tissue elasticity and correct healing Learn More

Almost every style of meditation I've learned has been presented as "secular," but very quickly there is a Hindu chant, a photo of some old guru with a beard, or some other paraphernalia that looks and feels a lot like organized religion to me. I'm very interested in all world religions, but when I'm learning to meditate, I'd rather do that on its own. If you feel the same, you'll enjoy this week's Yoga Talk Show with author and meditator, Rick Heller. ------------ What You´ll Learn: How problems with Rick's vision problem and chronic pain spurred his initial interest in meditation How "mindfulness" can be defined as paying attention to what is going on in the present moment with an attitude that is welcoming and non-judgmental Why "loving kindness" meditation can be a great starting point for people who struggle to calm their mind How to differentiate meditative activities like gardening or walking from meditation practices and meditation as a skill Why meditation classes are often empty while yoga asana (pose-based) classes are usually full Links & Resources: Rick's Site Rick's Book Vipassana Meditation International ABOUT OUR GUEST Freelance journalist and meditation instructor Rick Heller has reported for the Lowell Sun and other New England newspapers and has been published in Buddhadharma, UUWorld, Tikkun, Free Inquiry, Faith Street, The Humanist, and Boston magazines. He has contributed short stories to Fantasy and Science Fiction. Rick is the facilitator of the Humanist Mindfulness Group and has led meditations sponsored by the Humanist Community at Harvard since 2009. He has also attended workshops and retreats at the Cambridge Insight Meditation Center, the Barre Center for Buddhist Studies, and the Insight Meditation Society. He holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from MIT, a master's degree in public policy from Harvard University, and a master's degree in journalism from Boston University. His book, Secular Meditation, is available on Amazon. Learn more at: www.rickheller.com Nutritional Tip: Mushroom Prep Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: YOGABODY Gymnastic Rings Ultra-Smooth Birch with Adjustable Long Straps & Rock-Solid Clips for Muscle Ups, Pull Ups, Yoga & CrossFit Training Designed for yoga students, CrossFit fans, gymnasts, and fitness buffs who want to learn pull-ups, muscle-ups, develop their core, and build functional upper-body strength. Backed by YOGABODY's iron-clad, 1-year satisfaction guarantee and 10-year warranty, purchase with confidence knowing that you're buying from a trusted brand since 2007. Learn More

Marijuana is being decriminalized and even legalized in North America, Europe, and other parts of the world very quickly—and for good reason. The law enforcement costs are many billions of dollars annually and the social impact of criminalizing this plant seem far worse than potential abuse (which is surprisingly low). On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we'll talk about the top medical uses for Marijuana, how to use it without getting high, and why legalization might actually reduce (not increase) drug use since marijuana provides an alternative to harmful pharmaceutical drugs. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Top treated conditions: anxiety, pain, and insomnia The difference between THC and CBD Why most people are using way too much and getting scared away How cannabis can help with seizure disorders How to get started safely with edibles Links & Resources: Dr. Patel´s Site ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Patel is a Osteopathic Doctor in the state of California. She has been practicing in the area of Medical Marijuana (Cannabis) since 2012 and has treated thousands of patients. She is in private practice in Walnut Creek, CA, and has lots of great resources on her site: www.DrRachnaPatel.com Nutritional Tip: K2 Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Yoga Trapeze Teacher Training The Yoga Trapeze is the #1 most popular yoga inversion sling in the world, and both our January and April teacher training courses are completely sold out. Good news! We've just opened up September 2017 for applications, and so this is an opportunity for you to gain the professional skills and confidence needed to teach professionally this exciting new style of yoga. Learn More

Have you heard of fecal implants? This is when the fecal matter from someone with healthy gut bacteria is transferred to the gut of someone with gut dysbiosis—and it works. While this sounds extreme, in today's digestive health landscape, this is a real option some people need to consider when they are suffering from Small Bacterial Intestinal Overgrowth (SIBO). On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we'll discuss why digestive disorders are so common, and how the remedies can be counter-intuitive such as reducing fiber, lactose, and even fruit. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Why fecal transplants might save your gut Why you should limit fiber, fructose, lactose, resistant starch and most sugar alcohols How erythritol could be the most gut-friendly sugar alcohol How the 3lbs of gut bacteria in our gut can be your friends or foe How low fiber or "elemental diet" could improve bacterial overgrowth Links & Resources: Digestive Health Institute (Dr. Norm's site) Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth Fecal Transplants Yeast vs. Fungus Candida ABOUT OUR GUEST Norman Robillard, Ph.D., Founder of the Digestive Health Institute is a leading gut health expert. He is a microbiologist, the author of Fast Tract Digestion book series and publisher of the Fast Tract Diet mobile app. He is the creator of the drug and antibiotics free Fast Tract Diet for functional gastrointestinal disorders, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and related conditions. Nutritional Tip: Eggs Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Essential Mister Let me guess… you love essential oils but are sick and tired of diffusers that look like lava lamps from the 1960's? If so, you need YOGABODY Essential Mister with a real-wood exterior. The simple, elegant design is a lovely addition to any room in the house, and it's simple, foolproof functioning allows you to set it and forget it for hours and hours of continuous use. Originally designed for our commercial yoga studios, The Essential Mister allows you to bring the power of Aromatherapy to your home or office. USA-plug, but with a simple adapter can be used in any country. 1-year warranty, 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Learn More

Your typical doctor's visit is less than 7 minutes long. It doesn't matter if you have a broken bone, a tonsil infection, or pancreatic cancer, most of the time you're in and out faster than seems possible. It's not the doctor's fault, it's the system's fault, and the solution is to slow down everything in our lives to achieve balance. But who wants to go slow? Not you, not me... so what to do? On this week's show, we'll look at creative solutions to finding more quality downtime in life without compromising your goals, ambitions or excitement. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Why community support is the linchpin for health Why we need to properly define what "health" really means (it's not young and beautiful) Why slowing down can be the ultimate self-care routine Why quality "slow time" is more important than quality ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Michael Finkelstein practiced internal medicine and was Medical Director of a hospital for 20 years before embarking on further training in Integrative and Holistic Medicine. He went on to create a Health and Wellness Center, called SunRaven, and wrote Slow Medicine: Hope and Healing for Chronic Illness because he realized that individuals need more than what is found in typical medical institutions. Links & Resources: Slow Medicine Doctor (Dr. Finkelstein's site) Headspace Meditation App Transcendental Meditation Nutritional Tip: Whey Protein Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Awesome Toes Yoga Toe Spreaders & Separators for Nighttime, Yoga Practice & Running Awesome Toes! naturally stretch your feet after a long day of work. Loved by anyone who wears high-heeled shoes, work boots, or spends all day on their feet. They also help stretch the shortened connective tissues of your feet so they regain their natural shape and range of motion. Awesome Toes! can be used at night, while watching TV, while practicing yoga, and even in wide-toed athletic shoes for running. Most toe separators on the market fall off or break during activities, but Awesome Toes! are designed for durability and comfort during yoga practice, dance rehearsals and while engaging in sports. Learn More

"The things you, own end up owning you..." – Tyler Durden (Fight Club). Often times the things we work so hard for end up taking more than the give, the bleed us more than they feed us. It might be the new car, the drawer full of electronics, your pets or even an oversized home; in many cases, our possessions become burdens and we need to take a step back and reevaluate our priorities. On this week's, Yoga Talk Show, we'll dive deep into minimalism, the art of doing more with less, clearing the clutter, and living a life on purpose. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Why you might want to pack your stuff up as if moving, and then only unpack the stuff you actually need Why our consumer-driven culture can lead to a life full of discontent How less stuff can mean more time, more money, and more ability to contribute How to digitally clean up your life as well ABOUT OUR GUEST Ryan is the co-founder of The Minimalists website and podcast. He has a decade of experience mentoring, coaching, and training experience in the corporate world. After being laid off from a successful corporate job in 2010, Ryan got rid of most of his stuff and started living a more minimal life. His work has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, NPR, BBC, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, TIME, and The Atlantic. He is the co-author of the books Minimalism and Everything that Remains, the documentary film, The Minimalism, and we're going to be talking about owning less stuff. Links & Resources: Minimalists Website Ryan's Books on Amazon Documentary on Netflix Newsfeed Blocker Turn Your iPhone to Black & White Nutritional Tip: Weight Loss Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Yoga Teachers College The Yoga Teachers College combines new technology and age-old apprenticeship to deliver a level of education previously unavailable anywhere. We train students not just teach, but to become local business leaders in the mind-body wellness industry. Now Accepting Applications! Next Course Starts in April 2017! Learn More

Addiction take many different forms and affects just about everyone either directly or with one degree of separation. While "addict" conjures up images of heroin and cocaine, the reality is that people are addicted to social media, pornography, marijuana, and alcohol at much higher rates. So the question is: Can yoga help? Our guest on this week's show, Taylor Hunt, used yoga as an integral part of his healing from substance addiction, and he now helps others do the same. Hopefully, his story of personal transformation and dedication to yoga will help you or someone you care about to find a healthy focus for addictions that haunt us. ------------ What You´ll Learn: How Taylor's addiction started at age 15 fueled by a challenging home life How yoga combined with a traditional 12-step program led him to recovery What traditional Ashtanga Yoga is, and its influence on modern practice How to think about the behaviors in your life that might be leading you down a dark path ABOUT OUR GUEST Taylor Hunt is an Ashtanga yoga student as taught by the late, Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in Mysore, India. Taylor was the first Ashtanga teacher in Ohio granted Level II Authorization to teach from the Sri K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute (KPJAYI). He teaches daily Mysore classes at Ashtanga Yoga Columbus and offers workshops around the country. He is also the author of the recently published book, A Way From Darkness, and director of the Trini Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to sharing the life-changing practice of Ashtanga with those suffering from addiction. Links & Resources: Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute Ashtanga Yoga Columbus Trini Foundation Book: A Way from Darkness Nutritional Tip: Sea Veggies Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Liquid Energy B If you're a vegetarian, live a high-stress lifestyle or are over 50 years of age, there's a very good chance you need to supplement with vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is one of the few vitamins that our body doesn't produce on its own. If you don't eat or supplement with B12, you will develop a deficiency that could lead to anemia, nerve damage, mood and mental health problems. The good news is that B12 supplementation is extremely safe, inexpensive, and is now available in the most bio-available and absorbable form, methylcobalamin. Learn More

Many yoga students explore traditional Indian medicine, Ayurveda, but neglect to study Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). While they have many similarities, TCM offers some herbs, techniques, and approaches to healing that serve as powerful tools for anyone on a path of mind-body wellness. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chinese Herbs, and taking a holistic approach to health. Brodie Welch shares her 13 years of experience working one-on-one with clients, and her insights will help you get started with Chinese Medicine responsibly. Remember, just because something is herbal doesn't mean it's safe or it's appropriate for everyone. Listen in to learn how to get started responsibly. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Why Chinese Medicine includes food, herbs, energy exercise, meditation/feng shui, bodywork and more How insect-based formulas might help with migraines Why ren shen or ginseng might be helpful for mood disorders How xiao yao wan might help you get through the holidays Why turmeric + black pepper taken with fat could help your inflammation Why corydalis might be helpful for chronic pain ABOUT OUR GUEST Brodie Welch is a Licensed Acupuncturist, board-certified herbalist, Chinese Medicine expert, and self-care strategist. She's the founder of Life in Balance Acupuncture in Corvallis, Oregon, where she has been treating patients since 2003. In addition to her clinical practice, Brodie shares her expertise to help women care of themselves with innovative learn-from-anywhere courses, workshops, and retreats on stress management, the body-mind connection, and Chinese Medicine. She's also a creator and host of A Healthy Curiosity: the podcast that explores what it takes to be well in a busy world. Links & Resources: Brodie Welch´s Site Find a Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner Nutritional Tip: Ketosis Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Yoga Trapeze Teacher Training The Yoga Trapeze is the #1 most popular yoga inversion sling in the world, and both our January and April teacher training courses are completely sold out. Good news! We've just opened up September 2017 for applications, and so this is an opportunity for you to gain the professional skills and confidence needed to teach professionally this exciting new style of yoga. Learn More

The World Health Organization estimates that traumatic brain injuries will be the 3rd leading cause of death and disability by 2020, but many people are still unaware of this condition impacting millions every year. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet, Kyla Pearce, a teacher that uses the mind-body healing power of yoga to help people with traumatic brain injuries rewire neuromuscular connections, improve concentration and focus, and find a supportive community for growth. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Why any blow or jolt to the head that leads to some disruption of brain function is technically a TBI 2.5 million people per year in the U.S. have reported TBI's World Health Organization predicts TBI will be 3rd leading cause of death and disability by 2020 How yoga can work on strength and coordination How you can rebuild neuromuscular connection, improve concentration & focus How it can provide emotional support, social integration & community Why poses that impact blood pressure and poses that put weight on the head and neck might be contraindicated and should be taught with care ABOUT OUR GUEST Love Your Brain is a non-profit organization founded after professional snowboarder, Kevin Pearce, suffered a near fatal traumatic brain injury while training for the 2010 winter Olympics. Kevin's story of healing inspired millions through the HBO documentary, The Crash Reel. This experience brought to light the significance and prevalence of TBI on a global scale. Love Your Brain is a non-profit that aims to improve the quality of life of people affected by TBI—everything from concussion to severe injury—through programs that build community... including yoga. Links & Resources: Love Your Brain The Crash Reel Documentary Nutritional Tip: Dried Fruit Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: San Diego Yoga Festival San Diego Yoga Festival: over 100 classes led by 65 powerful healers and teachers featuring one of the oldest (92) and youngest (8) yoga teachers in the world! Classes are held throughout Ocean Beach, San Diego, in the ironic hippy town right on the coast. There will be 1000 people doing yoga or learning how to do yoga this weekend, join us to make a movement for health and peace: beach Bonfires, surf and skate lessons, yoga with your dog, a huge wedding ceremony to yourself, body paint yoga, sound healing, reiki..the list is epic. Learn more/buy your ticket: www.sandiegoyogafestival.com Jan 27-30, 2017 Classes are held indoors at the coolest venues and outdoors on the beach, pier and sunset cliffs! The founder of the yoga festival, Shawna Schenk, personally wants to give you $108 off your 1 day or 3 day ticket price! Use Namastoked as a promo code at check in. Learn More

Do your feet hurt? Do you have hammer toe, overlapping toes, corns, or bunions? Without even realizing it, most people wear footwear that leads to poor posture, muscle imbalances, and chronic foot problems. Yoga can help, but you need to fix your footwear too. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, you'll meet a podiatrist-slash-yoga-teacher, Michele Colon, who will share with you her experiences in the clinic and on the mat working with all walks of life to correct foot problems. Most people assume that foot problems are just cosmetic when in reality, your feet are foundational for your posture and can impact your knees, hips and back. Proper posture starts at the ground, and healthy feet will improve your walking and running gate as well as your balance very quickly. ------------ What You´ll Learn: How yoga can help your feet, Achilles tendon and leg muscles How walking barefoot can actually change the muscular development of a child Why orthotic inserts might be necessary short term—but are not a "forever" solution How to quickly analyze your feet (or someone else's) How Lucas went from a size 10 to a size 12 shoe (and why that matters) How your squished up toes could be affecting your balance in yoga ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Michele S. Colon has a Bachelor's degree in Physiology, a Master's degree in Biomedical Sciences, and a Doctorate degree in Podiatry with a specialty in Foot & Ankle Surgery. Dr. Michele is also certified in Yoga, Reiki, Reflexology, and Laser Therapy. Dr. Michele specializes in Yin Yoga, Restorative Yoga, and Therapeutic Yoga to provide the most healing, relaxation, and rejuvenation to her patients and clients. Dr. Michele has studied Ayurveda extensively and has worked with some of the best practitioners throughout California to bring Ayurveda to the forefront of medicine. Links & Resources: Dr. Michele´s Site Awesome Toes - Corrective Toe Spacers Nutritional Tip: Decaf - friend or foe? Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Essential Mister Let me guess… you love essential oils but are sick and tired of diffusers that look like lava lamps from the 1960's? If so, you need YOGABODY Essential Mister with a real-wood exterior. The simple, elegant design is a lovely addition to any room in the house, and it's simple, foolproof functioning allows you to set it and forget it for hours and hours of continuous use. Originally designed for our commercial yoga studios, The Essential Mister allows you to bring the power of Aromatherapy to your home or office. USA-plug, but with a simple adapter can be used in any country. 1-year warranty, 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Learn More

Breathing has always been an integral part of yoga practices, but for many years, it was mostly forgotten or taught as an aside to asana practice. Just in the past few years, breathwork has come back into the mainstream bigger than ever before—and it's extreme. From Holotropic breathwork to The Wim Hof Method to free divers and hypoxic training, it seems like breathing has never been more popular, and yet more misunderstood with sometimes disastrous results. On this week's show, you'll meet author and free diving hobbyist, Adam Skolnick who chronicled the life of one of America's most famous freedivers who tragically died in 2013. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Why people are dying in free diving How Adam became a travel writer to support his passion and interests How Adam learned to dive to 30 meters in just 4 days Why social media sometimes presents a "false reality" of what's truly possible 6 competitive disciplines: static apnea, dynamic apnea (mono-fin swimming for distance without breathing), dynamic no fin, constant weight (with fin), constant weight (no fin), free immersion ABOUT OUR GUEST Adam Skolnick has written for the New York Times, Playboy, Outside, ESPN.com, BBC.com, Salon.com, Men's Health, Wired, and Travel + Leisure, among others. He has visited 45 countries and authored or coauthored over 30 Lonely Planet guidebooks. ONE BREATH, his first narrative nonfiction book available now on amazon.com. Links & Resources: Adam Skolnick Nutritional Tip: Bromelain Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: YOGABODY Stretch Designed for yoga students, athletes, office workers, and busy moms… the YOGABODY Flexibility Kit offers a step-by-step, five-day per week routine you can do before bed to systematically regain your functional flexibility. The kit includes nutritional support, yoga props, and all the educational materials you'll need to get started. Learn More

If you've ever completed goal-setting activities, no doubt "happiness" appeared on the top of your list. And yet, what is happiness? Really? Do you have a way to measure it? Do you have tools to achieve it? For most people, our tools for happiness are mindless televisions series, junk food, alcohol, and social media consumption. These tools work in the short term, but long term, there must be a better way. On this week's show, you'll meet, Jonathan Robinson, happiness researcher and best-selling author who has dedicated his career to the study of joy. ------- What You´ll Learn: How to define happiness on a 1 to 10 scale: "How happy are you with your life?" How to change your brainwaves with binaural beats or frequency following music How to use supplements to improve your mental state How vibration platforms can improve your health What the Dalai Lama thinks of technology ABOUT OUR GUEST Jonathan Robinson is one of the world's leading experts on happiness and how to get there. A psychotherapist, bestselling author of 10 books, and a professional speaker who consistently presents to Fortune 500 companies, he has reached more than 100 million people around the world with his practical methods. Jonathan has made numerous appearances on such shows as Oprah, CNN, and the leading morning shows, and been featured in Newsweek, USA TODAY, and the Los Angeles Times. He has spent more than forty years studying the most practical and powerful methods for achieving a state of personal life satisfaction and happiness. Links & Resources: Finding Happiness Nutritional Tip: How to Clean Fruit Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Hurts So Good Massage Balls Hurts So Good Massage Balls allow you to release tension, break up sliding surface dysfunctions, and improve circulation in and around your muscles and tendons, ligaments, and fascia. Relieve tight muscles knots, aches and pains any time, on your own Improve blood flow to targeted areas for nourishment and elimination of waste Release and relieve compressed nerves such as carpel tunnel and sciatica Assist in scar tissue elasticity and correct healing Learn More

Many health fanatics claim that they, "don't believe in supplements," as if micronutrients were a belief system or a religion—but they are not. They are foundational to our health, an essential part of our biology; and for better or worse, insufficiency and deficiencies have been part of the human experience for as long as we've been on earth. Nutritional balance is an exception, not the rule, so if you ignore your own micronutrients and ignore the rampant deficiencies today, you do so at your own peril. On this week's Yoga Talk Show, I share my own research and experiences with some of the most-common vitamin and mineral deficiencies along with simple strategies for testing and correcting them. While not definitive, this is a great starting point for testing, tracking, and taking responsibility for own health. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Why almost everyone is deficient in Vitamin D How iron deficiency impacts billions of people, and yes, in the developed world too Why essential fatty acids (EFA's) are "essential" and where to get the Why is not how much you eat or take, but how much you absorb that matters The innate challenges of a food system based on chicken, pigs, cows, corn, soy, wheat, and rice ----------- Key Questions About Supplements: How do you feel after taking them? Are there weird additives in your supplements? Can you avoid them? Are there food sources for these nutrients that you prefer? Are these supplements sustainable? Links & Resources: Dr. Mercola & Vitamin D World Health Organization & Deficiencies Nutritional Tip: Probiotics Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Yoga Trapeze Teacher Training The Yoga Trapeze is the #1 most popular yoga inversion sling in the world, and both our January and April teacher training courses are completely sold out. Good news! We've just opened up September 2017 for applications, and so this is an opportunity for you to gain the professional skills and confidence needed to teach professionally this exciting new style of yoga. Learn More

Have you heard of sham surgeries? In 2002, 180 people with osteoarthritis of the knee joined a double-blind study. Some patients underwent real arthroscopic surgery and a placebo group simply had a skin incision and then were stitched back up. Here is where it gets weird. The placebo group self-reported identical results to those who had undergone actual surgery. This is just one example of thousands of documented instances of "mind over body" in healing modalities ranging from allopathic medicine and crystal therapy to group prayer and homeopathy. How can this be? On this week's Yoga Talk Show, we'll try to get to the bottom of this very real phenomenon. ------------ What You´ll Learn: Why the scientific method has always been hindered by the placebo effect as it taints nearly every data set—it's omnipresent How crystals, prayer healing, Reiki, and fridge modalities can sometimes deliver amazing results Why certain conditions that respond better to placebos (ex: pain, skin conditions, Parkinson's, depression, anxiety) How shame surgeries can be just as effective as real surgeries Why hypnosis and placebo are not necessarily connected Links & Resources: Suggestible You Erik Vance's Site Sham Surgery References Sham Knee Surgery Trial ABOUT OUR GUEST Erik Vance is a native Bay Area writer living in Mexico. In his earlier life, he was a biologist, a rock climbing guide, an environmental consultant, and an environmental educator. His work focuses on the human element of science – the people who do it, those who benefit from it, and those who do not. He has written for The New York Times, Nature, Scientific American, Harper's, National Geographic, and a number of other local and national outlets. His first book, Suggestible You, about how the mind and body continually twist and shape our realities was inspired by his feature in Discover and is on Amazon. You can learn more about his work at www.ErikVance.com Nutritional Tip: Cooking with Olive Oil Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews Thanks to Our Sponsor: Essential Mister Let me guess… you love essential oils but are sick and tired of diffusers that look like lava lamps from the 1960's? If so, you need YOGABODY Essential Mister with a real-wood exterior. The simple, elegant design is a lovely addition to any room in the house, and it's simple, foolproof functioning allows you to set it and forget it for hours and hours of continuous use. Originally designed for our commercial yoga studios, The Essential Mister allows you to bring the power of Aromatherapy to your home or office. USA-plug, but with a simple adapter can be used in any country. 1-year warranty, 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Learn More

Back pain affects an estimated 80% of the population at some point in life, and yet most conditions are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. To complicate matters, most people have hard line ideas about treatment of their mysterious conditions, so it's no surprise that chronic pain, recurring problems, and frustration abound. On the Yoga Talk Show, we tend toward natural, non-medical healing modalities; but there is a time and a place for allopathic medicine, and yes, even surgery. For every 10 students I know who healed their own spine, I know at least one for whom surgery was a life saver. Rather than look at the issue as black or white, it's important to consider all options and understand the best treatments. Enter: Dr. Tony Mork. Board certified orthopedic surgeon and pioneer of endoscopic surgery. He breaks down surgical options in an incredibly simple and insightful way and makes a very convincing case for why spinal fusion, the most common surgery, should be avoided if at all possible. ------------ Listen & Learn: Why most people with back pain have no accurate diagnosis of their problem Why X-Ray, CT or MRI doesn't tell the whole story How "spinal mapping" can find the real source of the pain How many conditions pass on their own in 8-12 weeks Why a discogram can be helpful in some cases The 3 types of surgery: vertebral fusion, decompressive surgery, rhizotomy (sever nerve roots) Why fusions are the most common and yet should be a last resort Why only 2% of spinal surgeries are endoscopic in the USA Links & Resources: Dr. Tony Mork's Site Dr. Mork's Youtube Channel ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Mork is a board certified orthopedic surgeon has personally performed more than 8,000 endoscopic spinal surgeries. He designed many of the specialized tools used in laser spinal surgery and is constantly pursuing the improvement of spinal care. Dr. Mork has been instrumental in developing most of the current endoscopic spinal surgery techniques. He is one of the originators and wrote the original peer reviewed articles on most of the endoscopic spine surgery techniques used today. He was the co-founder of Microspine and founder of the Endoscopic Spinal Academy. Nutritional Tip: Frozen Foods Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Or write to us: [email protected] Like the Show? Leave us a Review on iTunes: http://www.yogabody.com/reviews

Over 1 million people have listened to the Yoga Talk Show since its inception, and it's you the listeners I have to thank for all the support and growth over the years. To say "thanks" and deep-dive into a random smattering of topics, I've dedicated this show to answering your voice mails. Some of these questions we've covered in previous shows, but many are completely new, so I hope you find them helpful in your own practice. ------------ Listen & Learn: Can you help with Plantar Fasciitis? Can some in their 90's use the Yoga Trapeze? How can I use yoga to heal my rotator cuff? Why 1:2 ratio breathing nose-to-mouth in Gravity Yoga? Will yoga therapy be the "next big thing?" How should I train for the full splits? Is Hot Yoga dangerous for my SI Joint? Got Questions? Send me a voicemail here: http://www.YogaBody.com/AskLucas Thanks to our sponsor: Hot Yoga Teacher Training "Teach Hot Yoga, Inspire Students, Change Lives!" TAKE THE NEXT STEP! Join Absolute Yoga's 200-Hour Hot Yoga Alliance accredited course in beautiful Koh Samui, Thailand. This training is for: Serious students who want to teach Passionate yoga practitioners Students who want to share hot yoga with the world Extremely small class sizes, huge teaching team, dedicated training facility! Next course starts in February! Learn More