50 Years on the Mat: Simon Borg-Olivier on Longevity, Ease, and the Gut Brain

50 Years on the Mat: Simon Borg-Olivier on Longevity, Ease, and the Gut Brain

May 5, 2026 · 1h 2m · Episode 315

About this episode

Harmony Slater interviews Simon Borg-Olivier about his philosophy on yoga, movement, and the concept of 'working in' versus 'working out'.

Are you working out — or working in? In this deeply enriching conversation, Harmony Slater sits down with Simon Borg-Olivier — co-founder of Yoga Synergy, physiotherapist, researcher, and one of the most original minds in the world of movement. Simon has been exploring yoga, breath, and consciousness for over 50 years, and his answer to almost every question is the same: find the ease. Simon's philosophy challenges the deeply held assumption that more effort equals more benefit. He makes a crucial distinction between the workout (which leaves you depleted, hungry, and stiff) and the work-in (which leaves you energized, calm, and clear). His approach blends biomechanics, nervous system science, and ancient wisdom traditions — and at age 66, his biological age tested at 48. In this episode, you'll discover: Why strength without tension, and flexibility without strain, are the real goals of practice The 'work-in vs. workout' distinction — and how it changes everything The 12 hidden 'bridges' between the conscious and unconscious nervous system Why the diaphragm — not the breath — is the true link between mind and body Simon's concept of the gut brain and its connection to ancient…

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