“If you wear out your body, where are you going to live?” – Yogi Aaron

We all have a purpose—a calling that drives, inspires, and gives meaning to our lives. But what happens when pain stands in the way of that purpose? When your body is constantly aching, your mind is foggy, and your energy is drained, staying focused on what truly matters becomes nearly impossible.

In the final episode of my Stop Stretching Podcast, I explore how pain not only limits our physical abilities but also robs us of clarity and connection to our life’s purpose. You can listen to that episode here.

Podcast Stop Stretching by Yogi Aaron displayed on a cell phone with ipods laying next to it
Stop Stretching Podcast cover with Yogi Aaron

What You’ll Discover in This Article:

The Truth About Pain and Purpose

Pain isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a major distraction. It hijacks your attention, clouds your thinking, and often leads to a cycle of compensation and disconnection. Over time, it becomes a barrier between you and the deeper calling that lives within you.

The sad truth is that many people, especially in the yoga world, are living with chronic pain caused by the very practices that are meant to help them heal. Stretching, as it’s been traditionally taught, is one of the main culprits.

The Role of Stability in Yoga (and in Life)

One of the foundational teachings of yoga is from Sutra 2.46: Sthira Sukham Asanam—the posture should be steady and joyful. Yoga isn’t about bending into the deepest shape possible. It’s about cultivating strength, stability, and peace within.

When your body feels strong and stable, your mind becomes more focused. And with focus, comes the ability to pursue your life’s purpose with greater energy and intention.

This is the essence of AYAMA—Applied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™. Rather than stretching, AYAMA teaches you to activate your muscles, stabilize your joints, and eliminate pain at its root.

Yogi Aaron doing Sphinx Yoga Pose in the Yoga Shala at Blue Osa Yoga Retreat

Letting Go of Stretching

I know it’s not easy to give up stretching. It wasn’t for me. It took 14 years from the moment I first learned about muscle activation to the moment I stopped teaching it altogether.

But when I finally made the shift, everything changed. My body healed, my mind sharpened, and my teaching became more aligned with the true essence of yoga.

I’ve seen the same shift in hundreds of students, from those just starting out to longtime teachers who were once skeptical.

Real Transformation Begins with Respect

Your body is the vehicle through which your soul expresses itself. When you treat it with respect—by activating and strengthening it—you unlock its potential. With that, your purpose becomes clearer, more vibrant, and fully livable.

As I say in the final episode of the Stop Stretching Podcast, pain steals our attention, but stability and strength return it. You can listen to the full episode here.

Yogi Aaron doing Warrior Pose on the Blue Osa Pool Ledge

Begin Living Your Purpose Today

If you’re ready to experience the difference for yourself, start here!

If you’re ready for even more transformation, join Yogi Aaron’s AYAMA-based 14-day, 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training at the beautiful Blue Osa Yoga Retreat & Spa in Costa Rica.

Your purpose is waiting. Let go of pain, embrace stability, and take the first step toward living the life you were meant to live.

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