Welcome to episode #37 We’re thrilled to be joined by Deborah Charnes today. Deborah is a certified yoga therapist and author of “From the Boxing Ring to the Ashram: Wisdom for Mind, Body and Spirit”. Before dedicating herself to writing and therapy she worked high-pressured jobs as a PR and marketing strategist for multi-nationals. Welcome to the show Deborah!
Questions
Can you tell us about your experience with neurodiversity? When did you realize that you weren’t neurotypical? What challenges did you face? What is it like now?
From a young age realized she was different
Self-diagnosis with ADHD
Inattention and hyperactivity
Falls asleep in movies in cinemas (dark lights)
Driving alone can be a problem
Deals with attention issues through yoga and breathwork
Agni - digestive practices
What "work" projects are you concentrating on?
Previously worked in corporate PR/marketing
Then built her own consultancy representing businesses that have a positive impact
Now yoga therapist (3 years of training)
1 on 1
Retreats and workshops
Author “From the boxing ring to the ashram”
How about the rest of the time? What do you enjoy doing in your off time?
Traveling (just worked in Costa Rica for 5 weeks, have worked in India, Nicaragua)
What does your morning routine look like and how has it evolved over time?
Wakes up at 4.30 am
1hr of yin and restorative yoga + Jappa
Prana Yama in bed
Lemon ginger tea (fresh ginger and lemon)
24 Sun salutations
Breakfast
Cacao and adaptogens
What do you do to optimize productivity during your working hours?
Ten-minute breathing breaks for boosting energy and empathy
Sabbath (digital disconnect once per week)
COMMERCIAL BREAK
What is one habit you'd like to remove from your life (either a bad habit or one that takes up too much time)?
Carbs
How do you switch off at night?
Meal timing (light dinner)
Avoid bright lights (candles/salt lamps)
Long bath (Epsom salts)
Meditation
What resources (books, philosophies, apps, sensory toys) do you find most helpful for productivity and habit formation?
“24/6” by Tiffany Shlain
Malla beads for jappa
Where can people connect with you or find your work?