Ep 251 Keen on Yoga Podcast James Russell - Tracing the Origins of Modern Yoga

Adam interviews James Russell, a PhD student and yoga teacher, about the origins and evolution of Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) and its connections to Indian wrestling and nationalism. They discuss the historical context of yoga practices, the significance of Shat Karma in Hatha Yoga, and the impact of physical culture on modern yoga. Russell shares insights from his research and fieldwork in India, highlighting the importance of traditional practices that are often overlooked in contemporary yoga. Support the Podcast: Buy us a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/infoRf James Shares • Surya Namaskar has origins that may date back to ancient prostrations. • The practice of yoga has evolved significantly over centuries. • James Russell's research connects yoga with Indian wrestling traditions. • The Raj of Aund played a crucial role in modernizing Surya Namaskar. • Shat Karma practices are essential in traditional Hatha Yoga. • Modern yoga often neglects the historical context of its practices. • Nationalism influenced the development of physical culture in India. • Yoga's evolution is a blend of various cultural influences. • Understanding yoga requires a deep dive into its historical roots. • The significance of traditional practices is often lost in contemporary yoga. Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Origins of Surya Namaskar 06:51 The Influence of Wrestling on Yoga 13:30 Cultural Cross-Pollination: Persian and Indian Traditions 19:46 The Evolution of Surya Namaskar in Modern Yoga 27:33 Political and Cultural Significance of Surya Namaskar 35:02 Nationalism and Physical Culture in Colonial India 41:34 The Evolution of Yoga and Its Political Context 52:49 Shat Karma: The Cleansing Practices of Hatha Yoga James Russell Article on Sūryanamaskār: Tracing the Origins of Yoga's Sun Salutation | Journal of Yoga Studies Instagram: @jamesrussellyoga Website: www.jamesrussellyoga.com Keen on Yoga Website: www.keenonyoga.com Instagram: @keen_on_yoga | @adam_keen_ashtanga Retreats with Adam: https://www.keenonyoga.com/ashtanga-yoga-retreats Become a Patron: https://www.keenonyoga.com/patrons/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Keenonyoga