David Procyshyn's Path from Darkness to Light with Yoga
Episode Overview
David Procyshyn's journey from chronic anxiety and depression to healing through yoga and meditation The impact of solo travel and self-discovery on mental wellness Exploring the relationship between labels, mindfulness, and emotional well-being Creating doyogawithme.com to make yoga accessible to all and build a supportive community Parenting challenges and the importance of meaningful relationships in recovery
As I started coming out of the depression that I was experiencing, I started to feel. And it was kind of like for the first time since I could remember being a little kid, I started feeling feelings.
Growing up in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, David Procyshyn faced a storm of chronic fatigue, gut pain, and relentless tension around his head. By his late teens, he realized these symptoms were the physical manifestations of deep-seated anxiety and depression. The pressure to conceal his struggles only made things worse, leading to social anxiety and a sense of dissociation. Desperate for change, David embarked on a journey of self-discovery at the age of 22, traveling to South Africa.
This trip marked the beginning of a profound transformation. Upon returning home, he found solace and community in Victoria, where he immersed himself in yoga, pranayama, meditation, and holotropic breathwork. His dedication to these practices led him to deeper healing through silent retreats. In 2008, David launched doyogawithme.com, an online platform aimed at making yoga accessible to everyone. His candid recounting on 'The Courage to Change' podcast sheds light on how yoga and meditation played pivotal roles in his recovery.
David’s story is not just about personal healing but also about creating supportive communities. He emphasizes the importance of embracing emotions without judgment and highlights how solo travel and mindfulness can significantly impact mental wellness. Additionally, David shares insights on parenting and nurturing meaningful relationships, providing a holistic view of recovery. His journey from darkness to light showcases the transformative power of resilience, self-discovery, and the support of a compassionate community.