Liberating Yoga Yoga vs. Commercialization: Can We Reclaim It? | Susanna Barkataki
May 5, 2025
Susanna Barkataki, a Yoga Teacher and Social Justice Advocate, dives deep into the commercialization of yoga and its implications. She discusses the journey of reclaiming yoga’s roots, emphasizing the importance of decolonization and inclusivity. The conversation navigates through issues of cultural appropriation, the harmful norms dominating modern practice, and the responsibility of teachers to respect yoga’s heritage. Susanna advocates for community solidarity over competition, urging practitioners to engage with yoga's authentic history for a more meaningful experience.
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Feeling Disconnected in Western Yoga
- Harpinder's early yoga experiences at UCLA felt alienating due to whiteness, able-bodiedness, and hierarchy.
- She found belonging and authentic yoga connection later in India.
Clarify and Acknowledge Yoga's Depth
- Teachers should clarify when they teach yoga-inspired practices, acknowledging yoga's full complexity.
- They must address cultural appropriation harm honestly while encouraging deeper learning beyond the mat.
Teachers Must Deepen Practice
- Yoga teachers must deepen their own practice to teach beyond superficial levels.
- Teachers should honor yoga's full depth and take responsibility for carrying its wisdom authentically.