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TOP POST

Keen on Yoga Interview

15 December 2025

I was recently invited by Adam Keen to be a guest on the Keen on Yoga Podcast. We talk about my research on the Indo-Persian martial origins of Sūryanamaskār as well as my current PhD research on Yogakriyās.You can watch the full interview here.

TOP POST

Sūryanamaskār: Tracing the Origins of the Sun Salutation

16 November 2025

Earlier this year, the Journal of Yoga Studies published an article I wrote, in which I share findings from research on Sūryanamaskār that I conducted at SOAS, University of London, between 2021 and 2023. The article was originally my MA dissertation and was supervised by Professor James Mallinson. In the article, I examine the martial origins of Sūryanamaskār and present groundbreaking new research on its Persian provenance and links to both Indian and Persian wrestling traditions.

TOP POST

Book Review: Yoga in Britain By Suzanne Newcome

11 March 2022

Yoga in Britain: Stretching Spirituality and Educating Yogis by Suzanne Newcombe charts the course of yoga’s propagation within the cultural landscape of twentieth-century Britain.

TOP POST

Cultural Appropriation - Part 3: Empire

21 March 2020

My family was recently given a set of Snakes and Ladders. It’s a cheap, plastic set - a rollup sheet, little pieces..

TOP POST

Cultural Appropriation Pt. 2: Emerika

03 February 2018

"The wrongs of our past have resurfaced
Despite all we did to vanquish the traces..

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If you find something here that informs, inspires, or supports your yoga journey, you’re very welcome to leave a small tip — even £2–£5 helps. I’m currently a full-time PhD student, and contributions are greatly appreciated. They help support my studies and allow me to keep sharing thoughtful, well-researched content. Whether or not you’re able to contribute, thank you for spending time here.

James Russell Yoga Teacher

About James

James is a yoga teacher-trainer and PhD candidate. He holds a Master's degree in Traditions of Yoga & Meditation from SOAS, University of London.


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