On this Healing Horizons episode, we unpack how levity, mindful movement, and storytelling accelerate healing without glorifying struggle. Veronique Ory—yoga teacher, retreat leader, and author of “Shine On and Off the Mat”—explains why taking ourselves less seriously interrupts loops of overwork, perfectionism, and rumination. We discuss playful somatic resets, designing practice to fit your season (not the other way around), and how “place, people, and practice” together create safety and sustainable change. If you’ve felt stuck in heavy self-work, this conversation offers grounded ways to lighten the load while staying intentional.   About the guest  : Veronique Ory is an intuitive movement and mindful awareness guide. Through yoga, storytelling, retreats, and her book “Shine On and Off the Mat,” she helps people craft practices that are flexible, creative, and compassionate—on and off the mat.   Key takeaways : Levity isn’t avoidance; it’s a tool that breaks rigid “self-work” loops and opens access to curiosity, joy, and change. Language matters: shifting from “work on myself” to “attune to myself” reduces heaviness and shame. Playful somatic resets (like intentional “tantrum” shakes on the floor) can transmute stuck emotion and interrupt rumination. Align practice to your season: choose vinyasa, yin, meditation, music, or journaling based on what your body and life actually need now. Form is personal: adapt classical shapes (e.g., Warrior I) to your structure and history; there is no single “correct” look. “Place, people, practice” create felt safety; retreats help remove false urgencies so integration becomes easier at home. Patterns repeat until we respond differently; noticing the “cosmic giggle” can help you choose a new response sooner. Practical cue: observe what you’re craving—grounding or uplift—and build a short, doable practice around that intention.   Connect with the guest  : Website: https://yogawithveronique.com/  Instagram: Veronique Ory Explore her membership - https://yogawithveronique.com/register/illuminate-membership-yearly/ and join the Shine Membership with a 7-day free trial Retreats & Workshops: details available on the guest’s website   Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik   Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer.   Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it’s become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty—storyteller, survivor, wellness advocate—this channel shares powerful podcasts and soul-nurturing conversations on: • Mental Health & Emotional Well-being• Mindfulness & Spiritual Growth• Holistic Healing & Conscious Living• Trauma Recovery & Self-Empowerment With over 4,400+ episodes and 168.4K+ global listeners, join us as we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters. Subscribe and be part of this healing journey. Contact Brand: Healthy Mind By Avik™Email: join@healthymindbyavik.com | podcast@healthymindbyavik.comWebsite: www.healthymindbyavik.comBased in: India & USA Open to collaborations, guest appearances, coaching, and strategic partnerships. Let's connect to create a ripple effect of positivity. CHECK PODCAST SHOWS & BE A GUEST: Listen our 17 Podcast Shows Here: https://www.podbean.com/podc