Podcast
Yoga Solutions Episode 19:
Yoga Care for Nervous System
with Malaika Vida
Yoga Care for Nervous System with Malaika Vida
In today’s episode of Yoga Solutions, I’m joined by the radiant Malaika Vida, an incredible teacher and movement artist dedicated to guiding people towards nervous system harmony and embodied joy. Malaika brings a wealth of knowledge from her journey, combining the grounding practices of yoga with the playfulness of AcroYoga and a trauma-informed approach to movement. With a background that spans her own transformative experiences at Harvard to building a community at Valley AcroYoga in Los Angeles, Malaika shares tools for healing, connection, and inner balance.
This conversation is a heartfelt dive into how we can care for our nervous systems through movement, breath, and presence. We explore the power of grounding practices, how AcroYoga can foster deeper trust and connection, and how to honour our body’s natural responses. We also touch on the magic of storytelling and rituals that bring calm and clarity to our daily lives.
What You'll Learn from This Episode:
[00:03:20] The Role of Yoga in Navigating Stress and Big Life Changes
[00:05:10] What Is AcroYoga and How It Transforms Relationships with Others and Self
[00:08:07] Building Consent and Nervous System Awareness in Partner Yoga
[00:11:21] Exploring Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Deep Relaxation
[00:13:49] Storytelling as a Somatic Practice: The Fox and the Fleas
[00:17:22] Reclaiming Agency and Connection in Overwhelming Moments
Quotes to Remember:
“When your nervous system is so overloaded, when you can’t even remember what to do, it’s a message from your body. Slow down, pause, and check in to know what’s going on.”
“Sometimes, the most profound healing comes from asking: What do I really need right now? What can make my experience better in this moment?”
Listen to the Full Episode:
Medical Disclaimer:
Please know any yoga wellness or health advice presented is not meant to replace the advice of your personal physician or other healthcare professional always seek competent medical care.
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Meet the Voice Behind this Podcast Episode
Get to Know Our Dynamic Hosts
Experts in Yoga, Social Change, Health and Wellness
Malaika Vida
Trauma-informed Acroyoga Instructor
Malaika started her yoga teaching journey in Power Vinyasa and incorporates her original love of Meditation into each yoga class. She is currently teaching Mat Pilates Yoga and Trauma-informed Acroyoga in Woodland Hills.
Susanna Barkataki
Host, Yoga Solutions Podcast & Founder, Yoke Yoga
Susanna Barkataki (she/her) has been called “a trailblazing yoga leader and visionary for our times.” An Indian teacher building bridges in the West, she is known for her work in decolonizing and embracing the roots of yoga. She is the tech founder of Yoke Yoga, a free yoga app of micro practices for more peace in seconds. Bringing yoga socially to all people to help solve everyday problems at YokeYoga.com
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