In this short and sweet solo episode, host Amy Wheeler reflects on an incredible year of The Yoga Therapy Hour as we prepare to go on winter break. Join Amy as she:

• Expresses Gratitude: Amy reviews some of the amazing guests we’ve had on the show in 2024, thanking them for their invaluable contributions to conversations about yoga, yoga therapy, and Ayurveda.
• Encourages Exploration: Didn’t catch every episode? Amy invites you to revisit the season and discover any gems you might have missed. This is the perfect time to soak in the wisdom shared throughout the year.
• Looks Ahead to Season 8: Starting in January 2025, The Yoga Therapy Hour is taking an exciting new direction! In Season 8, Amy is inviting YOU—our listeners—to lead the conversation. Share your personal stories of health, healing, and transformation through yoga, yoga therapy, and Ayurveda. This new season will celebrate the resilience and growth found in these practices and highlight the profound impact they’ve had on your life.

✨ Wishing You Peace and Prosperity: The entire team at The Yoga Therapy Hour and The Optimal State wishes you a joyful New Year filled with health, happiness, and abundance. Thank you for being part of our community, and we’ll see you in 2025 with inspiring new stories to share!

📌 Get Involved in Season 8: Have a story to share? Email Amy at amy@amywheeler.com to be a guest on the podcast.

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Website: TheOptimalState.com
• Instagram: @TheOptimalState
• Facebook: TheOptimalState

🌟 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with friends who might benefit from the wisdom of yoga, yoga therapy, and Ayurveda.

We’ll see you on the other side in 2025!

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Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• 7-Week Course on Yoga, Yoga Therapy & Polyvagal Theory
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

· Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

· Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.

· For those seeking professional development, there is an option to stay longer after class and earn Continuing Education (CE) credits. This extended session offers in-depth training and valuable insights into integrating yoga therapy with addiction treatment.

This week on The Yoga Therapy Hour, Amy sits down with Halli Faulkner, a trauma-informed yoga therapist and trainer specializing in working with survivors of sexual assault and violence. Halli shares her deeply personal journey of healing from childhood trauma and how it led her to develop workshops and one-on-one sessions designed to create safe, empowering spaces for survivors. With a focus on autonomy, choice, and compassion, Halli has created impactful trauma-informed trainings and retreats that help individuals reclaim their agency and begin the process of healing. We have a Content Warning on this show due to the nature of the topic. Take the time and space needed to care for yourself while you listen.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Autonomy in Healing: Halli explains how creating trauma-informed spaces that prioritize choice and empowerment is foundational to the healing process for survivors of sexual violence.
• Personal Journey of Transformation: Halli recounts her own experiences with trauma, perfectionism as a coping mechanism, and how yoga and EMDR therapy became integral to her recovery.
• Trauma-Informed Yoga Practices: She outlines the importance of making all yoga practices optional and invitational, allowing participants to choose what feels right for their bodies.
• Kundalini Yoga's Role: Halli shares how specific Kundalini yoga practices helped her heal and how she continues to pass these tools on to others, even amidst the controversies surrounding Kundalini's founder.
• The Importance of Boundaries: Halli and Amy discuss the role of boundaries in personal and professional relationships, particularly as part of the healing process for trauma survivors.
• Community and Healing: Halli and Amy emphasize the significance of Sangha (community) in providing a sense of safety and belonging during recovery.

Halli’s work extends beyond yoga classes to include trauma-informed trainings for organizations, annual healing retreats, and individualized yoga therapy. Her approach is rooted in compassion, empowerment, and the belief that healing is a personal and non-linear journey.

Listeners are invited to explore Halli’s offerings, including her 40-hour trauma-informed yoga training and annual retreats in El Salvador, where participants can engage in healing practices amidst nature’s beauty. For more information, visit her website at www.hallifaulkner.com or connect with her on Instagram and Facebook @HalliFaulkner.

Whether you’re a yoga professional looking to deepen your trauma-informed practices or a survivor seeking support, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, healing, and the transformative power of yoga.

Visit Amy’s training section and free offerings:

Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic with Optimal State: www.TheOptimalState.com

Optimal State Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/yogatherapyhour

University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Classes: https://csh.umn.edu/for-community/wellbeing-workshops/online-therapeutic-yoga-series

Polyvagal Institute App that Amy and Marlysa are the hosts: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/pviapp

In this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, we welcome Elizabeth Ralph, founder of The Spiritual Investor, a podcast and community dedicated to transforming our relationship with money through spiritual and energetic principles. Elizabeth shares her unique approach to managing finances with clarity, intention, and an elevated consciousness that aligns deeply with the values of yoga practitioners. Together, we explore the mindset shifts necessary to create financial flow without fear or grasping and how spiritual alignment can be the key to effortless wealth. Elizabeth's calm yet potent energy brings a fresh perspective on how we can all elevate our financial frequency and manifest abundance in our lives.

Key Points:

• Understanding Money as Energy: Elizabeth explains her view of money as a conduit of energy, akin to prana, that can flow effortlessly when we align ourselves with a higher frequency. By approaching finances from a place of inner stillness, she teaches how to avoid the common "grasping" mentality.
• The Effortless Path to Wealth: Rather than choosing difficult, exhausting paths, Elizabeth emphasizes finding ease and flow. She shares how maintaining high energy standards and avoiding resistance can accelerate financial growth and personal peace.
• The Role of Self-Identity in Financial Abundance: Elizabeth highlights the importance of self-identity in determining financial capacity. By stepping into a "higher version" of ourselves, we can shift our relationship with money and create new opportunities.
• Moving Beyond Traditional Beliefs: Addressing common money beliefs, Elizabeth guides listeners on bypassing outdated patterns around scarcity and worth. She stresses the importance of holding a vision that transcends the limitations of the "3D world."
• Empathy and Power in Financial Growth: Elizabeth discusses the need to balance empathy with inner power, especially for social justice advocates. True support, she suggests, comes from standing in one's own power rather than only dwelling in empathetic resonance.
• Living Without the Constraints of Time: Embracing a timeless, limitless view of life, Elizabeth encourages listeners to break free from the constraints of linear thinking, allowing space for unexpected blessings and growth.

Thank you to Elizabeth Ralph for her wisdom on this episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour. Elizabeth's approach to finances is a reminder that our beliefs and values shape the world we experience. Her insights offer a call to explore the higher dimensions of consciousness in our relationship with money. To connect with Elizabeth and learn more about her teachings, visit her website TheSpiritualInvestor.com, listen to The Spiritual Investor podcast, and follow her on Instagram @elizabethralph.

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series - https://csh.umn.edu/for-community/wellbeing-workshops/online-therapeutic-yoga-series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App - https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/pviapp
• Optimal State Mobile App - https://www.optimalstate.com/
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/yogatherapyhour

Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.

· For those seeking professional development, there is an option to stay longer after class and earn Continuing Education (CE) credits. This extended session offers in-depth training and valuable insights into integrating yoga therapy with addiction treatment.

In this solo episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, Amy Wheeler dives into the transformative science of Polyvagal Theory. Drawing on her experience as a pod leader for the Polyvagal Institute, Amy explores how understanding the body’s response to perceived threats can guide us to greater self-awareness, embodiment, and healing. This episode is a powerful resource for anyone looking to deepen their connection with their body and regulate their nervous system, enhancing resilience and well-being.

Key Highlights:

• Introduction to Polyvagal Theory: Amy introduces the basics of Polyvagal Theory, explaining the importance of understanding both top-down and bottom-up processing in the nervous system.
• Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Processing: Amy discusses the difference between cognitive (top-down) and somatic (bottom-up) approaches to processing stress and threat, emphasizing that most data flows from body to brain.
• Body Safety and Trust: Highlighting real-life examples, Amy emphasizes the importance of listening to the body’s signals as indicators of safety or threat, helping individuals discern whether situations align with their well-being.
• Practical Techniques for Regulation: From walking and dancing to tools like EFT (tapping), Amy shares various techniques to help listeners reconnect with their body and regulate their nervous system.
• Neurodivergence as a Polyvagal Strength: She explores how individuals with neurodivergence may have heightened awareness of safety cues, leading to powerful self-awareness and authenticity.
• Incorporating Polyvagal Theory into Yoga: Amy encourages yoga practitioners and therapists to use polyvagal principles to help clients feel safe and embodied, enriching their overall experience of yoga and well-being.

In closing, Amy reflects on the role of yoga and Polyvagal Theory in facilitating deeper embodiment and personal transformation. She invites listeners to submit their own stories of healing through yoga, yoga therapy, or Ayurveda to be featured on future episodes of The Yoga Therapy Hour, creating a community-driven narrative of health and transformation throughout 2025.

Contact Amy to be a guest on the podcast: amy@amywheeler.com

Join us for our Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic in 2025!

Welcome to our Optimal State of Living Yoga Therapy Clinic and Continuing Education program, held every Monday night, designed to enrich your body, mind, and spirit through yoga. Whether you’re deepening your practice or connecting with a supportive community, our clinic offers a comprehensive experience for all.

About the Clinic:

Our program blends healing, learning, and community engagement in a supportive environment, promising growth, wellness, and an enriched understanding of yoga therapy.

What to Expect:

Community Building: Connect with fellow yoga enthusiasts.

Mini-Lecture on Monthly Theme: Deepen your understanding of yoga therapy.

Yoga Practice: Tailored session aligning with our monthly theme.

Closing Circle: Reflect and reinforce community.

Continuing Education for Yoga Professionals:

Deep Dive into Theory: Enhance teaching skills and understanding.

Continuing Education Credits: Recognized by IAYT and Yoga Alliance.

Certificate of Completion: Validate your participation and learning.

Embark on a journey of healing, learning, and connection with our Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic & Continuing Education. Register now to transform your practice, enrich your teaching, and be part of a nurturing community dedicated to wellness and growth.

Transform your Mondays into a sanctuary of peace, learning, and community with us. We look forward to welcoming you to our yoga family!

Cost: $59 for the Four 75-min. classes + recordings and handouts (per household) & $20 for the Four 15-min Continuing Education Units classes + recordings and handouts and a Certificate of Completion

www.TheOptimalState.com

Welcome to this enlightening episode of the Yoga Therapy Hour! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Ella Davar, RD, a longevity nutritionist whose work delves deep into the intersection of nutrition, lifestyle, and longevity. Ella brings a wealth of knowledge about gut health, the brain-gut axis, and the role of the vagus nerve in managing our stress response. She discusses how a well-functioning microbiome supports not only our physical well-being but also our mental, emotional, and even spiritual health. Ella’s insights open up an inspiring conversation about how intentional nutrition and mindful practices can lead to a longer, healthier life—a mission that aligns beautifully with the goals of yoga and yoga therapy.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the importance of the microbiome: Ella breaks down how the gut microbiome influences our physical and mental health, and how diet and stress impact this critical system.
• The role of the vagus nerve: Ella discusses the vagus nerve’s pivotal function in “rest and digest,” linking mindful breathing and meditation with better digestion and a balanced nervous system.
• Longevity nutrition: Ella explains her approach to nutrition that goes beyond disease management to support health span—living a vibrant life well into old age.
• The gut-brain axis and emotional health: Learn how emotional states and stress directly affect the gut and overall well-being, emphasizing the need for integrative health practices.
• Practical tools for supporting gut health: Ella shares simple techniques, like mindful breathing before meals, to help stimulate digestive function and promote a healthy microbiome.
• Precision medicine as the future: Ella shares her view on personalized, precision medicine and how understanding individual needs through testing can transform our approach to health.

Closing Paragraph:

Thank you, Ella Davar, for joining us today and sharing your incredible knowledge on how our gut health, emotions, and lifestyle intersect to create a foundation for longevity and well-being. From explaining the power of the vagus nerve to providing practical tips for supporting our digestion, Ella’s insights serve as a powerful reminder that true health involves mind, body, and spirit. As you go into the week, consider not only what you’re nourishing your body with but also how you’re managing stress and supporting emotional balance. For those inspired to explore Ella’s work further, check out her resources on longevity, nutrition, and gut health.

Ella Davar’s Contact Information:

• Website: https://www.gutbrainmethod.com
• TED Talk on Nutrition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXOaCpTT6b8

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

· Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

· Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.

· For those seeking professional development, there is an option to stay longer after class and earn Continuing Education (CE) credits. This extended session offers in-depth training and valuable insights into integrating yoga therapy with addiction treatment.

In this insightful episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, our host sits down with Dr. Eileen Forrestal, a former medical doctor turned entrepreneur and author. Eileen shares her inspiring journey of overcoming a childhood trauma that left her struggling to speak. Through decades of perseverance, personal growth, and yoga therapy, she was able to reclaim her voice, both literally and figuratively. Her story is one of resilience, transformation, and courage, offering a powerful message for anyone facing their own challenges and fears.

Key Takeaways:

• Early Trauma and Speech Challenges: Eileen shares how a medical trauma in early childhood affected her throat and her ability to speak, leading to a prolonged struggle with stuttering and silence.
• From Silence to Speaking: Learn about Eileen's transformation from a quiet child into a public speaker and author, detailing the steps she took to overcome fear and embrace her authentic voice.
• Facing Fears Head-On: Eileen offers valuable insights into how facing one's fears, even if it takes decades, can lead to profound personal growth and transformation.
• A Message for Everyone: This conversation reminds listeners that the traumas and challenges we face—whether big or small—shape us, but they don't have to define us. Like Eileen, we can all take the courageous step to heal and transform.
• Living Authentically: Eileen’s story inspires listeners to shine their own light, no matter how long it takes to heal or face life's obstacles.

Closing Thoughts: Eileen Forrestal's journey shows us that it’s never too late to find your voice and live authentically. Her experience is a testament to the power of yoga therapy in healing both body and mind. For anyone struggling with trauma or fear, this episode serves as a reminder that the path to healing is always available, and it begins with the courage to take the first step.

You can connect with Eileen on her website eileenforrestal.com or follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter under the same handle.

Check out www.TheOptimalState.com

Yoga workshops on Emotional Intelligence coming soon in 2025! See website above for more details. Each month will have a special topic around Emotional Intelligence.

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by

Special Note: This episode contains swear words and storytelling about sexuality

Introduction:

In this special episode of The Yoga Therapy Hour, Amy sits down with the vibrant and authentic Susan Weis Bohlen. As a former Board Member of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA) and the author of three bestselling books on Ayurveda, Susan shares her deeply personal story of overcoming body image struggles and how Ayurveda helped her transform her relationship with her body. From battling bulimia to losing over 60 pounds, Susan opens up about her path to self-love, Ayurvedic practices, and her passion for helping others on their journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Body Transformation through Ayurveda: Susan discusses how she went from discomfort in her body to losing 60+ pounds and maintaining it with Ayurvedic practices.
• Healing from Bulimia: Susan shares her long battle with bulimia and understanding her Ayurvedic dosha.
• Ayurvedic Self-Care Practices: The role of Panchakarma and daily self-care rituals like abhyanga (oil massage) in maintaining balance and wellness.
• Living with Authenticity: Susan’s experience of opening her heart and creating space in her life, which eventually led to meeting her husband and finding deeper connection.
• American Jewish Ayurveda: Susan explains her unique approach to Ayurveda, blending her cultural background with ancient practices, making them accessible for a modern audience.
• Thoughts on NAMA: Susan discusses her decision to step away from NAMA Board, which has some similarities to what IAYT is facing at this time.

Susan Weis Bohlen’s Contact Information:

Website: www.SusanWeisBohlen.com

Substack Newsletter: Available on her website

Books:

• Ayurveda Beginner’s Guide
• Seasonal Self-Care Rituals
• Ayurvedic Home Remedies

Check out www.TheOptimalState.com

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

· Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

· Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.For those seeking professional development, there is an option to stay longer after class and earn Continuing Education (CE) credits. This extended session offers in-depth training and valuable insights into integrating yoga therapy with addiction treatment.

In this episode of the Yoga Therapy Hour, host Amy Wheeler interviews Julie Afsahi and Jessica Cross, two experienced sound healing practitioners and authors of Seasons of Sound. They dive into the fascinating world of sound healing, exploring its ancient roots, the science behind vibrational therapy, and the profound effects it can have on the mind, body, and emotions.

The conversation touches on topics:

• How sound baths can facilitate deep relaxation and healing.
• The role of the subtle body in sound healing and its relationship with Yogic philosophy.
• The concept of the “post-digestive effect” in sound healing and how it continues to impact participants after the session.
• Their personal journeys into sound healing and the significance of various instruments like gongs, crystal bowls, and chimes in therapeutic settings.
• How they make sound healing approachable and accessible for everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs.
• The connection between sound healing and the seasons, as detailed in their book, Seasons of Sound.

Julie and Jessica also share insights into their sound healing trainings, which are offered both in-person in Texas and online, and discuss the importance of inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in their work.

Key Takeaways:

• Sound healing operates on many levels, including the physical, energetic, and emotional layers.
• The subtle body and energetic shifts play a crucial role in how sound impacts us.
• Their book, Seasons of Sound, offers a framework for practicing sound healing in alignment with the cycles of nature and the seasons of life.
• There is still much to be explored and researched in the field of sound healing, and they invite more practitioners to dive deeper into the science behind it.

About Our Guests:

• Julie Afsahi is the owner of Soul Strong Yoga in Austin, TX, where she integrates sound healing into her yoga offerings.
• Jessica Cross is a certified sound healer and the founder of Sound for Stress, helping individuals relieve stress through the transformative power of sound.
• Together, they co-authored Seasons of Sound, a guide for sound healing practitioners that aligns sound practices with the seasons of the Earth and life.

Resources:

• Soul Strong Yoga
• Sound for Stress
• Seasons of Sound Book

Additional Resources with Amy Wheeler:

• University of Minnesota Therapeutic Yoga Series
• Polyvagal Institute Mighty App
• Optimal State Mobile App
• Optimal State and Yoga Therapy Hour Patreon

· Monday Night Yoga Therapy Clinic on www.TheOpimtalState.com

· Join us for our Monday night Yoga Therapy Clinics, specially designed to address specific health and wellness topics. The sessions are held every Monday from 4:00-5:15 PM PST and are led by Amy Wheeler, a seasoned expert in yoga therapy. This clinic provides a supportive environment where participants can explore therapeutic yoga techniques to aid in addiction recovery and overall well-being.For those seeking professional development, there is an option to stay longer after class and earn Continuing Education (CE) credits. This extended session offers in-depth training and valuable insights into integrating yoga therapy with addiction treatment.