Embodied Resistance – Anjali Rao

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What might we learn from the marginalised stories of women in yogic traditions? 🧘‍♀️

Although female practitioners are prevalent today, ancient texts mostly talk about men. However, broadening the focus beyond ascetic yogis, we find empowered women – as well as awkward truths about social restrictions.

Anjali Rao is the author of Yoga as Embodied Resistance: A Feminist Lens on Caste, Gender, and Sacred Resilience in Yoga History. Our conversation explores hidden links between gender and caste, and the impact of colonialism on social hierarchies. We also discuss inspiring stories of radical females whom Anjali highlights.

Her overall aim is to encourage practitioners to think about ways to expand their perspectives, presenting yoga as an activist path to collective liberation. Her book is published on October 14, and available for pre-order now. She’s also hosting a reading group to talk about ways of dismantling oppression and developing agency.

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