About My Guest

A practicing physical therapist and yoga teacher for 28 years, Lara received both her undergraduate and graduate education from Duke University and as a licensed physical therapist, continued her studies with a Post Grad specialization in Neurodevelopmental Training with Recovering Function Organization through Stanford University. Combining her educational background in physiological studies and her passion for movement, Lara completed her 200-hour teacher training. After several years of teaching, she noticed a void in the inclusion of anatomy in the conversations of yoga training. In the years to follow, Lara began to refine the LYT Yoga Method, combining physiology, kinesiology, neurology, and functional movement patterns to yield a more cohesive movement philosophy. In 2011 Lara opened the first official LYT Yoga Studio, Yoga Stream, in Princeton NJ, and began to share her teachings through an online platform, the LYT daily. The LYT yoga method in-person and online teacher trainings have codified her technique that is now shared by hundreds of teachers around the world. Additionally, Lara teaches international retreats, workshops and festivals and shares her passion for movement and wellness on the award- winning ‘Redefining Movement’ podcast with over 3 million downloads. Lara is also a certified Natural Food Chef and a certified Holistic Health Coach. She lives a vegan lifestyle with her husband, two children, and beloved animals.

Summary

In this episode, Leah Vachani and Lara dive into the fascinating connection between chronic pain and movement, showing how pain isn’t just physical but also shaped by our brain’s neuroplasticity. Lara shares eye-opening insights on how movement can actually help manage pain, especially as we age, and how shifting our mindset about pain can transform our relationship with our bodies. If you're ready to break free from pain and embrace a more vibrant, active life, this episode is packed with practical strategies and inspiration to help you get there!

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The information provided during this podcast is for educational purposes only. The speaker may be a licensed medical professional and may present case studies of actual patients or refer to patients' treatment during the program. Please be reminded that the Scope of Practice for Holistic Nutrition Professionals prevents us from diagnosing, preventing, treating, curing, prescribing, managing, or healing disease. Holistic Nutrition Professionals are not licensed in any state and work with clients, not patients.

Takeaways

Chronic pain is a common experience, especially in Western culture.

Pain is a sensation that can be reframed as an informant rather than an enemy.

Neuroplasticity allows the brain to reorganize and adapt, impacting pain experiences.

Movement is essential for aging and can improve quality of life.

Challenging oneself through movement can enhance feelings of safety and well-being.

Pain is often linked to stress responses and can be managed through movement.

Understanding body mechanics is crucial for effective movement and pain management.

Age should not be a limiting factor in pursuing movement and wellness.

Resetting the body through specific movements can enhance overall function.

A positive mindset towards movement can lead to significant improvements in chronic pain.

Sound Bites

"Pain is just an opinion of the brain."

"You have to move more but you have to move smarter."

"Don't ever use age as a limiting factor."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Chronic Pain and Movement

02:57 Understanding Pain: A Multifaceted Experience

05:50 Neuroplasticity and Chronic Pain

09:11 The Role of Movement in Pain Management

12:08 Rewiring the Brain: Overcoming Pain Narratives

14:55 Movement Strategies for Aging Gracefully

18:11 The Importance of Smart Movement

21:01 Befriending Your Body and Brain

23:54 Addressing Pain: Beyond Medication

26:46 Taking Action: First Steps to Pain-Free Living

Resources

Connect with Lara and join her LYT Daily platform here with 1 free month!

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