Is yoga just stretching—or something more?In this episode, Ashley and Frank break down the meaning of yoga in simple, real-life terms. Moving beyond the common misconceptions—like needing to be flexible or fit—they explore yoga as a practice of connection: between body, mind, and breath.Through personal stories, beginner-friendly insights, and a guided three-part breath, they demystify the deeper layers of yoga—from physical postures to awareness, thought patterns, and everyday presence. Whether you’re brand new or returning to the basics, this conversation invites you to experience yoga not just on the mat, but in the middle of your daily life.You’ll explore:<ul><li>What yoga actually means (and what it doesn’t)</li><li>Why flexibility isn’t required</li><li>The deeper purpose behind the practice</li><li>How breath can regulate stress in real time</li><li>Simple ways to bring yoga into your everyday life</li></ul>Follow us: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/offthematpod/">https://www.instagram.com/offthematpod/</a>

OTM003 - What is Ayurveda?

Welcome to Off the Mat Pod, a podcast about living your yoga. This space is for seekers, thinkers, and the spiritually curious.Who Are We?Ashley D’Anna has practiced yoga for 14 years and taught for 11. Alongside her teaching, she studied Ayurveda — yoga’s sister science — as well as body-based therapies and the subtle energetic structures of the body and mind.Through her work, both one-on-one and in groups, she guides people to build capacity — not chase comfort. Through movement and breath, she teaches the discipline of staying present and meeting resistance directly. Her work centers on learning how to struggle well, transform intensity into clarity, and return to yourself.Ashley's Website: https://www.ashleyayurveda.com/Frank has been teaching Hatha yoga in the Central Florida area since 2012. It is his belief that yoga is for everyBODY! Through mindful movement and focus on the breath, anyone can reap the many benefits of a consistent yoga practice.In late 2015, Frank joined Full Circle Yoga as an Instructor of Yoga History and Philosophy for Full Circle Yoga’s 200-hr Teacher Training program. Frank has been heavily focused on teaching yogic philosophy and history. His focus is on the practical aspects of the application of yogic philosophy into everyday life.Frank’s passion is to focus on the therapeutic and restorative aspects of yoga and delights in teaching beginner-level Hatha, Yin, Meditation, History, Philosophy, and Yoga Nidra.Off the Mat: Frank loves coffee, reading, and is pursuing an M.Div. in Interreligious Chaplaincy and an M.A. in Religion &amp; Theology.Frank's Website: https://frankdelacruz.com/