Asana can be a gateway into the wider yoga tradition | Patrick Franco

Asana can be a gateway into the wider yoga tradition | Patrick Franco

Author: Hindu American Foundation April 2, 2026 Duration: 40:38

In this episode of That’s So Hindu, Mat McDermott talks with yoga teacher Patrick Franco discusses the importance of asana within the broader context of yoga philosophy. He explores how movement, breath, and mindfulness can be integrated to achieve the true goals of yoga, addressing misconceptions and highlighting the significance of lineage and authentic practice.


Read Patrick’s article in Yoga Journal: https://www.yogajournal.com/teach/asana-yoga/

Practice with Patrick: https://yogarenew.com


Chapters


00:00 Introduction to Yoga and Asana

06:06 The Importance of Asana in Yoga

10:31 Post-COVID Yoga Landscape

13:58 Asana as a Gateway to Community

29:56 Gender Dynamics in Yoga Practice




Keywords


Yoga, Asana, Yoga Philosophy, Movement, Breath, Lineage, Yoga Practice, Spirituality, Yoga Education



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.


Exploring the vibrant intersection of ancient tradition and modern American life, That's So Hindu offers a series of conversations that feel more like insightful dialogues than formal interviews. Each episode sits down with a diverse range of voices-from entrepreneurs and activists to artists, professors, and policymakers-to uncover the personal and profound ways Hindu philosophy and culture influence their daily actions and broader contributions to society. This podcast, presented by the Hindu American Foundation, delves into how timeless principles like dharma, seva, and mindfulness are being lived out in contemporary careers, creative pursuits, and community engagement. Listeners will hear personal narratives and thoughtful reflections that challenge stereotypes, offering a nuanced look at identity, spirituality, and resilience. The discussions naturally reveal how these individuals navigate their dual heritage, integrating spiritual grounding into their work in technology, social justice, the arts, and academia. It’s a unique auditory space where the richness of Hindu thought meets the complex tapestry of American experience, providing depth and perspective often missing from mainstream conversations. Through these authentic stories, the podcast builds a compelling portrait of a dynamic community, its values, and its evolving impact.
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