Yoga Strong

I've named 2025 as my Year of Play and I'm inviting y'all to join me! I'm so excited to share today about The Play Experiment, a month-long experience that's all about building a life where play is part of the everyday. I'm joined by my friend and collaborator, Grey Tanner--a soul and somatic embodiment artist, teacher, and mentor (and queen of play!)--who I've invited to co-host with me. Today we share about how play has come to be a vital aspect of our lives, supporting our creativity, relationships, businesses, and whole-ass selves. We explore some of what play means for us, how that's expanded and evolved through time and practice, some of the ways ways cultural conditioning and our personal stories impact our ability to play, and how so much of our play has been about giving ourselves permission. We explore how play can be integrated into adult life, help us to discover and embody our authenticity and purpose, and how The Play Experiment is an invitation for all of it. Learn more about the Play Experiment and sign up here Connect with Grey on Instagram Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

This conversation goes deep and wide! Today we talk about curiosity and bravery in personal growth. Womanhood and leadership. The roles sensuality and sexuality play in understanding ourselves. Navigating relationships and self-image. And the importance of embracing vulnerability through it all. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

How we we cultivate authenticity? And why do we need it on social media? Some of the ways I've learned we do it: by facing fears, claiming our voices, playing, and experimenting. And to do a lot of that, we have to give ourselves permission. For me, authenticity is about being more of you, not imitating others. And when a lot in the world encourages us to be like others, to fit in boxes, we often have to be the ones to allow ourselves room to do something different or to expand. Social media can be a powerful tool for exploring authentic self-expression. It's a stage where you can share your unique story--and create connection and community. And we need both to thrive--individually, collectively, and in business. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

What does it mean to have an advanced yoga practice? Or to teach one? What does it mean for teachers? Today we explore some of the subjectivity of what constitutes an advanced practice, the importance of recognizing one's individual needs, and the role of teachers in guiding students. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Alignment--whether in yoga or in life--is not about straight lines, or a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead it's about finding the balance between structure and flow and exploring how each individual's experience and body shape their practice (and their life). In today's conversation, I delve into the significance of clear cues in teaching, the necessity of foundational knowledge, and the beauty of transitions in flow. I also talk about the teacher-student dynamic, the role of creativity in teaching, and discovering what lights you up. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today I'm sharing about a couple big experiences--my first time traveling overseas, and to teach Flow School in Switzerland!--and how those weave with a larger conversation about imposter syndrome, and what it means to grow as a teacher and human. I also explore the the significance of trust in teaching, how we cultivate inclusivity, balancing planning and play, and why creative sequencing and self-ownership matter in our leadership. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

In this conversation, we welcome Steph Alston and Rachel Brooks back to the podcast, and discuss the intricacies of studio ownership, focusing on the challenges, opportunities, and community aspects involved. We explore current problems in their businesses, the importance of grants and funding, sustainability in operations, and the significance of communication and connection within the studio environment. The discussion also touches on teaching styles, the role of experimentation in classes, and the journey of being a studio owner, emphasizing the need for collaboration and support. Connect on Instagram: Rachel, Seeking Space Yoga, and Yin Yoga Space Steph and Santosha Yoga Collective Previous episodes with these guests: Steph: episodes 236, 205, 227 Rachel: episodes 236, 188 Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

The last several weeks have been so big. I'm back to the podcast after a hiatus, to share some of what I've been navigating--including immense grief and loss after the unexpected death of my mother. This season has been reminding me of the importance of kindness, and celebrating life and the complexity of emotions. And it's been reminding me that we are all fighting unseen battles. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Life is good at surprising us and yet, as teachers and leaders, we're in positions of service, where we must show up for our students even when we're struggling. It can be complex to navigate the taking care of ourselves and others. So how can we balance the needs of our students while creating safe spaces for authenticity and vulnerability in our teaching? Do we always have to "have our shit together"? Today I talk about some of my own experiences in answers these and other questions. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Last week I returned from hosting a co-ed retreat on the Oregon coast, that I called Celebrate Your Whole Damn Self. And it was beautiful and full of magic and play and deep connection. And it was an experience that was co-created. Today I talk about that, and of the power of creating spaces--where we can breathe, and be, and flow and celebrate more of who we are. And of the magic of coming together, where everyone gets to bring and share their gifts. And what can ripple outward. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Entrepreneurship is a journey that involves challenges, successes, and continuous learning. And for aspiring entrepreneurs, there's so much to consider. Today, I share some of what I've learned and experienced in my first five years in business, including the importance of experimentation and trusting yourself, how I've found joy in the building process, and the role authenticity plays in long-term fulfillment. I also offer some questions for aspiring entrepreneurs. If you have questions for me, you're invited to add them here: Business Questions for Bonnie Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today I did something big and wild, that I've never done before, and it's got me thinking about the importance of trying new things, and their impacts on us as teachers and leaders. I wasn't in this experience alone. And it's also got me thinking about trust and support as we guide others. And about the importance of grounding and integration after trying something new. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today we're talking about amplifiers--meaning people, things, situations that help others grow, become bigger, or extend. I'm here to amplify others. And I'm here to create spaces that support amplification. I think so much of that comes through being honest with ourselves, and being curious and brave, and owning our voices--because that creates space for others to do the same. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

I'm into doing things a little different and I'm also into people who are doing things in different ways. Kate McKenzie, of YTT Design Lab, helps yoga teachers design and refine their teacher training programs. She joins me today to talk about the intersection of yoga and business, creativity and trailblazing, and what it means to design meaningful learning experiences. To connect with Kate: YTT Design Lab and Instagram Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Do you have a creative life? Are you a creative person? I encourage you to ask yourself these questions because I believe that creativity can be found in everyday activities and interactions--in conversations, problem-solving, and personal expression. Today we explore the relationship between creativity and the practice of paying attention and share some ways I incorporate creativity into my own life. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today we're joined by photographer and poet Katie O'Farrell, a dear friend of mine. In this expansive conversation, we talk about how the practice of finding joy in everyday life requires curiosity and bravery and how it can bring richness and excitement to our lives. We explore how we can transform our relationships with others and ourselves when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable. We also talk about the importance of surrending control and allowing life's flow to experience personal growth. Connect with Katie on Instagram Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Last night in Portland, I hosted the first gathering of Yoga Teacher Circle (YTC), a community space for yoga teachers to come together, learn, collaborate, and support each other. YTC is something I've wanted to create for a while. Because it's powerful to be in a room together. And it's important to create and gather in spaces where all voices are valued and respected, and where there is room for abundance and cooperation over competition. And this is something I want to experience in other cities, too. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today I tell about something spontaneous I did this week, where I embraced joy and playfulness. That was about saying yes to myself. This is an invitation to observe where you might be worrying too much what others think and curbing joy in your life, and where you may want to give yourself permission to say yes and do the things that feel like play. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

The stories we tell about ourselves can make us feel smaller or less valuable, or they can make us feel big. Today I share about how I'm reclaiming myself. Re-storying myself. Last week, I changed a story I've had about myself for a long time; the opportunity was unexpected but the choice was intentional: to move from a story that made me feel small to one that makes me feel big. This is about finding rooms where we can be our authentic selves. It's about finding the rooms where we get to be big, and invite others' big, and through that, change the world. Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner

Today, jazz musician and teacher Christopher Brown joins me to talk creativity, freedom of movement, and how discipline and systems support creative work. We also explore the intersection of music and creativity with yoga and movement, inviting more freedom and choice through control, challenging existing beliefs to grow and evolve, and the decision-making process involved in improvisation. Connect with Christopher: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, website Weekly stories by email from Bonnie’s HERE Connect with Bonnie: Instagram, Email (hello@bonnieweeks.com), Website Listen to Bonnie's other podcast Sexy Sunday HERE The music for this episode is Threads by The Light Meeting. Produced by: Grey Tanner