The Uplifted Yoga Podcast

2d ago

What happens when a 20-year-old decides to completely unplug—from smartphones, social media, and the digital world? In this episode, I talk with Yunus Maximus, a bold, creative soul who's chosen a countercultural path in today's tech-saturated world. We explore how living without a phone has deepened his art, saved his mental health, and strengthened his human connections. His story will make you rethink your relationship with technology—and your own creativity. We talk about: 🔹 Why Yunus ditched his phone and never looked back 🔹 The link between digital detox and artistic expression 🔹 Finding community and purpose offline 🔹 What it means to trust your own path in a hyper-connected world If you've been craving more presence, art, or authenticity—this one's a must-listen. 🎁 Don't forget to grab my new book: Healing with Somatic Yoga: A 6-Week Journey to Release Emotions, Rewire Your Nervous System, and Reclaim Your Body → https://amzn.to/3WGulGG GUEST EXPERT: Yunus Maximus Yunus is an artist and musician helping pave the way in technology and internet counterculture. Through experimentation and therapeutic integration he discovered that stepping away from technology has enabled him to not only connect with his unique gifts but his local community in powerful ways. Yunus encourages everyone to step away from the noise the internet brings, do the art that you love, and trust that opportunities will come your way. Contact Yunus: yunusmaximusmusic@gmail.com FREE Practice: Extra Gentle Trauma-Informed Somatic Exercises | How to do Somatic Yoga | Somatic Yoga Flow Relevant Blog: Somatic Meditation: A Body-Based Approach to Healing Stress, Anxiety, and Trauma Relevant to Today's Episode: 🐍 Yoga for Self Mastery 💖 Uplifted Membership 💫 Somatic Certification ✨ AI Training Course 🎧 Also Listen to: #378 – " Wait… Did I Just Make an AI Course?!" Behind the Scenes of My Most Unexpected Offering Yet (and Why You Might Love It Too) #380 – The Internet Is Collapsing — And Why That's Great News for Yogis & Healers © 2025 Uplifted Yoga | BrettLarkin.com

Dec 10

Today's episode is a little different and really special. I'm finally sharing the story behind my new book, Healing with Somatic Yoga. This book is the heart of everything I've been teaching, practicing, and living — and I can't wait for you to hold it in your hands. If you've ever felt like traditional wellness advice just doesn't reach the deeper layers — like something's missing — you're not alone. We're entering what I'm calling the Decade of the Nervous System. It's time to stop muscling through healing and start listening to the body that's been protecting you all along. You'll hear: 🔹 Why your body is not a problem to fix — it's an animal trying to keep you safe 🔹 How unprocessed stress lives in the body (and what to do about it) 🔹 The 3 distinct models of somatic healing I teach inside the book 🔹 How storytelling rewires your brain (and why it's a key healing tool) 🔹 Why healing can (and should) feel pleasurable and fun 🔹 What makes this book different from anything else on somatics or yoga This isn't just a book — it's a nervous system manual for our times. I'm so excited to finally share it with you. 🎉📘 Grab my new book: Healing with Somatic Yoga: A 6-Week Journey to Release Emotions, Rewire Your Nervous System, and Reclaim Your Body → https://amzn.to/3WGulGG and claim the bonus videos and gifts exclusively for early book purchasers! FREE Practice: Somatic Yoga Workout for Women with Music | Release Anger, Anxiety, Stress, Hip Tension & Trauma Relevant Blog: What Is Somatic Yoga? Everything You Need To Know Relevant to Today's Episode: 💖 Uplifted Membership 🌀 Somatic Yoga Life Coaching 💫 Somatic Certification 🎧 Also Listen to: #318 – What Is Somatic Yoga? #330 – Somatic Yoga vs. Traditional Yoga: Breaking Down How 5 Poses Differ in your Yoga Practice #384 – Do Less, Heal More: 7 Invitations to Resolve Trauma from Organic Intelligence © 2025 Uplifted Yoga | BrettLarkin.com

Dec 3

What does it mean to surrender—not just in theory, but in your body? Katie Silcox is back for an intimate and expansive conversation where we explore the intersections of shadow work, yoga, energy practices, and the divine. We talk about the emotional courage it takes to let go, the healing potential of the word God, and how to distinguish between meditation and prayer in a way that supports your spiritual evolution. You'll learn: 🔹 Why shadow work is more about integration than excavation 🔹 The difference between vertical and horizontal energy flow 🔹 How to ground yourself for deeper emotional intelligence and energy work 🔹 What it means to surrender to a benevolent universe 🔹 The distinct but complementary roles of meditation and prayer If you're longing for connection—to self, to Source, and to the real sensations of spirit moving through your life—this episode is for you. 🌹 Download my somatic sequences & playlists for teachers: https://www.brettlarkin.com/somatic-sequences/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=somatic-sequence 💗Get Brett's Free Somatic Yoga Workshop: https://www.brettlarkin.com/embodiedyoga GUEST EXPERT: Katie Silcox | @theshaktischool Katie Silcox, M.A. is the New York Times Best-Selling author of the book Healthy, Happy, Sexy - Ayurveda Wisdom for Modern Women and the new book - Glow-Worthy. She is the founder of The Shakti School, a premier online certification school for women-centered holistic wellness that bridges functional medicine and eastern traditions. She holds a Masters degree in Ayurvedic Medicine and is a member of the National Ayurvedic Medicine Association. In her former life, she has been a researcher in Artificial Intelligence, a cover model for Yoga Journal magazine in Russia and the owner of a beach bar in Spain. Uplifted Yoga Exclusive $200 discount codes for The Shakti School's Ayurvedic Wellness Coach Certification : If you would like to pay in full for the course, please use the discount code uplifted200 - this will take $200 off the tuition. If you would like a payment plan option, please enter code uplifted200plan at registration checkout. This will take $100 off the first two payments on any of the payment plan options. Order Glow-Worthy by Katie Silcox here FREE Practice: Total Body Yoga for Women | DEEP STRETCH HIPS AND BACK Relevant Blog: Understanding What is Divine Love: Key Insights and Perspectives Relevant to Today's Episode: 💖 Uplifted Membership 🌀 Somatic Yoga Life Coaching 💫 Somatic Certification 🎧 Also Listen to: #284 – How to Love Your [Broken, Dark and Angry] Self with Katie Silcox #352 – Redefining Feminine Energy in Yoga & Ayurveda with Katie Silcox © 2025 Uplifted Yoga | BrettLarkin.com

Nov 26

In this episode, I introduce the core principles of Feminine Form Kundalini, a radically different approach to energy and transformation. We explore how the body responds not to pressure, but to rhythm, wave-like movement, and the right conditions for deep inner uncoiling. This practice isn't about transcendence—it's about coming home to your body as the sacred gateway to power. You'll learn: 🔹 Why biological safety is the foundation of true spiritual awakening 🔹 How spiral and wave-like movement unlocks stuck energy 🔹 The vital role of pleasure in feminine energy practices 🔹 How this method differs from traditional Kundalini approaches This is your invitation to experience energy, embodiment, and transformation—on your terms. 🐍 Download the FREE Feminine Kundalini Starter Pack: https://www.brettlarkin.com/online-kundalini-yoga-teacher-training/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=ku FREE Practice: How to Awaken your Feminine Energy | EASY KUNDALINI YOGA FOR WOMEN Relevant Blog: Harnessing the Power of Kundalini Divine Feminine for Transformation Relevant to Today's Episode: Kundalini 200-hour YTT Kundalini Demystified 🎧 Also Listen to: #265 – What is the Kundalini Serpent? The Major Misunderstandings Demystified #277 – Trauma Conscious Kundalini Yoga with Katrina Marie © 2025 Uplifted Yoga | BrettLarkin.com

Nov 19

Looking for the perfect gift for the yogi or wellness lover in your life? Or maybe you're building your own holiday wish list? In this fun and cozy episode, Corinne and I share our favorite yoga gear, wellness hacks, and self-care staples—just in time for Black Friday and the holiday season. We dive into everything from yoga clothing and props to supplements and skincare tools, giving you a yogi-approved guide to all things supportive, stylish, and soul-nourishing. You'll hear: 🔹 Our go-to yoga clothing brands (from luxe to budget-friendly!) 🔹 Wellness staples we swear by—AG1, protein bars, electrolytes + more 🔹 Weird-but-awesome upgrades like face tape + at-home laser hair removal 🔹 Thoughtful gift ideas for yogis, wellness lovers + self-care enthusiasts ✨ Whether you're shopping for others or treating yourself, this episode is packed with ideas to inspire your holiday shopping and elevate your practice. Many of the items mentioned in this episode can be found at Brett's Amazon storefront (please also support local retailers, this was just the easiest place to assemble): https://www.amazon.com/shop/brettlarkinyoga Additional Vendors Mentioned: Uplifted Abundance Journal & Guidebook Uplifted Chakra Journal Kroma Wellness Pique Life - please note this is a referral link Stars and honey protein bars Wear Pepper - small bust bras Calia Clothing - also sold at dick's sporting goods Finding Morgan Tyler - bite size strength workouts GUEST EXPERT: Corinne Maples (RYT 500) | @maplesyoga Corinne has been doing yoga since 2011 and has practiced every style of yoga under the sun, loving them all for different reasons; leading her to go through Uplifted 200 and 300 hr YTT as well as additional training in kundalini, chair, and prenatal yoga. In 2024, Corinne also became a certified Embodied Yoga Life Coach, working one on one with people to help move energy, release stuck patterns and become more embodied. She loves to help people maximize their yoga practice by giving them access to potent practices that can be done in as little as 15-30 min. Corinne teaches one on one Embodied Yoga Life Coaching privates, workshops, corporate classes, and retreats. Book an Intro Session with Corrine: https://bookme.name/Mapleswellness/eylc-session For more information on her offerings please reach out to maplesyoga@gmail.com FREE Practice: Evening Yoga to Relax & Sleep Better - Yoga Flow 😴 Relevant to Today's Episode: ✅ 200-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training 🔮 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training 🐍 Yoga for Self Mastery 💖 Uplifted Membership 🌀 Somatic Yoga Life Coaching 💫 Somatic Certification 🎧 Also Listen to: #343 – Holiday Gift Guide for Yogis 2024 #350 – Do a "Yoga Life Makeover" with Corinne Maples © 2025 Uplifted Yoga | BrettLarkin.com

Nov 12

What does it mean to act with wisdom—and make every moment sacred? In Chapter 4 of the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna reveals how true wisdom isn't passive—it's a call to action. He teaches Arjuna how knowledge, action, and sacrifice are deeply intertwined, offering a timeless guide for navigating moral crises with clarity and courage. Today, we explore how these teachings apply to your modern life, showing you how to transform every choice, breath, and moment into an offering aligned with your highest purpose. Here's what you'll learn: 🔹 What it means to put wisdom into motion in your daily life 🔹 How to meet crisis with clarity, courage, and spiritual alignment 🔹 The deeper meaning behind Krishna's words: "When righteousness fails, I create myself" 🔹 Practical ways to bring a sense of devotion and meaning into everyday action If you've ever asked yourself, "What should I do next?"—this chapter offers a profound answer: Act with awareness. Move from wisdom. Make it sacred. Loved this episode? 👉 Dive deeper into yoga's origins with my History of Yoga Course 🐍 Or explore my 200-Hour Feminine Form Kundalini Training 📖 Different translations mentioned: Barbara Stoler Miller: https://www.amazon.com/Bhagavad-Gita-Krishnas-Counsel-Bantam-Classics/dp/0553213652 Godsong by Amit Majmudar: https://www.amazon.com/Godsong-Verse-Translation-Bhagavad-Gita-Commentary/dp/1524733474 Eknath Easwaran: https://www.amazon.com/Bhagavad-Gita-2nd-Eknath-Easwaran/dp/1586380192 Bhagavad-Gita As It Is by Swami Prabhupada: https://www.amazon.com/Bhagavad-Gita-As-Bhaktivedanta-Swami-Prabhupada/dp/0892131233 FREE Practice: Yoga for Energy & Courage: Power Yoga Sequence, 30-Min Yoga Class Relevant Blog: Kundalini for Feminine Energy: Ignite Your Creative Power and Passion Relevant to Today's Episode: ✅ 200-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training 🔮 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training 💖 Uplifted Membership 🎧 Also Listen to: #358 – Intro to The Bhagavad Gita: How Do You Navigate Moral Dilemmas? #361 – Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1: Dharma, Emotions & Intellect #367 – Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2 – Part 1: Should You Follow Your Emotions? Or Your Responsibilities? #374 – Karma Yoga & the Detached Yogi: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 2, Part 2 #379 – Acting Without Attachment in a Messy World: Bhagavad Gita Chapter 3 © 2025 Uplifted Yoga | BrettLarkin.com

Nov 5

It's time to dive deeper into the subtle energy system that powers your yoga practice—and your life. In Part 2 of our exploration of the Vayus, I explore Udana Vayu (upward-moving energy) and Vyana Vayu (the expansive force that integrates everything), and how they influence expression, circulation, and embodiment. We connect the Vayus to chakras, Ayurveda, mudras, and practical tools you can use to balance these energies in your body and teaching. You'll learn: 🔹 The roles of Udana Vayu (expression, growth, communication) and Vyana Vayu (circulation, integration, wholeness) 🔹 How to use mudras to enhance your energetic balance 🔹 The link between prana, apana, agni, and ojas 🔹 How understanding the Vayus can refine your personal practice and your teaching 🔹 Why self-assessment of your energetic patterns can change everything This episode brings the Vayus to life—and shows you how to harness them to support your body, emotions, and path as a practitioner or teacher. 💖 Ready to deepen your practice and live from your true nature? Explore the Uplifted Membership here => https://www.brettlarkin.com/uplifted/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=uplifted FREE Practice: 10 Min Easy Guided Meditation | MORNING MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS Relevant Blogs: Prana Vayu: The Breath of Vitality Apana Vayu: The Energy of Release & Surrender Samana Vayu: The Energy of Balance & How to Access It Udana Vayu: The Ascending Wind Vyana Vayu: The Energetic Secret to Flow Relevant to Today's Episode: ✅ 200-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training 🔮 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training 🐍 Yoga for Self Mastery 💖 Uplifted Membership 🎧 Also Listen to: #385 – The 5 Vayus: How Energy Moves Through Your Body (Part 1) Transcript © 2025 Uplifted Yoga | BrettLarkin.com

Oct 29

Join my 90-Day Profitability Roadmap for Yoga Teachers webinar–so you create income without confusion and burnout: https://www.brettlarkin.com/live-90day/ What happens when yoga philosophy becomes a living, breathing part of your life—and your business? In this episode, I sit down with Carla Cline Thomas, a graduate of the Uplifted™ 300-hour teacher training, to explore the Koshas—the five subtle layers of being—and how they influence everything from energy management to authentic leadership. Carla shares her journey of working with the Koshas to find deeper alignment, both on and off the mat, and how this wisdom has transformed her approach to business coaching. Here's what we cover: 🔹 How the Koshas can guide personal and professional evolution 🔹 Why prana isn't just breath, but your relationship to vitality 🔹 The connection between energy management and financial integrity 🔹 How Carla integrates yogic wisdom into her business coaching 🔹 Why creating nervous system safety is the key to sustainable transformation Whether you're on your own teacher training path or looking to live your yoga more fully, this episode offers both inspiration and actionable insights. 💖 Don't miss this: Reserve your seat for the 90-Day Profitability Roadmap for Yoga Teachers webinar and learn how to create income without confusion or burnout: https://www.brettlarkin.com/live-90day/ GUEST EXPERT: Carla Cline Thomas | @carlaclinethomas Carla Cline Thomas is an experienced Performance, Mindset and Business Coach with 22 years of working in management, real estate, marketing, and sales. After years of leading teams, designing marketing campaigns, and creating trainings for corporate America, she became the branding strategist, business mentor, lead trainer, and go-to coach for new yoga teachers and wellness leaders. Carla helps visionary entrepreneurs and light workers turn their passion into profit to get what is in your head and heart out into the world in the most authentic way possible. Book with Carla: https://calendly.com/carlaclinethomas/yoga-biz-breakthrough-call Get your Yoga Biz Breakthrough Blueprint Free Guide: https://www.carlaclinethomas.com/Soul-Statement-Guide FREE Practice: YOGA TO CONNECT WITH NATURE 🌱 | Beginner Yoga to Connect with the Universe & Yourself | 5 ELEMENTS 💫 Relevant Blog: Understand the Koshas and Discover 5 Deeper Dimensions of You Relevant to Today's Episode: 🔮 300-hour Online Yoga Teacher Training 🐍 Yoga for Self Mastery 🌀 Somatic Yoga Life Coaching 💫 Somatic Certification 🎧 Also Listen to: #354 – Redefining "Niche" with Carla Cline Thomas #384 – Do Less, Heal More: 7 Invitations to Resolve Trauma from Organic Intelligence #386 – Stop Selling Products—Start Selling YOU: Human Design for Visibility & Flow with Juliette Stapleton #387 – Book 4 of the Yoga Sutras: The Mystical Path to Liberation Explained © 2025 Uplifted Yoga | BrettLarkin.com