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April 23, 2024

Prison Cells to Nordic Retreats: An Unconventional Path of Yoga

Prison Cells to Nordic Retreats: An Unconventional Path of Yoga

In this compelling episode of the Finding Harmony podcast, we meet Alex Medin, a man who has lived through an extraordinary life of transformation. From his early days as a boxer, to his deep immersion in Sanskrit studies, to his groundbreaking work ...

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Finding Harmony Podcast

In this compelling episode of the Finding Harmony podcast, we meet Alex Medin, a man who has lived through an extraordinary life of transformation. From his early days as a boxer, to his deep immersion in Sanskrit studies, to his groundbreaking work with inmates and addicts, Alex's journey is a testament to the power of yoga as a tool for healing, self-discovery, and service.

Key Points and Themes:

Yoga for Trauma and Transformation: Alex shares how his own struggles led him to explore yoga's capacity to heal deep wounds, both for himself and others.

Yoga in Prisons: Discover how Alex's work in prisons ignited his passion for using yoga as a vehicle for rehabilitation and personal growth.

Building a Haven: Learn about the incredible story behind Nosen Retreat Center in Norway, a sanctuary Alex founded to offer hope and healing to those in need.

The Mindfulness of Boxing: Explore the unexpected parallels between the focus and presence required in boxing and the transformative power of yoga practice.

The Bhagavad Gita as a Guiding Force: Alex shares how the wisdom of this ancient text has shaped his life's work

Guest Bio:  Alexander Medin has been teaching yoga for 28 years. He was certified by the legendary Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in 2002, an honor achieved by only 33 individuals. He holds an MA in Sanskrit and Indian Religions (SOAS 2004) and has had the privilege of traveling the world teaching yoga. He is the founder of Puro Yoga, the Back in the Ring Foundation, and Nøsen Yoga and Mountain Hotel.

 

Alexander is a classic dandelion child. Despite a troubled upbringing, he became the Norwegian champion in Breakdance (1984) and later in boxing (1987) before completing a classical ballet education (1990). He later worked for five years as a dancer and musical artist before he had the privilege to teach yoga.

 

Call to Action:
Visit Nosen Retreat Center: Learn more about Alex's work and the transformative programs offered at Nosen. https://www.nosenyoga.no

Join Harmony's Norway Retreat: Experience the power of yoga and nature firsthand. Sign up for Harmony's upcoming retreat at Nosen Retreat Center.

Discover the “Gangster Yoga” and  "Back in the Ring" Projects: Learn more about how you can support these missions: https://www.nosenyoga.no/en/community-projects

 

Did you like this episode with Alex?

You can hear more of his story in episode 68!

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** If you or someone you love needs support with addiction. Find helpful suggestions here: https://drugabuse.com/addiction/hotlines/ **

 

SPECIAL APRIL CHALLENGE!!!! WIn a 1:1 session with Harmony!

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Chapters

00:00 - Welcome to Finding Harmony: An Introduction

00:45 - Deep Dive with Alexander Medin: Yoga, Transformation, and Social Impact

04:30 - Exploring Language, Culture, and Personal Journeys

31:30 - Transforming Lives Through Yoga: A Journey Inside Prisons

41:48 - From Prisons to a Yoga Retreat: The Birth of Nosen

59:15 - The Essence of Yoga Beyond Asanas

Alexander Medin Profile Photo

Alexander Medin

R. Alexander Medin has been teaching yoga for 28 years. He was certified by the legendary Sri K. Pattabhi Jois in 2002, an honor achieved by only 33 individuals. He holds an MA in Sanskrit and Indian Religions (SOAS 2004) and has had the privilege of traveling the world teaching yoga. He is the founder of Puro Yoga, the Back in the Ring Foundation, and Nøsen Yoga and Mountain Hotel.

Alexander is a classic dandelion child. Despite a troubled upbringing, he became the Norwegian champion in Breakdance (1984) and later in boxing (1987) before completing a classical ballet education (1990). He later worked for five years as a dancer and musical artist before he had the privilege to teach yoga.