You are a yoga teacher or a health professional who wants to integrate yoga therapeutically. You want a more holistic, biopsychosocial approach to helping your clients heal. You want to empower them to listen and to learn about their bodies. In From Pain to Possibility, Susi Hately, B.Sc. Kinesiology blends modern understanding of anatomy and biomechanics with the ancient wisdom of yoga. This weekly show will share Susi's best ideas from over 25 years of helping her clients reduce and eradic ...
…
continue reading
Biopsychosocialmodel Podcasts
1
Tight Hamstrings Aren't A Hamstring Issue | #347
23:08
23:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:08In this episode, I explore why your hamstrings aren't the real problem, even if they constantly feel tight, overworked, or impossible to stretch out. I share why the sensation of "tightness" is often a protective response rather than a true tissue issue, and how patterns involving your hips, pelvis, feet, breath, and even your shoulder girdle play …
…
continue reading
1
Why Awareness Outperforms Finding the Perfect Cue | #346
22:30
22:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:30In this episode, I wrap up my three-part mini-series on choreography and awareness by sharing why awareness-first teaching often creates deeper, more lasting change than even the most precise cues. I explain how students can follow instructions perfectly yet still brace, grip, or feel pain, and how awareness helps their bodies reorganize into movem…
…
continue reading
1
From Choreography to Awareness with a Practice of Goddess, Warrior 3, Lunges | #345
20:28
20:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:28In this episode, I continue my three-part mini-series for yoga teachers who want to evolve into confident, effective yoga therapists. Today, I walk you through how we can bridge the gap between choreography and awareness, using a grounded, movement-based sequence of Goddess, Warrior 3, and lunges. I share an excerpt from one of my live practices, o…
…
continue reading
1
Teaching Shapes vs. Teaching Change: The Hidden Limits of Choreography | #344
16:55
16:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:55In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, I explore the real difference between teaching choreography and teaching movement — and why that shift is essential if you want to help people truly reduce pain. Choreography gives structure, predictability, and confidence, but it teaches shapes rather than change. When we rely on set sequences and perfe…
…
continue reading
In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, I dive into decoding migraines—not as random or mysterious attacks, but as patterns that can be understood, softened, and shifted. I share how awareness, calm, and curiosity can help you see the early signs of pain before it takes over. Through real stories from clients and graduates, you'll hear how mov…
…
continue reading
1
The Stance Phase - Where Gravity, Ground, and You Meet | #342
24:31
24:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:31In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, I continue my gait series by exploring the stance phase: the moment our bodies meet gravity and the ground. I share why gait isn't about fixing what's "broken," but about recognizing how our systems creatively adapt to support us. When we meet those adaptations with awareness instead of judgment, we shif…
…
continue reading
1
What My Son Taught Me About Gait & Propulsion | #341
19:20
19:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:20In this episode, I share how my eight-year-old son, Lewis, inspired me to see gait in a whole new way. When he decided he wanted to improve his walking, we began exploring small, mindful movements together — tuning into how his pelvis, ribs, and legs worked in harmony. What unfolded was a beautiful reminder that propulsion isn't about strength or e…
…
continue reading
In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, I explore one of the most fundamental human movements, gait, and how it reveals key insights into knee pain, fatigue, and overall movement patterns. Walking isn't just about the feet and knees; it's a coordinated dance between the hips, pelvis, ribs, and breath. When one part of the system fatigues or st…
…
continue reading
1
Anatomically Impossible? Why I Teach a Square Pelvis in Warrior 1
33:42
33:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:42In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, I dive into one of yoga's most debated cues: is squaring the pelvis in Warrior 1 anatomically impossible? I share why I don't see it that way, and how the real focus should be on intent, coordination, and clarity of movement. When we shift the lens away from "possible vs. impossible," we uncover how this…
…
continue reading
1
Mirrors of Transition — Symptoms as Messengers of Change | #338
29:32
29:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:32In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, I share how symptoms like fatigue, fog, or pain are not signs of decline but invitations to reorganize and step into the next version of yourself. Instead of pushing them away or labeling them as aging, I show how they can become messengers guiding you through identity shifts and new possibilities. You'l…
…
continue reading
1
What is Certification and the Intensive | #337
23:41
23:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:41In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, I share what it means to shift from being a yoga teacher to becoming a healing facilitator. This isn't just about learning more cues, sequences, or anatomy. It's about reconnecting with why you were drawn to this work in the first place and learning how to integrate what you already know with new skills …
…
continue reading
1
Becoming a Movement Detective Part 3 of 3: Integration
19:55
19:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:55In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, I wrap up my three-part series on becoming a movement detective. We've explored the importance of being an eyewitness and stepping into detective mode, and now I'm bringing it together with integration. This is where observation and curiosity meet, and the body naturally reorganizes without forcing or fi…
…
continue reading
1
Becoming a Movement Detective Part 2 of 3: Detective
18:49
18:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:49In this episode of From Pain to Possibility, we continue our three-part series on becoming a movement detective. In the first episode, we explored the power of being an eyewitness, noticing clearly without rushing to fix, name, or judge. Now we move into the next step: shifting from eyewitness to detective. This isn't about blaming one muscle or fi…
…
continue reading
1
Becoming a Movement Detective Part 1 of 3: Eyewitness
17:45
17:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:45In this episode, I'm kicking off a three-part series on becoming a movement detective. Instead of piling on exercises or trying to "fix" the body, it's about observing, listening, and asking better questions, like a detective gathering clues. By slowing down and noticing patterns, we start to see what's really going on beneath the surface. You'll h…
…
continue reading
1
How To Stop Making Pain the Problem To Fix | #333
31:58
31:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:58In this episode, I'm exploring a gap I see so many skilled practitioners fall into, not because they don't have enough tools or techniques, but because of how they're approaching pain. Too often, we slip into "fix-it mode," seeing clients as though something is broken. What I've come to understand is that pain isn't the problem to solve; it's a sig…
…
continue reading
1
The Mechanics of Real Change - From Pain to Possibility Part 3 of 3
24:11
24:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:11In this final episode of my three-part series, I explore what happens when a client doesn't want to talk. Whether they're silent, shut down, or resisting the moment is rich with information, not failure. I'll guide you through how to recognize the power of presence, how to stay grounded when words are few, and how co-regulation begins not with fixi…
…
continue reading
1
The Mechanics of Real Change - From Pain to Possibility Part 2 of 3
28:03
28:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:03In this episode I explore what happens after the pain starts to subside, those powerful moments of relief that so often get brushed aside. This is where real change begins. You'll hear how to help your clients (or yourself) recognize what's present when pain is gone, and why naming that new sensation- calm, spaciousness, stability, creates the foun…
…
continue reading
1
The Mechanics of Real Change - From Pain to Possibility Part 1 of 3
35:14
35:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:14In this episode, I'm kicking off a new three-part series called The Mechanics of Real Change. I'm diving deep into what I've seen over the past 30 years truly helps people get out of pain, and stay out. I share a story from a recent cycling trip in Italy that helped me see, once again, how solid biomechanics create the foundation for lasting change…
…
continue reading
1
Coordination Over Contraction - Rethinking Core Retraining: A Client Story | #329
29:44
29:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:44In this episode, I share the story of a long-time client who's done all the "right" things but still felt like something was missing. We explore the often overlooked difference between muscle activation and true coordination, and why repetition without repatterning can reinforce compensation instead of healing. Join me as I share insights on how to…
…
continue reading
1
The 3 Stages of Growing Into an Effective Yoga Therapist | #328
24:05
24:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:05In this episode, I guide yoga teachers, massage therapists, and movement professionals through the three stages of evolving from teacher to skilled yoga therapist. I explain the "accidental success" phase, the importance of integrating knowledge for clarity and confidence, and how to build a sustainable, trusted practice. I offer practical advice f…
…
continue reading
1
Planes of Movement - Over Posture Fixes: A Case Study in Coordination vs Compensation | #327
23:16
23:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:16In this episode, I explore a case study on forward head posture and hypermobility, focusing on chronic neck and shoulder tension. I discuss how movement professionals can support lasting change by prioritizing coordinated movement and somatic awareness over simply correcting posture. I share practical strategies, such as breathwork and targeted exe…
…
continue reading
1
The Inner Infrastructure of a Sustainable Yoga Business | #326
27:43
27:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:43In this episode, I offer compassionate guidance for yoga teachers on building a sustainable yoga business. I share my journey, highlight the importance of self-concept, and encourage embracing life's challenges without waiting for perfect conditions. I advocate for authenticity, presence, and nervous system regulation as keys to thriving profession…
…
continue reading
1
SI Joint As A Messenger: What Your Shoulders, Rib Cage and Hips Are Saying | #325
19:17
19:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:17In this episode, I explore the sacroiliac (SI) joint and its part in movement and pain. I encourage you to see the SI joint as a helpful messenger, not just a problem area, highlighting the roles of the ribcage, shoulder girdle, and pelvis. I share practical tips for improving movement patterns and body awareness, empowering you to better understan…
…
continue reading
1
Pain Isn't Always the Problem: Compensation Patterns You Might Be Missing | #324
18:38
18:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:38In this episode, I invite you—especially women—to consider pain as a helpful signal rather than an enemy. I describe how pain often points to hidden compensation patterns in the body, not just injury. I encourage gentle self-observation, focusing on movement transitions and listening to your body's cues. By understanding pain as a guide, you can di…
…
continue reading
1
Knee Health Reimagined: Why Movement Quality Matters More Than Muscle Strength | #323
22:38
22:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:38In this episode, I explore knee health and talk about common concerns regarding knee pain in yoga practice. I maintain that knees are resilient, not fragile, and I highlight the importance of considering the whole body—especially the foot, hip, and breath—when addressing knee issues. I encourage a holistic, integrated approach to movement, focusing…
…
continue reading
In this episode, I explore how traditional anatomy education often overlooks the body's interconnectedness. I explore a holistic, "woven" approach to understanding movement and the role of fascia. I encourage movement professionals and yoga teachers to shift from treating isolated symptoms to addressing the body as an integrated system, and to deep…
…
continue reading
1
Understanding the Planes of Movement | #321
33:32
33:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:32In this episode, I explore the planes of movement—sagittal, frontal, and transverse—and their vital role in reducing physical pain. I explain how these biomechanical principles help movement professionals identify and address compensatory patterns in clients. I emphasize observation, curiosity, and building trust in movement, rather than simply cor…
…
continue reading
1
The Shoulder Isn't the Problem: Tracing the Real Patterns Behind Pain | #320
24:45
24:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:45In today's episode, I share a case study of a client with persistent shoulder pain. I explain how pain often signals deeper, interconnected issues in the body. I highlight the importance of understanding movement patterns, breath, and compensation, encouraging listeners—especially women—to view pain as an opportunity for insight rather than just a …
…
continue reading
In this episode, I describe my program "I Love Kinesiology" which is all about bridging the gap between an academic kinesiology education and practical movement training for yoga teachers and movement practitioners. I share my own journey from getting a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology to weaving yoga into my practice. I emphasize how crucial it …
…
continue reading
1
Core is Not a Muscle; It is a System | #318
36:03
36:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:03In this episode, I explore the "core" as an integrated system involving muscles, fascia, breath, and the nervous system. I challenge the common directive to "engage your core" and instead focus on understanding its role in fluid, responsive movement rather than rigid bracing. I highlight the importance of core responsiveness for optimal movement, a…
…
continue reading
1
Embodied Clarity: Retraining Past Patterns Through Biomechanics, Neuroscience, and a Bit of Woo | #317
22:21
22:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:21In this episode, I'm offering guidance on how to transition from a 200-hour teacher training to therapeutic practices. I emphasize a return to clarity and authenticity rather than chasing dramatic breakthroughs. I discuss the nervous system's protective patterns and advocate for compassionate, precise movements to foster safety and transformation. …
…
continue reading
1
The Second Arc: The Stepwise Progression from Cues and Alignment to True Biomechanical and Therapeutic Skill | #316
21:45
21:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:45In this episode, I outline the transformative journey that yoga teachers go through, from their basic training to mastering advanced therapeutic practices. I introduce what I call the "second arc" of development, where I break down five stages that help enhance skills in biomechanics, nervous system awareness, and therapeutic problem-solving. I emp…
…
continue reading
1
From Fix-It to Flow: The Therapeutic Shift from Yoga Teacher to Yoga Therapist | #315
28:40
28:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:40In this episode, I'm speaking to fellow yoga teachers who might feel a bit stuck after their initial 200-hour training. These feelings of limitation can be frustrating, but they can be important milestones on our journey to becoming therapeutic yoga teachers. I break down this growth into five stages: Awareness, Assessment, Adaptation, Attunement, …
…
continue reading
1
Teaching Yoga for Osteoporosis: It's About More Than the Pose | #314
22:11
22:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:11In this episode, I outline some effective yoga teaching strategies for students dealing with osteoporosis. I emphasize creating a safe and supportive environment, moving away from traditional alignment-focused methods toward a more intuitive, presence-based approach. I also highlight the importance of compassionate communication and how creating a …
…
continue reading
1
Yoga and Osteoporosis: Rewiring the Body's GPS | #313
16:08
16:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:08In this episode, I go into how osteoporosis can really affect both our physical health and how confident we feel in our bodies. I talk about why it's so important to build movement confidence and reconnect with ourselves, especially through yoga, to help us trust our bodies again. I introduce the idea of an "internal GPS," or the sensory motor loop…
…
continue reading
1
What If the Symptom Isn't the Problem? Reclaiming Power, Precision, and Coherence Through the Body | #312
14:19
14:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:19In this episode, I explore the deeper meanings behind those nagging symptoms like back pain and shoulder tightness. I stress how important it is to recognize and name the symptoms, understanding them as survival strategies instead of malfunctions. By fostering awareness and patience, I guide you to transform your pain into opportunities for growth …
…
continue reading
1
Rotator Cuff: Understanding Rotator Cuff Function Through Integration, Not Isolation | #311
13:09
13:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:09In this episode, I examine the complexities of the rotator cuff, challenging some common myths and stressing a holistic approach to shoulder health. Based on over 30 years' experience, I explain how shoulder pain often comes from compensatory patterns instead of just isolated muscle weakness. I touch upon the need to look at whole-body movement and…
…
continue reading
1
Becoming the Practitioner Clients Remember: Inside the Functional Synergy Certification | #310
25:46
25:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:46In this episode, I chat about how my programs empower yoga teachers, movement educators, and healthcare practitioners to effectively manage and reduce physical pain in their clients. I dive into the common challenges we face, like feeling stuck or unsure about helping clients with complex pain issues. I highlight the importance of understanding the…
…
continue reading
1
When The Body Says No: From Override to Attunement | #309
19:33
19:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:33In this episode, I explore how our bodies talk to us through pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. I stress how crucial it is to pay attention to those subtle hints before they blow up into bigger problems. I introduce what I call the "cycle of endurance," where we often push through little discomforts, which can lead to more serious issues down the l…
…
continue reading
1
Precision That Lands - The Art of Guiding Change Without Force
15:59
15:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:59In this episode, I introduce the idea of "precision that lands" to help ease physical pain and how crucial it is to apply what we know in a way that our bodies can actually absorb, instead of just piling on more effort. I share stories from successful clients to show how getting a grip on body mechanics and clearing out interference can really make…
…
continue reading
1
Beyond Correcting Movement – Developing Real Connection Between Brain and Body | #307
20:02
20:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:02In this episode, I advocate for a transformative approach to movement, focusing on the brain-body connection instead of just correcting techniques. I discuss how building awareness and connection can lead to lasting improvements in how we move and feel overall. I share some practical tips for teaching and practicing movement, emphasizing the import…
…
continue reading
1
Glutes: More Than Strength—Unlocking Safety, Stability, and Pain Relief | #306
17:27
17:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:27In this episode, I explain the many roles of the glutes beyond just strength and power and discuss how the glutes connect with the nervous system, highlighting why safety and stability are so crucial. I introduce ideas like "danger in me signals" (dims) and "safety in me signals" (sims) to show how our nervous system impacts glute activation. Final…
…
continue reading
1
Unlearning vs. Retraining – The Neuroscience of Recovery & Pain Relief | #305
22:15
22:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:15In this episode, I explore the idea of "unlearning versus retraining" to help manage and reduce physical pain. I talk about neuroplasticity and motor control, sharing my own journey of overcoming chronic pain by retraining my movement patterns. I explain how the nervous system replaces old habits instead of erasing them, and I advocate for making g…
…
continue reading
1
Bridging Yoga with Rehab, PT, and Functional Movement | #304
34:00
34:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:00In this episode, I discuss how yoga rehab and functional movement can help ease physical pain, with a focus on understanding movement patterns rather than sticking to traditional alignment cues. I chat about the usual hurdles yoga teachers and therapists face and advocate a more dynamic approach to asana, shining a light on how important the nervou…
…
continue reading
In this episode, I talk about my three-month series for private one-on-one clients, sharing how it's structured and the benefits it brings. After my maternity leave, I moved away from one-off sessions and realized how crucial it is for clients to commit and follow a structured plan for real healing. This episode is packed with insights on how dedic…
…
continue reading
1
Everyday Wins: The Tangible Side of Nervous System Magic | #302
28:57
28:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:57In this episode, I begin a new series where we'll explore various strategies to help both clients and practitioners address and overcome pain. I'm drawing from my own experiences and I want to inspire you to see that managing pain doesn't have to be complicated—it can actually be pretty straightforward and totally doable if you know what approach t…
…
continue reading
1
Seeing the Matrix: Why Pain Isn't the Problem—It's the Clue | #301
22:42
22:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:42In this episode, I dive into the idea of "seeing the matrix," which is all about understanding the complex layers of how we move, experience pain, and heal. I focus on noticing how our bodies compensate when something isn't quite right. I use the biopsychosocial model to look at physical, emotional, and psychological health. I introduce three main …
…
continue reading
1
4 Steps to Becoming a Certified Yoga Therapy Pain Relief Expert | #300
22:54
22:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:54In this episode, I explore the journey to becoming a certified yoga therapist, focusing on alleviating physical pain. With over two decades of experience, I emphasize the importance of building a healing relationship with clients. I outline a structured, four-step approach to pain relief: establishing a supportive connection, addressing brain-body …
…
continue reading
In this episode, I introduce the Functional Synergy Toolkit, a set of 16 concepts and tools designed to revolutionize pain management and healing. I emphasize the importance of a relational approach, where trust and understanding between the practitioner and client are paramount. Key tools I discuss include the Healing Helix, Client Commitment Blue…
…
continue reading
Is healing pain really as complex as it's often made out to be? While the current drumbeat in the rehabilitation world is that pain is complex, that statement often leads to a lot of resignation for many professionals, which trickles down to clients. Yes, there are layers and work to do, but is it actually complex? I don't think so. When I help som…
…
continue reading