#93 - What is Real Yoga? - Yoga in Montenegro with Max Pranić

Welcome to Episode #93 of the Wild Yoga Tribe Podcast! My conversation with Max Pranić, a yoga teacher from Montenegro, was fascinating as we discussed the the distinction between real yoga and what is often referred to as yoga. Max comments on the global yoga supermarket, and how yoga can be treated now like a hamburger. I’m sure this conversation is one that will give you a lot of food for thought. If you’re looking to tune into a podcast episode that is all about yoga in Montenegro then this is the conversation for you.

Support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/wildyogatribe

For the skimmers - What’s in the yoga in Montenegro episode?

• Being invested in the authenticity and integrity of yoga practice
• The distinction between real yoga and what is often referred to as yoga
• The global yoga supermarket and the treatment of yoga as a product
• Why is ananda (bliss) an integral part of a yoga practice?
• Yoga in the west can be violent towards bodies and minds
• The importance of ahimsa (non-violence) in yoga

Tell me more about Max Pranić - Prawn-isch 

Max Pranić has been practicing and teaching yoga for over 20 years in various international settings, with his home base in the beautiful Adriatic country of Montenegro. He conducts regular classes and private training sessions at Yogaboka studio in Kotor Bay, PMYC Sports Club in Porto Montenegro, Tivat, and Chenot Espace Spa at One & Only, Portonovi. 

Max's teaching approach is rooted in slow and gentle Hatha yoga, incorporating elements of Kriya and Raja yoga. His classes are suitable for practitioners of all levels, including beginners. As students progress, Max gradually introduces various pranayamas, dharanas, kriyas, mudras, bandhas, and other tools of a more subtle yoga practice. He also teaches traditional Indian Tantra yoga.

What to expect in the Yoga In Montenegro episode of the Wild Yoga Tribe Podcast

Max Pranić, an experienced yoga teacher from Montenegro, shares his profound journey with yoga and its authentic practice. He begins by clarifying that yoga, for him, is a sadana, a practice that involves the connection of body, mind, and breath. Before fully diving into traditional Indian yoga, Max explored various other practices like karate, kung fu, and zen meditation. However, it was yoga led him on a path of teaching and practicing yoga for over 20 years.

Max's insight into yoga came when he studied with authentic Indian teachers during his years spent in India. His experiences studying with accomplished Indian masters enriched his understanding of yoga's true essence. He particularly emphasizes the significance of having a guru or spiritual teacher, which is more than just a technical or physical instructor. True yoga goes beyond the mat; it is a way of life, as all of life is yoga.

The discussion delves into the widespread popularity of yoga in the West. Max expresses gratitude for yoga's accessibility to people worldwide but also highlights some of the challenges. He notes that while yoga has become prevalent, it has also been diluted and misunderstood— which is especially notable with Tantra Yoga. People often miss the profound depths that the practice offers.

Max emphasizes that yoga is not about achieving something but about unlocking the hidden potentials within oneself. It involves a non-violent approach (ahimsa) towards oneself and others. Yoga helps individuals integrate their physical, mental, and spiritual aspects, leading to a state of bliss (Ananda) and inner connection.

Curious? Tune into the whole episode to learn more about yoga in Montenegro!

<