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Aug 2024
1h 5m

Balancing Physical Fitness and Spiritual...

Harmony Slater
About this episode

In this episode, Harmony and Russell chat with Arbely Rubalcava, a yoga teacher with a rich background in rhythmic gymnastics and over a decade of Ashtanga Yoga practice. Arbely shares her journey from competing in rhythmic gymnastics at a young age to discovering Modo Yoga in Montréal, which became a transformative practice for her. At 19, she traveled to Kerala, India, to complete a 500-hour Modo Level 1 teacher training, and later transitioned to Ashtanga Yoga, studying under Sharath Jois in Mysore. Arbely talks about the challenges of teaching yoga internationally, leading teacher trainings across various countries, and the emotional and physical toll of constant travel. Her story highlights the discipline required in both gymnastics and yoga, the importance of breath and meditation, and the evolution of her teaching practice over the years.

Key Discussion Points:

  • Arbely’s early years in rhythmic gymnastics and the pressures of competitive sports.
  • The transformative power of Modo Yoga and how it helped Arbely embrace and love her body.
  • The journey to Kerala, India for a 500-hour Modo Level 1 teacher training at age 19.
  • Transitioning from Modo Yoga to Ashtanga Yoga after moving to Regina for university.
  • Studying Ashtanga Yoga in Mysore, India under Sharath Jois and assisting renowned teachers in Bali.
  • Teaching yoga internationally and leading teacher trainings in Canada, Peru, and Thailand.
  • The challenges of constant travel and the toll it takes on both body and mind.
  • The importance of breath, meditation, and mindfulness in yoga practice.
  • How yoga can be adapted to serve life’s changing circumstances and remain accessible to all.

About the Guest: Arbely Rubalcava is a dedicated yoga teacher with over 1000 hours of yoga education and more than a decade of experience in practicing Ashtanga Yoga. Born in Mexico and raised in Montréal, Arbely’s journey began with rhythmic gymnastics, leading her to discover the healing power of yoga. After completing a 500-hour Modo Level 1 teacher training in Kerala, India, at the age of 19, Arbely has since traveled the world teaching yoga, leading teacher trainings, and continuing her own education. Her approach to teaching is compassionate yet firm, and she believes yoga can be made accessible to anyone, regardless of their background or experience level.

Connect with Arbely:

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